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We teach Java and C# with the .NET framework. Delivering full-stack development concepts, our bootcamps also teach JavaScript, CSS, HTML, and SQL. Bootcamps are taught by master instructors who average more than 10 years in software development.
No. While the names are similar, Java and JavaScript are different languages with their own implementations and environments. JavaScript is a scripting language, whereas Java is a compiled language that requires a compiler to run. Applications frequently have portions written in each language and use common patterns and standards to connect actions provided by various languages. Java does not include JavaScript.
Neither language is necessarily better, as the same underlying principles and concepts apply to each. This allows developers to use C# or Java to accomplish similar tasks. On the other hand, each language is suited for certain types of development. For instance, C# is ideal for front-end development, whereas Java is suited for mobile and back-end development.
The differences between Java and C# are minor. It may be best to base your decision on job opportunities in your region. Check out job boards in your region to see which language companies expect developers to know. If you find more jobs requiring knowledge of a certain language, that track may be your best option.
Java and C# are both top tier programming languages for developers. Both are object-oriented languages, and the syntax of each has origins in the C and C++ languages. (Newer than Java, the design of C# was also influenced by Java syntax.) These similarities help our graduates transition from one language to the other. This also allows our .NET/C# employer partners to hire our Java graduates, and vice versa.
That said, differences exist between the languages, including companies that support each language and communities of developers that use them. In terms of function, Java is popular in mobile Android development, and C# is more common for companies that use Microsoft technologies. C# is also a staple of game design because it is supported by the Unity game engine.
Earning potential can depend on many factors, including a graduate’s prior work experience and location. Salaries earned by new graduates typically range $45,000 to $65,000. Our March 2019 CIRR report shows a median annual salary of $60,000 for graduates of our Minneapolis, MN bootcamp and $57,508 for graduates of our Louisville, KY bootcamp.
No. This program is considered continuing education, not credit toward a college degree.
Yes, apprentices can defer training at no cost. However, they must restart our bootcamp at the beginning rather than resuming where they left off.
Apprentices who fall behind during an in-person bootcamp are encouraged to consider joining the online program. These apprentices can attend a future online cohort, beginning with a Level 1 badge.
The Software Guild will work to determine next steps for apprentices who struggle with online training, but we discourage switching to our in-person bootcamp. This is because in-person training follows a faster pace.
Apprentices must be 18 and older and have a high school diploma or equivalent. They also complete an aptitude assessment and Intro to Web Development course. There are no other education or work requirements.
No. All apprentices begin with the Level 1 badge and complete the four levels in order. To make the program more affordable, apprentices receive a discount after they complete each of the first three badges. This reduces tuition by as much as $1,000!
Yes! Discounts include Women in Tech and Veterans Who Code scholarships. In addition, apprentices who have completed Code Louisville are eligible for a $500 tuition discount. Learn more on our Tuition & Financing page.
Yes! As you progress through the bootcamp, you will work with our employer network managers to hone your soft skills and prepare for your job search.
Yes! You’ll begin saving projects to an online repository after you become an apprentice. Upon graduation, you can present your portfolio to share successful projects when you interview with employers.
No, GI Bill® benefits are not applicable for our online bootcamp.
No. As a proprietary organization, The Software Guild does not qualify for federal financial aid. This applies to people who enroll directly or through a university partner. Apprentices seeking tuition assistance may explore financing options available from Skills Fund and Climb. These options help you spread education costs over multiple months and help you with living expenses for on-site programs. Learn more on our Tuition & Financing page.
Digital Coding Badges: Yes. Apprentices can earn all four Digital Coding Badges in as few as seven months.
In-Person Bootcamp: No. All in-person bootcamps follow a standard 12-week schedule.
Digital Coding Badges: Apprentices who do not complete an online badge level in the allotted time can extend training one month at no cost. If an apprentice needs extra time to complete all four badge levels, the length of the program will increase from 10 to 14 months. Apprentices who do not complete a badge level during the extended time will be removed from the course. If these apprentices choose to try again, they will need to re-enroll and restart the program at the first badge level.
