University of Denver Launches a Coding Boot Camp

With demand for skilled web developers at an all-time high, University of Denver will launch a 24-week Coding Boot Camp in April 2017 through the college of professional and continuing studies, University College. The innovative, fullstack program, says Michael McGuire, dean of University College, “is ideal for those interested in changing or advancing their career without putting it on hold.”

The Coding Boot Camp is designed to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, with three weekday evenings classes (6:30−9:30 p.m.).

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, web development ranks among the world’s fastest-growing professions, with jobs projected to increase at a 20% annual pace through 2022. The opportunities for skilled developers have already outstripped the labor supply: Of more than 150,000 new openings posted each year, some 50,000 go unfilled. The median salary for professional web developers is $63,000, with some earning as much as $110,000 a year.

“This is a powerful combination of real-world content for web developers coupled with convenient delivery,” said McGuire. “The resources and opportunities made available through the Coding Boot Camp are aligned with the professional competencies needed to succeed in this field.”

Students who complete the program will have the skills they need to develop dynamic end-to-end web applications—and to make a great impression on prospective employers.  In addition, they will receive a certificate in Fullstack Web Development from University of Denver’s University College.

The curriculum ranges from the basics of coding, algorithms and data structure, to intensive training in Javascript, Node.js, HTML, CSS, jQuery, PHP, Laravel, and more. In addition to classroom instruction, students will spend 20 hours a week on outside projects and experiential learning activities and build a professional project portfolio to showcase their abilities and hone their competitive edge in the employment market.

Students will also receive a range of career-planning services, portfolio reviews, demo days, recruiting assistance and extensive staff support. Area businesses participating in the Coding Boot Camp’s employer network will advise on curriculum, products and student needs. While no previous training or experience is required, applicants should have an understanding of coding basics.