The Tech Academy
The Tech Academy is a trade school headquartered in Portland, Oregon that offers full-time and part-time bootcamps online and in-person at their Portland campus.The Tech Academy offers bootcamps in computer programming, website development, cybersecurity, game development, mobile development, data science, and front-end development. The immersive experience aims to create well-rounded technology professionals, and also gives students the option to take the course at their own pace. There are also no set starts dates or rigid scheduling. Students can enroll at any time, study from home, and choose whatever study schedule they would like.
The Tech Academy’s bootcamps cover topics including computer science fundamentals, programming basics, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, SQL, C#, Python, Bootstrap, jQuery, React.js, project management, Agile, Scrum, MVC, version control, Java, and more. Each bootcamp also includes a Live Project, where students gain real-life experience to add to their resume as well as job placement assistance.
None of The Tech Academy's bootcamps require any tech background or experience. To apply, applicants need to take an IQ test with logic-based questions (to ensure applicants can read, write and perform basic math), followed by an admissions interview.
The final part of every The Tech Academy bootcamp is the Job Placement Course which covers interviewing skills, resume writing, where to find tech jobs, and gives students access to job placement staff who assist students in landing technical positions.
408 The Tech Academy Reviews
GarrettStudent • PortlandOct 13, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob AssistanceRecently started at the Tech Academy
I'm a current student at the Tech Academy and have been participating for a little over a week. So far I've been completely blown away. As a relative newcome to programming I was hesitant at first to enroll in a coding bootcamp rather than a more traditional program, but I can confidently say now that I made the correct choice.
The sheer amount of work I've been able to accomplish in such little time is staggering. I've felt supported and encouraged at all times in the program, ...
I'm a current student at the Tech Academy and have been participating for a little over a week. So far I've been completely blown away. As a relative newcome to programming I was hesitant at first to enroll in a coding bootcamp rather than a more traditional program, but I can confidently say now that I made the correct choice.
The sheer amount of work I've been able to accomplish in such little time is staggering. I've felt supported and encouraged at all times in the program, both when I was working remotely and in-person.
Not only have I been impressed at the pace and clarity of the learning materials, the Tech Academy seems to have well organized and effective job placement department. They hold weekly roundtables just to practice technical and soft skill interview questions in addition to personalized mentorship.
I would highly recommend the program to anyone looking for a fast track to learning how to code, but be forewarned- you will have to work very hard! If you're looking for a challenging but supportive environment, you've found the right place.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Oct 24, 2016
Thanks for the review! Glad to hear things are going well for you so far and you're being challenged at the right level. Keep up the good work!- DianaStudent • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandOct 11, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Just started at Tech Academy
I've just finished Tech Academy's first course, Computer Basics. A very intense and thorough overview of computer science for anyone, no matter what your previous knowledge. A large part of proficiency in any subject is having a good understanding of the common vocabulary of that field. This course of FULL of vocabulary and succinct descriptions.
This class gave me a good review and I've already started learning and understanding new stuff. I come from a background in...
I've just finished Tech Academy's first course, Computer Basics. A very intense and thorough overview of computer science for anyone, no matter what your previous knowledge. A large part of proficiency in any subject is having a good understanding of the common vocabulary of that field. This course of FULL of vocabulary and succinct descriptions.
This class gave me a good review and I've already started learning and understanding new stuff. I come from a background in computer science, but wanted to freshen up my skills and move into something new. I know what I'm saying when I say this is good material!
Sometimes the walk through the forest is so thick it's impossible to see where you're going,and it was kind of amazing to see such simple, understandable explanations and examples. This information can be used as reference material going forward and I'm looking forward to the next classes. I'm very sure I made the right decision to study here.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Oct 24, 2016
Wow thanks for this review Diana! I completely agree with you on the importance of understanding the vocabulary in computer science. That definitely was one of our breakthroughs on this program - defining complex technical terms in simple ways that anyone can understand. It's so awesome to have this validated by someone with a computer science background like yourself. - Matt CSoftware Support Specialist • Graduate • PortlandSep 28, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Worth
After my second term at Oregon State studying Computer Science, I felt I was not learning enough for my intended profession as a developer, so I decided to search for other options. The Tech Academy had the most extensive coding school I could find in the Portland area, so I decided to give it a shot.
In the six months it took me to graduate, I developed a really strong base in multiple coding languages. Because you learn the skills for web language, databases language, and g...