In-Person Bootcamps: Training is divided into two sections: Object-Oriented Programming and Database-Driven Web Applications. Apprentices must complete the first section during the first five weeks of the bootcamp. The second section spans weeks six through 12. If an apprentice does not complete either section on time, they can review training options with their instructor and the enrollment team.
No. Apprentices learn either Java or .NET/C# while enrolled in our coding bootcamp. However, after completing our program, graduates can access curriculum for the alternate track at no charge.
For example, a graduate of our Java bootcamp can access .NET/C# curriculum upon request.
Our coding bootcamp prepares apprentices for junior software developer roles. We also provide knowledge and skills for career specialties featured on our Career Outlook page.
No. Our graduates earn a certificate of completion that confirms they have the skills needed to qualify for junior developer roles. This makes our bootcamp a great starting point for people interested in certification; however, further study and testing with a certifying organization will be needed.
While working through badge Level 4, students have the opportunity to network with employers about career opportunities. The Software Guild’s employer network managers will meet with you regularly to help you create a resume, prepare for interviews and begin your job search.
The program divides skills needed to become a junior software developer over the course of four sequential badge levels. Typically, you need to acquire a Level 4 badge to meet minimum qualifications for a role as a junior software developer.
Our credentialing partner, Parchment, will provide a web link to each digital badge. You’ll use the link to add each badge to your LinkedIn resume, Facebook profile and other job-related websites.
Digital badges are earned in many learning environments. A digital badge is an authenticated indicator of accomplishment, skill, quality or interest.
In compliance with local tax laws, residents of the following states, districts, or territories may be subject to a sales tax:
Connecticut, Washington D.C., Hawaii, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Virgin Islands, Washington, West Virginia
The Software Guild offers apprentice-level, full-stack .NET/C# or Java bootcamps.
Once you apply to The Software Guild, an enrollment counselor will contact you within one business day to walk you through the next steps.
When you graduate from The Software Guild in Java or .NET/C#, the curriculum of the course you did not take will become available for FREE. In this way, you have access to both development tracks for the cost of one. While there is no direct instructor feedback, support is available on The Software Guild Slack channel. This curriculum is provided online.
You can change your track from Java to .NET/C#, or vice-versa, freely through the end of week 1; after this point, you’ll have to defer.
Note that Java and .NET/C# are very similar to each other, and once you complete one track, the other track becomes available for free.
After 12 weeks in person or 10 months online, you will be proficient in Java or .NET/C# and be ready to apply your skills at the job you want.
In addition to the technical tools and techniques you’ll learn, we focus on the importance of foundational learning. With broad knowledge of underlying principles in development, you’ll be prepared to expand your skills to learn new languages and frameworks once you graduate from our program.
Once you have picked a start date, you can defer prior to day 1 up to two times, after which you’ll have to reapply to the Guild. However, when you enroll, you can choose any future start date listed for your enrollment.
Our in-person .NET/C# and Java apprentice programs cost $13,750. Online .NET/C# or Java tuition starts at $10,000 with discounts that can reduce the price to $9,000. The enrollment team will discuss payment structure during the interview portion of the application process. Some states, districts or territories may be subject to a sales tax on tuition, also to be included.
No. You’ll have to pay a $125 enrollment fee before day 1, whether you choose online or on ground. For on ground, half your tuition is due on day 1, and the second half is due on the first day of week 7. For online, the first half is due on day 1, and the second half is due when you start the second session (this date can vary).
Yes, you should bring your own laptop computer that meets the following specifications:
- Core i5 processor
- 8 GB of RAM
- 256 GB hard drive (either 7200 RPM or solid state)
- Screen resolution of 1920 x 1080 or better recommended
Yes. We realize coming up with $9,000 to $13,750 may be difficult, so we have established relationships with multiple lenders to help you finance your program, including:
- Skills Fund – Tuition and Housing
- Climb – Tuition
- Jewish Family and Children’s Services – Tuition
To view more options, please check out Course Report’s Ultimate Guide to Coding Bootcamp Loans & Financing.
In-person apprentice bootcamps are 12 weeks long, and cohort time is from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekdays. You should plan to work a minimum of 20 hours each week as well.
