When the average person thinks of software developers, they imagine some brilliant, albeit socially awkward person hunched behind a computer for 16 years a day. The stereotype goes on to depict the software developer as having obtained a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a prestigious technology-focused school, such as MIT or Berkeley. However, contrary to popular belief, the average person is actually more than capable of beginning their own career in this field.
There are accelerated certification programs such as a 10 month MS in software development that offer a much cheaper and quicker path to developing the skills that are required of a software developer. In as little as ten months, these programs upskill participants enough that they are able to match the technical knowledge of a professional with two to three years of experience. Most of these programs also provide financial assistance through FAFSA and don’t require any prior computer science degrees. They are offered in a variety of different learning formats, including hybrid, online, and in-person, which the student can select based on their preference.
These programs emphasize experiential, project-based learning as opposed to learning through traditional academic methods like textbooks and lectures. Students are required to put in 50 hours per week on their coursework, usually during standard business hours, to mimic the actual setting of a software development job. As part of the course requirement, they also have to create portfolios of all of their projects. This is with the intent of being able to show employers all of their skills and why they are a competitive applicant.
One key part of the programs that encourages the rapid development of this technical knowledge is the one-on-one mentoring from both peers and instructors. About 40% of the curriculum is made up of open lab sessions, during which students can receive this individualized help from peers and professors. They can receive help in either of the two learning pathways that are available, including full-stack and real-time software development.
Clearly these programs are successful, because many alumni frequently obtain jobs at popular companies like Citibank, Amazon, Samsung, and Meta. Clearly, the typical degrees from universities are not the only route to success in this field. Credentialing programs are able to teach the same skills as traditional education, in both an expedited time frame and with a cheaper overall cost.
Source: YU Global
