The best coding classes and bootcamps in Chicago

Aspiring Web Developers can check out this certificate program from Practical Programming. Participants will enjoy hundreds of hours of live instruction as they learn everything there is to know about full-stack development. The bulk of the course is spent learning about JavaScript programming, React development, and related libraries. The last unit of the course focuses on creating a portfolio and interview preparation. A free retake is available within one year should students want additional practice.

This certificate class from Practical Programming helps beginners land an entry-level data science or Python engineering role. You’ll begin with the basics of Python and the various Python libraries that are used to analyze data, including Matplotlib and Pandas. You’ll learn how to automate data analysis tasks so you reduce the chances of human error. You’ll end with a unit on data visualization so you can present your findings in a way that others can easily understand.

Anyone who works with data knows they spend a significant amount of time cleaning and manipulating it. SQL fast-tracks many of these processes, making it a vital skill for any data-driven profession. This bootcamp exposes students to different data types, organizational tables, and basic queries. Participants will also learn the subtle differences between database systems like PostgreSQL and SQL Server. By the end of the course, students will be able to translate questions about their data into SQL and both find and understand the information they’re looking for.

With classes available in New York City and live online, Practical Programming is another school that offers multiple coding classes. After completing their Software Engineering Immersive, students will be prepared for any career that requires full stack engineering knowledge. The course begins with front end development skills like HTML, CSS, Grid, and Bootstrap. Students will then learn about some of the most commonly used JavaScript libraries, like React, Node.js, and MongoDB. Next, students will dive into development with Python and querying databases with SQL. The course ends with a portfolio project and 1:1 career mentoring from a qualified instructor.

Students who already have experience programming with HTML and CSS might feel right at home in this immersive Python development course. This program covers software development with Python, task automation with Django, and API interaction using Django REST. Students will also gain proficiency in SQL and Git as they progress through the class. Tuition for this program also covers six individual career mentorship sessions where students can receive guided support to polish their resumes, interview preparation, and other interview tips and tricks from those who have already succeeded in the industry.

JavaScript is one of the most-used tools for engineers because it can be used to create better web and mobile apps. If you're aiming for a career in web development, you’ll want to master JavaScript. General Assembly’s course takes you through setting up Node.js and npm. You’ll learn about computational thinking and how the internet works, and then you’ll move on to discovering browsers, APIs, and asynchronous JavaScript. You’ll also master more advanced features like data persistence, authentication, and prototypical inheritance. By the end of the course you’ll build a data-rich application and deploy it to a shareable platform like GitHub Pages or Heroku.

Python is known for being simple and readable. Many data scientists prefer it because it allows them to easily work with large datasets, build predictive models, and glean insights from data. This bootcamp starts by teaching fundamental programming concepts like objects, functions, and loops. You'll learn to use different Python libraries in your work, such as analyzing data with Pandas and NumPy and using Matplotlib to design graphs and other data visualizations.

Structured Query Language (SQL) makes it simple to glean information from relational databases. In this bootcamp, you’ll learn to use SQL to query data, insert or update records, and manage database structures. SQL is an essential skill if you want to become a database administrator, data analyst, and software developer. In this course, you’ll learn to leverage SQL to manage and use large datasets. Plus, all Noble Desktop programs include the option to retake the course for free within one year of the original program, so you can get extra hands-on learning and help from experts.

Fullstack Academy's Software Engineering Immersive is a rigorous career accelerator, regardless of your starting skill level. You’ll begin by reviewing programming basics like HTML5, CSS, and advanced CSS. The course provides a solid ground in front-end framework and how to display content and images on a website. You’ll gain hands-on experience by using pre-written modules and programming in pairs with a fellow student. Then, you’ll explore the extensive libraries that make JavaScript the industry standard in web engineering. Learn how to use Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) to connect to data, test your new code before you write it by using Test-Driven Development (TDD), and practice every stage of a typical, real-world prototype development. You’ll learn to store and organize data using SQL, and complete a Full Stack capstone project that shows off your skills.

General Assembly’s in-depth program prepares you for a career as a software engineer, where you’ll design and maintain applications or systems. Software engineers collaborate to analyze user needs, create solutions, write code, and make sure that products are both functional and reliable. In this course, you’ll learn the most-used programming languages like JavaScript and Python. You’ll also explore cloud computing and project management as well get hands-on practice testing and debugging your work.

