Merit America is a non-profit career development program built for working adults who want to grow in their careers without putting their lives on hold. The flexible, part-time programs—typically lasting 14 to 22 weeks—are designed to help learners gain in-demand skills while balancing work, caregiving, and other responsibilities. Merit America currently offers career tracks in IT Support, Data Analytics, UX Design, Cybersecurity, Project Management, and Human Resources. Each program includes industry-recognized, third-party technical training from partners like Google, combining online learning with personalized coaching, weekly peer squad meetings, and job search support. Learners are matched with a dedicated career coach to help set goals, stay motivated, and prepare for job transitions, promotions, or professional growth.
The program includes four structured phases: Foundations (onboarding support, connect with coach and squad), Immersion (technical training), Job Success (personalized coaching and job search support), and Alumni (ongoing alumni support including free Coursera access, resume refreshes, and salary negotiation help).
Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, be authorized to work in the U.S., and be fluent in English. Individuals currently pursuing or holding a graduate degree are not eligible. Learners can choose from multiple payment options, including the option to complete the program with no upfront cost.
Merit America has supported nearly 15,000 learners nationwide and driven an estimated $1 billion in cumulative wage gains.
Reviews
41 reviews of Merit America
Schools can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Course Report never suppresses negative reviews.
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Brandon Heslop Verified via LinkedInGraduate · IT Support · Graduated 2021
My Merit America Experience
My Merit America Experience was nothing short of amazing. At a time where I felt I was at my lowest, I found Merit America via email and decided to bet on myself. The staff at Merit America are truly incredible, passionate, and will be in your corner every ...My Merit America Experience was nothing short of amazing. At a time where I felt I was at my lowest, I found Merit America via email and decided to bet on myself. The staff at Merit America are truly incredible, passionate, and will be in your corner every step of the way. Even after you finish your track and find that worthwhile career, Merit America will be available to assist with their valuable resources. You will truly be a Merit American for life! I recommend anyone looking to change their career trajectory at any point of their life to look no further than Merit America.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Briana Coleman Verified via LinkedInGraduate · IT Support · Graduated 2023
Merit America: A Life-Changing Journey with Unmatched Support
My experience with Merit America was truly phenomenal! Don’t just take my word for it—check out my story on Merit America’s Promoted podcast, Season 1, Episode 11, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. I should also note that no I was not paid to share m...My experience with Merit America was truly phenomenal! Don’t just take my word for it—check out my story on Merit America’s Promoted podcast, Season 1, Episode 11, available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. I should also note that no I was not paid to share my story on the podcast and no I am not being paid to leave my review.
I completed the IT Support track, and it has opened countless doors for me. The curriculum is not only rigorous but also provides the foundational knowledge needed for real-world scenarios. Beyond that, my coaches supported me every step of the way, making the journey even more rewarding.
I highly recommend Merit America to anyone considering it. The program’s value goes far beyond its cost—you gain motivating support from dedicated coaches, engaging monthly events, a powerful network of alumni (including myself!), and lifelong resources to help you thrive. You're never alone in this journey. Instead, you're part of a lifelong learning community with a village behind you every step of the way!Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0Merit America of Merit America
Organization
Feb 10, 2025
Briana, we are so proud of you and your ability to inspire others. Thank you for sharing your story with us. -
Logan Schaetz Verified via LinkedInTechnology Support Technician · IT Support · Graduated 2022
Fantastic course and people
I have recently graduated from Merit America and have quickly found a new job using all of the knowledge that I have studied. This is a rigorous and fast paced course that definitely takes a lot of time and commitment, but the technical and professional kno...I have recently graduated from Merit America and have quickly found a new job using all of the knowledge that I have studied. This is a rigorous and fast paced course that definitely takes a lot of time and commitment, but the technical and professional knowledge I have gained is immense. The people I have met throughout my cohort and coaches during this program have all been wonderful and inspiring. This course has directly led to me getting a new job at a much higher rate. I couldn't be more thankful for these people and this organization!Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0Merit America of Merit America
Organization
Feb 10, 2025
Amazing! We are so proud of you and your ability to inspire others. Thank you for sharing your story with us. -
Yoni Werkneh Verified via LinkedInJava Development · Graduation year 2022
Full-stack Java development
I recently completed Junior Java Development Bootcamp with Merit America. The coaches I worked with and the tech instructors go above and beyond to help learners. The professional development part of the program is very effective! I received continuous help...I recently completed Junior Java Development Bootcamp with Merit America. The coaches I worked with and the tech instructors go above and beyond to help learners. The professional development part of the program is very effective! I received continuous help to polish my resume and sharpen my interview skills. I highly recommend Merit to anyone looking to break into the tech field.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Matt Verified via GitHubConstruction Site Supervisor · Java Development · Graduated 2021
Java Failure
I couldn't get placed for a software development job out of this program. I tried until my money ran out and I had to take a job in the construction field. I still had to pay for the course, which wasn't exactly the understanding I had going in. Wasted my t...I couldn't get placed for a software development job out of this program. I tried until my money ran out and I had to take a job in the construction field. I still had to pay for the course, which wasn't exactly the understanding I had going in.
