Coding Bootcamps in Jacksonville Guide
Technology is, and will continue to be, a high-growth sector in the job market due to its prevalence in business and society. Pursuing an education and career in tech can set individuals up for expansive professional opportunities.
In the sunshine state of Florida, Jacksonville is the largest city in terms of population and geography. As a major hub for innovation, distribution, fintech, and military operations, Jacksonville offers a wealth of career opportunities for residents with coding skills.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the national demand for software developers is projected to grow 25% through 2032, adding about 153,900 new jobs each year. This is much faster than the average occupational growth rate of 5%.
However, even with a nationwide shortage of tech talent, there is fierce competition for software engineering and web development roles. This leaves many aspiring professionals wondering how they can transition from a non-technical job to a career as a software developer.
If you want to launch a tech career, a coding bootcamp in Jacksonville can help you gain job-ready skills and practical knowledge and build a portfolio as an emerging developer.
Continue reading this guide to coding bootcamps in Jacksonville to learn more.
Guide to Coding Bootcamps in Jacksonville
Many assume they need a bachelor’s degree or notable working experience to transition into a tech career. However, that’s not always the case, especially with the current demand for coding professionals. Computer support specialist, web developer, software engineer, and software developer are all examples of high-demand roles that may not necessitate a degree.
According to McKinsey & Company, 44% of tech professionals started their careers in non-technical roles. A 2022 CompTIA survey also found that 85% of HR leaders support eliminating or relaxing requirements for bachelor's degrees on tech job listings.
Today, tech companies are looking for diverse individuals with a range of talents. This means people can succeed in coding careers by possessing interpersonal “soft” skills such as strong communication and attention to detail, as well as technical skills, which a coding bootcamp in Jacksonville can help them acquire.
Attending a bootcamp empowers students to develop the skills and qualifications needed for entry-level coding roles in the Jacksonville area, remotely, and nationwide. Plus, some coding programs in Jacksonville offer career coaching, job search support, and networking opportunities to help career changers land their first job in tech.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
Coding bootcamps are immersive career training programs that rapidly equip individuals with technical skills. Attending a coding bootcamp in Jacksonville is often a more flexible and affordable alternative to a standard college degree.
Rather than learning theoretical concepts as taught in traditional classrooms, the specialized focus on project-based learning and hands-on skills practice makes a coding bootcamp a strong option for those looking to quickly enter the field. Adult learners, career changers, and upskillers alike can benefit from the bootcamp format to help reach their career goals sooner.
In a coding bootcamp, students learn the ins and outs of popular programming languages like HTML, CSS, C++, SQL, and JavaScript. Bootcamp students can also explore various topics such as database design, object-oriented programming, computer networking, mobile development, and data structures. Depending on the program, individuals may learn front-end, back-end, or full stack development.
Completing one of the coding programs in Jacksonville can take a few weeks or months, depending on the pace and curriculum. Most coding bootcamps in Jacksonville are offered online, although some are held in-person or in a hybrid format. Additionally, some online bootcamps offer live class schedules, while others are fully self-paced. Individuals pursuing a tech education should consider their unique career goals, learning styles, and circumstances when selecting which type of coding bootcamp best fits their needs.
Financial Assistance for Coding Bootcamps
While bootcamps require a financial commitment, most bootcamp providers will help students research various payment options:
Scholarships may reduce the cost of tuition
Employers may offer reimbursement for bootcamp tuition
Local or regional government assistance programs may be available
For some coding bootcamps in Jacksonville, including those offered by Fullstack Academy, military veterans can get aid from the Veteran Employment Through Technology Education Courses (VET TEC) program
Personal loans may also be available at the student’s discretion
Why Choose a Coding Bootcamp?
Students of coding bootcamps in Jacksonville have the opportunity to break into the local industry and gain hands-on experience with the latest software development tools, programming languages, and coding techniques.
High-quality coding bootcamps are taught by instructors with direct industry experience. Students can learn from experts in the field who are passionate about skilling the next generation of coders. Plus, many coding bootcamps in Jacksonville offer career success services and job search assistance to help graduates get hired.
These benefits answer the question, “Why choose a coding bootcamp?" for many aspiring software engineers. However, others may decide to enroll in a bootcamp for additional reasons, including:
Relevant Coursework
Coursework in a bootcamp is designed to be industry-specific, skills-based, and directly job-related.
Format
Flexibility & Accessibility
With online bootcamps, students can join virtual classes from nearly any location.
