Your Top 15 Online Boot Camp Questions Answered
You’re interested in an online boot camp—but you first want to know how it actually works. What can you expect from the online format? If you’re just discovering our boot camps, you likely have many questions that you’d like the answers to before taking the next step.
It is important to make an informed decision on the next stage of your education. To help with this, we have compiled a list of the top 15 frequently asked questions about our online boot camps.
How are you keeping students safe during COVID-19?
Your safety is our top priority! All of our boot camps are now being offered online via our tried and tested virtual classroom experience.
You will receive the same skilled instruction and market-driven curriculum as our in-person classes. We know that navigating these uncertain times can be difficult, but we are working hard to provide our students with a safe, first-rate educational experience.
Are boot camps still running as scheduled?
Yes, we are still accepting applications for the start dates listed on our schedule pages. All of our in-person boot camps will now be available in an online format. Instead of attending a physical classroom, students will now join our virtual classes.
Will my admission into the boot camp be affected by COVID-19?
No. Our requirements for admission have not changed. We are very excited to welcome new and existing applicants to our virtual format. If you have questions about admissions criteria for your chosen boot camp, please contact our admissions team at (804) 616-3270 to learn more.
I’m new to online learning. How does it work?
Our virtual classes are held in real-time, allowing you to attend from anywhere in the world and still benefit from face-to-face interaction. These online classes are held over video and are designed to be highly engaging and interactive.
You will utilize tools such as Zoom and a dedicated #Slack channel to stay connected with instructional staff and your fellow classmates. Our virtual experience enables you to develop a strong sense of community where you can interact and work with your peers, helping each other along the way.
Our boot camp also includes engaging homework assignments and project work that will give you the chance to utilize what you’ve learned in the virtual classroom. This coursework is easily accessible online.
Are there any technical requirements for the online classes?
A reliable computer is required for the online boot camp: Either Mac or PC, with a minimum 8GB of RAM and a dual-core processor. It’s also important to have a webcam and microphone for your computer to benefit from the virtual classroom experience. To learn about the specific hardware or software requirements for your chosen boot camp, please contact our admissions team at (804) 616-3270 to learn more.
Are online classes new for you?
Even though our students may be new to online learning, we’re not. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, our teams have been working to design and deliver online boot camp classes that match the quality and integrity of our in-person offerings. We are confident that we can continue to deliver successful outcomes for students in this format.
Can I see an example of the online experience?
We have created a video to give you a glimpse of the virtual classroom experience. Take a look below:
Will the online classes teach the same material as the in-person classes?
Yes. You will receive the same skilled instruction and market-driven curriculum as our existing in-person classes, learning the most up-to-date tools and technologies to meet the demands of employers. We designed the graphic below to show you how the online learning experience stacks up.
What is the time commitment required?
For part-time programs, students can expect to commit 10 hours of in-class time per week, as well as 20-30+ hours per week outside of class. Even if you find yourself at home these days, we understand that you still have obligations outside of your studies. Our part-time class schedule with evening and weekend sessions, combined with the ability to attend classes from anywhere, allows you to fit the boot camp around your current commitments.
Do you offer career planning support?
Yes. We offer all of our learners career support and coaching, including portfolio reviews, resume assistance, and technical interview training. In addition, we offer students experiential learning opportunities to strengthen their portfolio. Learn more about our career services.
What is the main difference between your online boot camps versus others?
With a wide range of online boot camps on the market, it is important to look for those that provide a high-quality learning experience. With our online boot camps, you will benefit from:
1. Market-Driven Curricula
Our cutting-edge curricula are based on today’s market demands. We empower expert instructional staff to deliver a dynamic learning experience. In addition, we routinely apply feedback and market research to our boot camps to keep our curricula competitive, and ensure we are teaching the most up-to-date skills.
2. University-Backed Curricula
Our boot camp curricula is also approved and vetted by a respected institution. After completing the boot camp, you will receive a certificate of completion to showcase your accomplishments to future employers. The added prestige of a certificate of completion from a leading university may help you stand out in the job market.
3. Experienced Instructional Staff and Comprehensive student Support
Our skilled instructional team teaches the most in-demand skills to help you succeed. Teaching assistants, tutors, career coaches and student success managers provide the added support, expertise and encouragement to help you succeed during and after the boot camp.
Here is an article that outlines 7 Characteristics of a High-Quality Online Boot Camp to help you choose one that meets both your education and career goals.
What is your admissions process?
Our boot camp has a rolling application process, which is different from open enrollment. Once you fill out our form or call our admissions team, you will go through an initial phone interview with admissions. Applicants who are recommended to move forward will take a critical thinking and problem-solving assessment. After passing the assessment, you are then accepted into the boot camp. You’ll meet with admissions to discuss your payment options. Once you determine the financial plan that works best for you, you’ll be ready to enroll and pay a deposit in order to secure your spot.
What if I cannot afford the boot camp?
We offer competitively priced tuition costs. If you’re considering enrolling, you should have a good understanding of the financing options available to you. To help you reach your educational goals, we provide a number of financial options such as Interest-Free Payment Plans and an Early Registration Pricing incentive.
I’ve just been accepted into the online boot camp. Now what?
Congratulations! You are one step closer to achieving your educational goals. Now is a great time to review any pre-work that was emailed to you after enrollment. This is essential to getting you up to speed and ready to get started on day one.
This is also a great time to review the curriculum for your specific boot camp. This can help you better understand each phase of the boot camp, and the unique learning modules that you will be exploring.
What will I receive after completing the boot camp?
Here is what you will receive after successfully completing the boot camp:
- A Certificate of Completion showcasing your accomplishment to future employers.
- A comprehensive set of hard and soft skills to help you stand out in the job market.
- A robust portfolio of projects, and a variety of skills applicable to certifications, to show your mastery of the topics covered throughout the boot camp.
- Access to an active alumni network shared by all those who have attended your chosen boot camp, providing opportunities for continuous learning and professional networking.
Learn More:
We hope these questions and answers have helped you gain a better understanding of what our boot camps offer. If you have further questions, please reach out to our admissions team at (804) 616-3270 to learn more.