Wasted my time and money and would not do it again. No way.Overall1.0Curriculum4.0Job support1.0Instructors2.0 -
Brandon Verified via LinkedInStudent · Graduation year 2022
Java
The program through Merit I will admit seemed a little daunting, however the support system and coaches have been so amazing thus far! The fact that they’re always just a slack message away from helping you get through whatever you’re struggling with has be...The program through Merit I will admit seemed a little daunting, however the support system and coaches have been so amazing thus far! The fact that they’re always just a slack message away from helping you get through whatever you’re struggling with has been great. The course is now 30 weeks and it’s been at a great pace for learning with a deeper level of understanding. If you’re thinking about whether Merit is right for you, reach out to them and you’ll see why I and so many others are excited and will be reaping the great benefits of this program.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Shelby Johnson Verified via LinkedInGraduation year 2021
Java Development
My experience with Merit America was amazing! I went into the program looking for a career change and a way to escape retail. I was working odd hours while trying to raise two small children and it was hard! So after watching my husband go through Merit Ame...My experience with Merit America was amazing! I went into the program looking for a career change and a way to escape retail. I was working odd hours while trying to raise two small children and it was hard! So after watching my husband go through Merit America’s Java program I thought to myself, I can totally do this! So I did! I worked my butt off learning how to code knowing there was a light at the end of the tunnel, with a new career waiting for me. I am now out of working retail, working for a company that I love and with five year old who is always asking me to teach him to code!Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Daved Tadlock Verified via LinkedInGraduate · Graduated 2021
Brutal but Worth it
Merit America's Java full stack program is everything you should expect from a coding boot camp and more. It is a flexible yet rigorous 21-week program that covers Java, Spring/Springboot, SQL, JS, HTML, CSS, React/Redux, AWS, SQL and much more and not only...Merit America's Java full stack program is everything you should expect from a coding boot camp and more. It is a flexible yet rigorous 21-week program that covers Java, Spring/Springboot, SQL, JS, HTML, CSS, React/Redux, AWS, SQL and much more and not only that but you put all these concepts to use in an all inclusive full stack application to present at the end of the course. This is a 'Zero to Hero' program however if you have not had any bit of previous experience or knowledge it will be much, much harder due to how fast you will move through this. You get out what you put in.
Not only do you gain new technical skill but there is also heavy emphasis on professional development from resume and cover letter writing, BI skills, networking, and more.
After all that there is the cost, which is LOW (near $8k) in comparison to other programs where the cost can reach $16k+.
