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App Academy Vs Hack Reactor: Which Coding Bootcamp is Right for You?
Introduction
As the demand for software developers continues to grow, coding bootcamps have become an increasingly popular option for those looking to break into the tech industry. App Academy and Hack Reactor are two of the most well-known coding bootcamps, offering intensive programs designed to help students develop the skills they need to land a job as a software developer. But how do these two bootcamps compare, and which one is the right choice for you? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at App Academy and Hack Reactor, comparing their programs, curriculum, cost, and outcomes to help you make an informed decision.
Overview of App Academy
App Academy is a coding bootcamp with campuses in both San Francisco and New York City. The program is known for its rigorous curriculum and its focus on preparing students for careers as software engineers. App Academy offers a full-time, immersive program that lasts 16 weeks, as well as a part-time, online program that lasts 24 weeks. The curriculum covers a wide range of programming languages and technologies, including JavaScript, Ruby on Rails, and SQL. App Academy also provides job placement assistance to help graduates find employment after completing the program.
Program Structure
The full-time program at App Academy is a highly immersive experience, with students expected to devote at least 80 hours per week to their studies. The curriculum is divided into three main phases: the Foundations phase, the Immersive phase, and the Job Search phase. During the Foundations phase, students build a strong understanding of core programming concepts and technologies. The Immersive phase focuses on more advanced topics and includes numerous group projects and coding challenges. The Job Search phase prepares students for the job market and includes mock interviews, resume workshops, and networking events.
Cost
For the full-time program, the cost of attending App Academy is $17,000 upfront, with the option to pay a $17,000 income share agreement (ISA) for deferred tuition. For the part-time online program, the cost is $3,000 upfront with a $29,000 ISA option.
Overview of Hack Reactor
Hack Reactor is a coding bootcamp with campuses in San Francisco, Austin, Los Angeles, and New York City, as well as an online option. The program is known for its rigorous curriculum and its focus on preparing students for careers as software engineers. Hack Reactor offers a full-time program that lasts 12 weeks, as well as a part-time, online program that lasts 36 weeks. The curriculum covers a wide range of programming languages and technologies, including JavaScript, Node.js, and React. Hack Reactor also provides job placement assistance to help graduates find employment after completing the program.
Program Structure
The full-time program at Hack Reactor is an intense and immersive experience, with students expected to devote at least 80 hours per week to their studies. The curriculum is divided into three main phases: the Fundamentals phase, the Advanced Content phase, and the Job Search phase. During the Fundamentals phase, students build a strong understanding of core programming concepts and technologies. The Advanced Content phase focuses on more advanced topics and includes numerous group projects and coding challenges. The Job Search phase prepares students for the job market and includes mock interviews, resume workshops, and networking events.
Cost
The cost of attending Hack Reactor is $17,980 upfront for the full-time program and $19,780 upfront for the part-time, online program.
Comparison of Programs
Now that we have an overview of both App Academy and Hack Reactor, let’s compare the two programs in several key areas:
Curriculum
Both bootcamps cover a similar range of programming languages and technologies, with a strong emphasis on JavaScript and web development. App Academy has a focus on Ruby on Rails, while Hack Reactor emphasizes Node.js and React. The curriculum at both bootcamps is designed to be challenging and to prepare students for real-world coding environments.
Program Structure
Both programs are full-time, intensive experiences that require a significant time commitment from students. The structure of the programs, including the phases and focus on group projects and coding challenges, is also quite similar.
Cost
The cost of attending both bootcamps is comparable, with App Academy offering an income share agreement option for the full-time program, and Hack Reactor offering a part-time, online program option.
Outcomes and Job Placement
Both App Academy and Hack Reactor have strong job placement rates, with a high percentage of graduates finding employment in the tech industry shortly after completing the program. App Academy boasts a job placement rate of 98%, while Hack Reactor’s rate is 98% as well. Both bootcamps have established networks of hiring partners and provide job placement assistance to help graduates find employment.
Which Bootcamp is Right for You?
Ultimately, the decision between App Academy and Hack Reactor will depend on a variety of factors, including your preferred programming language, location, and financial situation. If you are interested in Ruby on Rails and are located in San Francisco or New York City, App Academy may be the right choice for you. If you are more interested in Node.js and React, and are located in one of Hack Reactor’s cities, then Hack Reactor may be the better option.
FAQ
1. Are there any scholarships or financial aid options available?
Both App Academy and Hack Reactor offer scholarships and financial aid options for students. It’s best to contact each bootcamp directly to inquire about specific opportunities.
2. Can I work while attending the program?
Both bootcamps offer full-time programs that require a significant time commitment from students, so it may be challenging to work while attending. However, each bootcamp also offers part-time, online options for students who need more flexibility.
3. What is the average salary for graduates of each bootcamp?
The average salary for graduates of both App Academy and Hack Reactor is quite competitive, with many graduates landing jobs with six-figure salaries shortly after completing the program. It’s always best to research the most up-to-date employment statistics for each bootcamp.
Closing
In conclusion, both App Academy and Hack Reactor are highly reputable coding bootcamps that offer rigorous programs designed to prepare students for successful careers as software engineers. The decision between the two will ultimately come down to your personal preferences and circumstances. It’s important to thoroughly research each bootcamp, including their curriculum, outcomes, and job placement assistance, in order to make the best decision for your future in the tech industry.