After my second term at Oregon State studying Computer Science, I felt I was not learning enough for my intended profession as a developer, so I decided to search for other options. The Tech Academy had the most extensive coding school I could find in the Portland area, so I decided to give it a shot.
In the six months it took me to graduate, I developed a really strong base in multiple coding languages. Because you learn the skills for web language, databases language, and general-purpose languages, you can get an idea of what you want to specialize in.
One thing to keep in mind about the Tech Academy is that you learn what you want to. The instructors are very helpful, but its important to be self-motivated and not expect hand-holding throughout. You are being held to your own standards while being provided great resources.
The job placement folks are also really helpful and supportive.
The Tech Academy was a great way for me to get my foot in the door at a software company, and overall a good experience.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Sep 29, 2016
Matt, I couldn't be more stoked for you and your new job! You're paving the way for younger talent taking the path of doing a boot camp and then breaking directly into software development, as opposed to the four-year degree. Your initiative and tenacity truly impress me! Best of luck in your new position and to a successful career! - Gordon MannenGraduate • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandSep 22, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
A Good Starting Point
For some years I had contemplated making a detour on my career path to software development. But my background was accounting and finance and I did not acquire a great deal of programming experience in the business world except as an end user of many different products, and some very straightforward things such as SQL queries, some Visual Basic, and so on.
When I went to research coding schools in the Portland area, as I compared them I was looking for a school where ...
For some years I had contemplated making a detour on my career path to software development. But my background was accounting and finance and I did not acquire a great deal of programming experience in the business world except as an end user of many different products, and some very straightforward things such as SQL queries, some Visual Basic, and so on.
When I went to research coding schools in the Portland area, as I compared them I was looking for a school where I could acquire a broad base of software development knowledge, methodologies, and experience with some key programming languages such as JavaScript, Python, and C#. I was able to find all of these things offered by The Tech Academy of Portland and at a price that was very competitive with other coding schools in the area.
Additionally, I really appreciated the fact that the program is structured such that it is a great starting point for students regardless of what previous exposure they have had to computer science and software development in general. It also offers a flexible platform on which to study and learn whether you are local to the Portland area or not by allowing for remote study and allows the student to have some flexibility with their study hours by remaining open for a wide range of hours during the day, evening, and even weekends. This allows for the student to study full or part time depending on their situation while still having access to the instructors when they need it most. Learning and gaining skills in software development has been a great experience and I highly recommend checking out The Tech Academy if you are interested in finding a starting point for your journey.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Oct 24, 2016
So glad that we were able to help you switch careers into something you were more excited about. And of course, who doesn't love coding? Good luck in the rest of your career! - Eric NguyenStudent • Student • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandSep 21, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
My First Experiences
Walking into Tech Academy and receiving my interview upon enrolling into this school was a very fun experience. All the staff members were very helpful, funny and chill. In my experience going through high school and a few years of community college, it made me realize something about myself regarding learning. Some people like myself, learn at their best potential when they are in an “intimate” atmosphere. Meaning all the students, instructors and employees have a good relatio...
Walking into Tech Academy and receiving my interview upon enrolling into this school was a very fun experience. All the staff members were very helpful, funny and chill. In my experience going through high school and a few years of community college, it made me realize something about myself regarding learning. Some people like myself, learn at their best potential when they are in an “intimate” atmosphere. Meaning all the students, instructors and employees have a good relationship with one another. After my older brother graduated from Tech Academy and shared his experiences with me, I knew this school would be the perfect choice under my current circumstances. The self-paced, full-time/part-time, and remote or in-person schooling is a great option for students that are working at a job on the side. If you’re looking for an affordable school that will teach you all of the essential Software Developing knowledge in a concise and candid manner, with awesome peers and instructors, then this is place for you!
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Sep 30, 2016
Hi Eric, thank you so much for your review! Although I don't get to see our registration staff as much as I'd like to, they really are a dynamic bunch. I'm glad to hear that you're off to a great start, and although I haven't had the chance to work with you very much yet, if you're even remotely similar to your brother, I'm sure we'll get along great and you will have continued success on the program and in your career! - WillSoftware Developer • Graduate • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandSep 15, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Great school for getting your foot in the door
The Tech Academy was an integral part of my current employment. The courses are sound and informative, the instructors are very kind and helpful, and the overall atmosphere is amazing. A long held belief of mine is if you want to know more about something, go look it up. Research it, find a mentor/teacher, and become the best you possibly can at whatever it is. From my experience, the Tech Academy supports this belief, and facilitates it wherever possible. For those people out there with t...
