Bootcamp Cost vs. Return on Investment (ROI): Are Coding Bootcamps Worth It 2017 Reddit

Are coding bootcamps worth it 2017 reddit
The decision to invest in a coding bootcamp in 2017, like any significant financial commitment, required careful consideration of the potential return on investment. The cost of the program needed to be weighed against the projected increase in earning potential after graduation. Understanding this balance was crucial for prospective students.

The typical cost of a coding bootcamp in 2017 ranged from $10,000 to $20,000, although some programs fell outside this range. Factors such as program length, location (with higher costs in major tech hubs like San Francisco or New York City), and the intensity of the curriculum influenced pricing. Average starting salaries for bootcamp graduates varied widely depending on the specialization and the individual’s performance, but many reported salaries in the $60,000 to $80,000 range. However, it’s important to note that these figures were averages, and actual salaries could vary considerably.

Factors Influencing Bootcamp ROI

Several factors significantly impacted the return on investment for coding bootcamp graduates. Program length played a crucial role; shorter programs generally cost less but might offer less comprehensive training, potentially affecting post-graduation job prospects and salaries. Location also influenced ROI; bootcamps in expensive cities often commanded higher tuition fees, but graduates might also have access to a larger pool of job opportunities and higher average salaries. Specialization was another key factor; bootcamps focusing on high-demand skills like data science or mobile development often led to higher-paying jobs than those focused on more general web development. Finally, the individual’s pre-existing skills and dedication to learning played a significant role; students with a strong foundation in computer science or a proven ability to learn quickly often saw better outcomes. For instance, a student with prior programming experience might complete a shorter program and find employment faster, leading to a quicker ROI.

ROI Comparison Across Bootcamp Specializations, Are coding bootcamps worth it 2017 reddit

Understanding the ROI varied considerably depending on the type of bootcamp. While precise data from 2017 Reddit discussions is difficult to definitively quantify, analyzing the trends revealed some general observations.

  • Web Development: This was the most common bootcamp specialization in 2017. While the initial investment was relatively lower compared to some others, the range of entry-level salaries was also broader. Reddit discussions suggested that while many found employment quickly, salaries varied widely based on the specific skills acquired and the job market in their location.
  • Data Science: Data science bootcamps were often more expensive and intensive, reflecting the higher demand and specialized skills required. However, Reddit posts indicated that graduates often commanded significantly higher starting salaries compared to web development graduates, potentially leading to a faster ROI despite the higher upfront cost.
  • Mobile Development: This specialization occupied a middle ground. The cost was generally comparable to web development bootcamps, and starting salaries reflected a similar trend, with variation depending on experience and location.

It’s crucial to remember that these are generalizations based on anecdotal evidence from 2017 Reddit discussions. Individual experiences varied greatly, and success depended heavily on factors like individual skills, job market conditions, and networking efforts. A thorough individual cost-benefit analysis, considering personal circumstances and specific bootcamp details, was essential for informed decision-making.