This page explores why bootcamp accreditation is still a new topic in tech education.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
What Is Accreditation?<\/h2>\r\n
Accreditation is a voluntary process in which an educational institution demonstrates its credibility, transparency, and academic rigor through a third-party review. In the U.S., accrediting agencies hold approval from the Department of Education<\/a> and\/or the Council on Higher Education Accreditation<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n Schools receive institutional accreditation, while programs earn programmatic accreditation. Programmatic accreditors approve departments or programs within schools. For example, ABET approves<\/a> science, computing, and engineering programs at colleges and universities.<\/p>\r\n Students attending accredited schools can apply for federal financial aid, transfer credits between institutions, and qualify for admission to advanced degrees. Often, these benefits do not apply at unaccredited schools.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n With the first coding bootcamp opening in 2011, bootcamps are still a fairly new tech training option. So far, only a few bootcamps are accredited by ACCET. Accreditation helps ensure that an institution or program meets high-quality educational standards.<\/p>\r\n Some coding bootcamp providers partner with schools. However, these bootcamps do not hold the same accreditation as the college<\/a> or university. Additionally, completing a bootcamp does not usually translate to college credits.<\/p>\r\n Lack of accreditation does not necessarily equal a low-quality program. However, prospective enrollees should always carefully research any bootcamp before enrolling, including faculty, graduate outcomes, and curriculum. The Council on Integrity in Results Reporting<\/a> (CIRR) is a good place to research high-quality bootcamps with verified student outcomes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.<\/p>\n While coding bootcamps usually do not hold accreditation, they should maintain licensure with their states' regulatory agencies. A prospective student can also check with their state to learn more about a bootcamp's legal status.<\/p>\r\n The level of oversight varies among states. Just because a bootcamp has completed the appropriate paperwork in its state does not mean it offers a quality education.<\/p>\r\n Some bootcamps are part of the CIRR<\/a>, which audits members to ensure honesty and integrity in reporting student outcomes. Prospective students can review CIRR-verified bootcamps<\/a> online.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n While coding bootcamp accreditation is still uncommon, ACCET recently granted accreditation<\/a> to the Turing School of Software and Design and NYC Data Science Academy. ACCET oversees accreditation for many nontraditional continuing education programs.<\/p>\r\n ACCET sets higher standards for the coding bootcamp industry by granting accreditation to these programs. This opens the door to other bootcamps that may wish to pursue accreditation.<\/p>\r\n Accreditation may open the door to additional funding options for bootcamp students. Accredited schools can also assist international students with obtaining a visa.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n Coding bootcamps take students through intensive training in software development, data science, or UX\/UI. Graduates can pursue jobs in the tech industry or develop a specific skill set. Bootcamps tend to attract career switchers or tech industry professionals.<\/p>\r\n Those seeking advanced tech careers may consider pursuing traditional college degrees. College programs range from about 2-4 years and culminate in a degree. In comparison, a bootcamp lasts months and does not provide the same qualification as a degree.<\/p>\r\n However, professionals seeking to supplement their experience or education may benefit from a bootcamp's emphasis on practical skills. Those who already hold computer science degrees may also expand their industry knowledge by completing a bootcamp.<\/p>\r\n Prospective students who have not earned degrees may consider attending college instead of a bootcamp. Most educational institutions do not offer college credit for bootcamp courses.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n Without bootcamp accreditation to guide enrollees, how can prospective students assess their educational options? Consider the following options:<\/p>\r\n\r\nWhy Bootcamps Aren't Accredited<\/h2>\r\n
Top Online Programs<\/h2>\n
Existing Regulation for Coding Bootcamps<\/h2>\r\n
Accreditation Changes<\/h2>\r\n
Is a Coding Bootcamp Right for You?<\/h2>\r\n
How to Assess Your Bootcamp Options<\/h2>\r\n
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CIRR provides<\/a> a standardized system for measuring student outcomes at coding bootcamps. Prospective students can use CIRR's information to assess salary data for recent bootcamp grads, along with how many bootcamp graduates secured jobs within six months of graduation in the field.<\/li>\r\n
Learners can find alumni from their prospective bootcamps through LinkedIn<\/a> and other professional networking sites. These alumni may provide a first-hand perspective on their experience and advice on making the best decision for your needs.<\/li>\r\n
Aspiring students should also talk to current coders and other tech professionals or recruiters. Questions to ask include: Does this bootcamp have a good reputation? Will this bootcamp enhance my resume?<\/li>\r\n
Before enrolling in any coding bootcamps, prospective students should find out if the program offers career counseling, interview preparation assistance, help with compiling a professional portfolio, or other job placement assistance.<\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n\r\n\n
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