Data analytics gleans information from large datasets that helps businesses make better decisions and build strategies. Businesses in every industry rely on data analytics to gain a competitive edge and improve their operations. Data science can also yield information that enhances the customer experience. This program teaches students core concepts related to data analytics, including how to access and clean data using structured query language (SQL) and Python. You’ll also become familiar with today’s most popular data visualization software, including Tableau and Power BI, and you’ll learn how to use Excel to analyze and interpret data.

Providing opportunities for female and nonbinary workers is vital for assuring diversity and inclusivity in the tech industry, which has historically been male-dominated. Women and nonbinary folks may prefer learning tech skills with their peers because of the sense of community, support, and empowerment it provides. Learning in a supportive environment with peers who share similar experiences can help women build confidence, overcome the all-too-common imposter syndrome, and thrive in their tech careers. The Grace Hopper Immersive at Fullstack Academy provides just such an environment. The course focuses on JavaScript and includes front end development and back end engineering. Students complete a full-stack capstone project that demonstrates the full breadth of their new skills.

If you’re looking to design cutting-edge applications and software programs or you’re hoping to work with the Internet of Things, you’ll need to learn how to program using JavaScript. This is why it’s one of the most versatile and popular programming languages in the world. JavaScript makes websites more functional and helps devices like phones and computers connect with web browsers. In addition, JavaScript has frameworks and libraries (the MERN Stack) that allow seasoned developers to create entire program infrastructures (including back end databases) using only JavaScript.

The University of Illinois offers an in-person coding bootcamp to local students. Students who attend this program will start with an introduction of foundational principles like HTML and CSS to get all participants to the same basic skill level. As the course advances, students will learn to program with JavaScript. The course culminates with a full stack capstone project where students will design and start building an app. They will also learn marketing skills by pitching their ideas to instructors and classmates. Students will also add projects to their portfolios throughout the class, which they can share with prospective employers once the course is complete. Participants will also complete several career simulation assignments to further prepare them for situations they are likely to encounter in a professional setting.

There is also a coding bootcamp available through Northwestern University. This full stack program can be taken either full-time (12 weeks) or part-time (24 weeks). The curriculum covers a wide range of essential topics, including different databases, methods of server-side development like the MERN stack, API design techniques, and tools to ensure quality assurance in the programs you develop. Participants can also access self-study topics like Amazon Web Services, Python, and Java. These are great options for students who are more advanced in their coding skills and need an extra challenge. This program also offers a great deal of career support. Participants will have access to unlimited feedback on things like their resumes and portfolios with Northwestern’s career services team. This team also provides 1:1 interview coaching and prep, job referrals, multiple technical workshops, and other networking events throughout the year.

Chicago residents wanting to secure a career in data science may want to check out Northwestern’s bootcamp offerings. This program emphasizes hands-on learning, so students will complete a number of projects related to Python, machine learning, Excel, and Tableau. These projects are done both as groups and on an individual basis so students can hone their skills while also learning to work well with others towards a common goal. The program also has a unit about data ethics, which refers to the principles and guidelines that govern the collection, use, and handling of data in a responsible way. These skills are critical as professionals build relationships with other industry partners since maintaining data integrity is vital to ensuring fair and unbiased results.

This intensive course covers the skills you’ll need to excel as a data scientist. Data science gleans insights from data using statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization. By completing hands-on projects and reviewing real-world case studies, you’ll gain practical experience analyzing and interpreting data and using it to make informed decisions. Graduates of this program are prepared for data science roles in a wide range of industries, such as finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and technology.

This program through Flatiron School teaches students the ins and outs of software engineering for both back and front end development, which provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the entire software development process. Dive into JavaScript to gain hands-on experience and uncover how AI models and chatbots streamline debugging processes and accelerate coding and unit tests. Explore ReactJS for front-end development, constructing projects that engage with APIs, and master Python for back-end development. Develop proficiency in object-oriented programming, A1 SQL Builder, and object-relational mapping, while honing your skills in Flask and React. The class ends with a cumulative project where they will create a web application from start to finish. 

Available either part-time or full-time, this bootcamp aims to prepare students for an entry-level data science career. The beginning portion of the class focuses on analyzing and visualizing data since a significant component of data science is presenting findings in an appealing and easy-to-understand image. Next, students will move on to learning some of Python’s scientific computing libraries, like NumPy and SciPy, before tackling advanced machine learning concepts like linear regression and deep learning.