The online .NET/C# or Java bootcamp is has an ideal completion time of 10 months, but you can take up to 14 months to master the competencies required for graduation (up to seven months per session) and should expect to commit a minimum of 20 hours a week.
Our apprentices and students are driven and love what they do. Most will also work on projects on their own during evenings and weekends in order to better develop their portfolio.
You can drop out or defer either of our Java or .NET/C# tracks within the first week without any penalty. You can also defer after the first week as long as you’re in good standing, but you’ll be required to complete the Object Oriented Programming module before you do, so we can assess your ability to be successful in the future.
Our full refund policy varies by state. The following policy applies to Kentucky and online students:
- A student who, in writing to the school, cancels an enrollment agreement within five calendar days after the date of signing shall be refunded all tuition and fees paid pursuant to the enrollment agreement.
- A student who withdraws before the first session and after the five-day cancellation period shall be obligated for the registration fee, but reimbursed completely for all tuition paid.
- A student who starts a session and withdraws before the session is 15 percent completed will be obligated for 25 percent of the session tuition plus the registration fee.
- A student who starts a session and withdraws after the session is 15 percent but before the session is 25 percent completed will be obligated for 50 percent of the session tuition plus the registration fee.
- A student who starts a session and withdraws after the session is 25 percent complete but before the session is 40 percent completed will be obligated for 75 percent of the session tuition plus the registration fee.
- A student who starts a session and withdraws after the session is 40 percent completed will not be entitled to a refund of the tuition or registration fee.
For Minnesota students, the following policy applies:
- Each student shall be notified of acceptance/rejection in writing. If a student is rejected, all tuition, fees and other charges shall be refunded.
- Notwithstanding anything to the contrary, if a student gives written notice of cancellation within five business days of the execution of the contract, then a complete refund is given regardless of whether the program has started.
- If a student gives written notice of cancellation after five business days of the execution of the contract, but before the start of the program, the student is assessed 15 percent of tuition, fees and other charges (15 percent not to exceed $50).
- If a student gives written notice of cancellation after the start of the program but before completion of 75 percent of the period of instruction, the student is assessed pro rata portion of tuition, fees and all other charges based on the number of days in the term plus 25 percent of the total program (25 percent not to exceed $100).
Employers are invited to connect with our .NET/C# and Java apprentices before the end of the cohort. In a speed interview format, apprentices and employers get the opportunity to connect about current career opportunities. In addition, employer network managers meet with you multiple times during your cohort and assist with resumes, interview prep and job search. Our masters and mentors are also there to assist you in your job search.
For employment questions, please contact Employer Network Managers:
- Kipp Graham (Minneapolis),
kgraham@thesoftwareguild.com - Jacob Knight (Louisville),
jsknight@thesoftwareguild.com
Then you’re like most of our Java and .NET/C# apprentices! The most important thing is that you remain committed to learning and becoming the best developer that you can be. If you bring an open mind, motivation and a passion for technology, our experts will teach you what you need to know to become proficient in .NET/C# or Java or to become an IT professional.
Not a problem. We have plenty of apprentices who have had exposure to programming enroll in our program. We do a deep dive into the latest techniques to make sure your skills are up to date.
The chief difference is one of scope and depth. In a traditional computer science degree, you’ll learn the basics of many different programming languages, as well as the history and theory of computer science, over the course of multiple years.
At The Software Guild, you’ll dive deep into a single language or concept for a short period of time, and come away with a thorough, comprehensive understanding of it. A computer science degree provides you with a broad foundation of knowledge; a Software Guild education provides you with specific skills you need to pursue a career in tech.
Simply complete our online application and you will be contacted within 24 hours to schedule an interview, which will take about an hour. The interview mimics a typical question and answer format, followed by an aptitude assessment. You will be asked questions on logic and reasoning, pattern matching and basic algebra. Our main goal is to determine whether you will succeed in our fast-paced learning environment. All incoming apprentices are required to complete the Introduction to Web Development course.
