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The iOS mobile operating system powers more than one billion devices as of 2021, according to Apple CEO Tim Cook. The platform's popularity speaks to the demand for tech professionals with iOS knowledge. Candidates seeking quick transitions into the tech workforce can get these skills at iOS developer bootcamps.
iOS bootcamps focus on the programming languages and technologies developers use to create mobile apps for Apple iPhones. Key examples include Swift, Objective-C, and XCode. These bootcamps help students build targeted skills on short timelines.
This roundup explains the key topics covered in iOS development bootcamps. It also features a list of current programs that cover Apple mobile technologies.
What Is an iOS Development Bootcamp?
Some general coding bootcamps cover iOS technologies and programming languages. However, dedicated iOS bootcamps focus only on Apple mobile platforms.
Bootcamp lengths and schedules vary. A 2019 RTI Press review reported average lengths of about 24 weeks for part-time bootcamps and 13 weeks for full-time bootcamps. Shorter programs may feature more intensive daily schedules. Longer bootcamps may explore topics in more detail.
Some bootcamps are affiliated with universities while others operate independently. iOS programs follow various structures and learning formats, including:
In-person and online iOS bootcamps Hybrid formats that blend classroom and online learning Self-paced and cohort structures
Skills Learned in iOS Bootcamps
Apple iOS developer bootcamps cover many topics, and curricula vary among providers. However, most programs teach a common set of core skills. For instance, most iOS bootcamps cover Objective-C and Swift programming languages, along with introductions to Apple's XCode development environment.
Additional skills frequently covered in bootcamp courses include:
- iOS Development: These bootcamp components build the fundamental skills iOS developers regularly use. Examples can include GitHub project cloning, link design, primitive data types, and the data-tape system. Development modules may also cover targeted aspects of Swift, such as variables, printing and commenting, constants, and collection types.
- Apple Documentation: Apple platforms use a unique documentation system. Bootcamp students may learn sound documentation and specific Swift functions including return types and input parameters. Other examples include debugging, code refactoring, and try-and-catch approaches to error handling.
- Mobile App Design and Marketing: The Apple App Store is a highly competitive marketplace. Developers with specialized app design and marketing knowledge may enjoy an advantage. Some bootcamps cover related topics such as color theory and typography, UI and UX design, and monetization strategies. Programs may also teach how to optimize search result rankings in the App Store.
- App Store Publishing: Some iOS development bootcamps introduce learners to the process of publishing their finished products to the App Store. These modules potentially review strategies for writing app listings, using Apple TestFlight, and submitting new apps for an official review.
What Will an iOS Bootcamp Cost?
According to the RTI Press analysis, the median cost of a comprehensive tech bootcamp is $11,900. Full-time programs came in at $13,500, while part-time bootcamps came in at $7,500.
Actual bootcamp costs may line up with these median figures or not. Tuition varies among providers: Higher costs may mean longer and more intensive programs. However, bootcamp costs include more than just tuition. Students may also pay for:
Computer hardware and software upgrades Application fees Lab fees
Some programs recommend or require that new students have a baseline knowledge of coding. However, learners without this knowledge may still qualify for admission after completing prep courses. Some bootcamps include prep courses in the total costs, while others require additional fees.
Learners in coding bootcamps do not typically qualify for federal student aid funding. However, many providers offer financial assistance programs and payment options, including:
Reduced tuition for learners who pay upfront or in full Tuition deferral programs Monthly payment programs Income sharing agreements
Some bootcamps also offer job guarantees that require no upfront payments. However, students must pay a portion of their salary after finding a tech job for a certain amount of time. Be sure to read the fine print and before signing up for any payment option.
What Jobs Can I Get As an iOS Developer?
Bootcamp graduates can pursue careers in application, software, and web development. These positions earn average annual salaries ranging from $70,000-$110,000. Many tech employers prefer to hire candidates with a combination of education and experience. Review the descriptions below to learn more about possible roles for iOS bootcamp graduates.
iOS Developer
iOS developers are specialists in Apple's mobile platforms. Their core duties focus on creating software products for iOS-powered mobile computing systems. These developers use the Swift and Objective-C skills commonly taught in iOS bootcamps.