Networking
Bootcamps can open doors to networking opportunities with other industry professionals and potential employers.
Portfolio Building
A bootcamp may include creating a portfolio to show potential employers.
Skill Validation
Bootcamps help students practice new coding skills in real-life scenarios.
Typical Coding Salaries in Jacksonville
With over 7,000 new job postings in 2023 for Web Developers and Software Engineers/Developers in Jacksonville alone (LightcastTM), top local tech employers like Citi, Deloitte, and FIS Group are seeking to hire qualified coding talent.
Compensation for coding professionals can vary based on several factors, including job title, skills, and location. According to Glassdoor, entry-level web developers in Jacksonville earn an average annual salary of $67,084, higher than the overall average of $57,400 (ZipRecruiter, 2023). The average entry-level salary for Software Engineers/Developers is even higher, at $88,266.
Earning potential continues to rise with experience. Here are some typical coding salaries in Jacksonville:
Average Coding Salaries in Jacksonville (ZipRecruiter)
Web Developer: $76,336
Software Developer/Engineer: $117,649
Median Coding Salaries in Jacksonville (LightcastTM)
Web Developer: $83,520
Software Developer/Engineer: $92,837
For those looking to earn a competitive salary, a coding bootcamp in Jacksonville may provide an accelerated path to a lucrative and engaging career.
Types of Coding Bootcamps in Jacksonville
Bootcamps can help you ramp up your programming knowledge and acquire the most relevant skills. However, they are intensive and require dedication and commitment. While researching a list of coding bootcamps in Jacksonville, it’s critical to conduct adequate research to determine if a program aligns with your professional goals.
When pursuing a coding bootcamp in Jacksonville, there are a few things to consider:
Duration: Determine if a full-time or part-time program is best for your schedule and goals. If you are committed to a full-time job, consider enrolling in a part-time program.
Career Support: Explore how a bootcamp aids its students in their job search through career success services such as one-on-one coaching, resume and cover letter optimization, interview prep, employer partnerships, and more.
Subject Matter: Check if the program curriculum, skills, and programming languages taught align with your specific career goals.
Hiring Outcomes: Look for transparent hiring outcome reports and read alumni reviews to help determine if the program equips students for success in the field.
Another aspect to account for is the size and quality of a program’s alumni network. Bootcamps with a high rate of graduate success and a supportive alumni network may provide valuable connections to help new students get their foot in the door.
Here are some of the types of coding bootcamps in Jacksonville to explore:
Fullstack Academy Coding Bootcamps
Fullstack Academy is one of the longest-running and most reputable tech bootcamp providers in the nation. Its graduates are equipped to succeed in the professional world through a foundational teaching method that allows students to thrive in their first job and every job after.
Whether you’re looking to embark on a brand new career path or elevate your current tech career, Fullstack Academy provides various coding bootcamps that can help you make your aspirations a reality.
Full-Time Software Engineering Immersive Bootcamp
Fullstack Academy’s flagship program, the Full-Time Software Engineering Immersive, is a rigorous, 16-week career accelerator. Students learn JavaScript-based software development technologies through a comprehensive curriculum and project-based approach.
Part-Time Software Engineering Immersive Bootcamp
The Part-Time Software Engineering Immersive is designed for individuals who need to balance everyday life commitments, such as full-time employment or childcare, with career development. It offers the same high-quality curriculum as the full-time coding bootcamp but is spread out over 28 weeks.
The Grace Hopper Program Coding Bootcamp for Women
The Grace Hopper Program Coding Bootcamp offers a gender-allied learning experience for women and non-binary individuals. The coding bootcamp follows the same curriculum as the Fullstack Academy Software Engineering Immersive, teaching important web development skills, providing specialized guidance, and fostering a culture of inclusion.
Designed for women and non-binary coders of all skill levels, the Grace Hopper Program Coding Bootcamp prepares students to become professional web developers in only 16-28 weeks.
Fullstack Academy Coding Bootcamp Curriculum
Each one of the above Fullstack Academy coding bootcamps covers the same core curriculum and is designed to support all starting skill levels. Throughout bootcamp, students complete projects and prototypes, which culminate in a comprehensive coding portfolio and GitHub profile.
What You'll Learn
The Fullstack Academy Software Engineering Bootcamp utilizes an in-demand, JavaScript-based core curriculum.
You’ll also learn how to apply generative AI in web development using ChatGPT, Bing AI, and more with a free elective course.