Absolutely! We encourage you to get in touch with our enrollment team to get your questions answered. If you fill out this form, a member of The Software Guild will reach out to you within 24 hours.
We certainly think so! While a common misconception associated with coding is that it is dry, repetitive work, programmers are artists in their own way. The problem solving and design that goes into software development make it an engaging, interesting process.
Check out this page to learn more about what makes software development a creative career path.
Future programmers should note that salaries vary widely based on geographic location and skill level. For example, average salaries are different for our locations in Minnesota and Kentucky.
Read more about salary expectations here.
To view other career outcomes, view our Career Outlook page.
By programming! If you are interesting in a software development career, get as much experience as possible with in-demand coding languages.
Read more about learning to code here.
Learn more about the Introduction to Web Development course.
Because their names are so similar, it’s easy to confuse the various members of the “C” language family. Programmers use both C and C# for various tasks to meet programming needs.
When it comes to comparing C# to C++, it’s important to remember that each is a language useful in its own regard, and each has strengths over the other depending on the needs of the programmer.
The only thing they have in common is the word “Java.” They are written, assembled and executed differently, and they have different capabilities.
Learn more about Java and JavaScript here.
Just like any job interview, be prepared to summarize your skills and experience. As a Software Guild graduate, you will be qualified for junior-level positions as a Java developer.
It is a self-paced course designed to help prepare you to attend The Software Guild. It consists of written materials, videos of our instructors writing code, interactive practice exercises and some project work, all of which takes about 60 hours of total time.
The course is designed to be beginner-friendly, so you don’t need any prior coding knowledge to try it out. You will need to do some external research to complete it, though.
This course is required for all apprentice-level candidates. The Introduction to Web Development course provides foundational knowledge that you’ll need in our bootcamps, and there’s a portion of our Java and .NET/C# bootcamps that assumes you’ve taken it.
Apprentice-level candidates start by filling out our application form. Once you’ve done that, an enrollment counselor will schedule an interview with you, so we can get a sense for what you’re looking for and what kind of student you’ll be. After that, you’ll take our aptitude test, which is designed to assess your attention to detail and your ability to think like a programmer.
We require all apprentice-level candidates to take our Introduction to Web Development course.
The aptitude assessment is a 29-question test, which you’ll have 60 minutes to complete. The focus of this test is not to assess your programming skills, but your predisposition toward a programming career and the likelihood of your ability to succeed at learning a programming language.
There are two main approaches to interview questions for programming positions: practical and personal. Practical questions may include the prospective employee solving a problem during the interview. This method can convey the ways the programmer approaches communication and solving problems in a stressful situation.
The other method of interviewing is more traditional. Instead of testing prospective programmers outright, the interviewer asks them to explain their methods or to tell a story about a time when they were faced with a similar issue or task.
For more information, check out these examples of common interview questions.
The Software Guild offers two scholarships: the Women in Tech Award and the Veterans Who Code Award. Both are subject to eligibility and are available for The Software Guild’s fully online coding bootcamps, Louisville and Minneapolis locations.
Women in Tech Award ($2,000):
The $2,000 award is available to female enrollees. Female students qualify based on self-identification.
Veterans Who Code Award ($2,000):
The $2,000 award is available to eligible military personnel in the following groups: reservists, veterans, and/or active-duty service members. To qualify for the award, students must present proof of eligibility defined as military original statement of service or certificate of release or discharge.
Terms and conditions
Scholarship recipients must successfully complete the admissions process and be admitted into the fully online, Minneapolis or Louisville coding bootcamp program and begin the course prior to December 31, 2018 to be granted award funds. The grant will be evenly distributed across two session payments whereby $1,000 is awarded at the beginning of each session to directly reduce the cost of tuition for that session. Students must remain in good standing, as defined by The Software Guild, and successfully complete all requirements of Session One before being awarded grant for Session Two. Scholarships may not be combined.
Contact an enrollment counselor for more information.
GI Bill®:
The Software Guild is approved by the Kentucky Approving Agency for Veterans education to offer VA Educational benefits to eligible students in approved programs. To learn how your GI Bill® can help fund your coding education, contact an enrollment counselor.