Average Annual Salary: $93,308 (March 2022)
Mobile Applications Developer
Mobile app developers apply their knowledge of major mobile operating systems including iOS and Android to build software. An iOS development bootcamp can complement existing knowledge of non-Apple platforms and development environments.
Average Annual Salary: $74,797 (March 2022)
Software Developer
Software developers write code and develop programs for computing systems, including desktop and mobile. An iOS bootcamp helps new and experienced software developers bridge knowledge gaps and build iOS skills.
Median Annual Salary: $110,140
Job Outlook (2020-30): +22%
Web Developer
Web developers specialize in both the technical and creative sides of website creation. Strong working knowledge of iOS can benefit web developers looking to round out their skills. The digital products web developers create also translate to mobile systems, including iOS environments.
Median Annual Salary: $77,200
Job Outlook (2020-30): +13%
Other Computer Science Education Options
Computer science bootcamps can offer professionals skills development and new job opportunities. However, they are only one of many tech education options. For instance, degree programs explore similar topics in greater detail. These programs take longer to complete but cover more subjects than targeted bootcamps.
Candidates should weigh the pros and cons of all available learning opportunities before making a decision. Consider the following other options:
Associate Degree in Computer Science
Associate programs generally focus on essential skills with broad applications. They provide an introduction to computer science education and usually take about two academic years to complete.
Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science
Bachelor's programs typically follow four-year schedules. The first two years cover subject matter similar to an associate degree. However, in the final two years, students move beyond fundamentals into intermediate topics.
Master's Degree in Computer Science
Master's programs in computer science usually focus on a specialized area of professional practice. Students build advanced skills in targeted areas, often in preparation for high-level career roles.
Ph.D. in Computer Science
Computer science doctorates typically appeal to highly motivated students. These programs prepare students for careers in tech research and postsecondary teaching. They also deliver the most prestigious credential to learners interested in a particular tech field.
Explore Other Coding Bootcamps
iOS developer bootcamps are just one of many coding and computer science bootcamp options. Other programs cover specific subject areas including web development, user experience/user interface (UX/UI), data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and more.
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Learn More2022's Bootcamps for iOS Development
Begin a career in iOS development with one of the following eight intensive bootcamps. These popular U.S. bootcamps, listed alphabetically, last 10-36 weeks. Some only focus on iOS development, while others also explore Android app development.
The hands-on experience and required projects can help build your portfolio. Plus, many programs offer career preparation to guide your job search. Explore the iOS development bootcamps below, which may launch your 2022 tech career.
Code Fellows offers revolutionary and empowering education. Since its founding in 2013, the school has trained more than 1,500 graduates.
Code 501: iOS App Development with Swift
As a 500-level program, this iOS bootcamp explores advanced topics. Learners need prior experience to apply. Code Fellows expects enrollees to have completed its 300-level software development course. Students must also finish the provided prework before the first class.
The curriculum follows a stacked module format. It packs many subjects into 10 weeks of classes. Each day, students build on previous topics while learning a new one. This format allows students to work extensively with Cocoa Touch, Swift, and Xcode.
- Cost: $6,000
- Format: Online (synchronous); part time
- Length: 10 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Code Fellows
- Code 101: Explore Software Development
- Code 201: Foundations of Software Development
- Code 301: Intermediate Software Development
- Code 401: Advanced Software Development in Full-Stack JavaScript
- Code 501: Build Web Apps with React & Redux
- Code 502: Master Data Structures and Algorithms
- Ops 101: Explore Ethical Hacking & Cybersecurity Careers
- Ops 201: Foundations of Computer Operations
- Ops 301: Networking and Systems Administration
- Ops 401: Cybersecurity Engineering
Code Fellows' Job Placement Assistance
Code Fellows provides career coaching within courses at the 200, 300, and 400 levels. At the 500 level, students can take a one-week career transition class. Code Fellows hosts various networking events with local tech employers.
Developer Bootcamp partners with Software Skills Training, Inc. to provide on-demand IT courses. The instructors guide students through the self-paced courses.
Mobile Application Developer Bootcamp
The mobile application bootcamp includes two required courses. Students start with Android application development. The second course covers how to build iOS apps with Swift. Core concepts include iOS foundations, design patterns, and applications.
