LEARN Academy: A Comprehensive Review
LEARN Academy is a web development school located in downtown San Diego, dedicated to teaching coding skills through immersive bootcamps and courses. The academy fosters a supportive environment that emphasizes community, diversity, and practical experience, enabling students to prepare for a career in technology. With a focus on hands-on learning, LEARN Academy aims to create skilled developers who can enter the workforce with confidence.
- Established in San Diego, the school operates primarily in-person with remote options for students outside the area.
- LEARN Academy's curriculum includes workshops, real-world project development, and a final internship experience.
- The school was created in response to a staffing challenge faced by its co-founders in their software business, leading to a curriculum that aligns with industry needs.
- The faculty comprises experienced professionals who emphasize practical skills and collaborative learning methods.
- Students receive specially configured Macbook Air laptops for the duration of their training to facilitate learning and coding practices.
- The school offers multiple opportunities for financial assistance including scholarships specifically designed for underrepresented groups in tech.
- LEARN Academy maintains a favorable student-to-teacher ratio, generally no greater than 10:1.
- Graduates report high employment rates, with 33% securing jobs at their internship sites upon graduation.
Subjects Taught at LEARN Academy
LEARN Academy focuses exclusively on web development, equipping students with the necessary skills to pursue careers in software engineering and coding. The curriculum encompasses essential programming languages and methodologies that are vital in today’s tech industry.
- Coding: Coding is at the heart of technology, enabling the development of software applications and websites. Learning coding languages opens numerous career paths and is foundational for all tech-related fields.
- Web Development: This subject covers both front end and back end development, teaching students how to create functional and visually appealing websites. Mastering web development skills offers graduates the ability to build comprehensive web applications.
Top Courses/Bootcamps at LEARN Academy
LEARN Academy offers two prominent courses that cater to a range of skill levels, from beginners to those looking to deepen their knowledge in specific areas of coding. These courses are designed to be hands-on, providing real-world experience through project-based learning and internships.
- Jumpstart Weekend Coding Bootcamp: A three-day intensive program that introduces students to the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. This course serves as a foundational ramp-up for those interested in further pursuing web development.
- 4-Month Intensive Bootcamp: An immersive program where students learn advanced coding skills in languages and frameworks like JavaScript, Ruby, React, and Postgres. This comprehensive course prepares participants for real-world challenges and culminates in an internship for on-the-job training.
Cost of Classes at LEARN Academy
Tuition for courses at LEARN Academy varies, with the Jumpstart program priced at $249 and the Intensive Bootcamp costing $14,500. The academy provides several payment options, including scholarships, payment plans, and loans to help make education accessible.
- The tuition fee for the Intensive Bootcamp includes the use of professional-grade Macbook Air laptops and access to student resources.
- Eligible students may apply for one of the two $3,000 scholarships, aimed at encouraging diversity in tech.
- Flexible payment plans allow students to spread tuition over time, easing the financial burden.
- Alumni have access to ongoing career support, which adds immense value beyond just coursework.
- Discounts are available for veterans, further emphasizing the school’s commitment to inclusivity.
Benefits of Attending LEARN Academy
Attending LEARN Academy offers numerous advantages for those seeking a career in web development. The school provides a structured pathway to gain practical coding skills in an inclusive environment.
- Hands-on Learning Environment: The emphasis on practical projects and internships enhances understanding and prepares students for real workplace scenarios.
- Supportive Community: Students benefit from a collaborative learning environment where they can lean on peers and instructors for help and mentorship.
- Diversity and Inclusion: The school promotes diversity within its programs, fostering a sense of belonging for students from various backgrounds.
- Career Readiness: Through career support services, students enhance their job search skills, making them more competitive in the job market.
- Strong Alumni Network: Graduates gain access to a network that can provide job leads and mentorship opportunities long after leaving the academy.
Reviews of LEARN Academy
Reviews of LEARN Academy reflect a generally positive reception, with many graduates praising the curriculum and faculty. However, some students express reservations regarding specific teaching methods.
- Pros: Students commend the faculty's supportive nature, the practical experience provided, and the comprehensive career services.
- Cons: Some students find the collaborative learning environment challenging, feeling overwhelmed by parallel programming exercises.
Are the Courses Worth It?
Evaluating the value of courses at LEARN Academy involves analyzing the cost against the skills and career opportunities gained. While tuition can be significant, many graduates report successful job placements shortly after finishing the program.
- The total investment of $14,500 for the Intensive Bootcamp is comparable to similar programs that often lack the same level of career support.
- Students gain practical experience through internships, a crucial aspect that enhances employability.
- LEARN Academy's commitment to diversity provides underrepresented groups in tech with opportunities that might otherwise be inaccessible.
- The substantial alumni network contributes to job placement success, not purely reliant on the classroom experience.
- Overall, the combination of practical skills, community support, and career services solidifies LEARN Academy’s offerings as a valuable investment for budding developers.
- Ultimately, prospective students should weigh their career goals against the financial commitment when considering enrollment.