Curriculum (Units)
Units
Foundations On-Ramp
The Software Engineering Immersive begins with a comprehensive Foundations on-ramp to support both intermediate and beginner coders. Designed to help all students reach a uniform skill level, Foundations covers the basic tenets of programming to prepare for the core curriculum—which moves through more advanced, specialized JavaScript concepts at a rapid bootcamp pace.
Foundational Software Engineering Curriculum
HTML and CSS
Introduction to JavaScript programming
Advanced JavaScript including closure, prototypical inheritance, and recursion
Web development environment and industry-standard tools
Foundations On-Ramp Features
Supports learners of all skill levels
Student-centered, inquiry-based learning in teams
Instructor-facilitated, live online classroom format
Immersive digital learning tools
At the end of this unit, you will complete a project to apply your skills
You’ll study HTML5, CSS, and advanced CSS—and go beyond with fundamental Javascript concepts.
Technologies
HTML5
CSS
JavaScript
Git and GitHub
Concepts
- Web Interface and Design - You’ll learn how content and imagery are best displayed on a website.
- Front-End Framework - You’ll start to understand pre-written modules and their primary use cases in web development.
Features
- Pair Programming - Working with a fellow student, you’ll each use your newfound knowledge to write and optimize front-end code. This helps you build real-world experience and prepare for technical coding interviews.
You’ll apply your JavaScript skills with the amazing ecosystem of libraries that have made JavaScript the industry standard of web engineering. We’ll also teach you to use APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) to connect to vast amounts of data to power your web applications.
Technologies
JavaScript
JavaScript APIs
React, React Router, and React Hooks
Redux
Concepts
- Test-Driven Development (TDD) - Particularly relevant in JavaScript development, the TDD methodology allows developers to test new code before writing it—preserving its former iteration in case of incompatibilities or errors.
Features
- Prototyping - Throughout bootcamp, you’ll begin each project by scoping, researching, and beginning to build full stack web applications—touching on every stage of a typical, real-world prototype development process.
You’ll master data organization and storage by working with SQL relational databases and learn how to integrate them into your applications. Then, it’s time to start building your own full stack application!
Technologies
JavaScript
SQL
Projects
- Full Stack Capstone Project - You will work with a team of students to come up with an ambitious idea for an app, and start building it out. This will be the most impressive project in your portfolio and will demonstrate your full understanding of software development and industry best practices.
- Full Stack Project Pitching - After formulating your own idea for a web or mobile application, you’ll pitch it to the class. Taking market, design, and utility considerations into account, you’ll understand through your pitch process how development projects come to fruition in real-world scenarios.
Features
- Portfolio Development - As you complete your full stack web development projects, all your code will be housed in GitHub to demonstrate your technical prowess and creativity to potential employers.
- Career Coaching - Fullstack Academy Career Coaches are your one-stop professional development resource. They’ll work with you on core aspects of the job search–from interview preparation to resume optimization–throughout the final stages of your bootcamp experience and beyond.
University Coding Bootcamps powered by Fullstack Academy
Fullstack Academy partners with top educational institutes nationwide to prepare students for in-demand jobs in tech.
The Coding Bootcamp at the University of North Florida, powered by Fullstack Academy, helps students in Jacksonville and surrounding areas gain industry-ready skills at an accelerated pace.
Live online classes are offered on a full-time or part-time schedule with flexible weekday and weekend options. Bootcamp students receive access to professional career support to assist with resume optimization, technical interview preparation, and industry networking.
Top Employers Hiring in Jacksonville
As the most populous city in Florida, Jacksonville offers a wealth of career opportunities in tech. The 2022 Dice Tech Job Report shows 58% year-over-year growth for tech job openings in Jacksonville. More specifically, the BLS reports that there are about 6,700 job openings for computer programmers in Jacksonville each year, based on historical averages.
In the most recent analysis from Bloomberg and LinkedIn, Jacksonville was ranked fourth on the list of top-preferred locations for tech workers. This is due to more than warm weather and sandy beaches. The area is rapidly emerging and becoming a hotspot for economics and innovation.
For example, the northeast region of Florida is home to several tech companies, including Black Knight Inc., Newfold Digital, Coastal Cloud, Fanatics Inc., and Forcura. Jacksonville is also home to the nationally-ranked University of North Florida and two major naval bases.
With organizations such as these, information technology is a key industry in Jacksonville, and qualified coding professionals are in demand. Employers hiring tech talent in Jacksonville range in size and span across nearly every industry. Across the board, however, these companies are seeking the best and brightest talent to support continual innovation.