The Tech Academy was an integral part of my current employment. The courses are sound and informative, the instructors are very kind and helpful, and the overall atmosphere is amazing. A long held belief of mine is if you want to know more about something, go look it up. Research it, find a mentor/teacher, and become the best you possibly can at whatever it is. From my experience, the Tech Academy supports this belief, and facilitates it wherever possible. For those people out there with the drive and ambition to gain mastery in coding, this school will help you to focus and funnel that energy into success. I learned so much from these wonderful people, and am grateful for their generosity and knowledge. Work hard, follow the guidelines they set, and you *will* succeed.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Sep 30, 2016
Hi Will! I couldn't agree with you more. That's the intention of our school: to give you the essential skills and knowledge needed, so that you can go in the direction that you want. The curriculum was specifically designed so that our graduates wouldn't get "pigeon-holed" into only using one or two languages. Instead, we ensure students learn the core fundamentals of computers and computer programming and teach them 7 different programming languages, so that learning an 8th or 9th is no problem. With that versatility and understanding and willingness to work hard, yes, you *Will* succeed. - Benjamin LivingstonLead Software Developer • Graduate • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandSep 15, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Best Opportunity to Learn Software Development
I am currently graduating the Tech Academy. I found there program to be the best method any prospective software developer can use to enter the tech field. I learned software development on my own in my previous work experience and looked into degree programs to formalize my training after leaving my previous employer. This program can take anyone with the ability and interest from only knowing how to turn on a computer to a deep understanding of C#, Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Agil...
I am currently graduating the Tech Academy. I found there program to be the best method any prospective software developer can use to enter the tech field. I learned software development on my own in my previous work experience and looked into degree programs to formalize my training after leaving my previous employer. This program can take anyone with the ability and interest from only knowing how to turn on a computer to a deep understanding of C#, Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Agile/Scrum development methodologies. They cover the basics of numerous languages with the resources to learn as in depth as a student wants with a constant focus in job placement and thinking like a developer.
With the assistance of their job placement specialists I was hired as a full time software developer before even completing the last steps of the program. They work with my schedule to allow finishing the studies at night, remotely from home, or on weekends understanding that I am interested in completing my education. I cannot emphasize enough how fantastic the experience was at the Tech Academy and highly recommend it for entering any IT field or just getting the knowledge as a manager to understand their development team. There is no better opportunity for the cost effectiveness, and the time it takes (about 15 weeks at 40 hours of studying per week).
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Sep 29, 2016
Ben, I want to thank you for your review and for your contributions to the Tech Academy itself. I remember numerous times in our soft skills interview practices, where you gave not only very good demonstrations of excellent interview answers, but deep insight into your own job experiences that I believe really helped the other students. I'm very happy about your new job, and I wish you the best of luck! Please come back soon to speak at one of our Friday Tech Talks! - Andrew EarlsWeb Developer • Graduate • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandSep 08, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Know What You Are Looking For
My name is Andrew Earls and this is my experience at The Tech Academy:
I have taught myself many computer languages and most of my experience with coding has been unprofessional. I have always desired to go to school for software development, but always lacked the funds and time. After working a high paying job for a company that had just gone under I was presented with enough time and money to attend a software boot camp. The Tech Academy having the highest ratings and offering ...
My name is Andrew Earls and this is my experience at The Tech Academy:
I have taught myself many computer languages and most of my experience with coding has been unprofessional. I have always desired to go to school for software development, but always lacked the funds and time. After working a high paying job for a company that had just gone under I was presented with enough time and money to attend a software boot camp. The Tech Academy having the highest ratings and offering a discount drew me in.
The curriculum is work at your own pace, which is nice. The approximate time of completion that is posted on the website and every curriculum, I feel may be a bit of an exaggeration, as I completed in nearly half of the time, however I can understand how someone not knowing anything about programming may take longer to complete the course. As the industry changes so must the curriculum, this leads to a lot of info constantly being changed and updated, which in my opinion is much better than paying for a five year old book that has lost all value and is no longer relevant.
The instructors were all very helpful and focused on connecting with the students, this is great if you come into class everyday, but also helps if you work from home. Some of instructors have not completed the course and even would join us in our studies. This was interesting and unconventional, but honestly it helped in making the environment a great place to study.
