Grand Circus: School Overview

Grand Circus: A Comprehensive Overview

Grand Circus is an educational institution focused on providing accessible and high-quality coding education through boot camps and workshops, primarily based in Michigan. Founded in 2013, it offers a dual track in JavaScript and C# .NET, designed to prepare students for careers in software development. The school aims to support students through scholarships, free intro classes, and extensive career services to acknowledge the changing landscape of technology.

Locations: Grand Circus operates primarily in Michigan with physical campuses in Detroit and Grand Rapids, while also offering live online classes accessible from anywhere.
Founded in 2013 as part of a revitalization project to boost digital talent in Detroit, they now focus on comprehensive software development training.
Offers a range of coding boot camps, including full-time and part-time options, allowing flexibility for working professionals.
Supports students with career services including interview preparation, resume building, and job placement assistance.
Offers various scholarships and financial aid options to reduce the barriers to entry for underrepresented groups in tech.
Features a strong community component with affinity groups for diverse students, aiding in networking and support.
Regularly hosts free coding workshops, promoting technical skills even before enrolling in intensive programs.
Emphasizes soft skills alongside technical training, helping students be well-rounded candidates in the tech job market.

Subjects Taught at Grand Circus

Grand Circus focuses on two main coding tracks: JavaScript and C# .NET. Students can choose to pursue boot camps in these languages, along with additional courses in data engineering.

JavaScript: This essential web development language enables interactivity on websites, making it key for front-end developers. Learning JavaScript gives students the ability to manipulate the DOM, manage real-time updates, and create engaging web applications.
C# .NET: This language is crucial for building enterprise-level applications, focused on back-end development. Mastering C# equips students with the capability to develop robust applications that can handle business logic effectively.
Data Engineering: This discipline focuses on the architecture of data pipelines and enables the efficient organization of data. Learning data engineering helps students thoroughly prepare for roles involving data management and analysis in tech companies.

The 5 Best Courses/Bootcamps from Grand Circus

Grand Circus offers several prominent coding boot camps designed to meet the varying needs of students. Each boot camp is tailored to ensure students acquire both technical skills and job readiness.

Front-End Coding Bootcamp: A 12-week, full-time course that teaches foundational web development skills using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Students gain hands-on experience creating interactive web applications, making it suitable for those looking to launch a front-end developer career.
C# .NET Core Coding Bootcamp: Similar to the front-end boot camp but focused on backend applications using C#. It prepares students for building enterprise applications and understanding cloud services, increasing their employability in various tech sectors.
C# .NET Core After-Hours Coding Bootcamp: A part-time, 26-week course designed for those who need a flexible schedule. It provides training on C# development and targeted support for career readiness while allowing students to continue working during the day.
Front-End After-Hours Coding Bootcamp: This part-time program also runs for 26 weeks, focusing on developing front-end web applications during evening hours. Students learn collaborative skills while working on projects, which helps them understand workplace dynamics.
Data Engineering Bootcamp: A course aimed at those with some programming experience, focusing on the data ecosystem and how to build scalable data solutions. This boot camp prepares participants for roles in data analysis and engineering, which are in high demand.

Understanding the Costs of Classes at Grand Circus

Tuition for the boot camps at Grand Circus is generally $11,750 per program, reflecting the depth and quality of instruction provided. The institution also offers various scholarships to help mitigate costs for eligible applicants, including non-competitive scholarships for underrepresented groups. Workshops, like the free Intro to Coding session, further provide options for individuals to explore coding without significant financial commitments.

Participants can expect to gain comprehensive industry-relevant skills that are applicable to immediate job prospects. For example, alumni often report securing positions with major employers in the tech sector. Additionally, the structured support from career coaches helps graduates navigate the job market more effectively, ensuring a good return on their investment in education.

Benefits of Taking Classes at Grand Circus

Grand Circus offers a range of benefits that enhance the learning experience for its students. The supportive environment and robust curriculum aim to prepare students effectively for careers in technology.

Comprehensive Curriculum: Programs are designed to provide both technical and soft skills, ensuring students are well-rounded candidates.
Access to Career Services: Career support is integrated into the curriculum, which equips students with essential job search skills and networking opportunities.
Flexible Learning Options: Grand Circus provides both full-time and part-time programs, catering to different schedules and needs.
Diverse Community Support: Participation in affinity groups allows for networking and support among peers with similar backgrounds.
Hands-On Experience: Students work on real projects that can be included in their portfolios, showcasing their skills to potential employers.

Reviews of Grand Circus

Grand Circus has garnered a mix of positive feedback along with some critical reviews. Graduates often praise the staff's support and the emphasis on real-world application through projects.

Pros: Many students appreciate the free introductory workshops, the emphasis on soft skills acquisition, and the quality of instruction.
Cons: Some former students mention the high cost as a barrier, along with the program's intensive nature requiring significant personal investment for success.

Assessing the Value of Courses at Grand Circus

When evaluating the value of courses at Grand Circus, it is crucial to consider the cost in relation to the comprehensive education and career support provided. With tuition at $11,750, the programs may seem expensive, but the return includes extensive training in both coding and job readiness.

The high job placement rate and strong alumni connections further suggest that the investment could lead to fulfilling career opportunities and higher earning potential. Assessing personal goals, budget, and commitment to the course can help prospective students determine if this program aligns with their career aspirations.

Ultimately, prospective students should weigh both the cost and the potential outcomes of enrolling at Grand Circus, considering the school’s supportive network and tailored curriculum as essential factors in their decision-making process. Analyzing past student success stories may also provide insights into whether the experience and financial commitment will meet individual professional goals.