Overall5.0Curriculum4.0Job support4.0Instructors5.0 -
Luis Ibanez Verified via LinkedInSoftware Developer · Graduated 2021
Java Training Program
Rigorous course which will for sure get you to think and be resourceful as a developer. It's focus is on Java, Spring Boot, SQL, JavaScript, React, Redux, etc. Best part about this program is that I was able to keep my current job while attending, it's extr...Rigorous course which will for sure get you to think and be resourceful as a developer. It's focus is on Java, Spring Boot, SQL, JavaScript, React, Redux, etc. Best part about this program is that I was able to keep my current job while attending, it's extremely flexible and would be a great options for working adults. There's also professional coaching that's help you prepare for interviewing and landing a job.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Ashton Bailey Verified via LinkedInGraduate · IT Support · Graduated 2020
Phenomenal Program
Merit America is a wonderful program that is wholly committed to helping working adults excel in the IT industry. Throughout the process, I was supported by an exceptional coach and team members. That support continues today in the form of Alumni services, ...Merit America is a wonderful program that is wholly committed to helping working adults excel in the IT industry. Throughout the process, I was supported by an exceptional coach and team members. That support continues today in the form of Alumni services, furthering illustrating Merits America's desire to catapult its students into their success. Their passion and tireless efforts exerted on behalf of their students are truly inspiring, and I consider myself fortunate to have been apart of a game-changing program such as this.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Ricky Wong Verified via LinkedInBusiness Intelligence Analyst · Java Development · Graduated 2019
Upskilled
I've always worked hard at everything I do. But it seems that I was going around in circles at times, most likely due to the lack of direction. Merit America provided professional mentorship as well as technical skills training and guidance. Concatenate the...I've always worked hard at everything I do. But it seems that I was going around in circles at times, most likely due to the lack of direction. Merit America provided professional mentorship as well as technical skills training and guidance. Concatenate the helpful support provided by the knowledgeable team with your perseverance, and you have a beautiful equation. More than often a helping hand goes a long way, even when I didn't know I needed it. Merit America allowed me to grow into a version of myself more fitting for a career in the technology industry that I didn't think possible.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Sunzida Beg Verified via LinkedInGraduate · Java Development · Graduated 2019
Excellent program
I would like to thank the CEO and all staff in Merit America for organizing this excellent program. I graduated from Merit America in 2019. I was always looking for an opportunity to work in the technology field and was looking for an opportunity to learn s...I would like to thank the CEO and all staff in Merit America for organizing this excellent program. I graduated from Merit America in 2019. I was always looking for an opportunity to work in the technology field and was looking for an opportunity to learn some programs. In Merit America I have learned JAVA and other programs from experienced trainers, coaches, and mentors. In Merit America I have developed both technology and professional skills. Merit America created my strong base and now it is easy for me to find my path. I think it would be more helpful if students were given some pre-course materials and links to go over before the course starts to gain some knowledge in advance.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Cody Ortiz Verified via LinkedInCloud Specialist · Java Development · Graduated 2019
Java Development
Merit America is an organization that truly believes in their mission of providing the necessary skills to experienced workers who are looking to gain an entry role into the technology industry. As a full-time husband and father, I had to prioritize my care...Merit America is an organization that truly believes in their mission of providing the necessary skills to experienced workers who are looking to gain an entry role into the technology industry. As a full-time husband and father, I had to prioritize my career at an early age and wasn't able to go after my 4-year degree like I intended to. I had always been interested in technology and programming, but I knew I would need a degree to get into the industry. Finding Merit America after I committed to pursuing an education in Computer Science, I thought the promise sounded too good to be true. I finally decided it was worth the shot, and I am so grateful I made that choice today. Not only did I gain the necessary technical skills through the program, but I also gained the professional skills needed to immediately begin contributing in my new role. I can't recommend the program enough to those that are looking to take a challenging, yet incredibly rewarding step on their path into the technology industry.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Huy Cam Verified via LinkedInSoftware Engineer Analyst · Java Development · Graduated 2020
Life Changing Program