According to Lightcast™, the top employers hiring in Jacksonville for coding professionals are:
Citi: An American multinational investment bank and financial services corporation and the third-largest financial institution in the U.S.
Deloitte: The world’s largest professional services network and one of the “Big Four” accounting firms in the U.S.
FIS Global: An American multinational corporation and the largest processing and payments company in the world
These fintech giants with corporate hubs in Jacksonville need web developers, software developers, and software engineers to support their global operations and help innovate the next generation of products and services. Coding programs in Jacksonville can help aspiring tech professionals prepare for these types of roles and more.
Coding Events in Jacksonville
Attending a program from the above list of coding bootcamps in Jacksonville can help provide the career training and support needed to land a software engineering job. Networking in the industry is another crucial component to maximizing career opportunities.
Jacksonville has a robust tech scene with many opportunities to meet with peers in the local area and attend events to stay up-to-date with the latest tech trends. Here are a few of the coding events, conferences, and meetup groups in Jacksonville and nearby cities in Florida for coding enthusiasts to explore:
Events and Groups
Fullstack Academy Events: Free intros to Fullstack Academy bootcamps, along with career-focused workshops offering interview preparation advice and job-hunting tips.
BSides Jacksonville: A conference for hacking and infosec enthusiasts to learn and connect, and for new and emerging speakers to present their work in a welcoming environment.
DEVintersection Conference: This software development conference in Orlando highlights innovation at the intersection of AI, software, and cloud computing.
STAREAST Conference: This annual conference in Orlando features over 75 speakers—including keynotes, tutorials, and sessions—on topics such as automation, AI & machine learning, DevOps, and test strategies.
ArchConf: An educational event for software architects and technical developers to learn about proven tools and agile methods, understand how to build scalable systems, and hear from industry leaders.
Meetups
Jax Code & Coffee: An alternative to after-work meetups, Code and Coffee offers an opportunity to get together with fellow coders over a morning coffee.
RubyJax: A group for programmers and coding hobbyists to collaborate and hear monthly presentations from local developers.
JaxNode: A group for those wanting to learn more about Node.js and running non-blocking JavaScript on the server.
JaxDug: A local development community focused on software development on the .NET stack.
JSSUG: JSSUG, the Jacksonville SQL Server User Group, is a non-profit organization providing free technical education focusing on data, development, administration, and business intelligence surrounding the Microsoft SQL Server.
React Jax: A monthly meetup aimed at developing local IT relationships between developers of all levels, from aspiring beginners to experts.
Tech on Tap Jax: An informal networking group for local IT professionals that meets monthly at craft breweries to discuss the latest IT topics and trends.
Jax Tech: A network of technologists, entrepreneurs, IT professionals, and tech innovators who meet regularly to learn, share, and collaborate. Each meeting involves presentations on the use of technology in local businesses and startups.
North Florida Agile Meetup: A casual meetup group for local professionals interested in Agile methods of software development.
AI Connect Jax: A relaxed, informational meetup group for individuals interested in Big Data and artificial intelligence.
Google Developer Group (GDG) Jacksonville: An independent community user group of developers and tech enthusiasts in Jacksonville. Meetings feature keynote presentations on current trends and emerging technologies in the development world.
Coding Bootcamp FAQs
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Coding bootcamps offer an excellent opportunity to break into the industry or advance an existing tech career. There are many benefits to pursuing a coding bootcamp. Students can expect to:
Gain hands-on experience with the latest coding tools and software
Learn fundamental knowledge from industry-experienced instructors
Acquire critical skills and build a professional portfolio of projects
Receive career support and job search assistance
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The typical salary for coding bootcamp graduates can vary depending on factors such as location, skills, certifications, and experience level. However, here are some average salaries for common entry-level coding positions, according to Glassdoor:
Web Developer: $62,013
Software Developer/Engineer: $87,054
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Coding bootcamps provide an accelerated learning path that typically lasts several weeks to a few months. Some bootcamps follow a strict schedule with live classes, while others may offer a self-paced option.
Fullstack Academy offers two coding bootcamp options: 16 weeks full-time or 28 weeks part-time. All classes are held live online to facilitate an immersive, active learning approach.
Sources
BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers
Mckinsey & Company, “Overcoming the Fear Factor in Hiring Tech Talent”
JaxUSA, “Jacksonville Surges as a Destination for Tech Workers”
