The University of Adelaide Coding Boot Camp

Embarking on the journey of the Boot Camp in Data Analytics was a pivotal decision for me, catalysed by my growing impatience with relying on others for data insights. As a professional constantly in need of up-to-the-minute information, I took it upon myself to learn Tableau for visualisations. However, the limitations imposed by pre-existing data tables left me yearning for a deeper understanding of data development and normalisation. This frustration fuelled my decision to apply to the Boot Camp, where I aspired to gain the skills needed to manipulate data according to my vision and create the visualisations essential for my role.

The Boot Camp proved to be an intense and rewarding experience. Drawing on my prior knowledge of relational databases was invaluable, given the program's rapid pace. I particularly appreciated the curriculum's structure, where each module not only built upon the last but also introduced novel concepts. This approach seamlessly filled gaps in my understanding while expanding on my existing knowledge, providing a comprehensive and holistic learning experience.

One of the standout aspects of the program was its ability to cater to learners with varying levels of expertise. Whether you were a novice or had some experience, the Boot Camp managed to strike a perfect balance, ensuring everyone felt challenged yet supported. The relentless pace demanded commitment, but the rewards were evident as I found myself seamlessly transitioning into a new role within the business, focusing specifically on Data Enablement.

For prospective students, my advice would be to enter the Boot Camp with a clear understanding of the commitment it requires. The program is rigorous and fast-paced, necessitating dedicated study hours. The time between classes is a precious opportunity to embed knowledge and practice, so being prepared to invest the necessary time and energy is crucial for success. In retrospect, the journey was challenging, but the transformative impact on my career and skill set makes it undoubtedly worthwhile. Read less

The Beginning 
Before I started Adelaide University's Coding Boot-camp, I was a professional hairstylist for 8 years. I enjoyed the Job, but disliked the work environment, and realized there was a ceiling on this career both monetarily and in opportunities. During my third lock down (due to Covid-19) I decided I should pursue something I enjoy and have a passion for. I knew that University wasn't for me, as each course included subjects I thought were unnecessary or not in my interest, and it would have to give up working hours which financially I couldn't do. I then saw a an Ad for the Boot-camp. This piqued my interest.

The Decision
I clicked the Ad and this was the beginning of a new pathway for me. I sent my information off and quickly received a call from a representative whom told me about the course and answered my questions. 4 things stood out to me. The course was 6 months long, which was a lot less intimidating than a full 4 year Uni degree. The classes were held in the evening after work, which meant I wouldn't have to give up any work hours. The course was online. Due to the spicy cough, classes were held online, which meant I didn't have to travel to the city to attend. Finally the course was affordable. I was given multiple payment options in which to choose from, to fit my situation. All of this helped me make the decision. I knew that if I signed up, I would be locking myself in to 6 months of intense work and study. I wanted to maintain working full time, 38 hour weeks, however the boot-camp recommended at least 20 hours of personal study every week. This meant I would be working all day, attending the boot-camp at night, and studying in any free time I had spare. Now even though I would be trading my time for the course, it was an easy decision. I had a passion for development and wanted to see it through.
The Course
Starting the course I was excited and nervous, but they made the induction process smooth. I received a checklist of things to do before the course began to get myself ready. This included setting up my machine and installing the needed applications, and signing up for the necessary websites. This was all very easy and straight forward. The first day we met our Instructor and our TA, both of whom were excited to meet everyone and very welcoming. From then we started into the topics and participated in activities, working along side our class mates. Every week we ended with an assignment that used all the information from the topic we had just studied, so the information was fresh in our minds, and easy to go back to if we needed a refresher. Some project assignments were done in groups so we could get a taste of what it's like in a team-based, real world environment. As the weeks went on, stress levels went up and down as I struggled with topics I wasn't as confident on, or powered through assignments, the end drew near. 

The Dream
About six weeks before the end of the course. I received a phone call. It was from a hiring manager offering me a Developer position! I was blown away and ecstatic. My dream was slowly fading into reality. I interviewed and 4 weeks later was at the desk of my new job. 1 week after that, I graduated the boot-camp ready to explore my new doors and opportunities as they show themselves.

The End
If you are thinking of joining a boot camp because you are thinking it's short and easy. Then this isn't for you. If you are looking at this course because you are passionate but don't think the full University experience is for you, this is a good supplement. You still have to apply and study, and it can be hard working a full time job, and studying almost just as much but if you have the drive it is possible, and you might even start a new career from it.   Read less

This course was a very intense 6 months but I must say I have enjoyed it thoroughly! As someone who had no experience with coding. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to try something new and don't want to lock themselves into a long course. The support that is given is huge which is very useful and the everyone in the support team make this journey far easier.  Read less

I was from batch Dec 2023-June 2024. Honestly, not very happy with overall experience.

The learning was OKAY but after I finished, the was little to no help in finding jobs. The DEMO day after the graduation was absolutely pointless and poorly coordinated. Before we started, we were given a short briefing that we would constantly present our project to recruiters but the reality was, we waited in our room for far too long until the recruiter came in. I only got to present twice.

Furthermore, I still haven't received my certificate of completion. We were informed that the certificate will be ELECTRONICALLY MAILED 2 weeks after the graduation but it's been almost 2 months now. WHERE IS IT??

Emailed student success or advisor or whatever her position is and I got no reply.

I paid the study fee in FULL and completed the program SUCCESSFULLY.  Read less