Learners can choose to continue with two more courses: iOS programming using Objective-C and Xamarin cross-platform development. For all courses, students need programming experience. Developer Bootcamp offers free Java and C# programming classes for those needing extra practice.
- Cost: $2,400 (2 courses); $3,600 (3 courses); $4,800 (4 courses)
- Format: Online; self-paced
- Length: 70 hours (2 courses); 105 hours (3 courses); 140 hours (4 courses)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Developer Bootcamp
- Advanced Java Developer Bootcamp
- Advanced SQL Server Developer Bootcamp
- C Programmer Bootcamp
- Java Programmer Bootcamp
- Linux Fundamentals and Linux Administration Bootcamp
- Microsoft .NET Developer Bootcamp C#
- Microsoft .NET Developer Bootcamp VB.NET
- Python Programmer Bootcamp
- SQL Programmer Bootcamp
- UNIX Skills Bootcamp
Developer Bootcamp's Job Placement Assistance
Developer Bootcamp provides learners with potential employer contacts. Students that do not have a job 120 days after graduation may receive more free courses.
Devmountain had humble beginnings in a former candy factory. Since its 2013 founding, over 3,200 students have graduated from Devmountain's project-based bootcamps.
iOS Development
Devmountain offers multiple iOS development cohorts throughout the year. Applicants must complete a phone consultation and pass a skill review. They should show a passion for innovation and an interest in app development. Students without coding experience can complete the prework curriculum.
Once the bootcamp begins, students experience what a tech career is like. They learn about mobile data, app design, and debugging. For the final project, learners collaborate with other Devmountain students to create an iOS application.
- Cost: $9,900
- Format: Online (synchronous) or on campus; full time or part time
- Length: 16 weeks (full time); 24-36 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Devmountain
- Web Development
- UX Design
- Software QA
- Python Software Engineering
- Coding Basics
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- Java Software Engineering
Devmountain's Job Placement Assistance
Students work with a career support team to build a resume and portfolio. Devmountain provides mock interviews and job negotiation tips. Graduates also take part in job fairs and networking opportunities.
Noble Desktop has trained designers and programmers since 1990. This New York institution offers programs for many career paths, including graphic design and web development.
iOS App Development Bootcamp
The iOS development bootcamp immediately immerses students into Xcode and Swift. Within the first week, students complete two application development projects. Learners then work with a tip calculator app in the second week, practicing with loops and structs.
Over the next five weeks, students learn to develop various apps. They practice with weather forecasting, lists, and card wars applications. Weeks 8-9 cover the met gallery app. Learners also work on building their own applications throughout the bootcamp. They finish and submit their final application during week ten.
- Cost: $2,495
- Format: Online (synchronous) or on campus; part time
- Length: 10 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Noble Desktop
- Web Design Certificate
- Data Science Certificate
- UX & UI Design Certificate
- Python for Data Science Bootcamp
- Business Analyst Certificate
- JavaScript Development Certificate
- Front-End Web Development Certificate
- Full-Stack Web Development Certificate
- Motion Graphics Certificate
- Video Editing Certificate
Jack Stanley and Erik Gross cofounded The Tech Academy in 2014. Today, the company offers courses online or at its campuses in Oregon and Utah.
Mobile App Developer Bootcamp
The Tech Academy provides a comprehensive bootcamp with over 700 hours of content. The first courses cover the fundamentals. Students review networking principles and algorithm theory. They also explore software development, version control, and databases.
After building a strong foundation, learners focus on iOS and android app development. Topics include object-oriented programming and user interface. Over two weeks, students work as a team to create a coding project. The final product can supplement the students' portfolios.
- Cost: $9,540 (full time); $11,900 (part time)
- Format: Online (self-paced with some synchronous components), on campus, or hybrid; full time or part time
- Length: 18 weeks (full time); 34 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by The Tech Academy
- Software Developer Bootcamp
- Game Developer Bootcamp
- JavaScript Developer Bootcamp
- Java and Android Developer Bootcamp
- C# and .NET Framework Bootcamp
- Python Developer Bootcamp
- Data Science Bootcamp
- UI/UX Bootcamp
- Cybersecurity Bootcamp
- Front-End Web Developer Bootcamp
The Tech Academy's Job Placement Assistance
The bootcamp's final course covers interview preparation and resume writing. Students also work with staff to find tech jobs.