It's hard to believe that there is such an opportunity that check out all of my items on my checklist. If you ask, yes I did doubt the fantastic offer that Merit America (MA) had. So I did my due diligence and you know, they didn't ask for anything suspicio...It's hard to believe that there is such an opportunity that check out all of my items on my checklist. If you ask, yes I did doubt the fantastic offer that Merit America (MA) had. So I did my due diligence and you know, they didn't ask for anything suspicious so I applied. After applying for the program, you'll get through rigorous tests to assess if you fit the program. My Java program lasted for 5 months. It's was tough and there were a lot of things going on during that time. But my coaches really helpful and gave me a lot of valuable supports. Not only they taught me technical material, but they also taught me how to build a resume, how to nail an interview, how to grow myself professionally. After the program, they helped me connect with their employer partners to get interviews. And now I am a Software Engineer at JP Morgan Chase. Keep in mind that besides their effort, you have to work your butt off on your side your learning journey and job-seeking journey as well. They already build half of the bridge, it's your responsibility to build the other half.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Nick Verified via LinkedInSoftware Engineering Analyst · Java Development · Graduated 2020
Changed my Life
I'd always wanted to break into software development, but never knew how. Merit America gave me a clear path- their specific and relevant curriculum prepared me to answer the questions I faced in interviews. The pair programming and group work we did forced...I'd always wanted to break into software development, but never knew how. Merit America gave me a clear path- their specific and relevant curriculum prepared me to answer the questions I faced in interviews. The pair programming and group work we did forced me to learn the technologies well enough to really talk about them, and gave me the opportunity to get to know some amazing people. This transformational opportunity is something I'll always be grateful for.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Armando Perez Verified via LinkedInIT Administrator · Graduated 2020
Fantastic choice!
Merit America is a school that goes above and beyond what is expected and helps you to not only get certified but also build your career skills like interviewing, networking, resume building and so much more!Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Destiny O Omokhoa Verified via LinkedInApplication support associate · Graduation year 2020
Merit America IT Support program
The Merit America program not only equips you with the technical skills you need to excel but also the professional skills and that include interview skills, workplace communication skills, networking skills and so much more. As a beneficiary of this platfo...The Merit America program not only equips you with the technical skills you need to excel but also the professional skills and that include interview skills, workplace communication skills, networking skills and so much more. As a beneficiary of this platform, I proudly recommend it to everyone looking to making a career change to the IT industry.Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Anthony ChinGraduate · Graduated 2022
Amazing, quick, friendly
Everyone here has been super amazing from start to finish. I'm just clay and they're doing all the magic here, shaping me to be the best me that I can be haha
So long as you put in the effort, you'll get to where you want to be. Been an alumni from 3 yearsOverall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0 -
Chance M.Graduate · Graduated 2025
So welcoming!
I went to drop off my sister for a complimentary photo shoot and didn’t plan on taking pics myself, but the staff was so warm and welcoming and really made me feel at ease! Great team! Special thanks to Becky, Alex, Ebony, Madison and everyone else I met wh...I went to drop off my sister for a complimentary photo shoot and didn’t plan on taking pics myself, but the staff was so warm and welcoming and really made me feel at ease! Great team! Special thanks to Becky, Alex, Ebony, Madison and everyone else I met whose names I can’t fit here! You all are awesome!!!Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job supportN/AInstructors5.0 -
Victoria MakanjuolaRecent Graduate · Graduated 2025
Thank you for the photoshoot
I heard about this opportunity on social media via my friends Instagram story and she’s not based in Dallas, but I am and I found out about the free photo shoot for job seeker like myself. I’m a recent graduate from the University of Southern California and...I heard about this opportunity on social media via my friends Instagram story and she’s not based in Dallas, but I am and I found out about the free photo shoot for job seeker like myself. I’m a recent graduate from the University of Southern California and I’m back home in TX seeking work. What’s your name Ebony,Alex, Isaac, Madison, Michael were all so helpful and very nice and made our experience great!Overall5.0Curriculum5.0Job support5.0Instructors5.0
Courses
3 Merit America Courses
Full details, syllabus, tuition, and reviews available on each course page.
News
Recent Merit America News
Mike McGee
Updated January 06, 2026
With AI reshaping education and workforce development throughout 2025, coding bootcamps continued to evolve their offerings while navigating significant policy changes. The year saw the passage of Workforce Pell, new accreditation pathways for short-term programs, and a surge in AI-focused training initiatives, with bootcamps positioning themselves in an AI-driven economy. From federal funding ...