The number of cyber threats like data breaches and phishing scams are increasing, and businesses face risks to their sensitive information, financial assets, and privacy. This makes now a great time to start a career in cybersecurity. People in roles like security analyst or cyber engineer protect a company’s digital assets. Cybersecurity experts develop, test, and update internal security systems so they can mitigate threats and vulnerabilities. The Cybersecurity Bootcamp at Flatiron School teaches participants foundational skills and concepts, including Python, risk management, artificial intelligence, and penetration testing. The course ends with a scenario capstone project that students can add to their professional portfolio.

4Geeks Academy offers an online Full Stack Developer program focusing on three commonly used programming languages–Python, React, and JavaScript. Before the start of the class, students must complete approximately 60 hours of pre-work to ensure all students arrive on the same page and ready to learn. The pre-work program covers basic programming with HTML5 and CSS. Once the class begins, students create simple React.js applications before creating more complex programs. 4Geeks Academy also offers graduates lifelong support after the program is complete and can mentor students through building a resume and applying for a job.

This coding bootcamp offered by Actualize is broken down into three sections. The first consists of five weeks of at-home coding exercises designed to prepare students for the rigor of the actual bootcamp. In this portion, students will spend about 20 hours per week reviewing instructional videos and completing assignments so they can receive feedback from an instructor. Students will spend 12 weeks in the actual coding bootcamp after the prework. The lessons closely correspond with the homework assignments each week, so students can immediately apply what they’ve learned. The course ends with a capstone project that students present at a student showcase. Once the course is complete, students can access Actualize’s structured job support program, where they can prepare for coding interviews and receive help building their portfolios and resumes.

This rigorous software development program is offered by Coding Dojo, an affiliate of Colorado Technical University (CTU). Over 16 weeks, students will receive in-depth training in front end and back end web development and database management. Participants will learn Python, JavaScript, and choose a third language (C# or .NET) to round out their skills. Students will leave the program with up to four projects to add to their personal portfolio. They can also apply up to 24 credits towards CTU’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree.

Located in downtown Chicago, Code Platoon’s engineering program is taught by professional programmers and is designed with current industry standards in mind. Students will learn essential software engineering skills and languages, including Python and JavaScript. Since artificial intelligence (AI) is only becoming more prevalent, the course emphasizes how students will use AI professionally. Attending this program will also provide students with plenty of networking and professional development opportunities through various workshops and other local events. A paid apprenticeship program is also available to students who attend in person.

Located in the River North district of Chicago, Coding Temple has a beginner-friendly software engineering program that is available full-time, part-time, or on-demand. An on-demand course does not provide any live instruction, but students can access materials when their schedule allows and work through the program at their own pace. This course teaches full-stack web development and software engineering, preparing participants for several career paths. Robust career support is also available to students after graduation, including 1:1 mentoring and interview prep.

For more data-oriented students, Coding Temple also offers a data analytics program for students of all skill levels. The application includes an aptitude test to ensure students are able to think in a way that lends itself to success in a data-driven field. Admissions counselors are also available in the event that students want to discuss other programs to see if one might be a better fit. In addition to the fundamentals of data, the course also covers beginner and intermediate statistics, relational databases, and core programming concepts.

Become a coding master with this comprehensive web design and development program. In the Web Professional Program at Computer Training Source, Inc., you’ll learn essential web development tools like WordPress, HTML, and CSS and earn industry-recognized certifications like AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and Microsoft Azure Fundamentals. Live classes feature project-based learning to help you refine your skills and get ready for the workforce. With project-based web development and Agile Scrum Master training included, you'll be fully equipped for success.

In this Frontend Web Developer Program, you’ll master introductory to advanced skills in web design. Master essential design tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, put them to work on the web with WordPress, HTML, and CSS, and get your feet wet with JavaScript and PHP. Dive into hands-on projects that cover skills you’ll need, like WordPress, Internet Marketing, and even introductory training in JavaScript and PHP. Plus, you’ll become certified as an Agile Scrum Master and gain valuable skills for the future.

Focus on web design in this thorough specialist program. You’ll become adept with HTML, CSS, WordPress, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Microsoft SharePoint. Plus, you’ll learn the tools you need for digital marketing, like SEO, social media, and pay-per-click. Complete the 192 classroom hours in an intensive 16-week program, or fit it in part-time over 9 months. An Adobe Creative Cloud subscription is included in your program fee. Get ready to master the essentials of web design and unlock your potential in the digital world.