The job assistance. I am a shy guy. Interviews are not my thing. But these guys never gave up on me. They worked hard to help me perfect my resume, cover letter, website, and soft skills for any interview. At the beginning of my time at The Tech Academy, I was afraid of talking in front of people, but by the end of The Tech Academy I was sharing and interviewing like a pro, with confidence.
My overall experience, I was looking for a school that would teach me the skills I needed to know to land a job and start my career. What I thought I needed to learn and what I actually needed to learn was complete opposites. I thought once I knew the languages I would easily get a job, also not true. The curriculum was easy and it is my belief that children can learn how to code. Knowing enough to get a job and getting a job are two different beasts. The Tech Academy taught me what I needed to know to get a job, but they also gave me so much incredible support as I struggled through application after application. I would have never landed my job if not for their support.
The Tech Academy, unconventional, continually adapting, and very supportive. It is not what I expected, perhaps not what I wanted, but it is what I needed.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Sep 29, 2016
Thanks for the review Andrew! I'm glad you were able to get through most of the courses in half the approximated time. You are a pretty sharp cookie! Very well done on your persistence on your job search, and I hope you're doing well at your new job! Here's to a satisfying career! - Coderdev • Graduate • OnlineSep 08, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Got a job!
The main reason I attended this boot camp was to land a coding job. Here's my experience:
1. It started with talking with the Registration staff about the program. They were helpful and not pushy (which I appreciated). I wasn't into the entry testing but I did it and passed.
2. The first course was computer basics. For me this was beneficial because I hadn't written code before. The first 2 or 3 courses really helped me understand computers and programming a...
The main reason I attended this boot camp was to land a coding job. Here's my experience:
1. It started with talking with the Registration staff about the program. They were helpful and not pushy (which I appreciated). I wasn't into the entry testing but I did it and passed.
2. The first course was computer basics. For me this was beneficial because I hadn't written code before. The first 2 or 3 courses really helped me understand computers and programming and I felt more confident that I could learn coding.
3. Most of the rest of the classes were on coding (Python, JavaScript, C#). It went pretty smoothly but there were some rough patches. The instructors helped out when I needed it. I had to wait a couple times but most of the time help was instantaneous.
4. The live project was awesome. I got to help on an app they were making and it allowed me to use some of my skills and I found out I had a bit more to learn... It was nice to do a real life project.
5. Finally, I got into the job placement section. They have a short class on job placement and a job placement director to help students. At first I had thought that I would just be handed a job but this wasn't the case. I had to apply at various places and it was rough for me because I'd never had a tech job before. Luckily the school helped me out a lot and after 3 weeks I got hired.
I am now making three times what I made before going to The Tech Academy. Anyways, I basically went from never coding to having a coding job. I am glad I went here. There you go
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Oct 24, 2016
Wow! Your jump in pay-grade is very impressive. So happy to hear that you had an overall positive experience here, and that you ultimately achieved what you wanted to and now you're coding for a living. Congrats to you! Thank you for the review! - JesseGraduate • Software Developer Bootcamp • PortlandSep 02, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
Great SQL Course
The course on SQL was my favorite. It's a very well-designed curriculum. I went from knowing very little to being very confident of my knowledge and skills. I like the focus on actual practice to build skills.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Sep 30, 2016
Hi Jesse! Thank you for the review. Yeah, a lot of people going into development don't realize how important it is to know databases. No matter what you're doing, you're bound to have to deal with databases here and there, if not every single day! And not all coding boot camps teach you about coding. So, yes, emphasis definitely is put on the essentials you will need in a real world. - JessicaPortlandSep 01, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
What I Gained From Taking The SQL Course
I learned how to create databases and to manage the data within. I also learned new logic for how to program in these databases, which I believe will be a good precedence going forward for other languages that I will learn, even if the syntax is different. I also learned how to really dig into sites like Stackoverflow and the like to help me find solutions to problems that I may not have been able to do otherwise. By learning how to research solutions I believe I'll have an easier time on ...
I learned how to create databases and to manage the data within. I also learned new logic for how to program in these databases, which I believe will be a good precedence going forward for other languages that I will learn, even if the syntax is different. I also learned how to really dig into sites like Stackoverflow and the like to help me find solutions to problems that I may not have been able to do otherwise. By learning how to research solutions I believe I'll have an easier time on the job in the future, as I'll be able to dig up my own knowledge without having to ask questions all of the time.
Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Oct 24, 2016
Awesome to hear what you got out of the Database/SQL course Jessica. And it's great to hear that you learned how to dig into different sites and get solutions to problems. You're totally right that that skill and ability is crucial in actual practice on the job. - PeterAug 15, 2016Overall ExperienceInstructorsCurriculumJob Assistance
The Tech Academy
I learned that Python can be used for just about anything in software development and that it does it quite well. I plan on using Python to create a website with a database attached. I also intend to write some "Quality of life" scripts with it. Scripts that could cut out endless "copy + paste" tasks and maybe even a script that updates my desktop background automatically. I'm also interested in what games I could create using the PyGame module or a similar one that focuses on game d...
I learned that Python can be used for just about anything in software development and that it does it quite well. I plan on using Python to create a website with a database attached. I also intend to write some "Quality of life" scripts with it. Scripts that could cut out endless "copy + paste" tasks and maybe even a script that updates my desktop background automatically. I'm also interested in what games I could create using the PyGame module or a similar one that focuses on game development.
I gained confidence in knowing a programming language and the ability to start writing a program without much hand-holding. The drills near the end of the course were great practice and I feel much more proficient at how to google for answers, which is a skill in itself. I also feel that I have a great jumping-off point for getting into other languages due to being able to compare ideology from something I already am familiar with. To summarize my experience, knowing the bigger picture of how a language works and what it can do was a real eye opener. I feel as though a door has been opened and I've taken my first big steps into creating original programs. I would highly recommend to anyone in this course (or any course for that matter) to create an account on Stackoverflow.com. It's an incredible place to ask questions and a community you'll benefit greatly from as a developer.Danny Condon of The Tech Academy
Lead Job Placement Director
Oct 24, 2016
Welcome to the wonderful world of Python! Yes, there's so much you can do with it, and great to hear your enthusiasm to get going with it! Well done on completing the Python course, and good luck with the rest!
The Tech Academy Alumni Outcomes
| Employed in-field | 70.1% |
| Full-time employee | 70.1% |
| Full-time apprenticeship, internship or contract position | 0.0% |
| Short-term contract, part-time, or freelance | 0.0% |
| Started a new company or venture after graduation | 0.0% |
| Not seeking in-field employment | 11.2% |
| Employed out-of-field | 2.8% |
| Continuing to higher education | 4.7% |
| Not seeking a job for health, family, or personal reasons | 3.8% |
| Still seeking job in-field | 8.5% |
| Could not contact | 10.2% |
Recent The Tech Academy News
The Tech Academy Alumni Reviews Summary
How much does The Tech Academy cost?
The Tech Academy costs around $14,000. On the lower end, some The Tech Academy courses like Self-Paced Front-End Web Developer Boot Camp cost $1,800.
What courses does The Tech Academy teach?
The Tech Academy offers courses like Online C# and .NET Framework Boot Camp (full-time), Online C# and .NET Framework Boot Camp (part-time), Online Cyber Security Boot Camp (full-time), Online Cyber Security Boot Camp (part-time) and 29 more.
Where does The Tech Academy have campuses?
The Tech Academy has in-person campuses in Portland. The Tech Academy also has a remote classroom so students can learn online.
Is The Tech Academy worth it?
The data says yes! The Tech Academy reports a 72% graduation rate, a median salary of $54,000 and 85% of The Tech Academy alumni are employed. The Tech Academy hasn't shared alumni outcomes yet, but one way to determine if a bootcamp is worth it is by reading alumni reviews. 408 The Tech Academy alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed The Tech Academy on Course Report - you should start there!
Is The Tech Academy legit?
We let alumni answer that question. 408 The Tech Academy alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed The Tech Academy and rate their overall experience a 4.85 out of 5.
Does The Tech Academy offer scholarships or accept the GI Bill?
Right now, it doesn't look like The Tech Academy 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.
Can I read The Tech Academy reviews?
You can read 408 reviews of The Tech Academy on Course Report! The Tech Academy alumni, students, and applicants have reviewed The Tech Academy and rate their overall experience a 4.85 out of 5.
Is The Tech Academy accredited?
We are a licensed trade school through the Higher Education Coordinating Commission (and other state licensing bodies), authorized to certify students in coding and other technical professions.