Jess Feldman
Updated May 31, 2024
This May, training programs and nonprofits helping women, people of color, low-wage workers, and nonbinary folks make career changes into tech received extra support from investors, philanthropists, and regional government organizations. Numerous grants are now available to Canadians looking to gain technical skills, and a cybersecurity bootcamp announced it is now offering college credit. At C...
Jess Feldman
Updated December 29, 2023
2023 was a bit of a rollercoaster year! We’re rounding up the most impactful news we saw about coding bootcamps in 2023. Follow along as we highlight 2023’s top trends and break down the year’s biggest coding bootcamp acquisition, fundraises, and initiatives. Plus, we’re sharing our predictions for 2024 — from tech hiring to AI skills to bootcamp tuition financing! Course Report · 2023: The Yea...
Jess Feldman
Updated November 26, 2024
Skills training in the classroom and on the job continues to gain steam in November. With the rise in apprenticeships, there’s also continued momentum behind skills-based hiring. In honor of Veteran’s Day, we share a few initiatives helping military veterans get into tech careers. Plus, read recent news in the Online Program Manager (OPM) world and find out which 6 new bootcamps we added to the...
Jess Feldman
Updated May 04, 2022
Course Report · April 2022 Coding Bootcamp News Roundup We kicked off the month with a great April Fool’s Day joke from The Onion about Vice President Kamala Harris enrolling in a bootcamp with the hopes of getting an entry-level tech position. Joking aside, we saw more discussion around the merits of a coding bootcamp education over college, and if companies should fully drop the 4-year degree...
Liz Eggleston
Updated April 11, 2022
Brandon was working in gig jobs for Instacart and Doordash, but saw an entry point into tech through IT Support. He enrolled at Merit America to learn IT alongside his career coach and used the Success Sharing Agreement to avoid upfront tuition, balancing the remote program while continuing to work in New York. The career team at Merit America set Brandon up with an interview at Infosys, and to...
Jess Feldman
Updated March 01, 2022
Course Report · February 2022 Coding Bootcamp News Roundup After months of reporting about federal funding for short-term programs, it looks like the next step has been made to open up Pell grants to training programs like bootcamps. We’re covering the debate among bootcamps about the benefits (and challenges) of publishing alumni job outcomes. Learn more about February’s largest acquisitions a...
Rachel Meltzer
Updated April 17, 2025
While many coding bootcamps are for-profit educational institutions, there are a handful of non-profit coding bootcamps that are on a mission to help career-changers break into tech! Some non-profit coding bootcamps are working to make the tech industry more diverse while others exist to uplift underserved communities and provide training for high-wage jobs. There are also coding bootcamps that...
FAQ
Merit America FAQs
Find answers to the most-asked questions.
Is Merit America worth it?
Merit America hasn't shared alumni outcomes yet, but one way to determine if a bootcamp is worth it is by reading alumni reviews. 41 Merit America alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed Merit America on Course Report — you should start there!
How much does Merit America cost?
Merit America courses range from $5,700 for Data Analytics to $8,400 for Java Development.
What courses does Merit America teach?
Merit America offers courses like Java Development, IT Support, Data Analytics.
Where does Merit America have campuses?
Merit America teaches students Online in a remote classroom.
Does Merit America offer scholarships or accept the GI Bill?
Right now, it doesn't look like Merit America offers scholarships or accepts the GI Bill. We're always adding to the list of schools that do offer Exclusive Course Report Scholarships and a list of the bootcamps that accept the GI Bill.
Is Merit America legit?
We let alumni answer that question. 41 Merit America alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed Merit America and shared their experiences. Their overall rating is 3.82 out of 5.
Can I read Merit America reviews?
You can read 41 reviews of Merit America on Course Report! Merit America alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed Merit America and shared their experiences. Their overall rating is 3.82 out of 5.
Is Merit America accredited?
While bootcamps must be approved to operate, accreditation is relatively rare. Merit America doesn't yet share information about its accreditation status.