Located in New York City, TurnToTech exclusively offers mobile development bootcamps. Students benefit from a personalized, one-on-one learning model. The three-part teaching method includes coursework, real-life experience, and career preparation.
iOS Bootcamp
The iOS bootcamp provides a comprehensive curriculum. Students begin with programming fundamentals and practice with algorithms, stacks, and strings. The next section covers iOS mobile development.
Students explore topics like data persistence and user interface. Advanced subjects include app testing and security. Learners showcase their skills by creating geolocation and game applications.
An internship project completes the bootcamp. Learners work with one of TurnToTech's partner companies for six weeks. They gain experience with existing applications and receive personalized guidance.
- Cost: $12,000
- Format: On campus; full time and self-paced
- Length: 16 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by TurnToTech
- Android Bootcamp
- Intro to iOS Development with Swift
TurnToTech's Job Placement Assistance
TurnToTech offers networking opportunities through meetups and alumni connections. Learners practice mock interviews. They also receive guidance on building professional profiles and resumes.
Udacity provides engaging online tech courses. Students can choose courses from six topics, including artificial intelligence and data science.
iOS Developer
Udacity offers an experiential bootcamp curriculum. It begins with an introductory course covering Swift programming. The next five courses include at least one major project.
Students create a recording and playback application using Swift and Xcode. They also explore UIKit fundamentals and develop two MemeMe app versions. Students apply networking and simple persistence to design two map applications.
For the final section, students develop an app. Udacity leads them through the researching, building, and publishing processes.
- Cost: $2,034 upfront; $399 monthly
- Format: Online (asynchronous); self-paced
- Length: 6 months
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Udacity
- Java Developer
- AWS Cloud Architect
- Full-Stack Web Developer
- UX Designer
- Agile Software Development
- Learn SQL
- Security Engineer
- Robotics Software Engineer
- C++ Developer
- AI Product Manager
Udacity's Job Placement Assistance
Udacity offers GitHub and LinkedIn profile reviews. Tech professionals help students develop their portfolios and grow their networks. Learners can also browse job listings from Udacity and its customers.
Apple cofounder Steve Wozniak created Woz U to deliver online tech education. It connects students with higher education institutions and corporations, equipping individuals with in-demand skills in various subjects, including data science, cybersecurity, software development, and mobile application development.
Mobile Application Developer Training
Woz U partners with the Southern Careers Institute to provide the mobile application bootcamp. The program consists of ten courses that cover iOS development. It also prepares graduates for popular IT certification exams.
The curriculum begins with an introductory iOS course. Students then explore Swift and Objective-C programming foundations. Other courses review user interfaces and app frameworks. Learners discover how to publish and monitor an app, then apply their skills to a final independent project.
- Cost: $13,300 on average
- Format: Online (asynchronous with synchronous components); self-paced
- Length: 33 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Woz U
- Software Developer
- Data Science
- Cybersecurity
Woz U's Job Placement Assistance
The Southern Careers Institute connects students to employers through a career services portal. The staff also prepares students for interviews and writing resumes. Woz U offers mentors and apprenticeships.
Common Questions About iOS
What programming language is used in iOS development?
iOS developers typically use Swift and Objective-C to create software for Apple mobile systems. Of the two coding languages, developers use Swift most often.
What skills are required for an iOS developer?
Successful iOS developers often have well-rounded skill sets that include Swift, Objective-C, and XCode. They also benefit from strong spatial reasoning, UX/UI knowledge, and experience with Apple's Human Interface Guidelines.
Is it easier to develop for iOS or Android?
Most experienced developers say it is easier to develop software for iOS than Android. A 2015 analysis found that developers write up to 40% more code for Android platforms.
Are iOS developers in demand?
According to many tech industry insiders and labor analysts, the technology industry has a talent shortage. Employer demand includes iOS developers, especially as more companies invest heavily in mobile platforms. According to Statista, mobile app revenue reached over $300 billion in 2020.
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