General Assembly: School Overview

General Assembly: An Overview

General Assembly (GA) is a renowned educational institution that specializes in equipping students with the skills needed for the tech industry. Established in 2011, GA offers a variety of immersive bootcamps and workshops covering subjects such as digital marketing, data science, software engineering, and user experience design. With campuses located globally and a robust online program, GA caters to both beginners and those aiming to enhance their existing tech skills.

Founded in 2011, General Assembly has graduated over 40,000 students worldwide.
Offers both full-time and part-time courses, as well as online learning options.
Courses cover a wide range of subjects including data analytics, software engineering, and digital marketing.
Events and workshops provide additional networking and industry insights for students.
In-person locations include major cities like New York, London, and Sydney, among others.
Curriculum designed in collaboration with industry leaders, ensuring relevance and practicality.
Supportive community with access to local hiring partners, enhancing employment opportunities.
Various financing options available to make education more accessible for students.

Subjects Taught at General Assembly

General Assembly's curriculum features a diverse selection of subjects, primarily focused on technology and business skills that are in high demand. Each subject is designed to provide practical knowledge that can be applied in a professional setting, benefiting both new learners and those looking to upskill.

Data Science: This subject combines statistical analysis, programming, and machine learning to facilitate data-driven decision-making. Students gain essential skills that are increasingly required in various industries.
Data Analytics: Focuses on interpreting complex data sets and utilizing tools such as Excel and SQL. This skill is vital for businesses looking to leverage data for strategic advantages.
Software Engineering: Covers the principles of coding and application development, equipping students with the tools needed to build software solutions. This is crucial for anyone looking to enter the tech field.
User Experience (UX) Design: Teaches students how to create intuitive and engaging interfaces for digital products. Effective UX design is critical for user satisfaction and retention.
Digital Marketing: Equips participants with strategies for promoting brands online through social media, SEO, and content marketing. In a digital-first world, these skills are essential for business growth.
Coding (including JavaScript and Python): Fundamental programming skills are taught, enabling students to understand and apply various coding languages. Proficiency in coding opens many career paths in tech.
Project Management: Focuses on leading teams and managing projects effectively. This skill is valuable across industries, enhancing organizational efficiency.
Machine Learning: Explores algorithms and data modeling techniques that allow machines to learn from data. This cutting-edge subject is increasingly relevant as organizations turn to AI-driven solutions.

The 5 Best Courses/Bootcamps at General Assembly

General Assembly offers a variety of courses and bootcamps, with some standing out due to their comprehensive content and career-oriented approach. These top programs are crafted to meet industry demands and equip students with practical skills that enhance employability.

Data Science Immersive: A comprehensive 12-week program focused on data manipulation, machine learning, and data visualization. Graduates emerge equipped to tackle real-world data challenges.
Software Engineering Immersive: This program covers front-end, back-end, and full-stack development, preparing students for a variety of programming roles. Participants work on real projects, providing them with a robust portfolio.
User Experience (UX) Design Immersive: A hands-on course that immerses students in the principles and practices of UX and UI design. This experience is crucial for creating user-friendly applications.
Digital Marketing Bootcamp: A 10-week course that dives into multi-channel marketing strategies. By understanding data-driven marketing, participants can significantly enhance a brand's online presence.
Data Analytics Bootcamp: Focused on tools like Excel and Tableau, this course teaches students how to analyze and interpret data for actionable insights. Graduates can immediately apply these skills in various roles.

Class Costs at General Assembly

The cost of classes at General Assembly varies based on the format and duration of the course. Full-time immersive programs typically range from $15,000 to $16,000, while part-time courses generally fall between $3,000 and $5,000.

While these prices may seem high, General Assembly provides a range of benefits, including personalized career support and access to a large network of hiring partners. For example, the Income Share Agreement (ISA) option allows students to defer tuition payments until they secure a job earning a designated income.

Additional financing options include scholarships, employer sponsorships, and installment plans, which help to ease the financial burden on students. Prospective students may also benefit from the Career Services Program, which offers 1:1 coaching to prepare them for the job market, thus improving their chances of securing employment post-graduation.

Benefits of Taking Classes at General Assembly

Choosing General Assembly for education in tech and business comes with numerous advantages. The school's commitment to real-world applicability and career development sets it apart from traditional educational routes.

Industry-Relevant Curriculum: Courses are designed with input from industry professionals, ensuring that the content is both current and applicable.
Personalized Career Coaching: Students receive tailored support that aids them in navigating the job market, refining their resumes, and preparing for interviews.
Networking Opportunities: GA connects students with local hiring partners, enhancing their chances of finding relevant employment.
Flexible Learning Options: With full-time, part-time, and online learning opportunities, students can select a format that best suits their schedules.
Robust Alumni Network: Graduates join a vast community of alumni, creating connections that can lead to job opportunities and professional collaboration.

General Assembly Reviews

General Assembly generally receives positive reviews from students and alumni reflecting a strong educational experience. Many highlight the quality of instruction, the relevance of the curriculum, and the value of networking opportunities.

Pros: Appreciated for extensive industry connections, high-quality instructional staff, and a rigorous curriculum focused on real-world skills.
Cons: Some find the costs prohibitive, and feedback reflects a desire for a broader range of subjects beyond the primary offerings.

Are the Courses Worth It? Analyzing Value at General Assembly

Evaluating the value of General Assembly’s programs requires weighing tuition costs against the benefits that these courses offer. While the upfront costs may be significant, the potential return on investment in terms of career advancement and higher salaries can be compelling.

Graduates often report successful job placements and competitive starting salaries in tech roles, indicating that the training provided equips them with demand-driven skills. Additionally, the integration of career services and support fosters a favorable job search environment.

It's also essential for prospective students to consider their current financial situation and career goals when deciding to enroll. For those committed to a career change or advancement in tech, the resources and networking offered by General Assembly may justify the financial commitment.

Lastly, veterans and eligible students may explore education benefits that can alleviate financial pressure, making these courses more accessible. Overall, the decision to enroll should align with individual career aspirations and financial readiness.