Best Data Science Bootcamps
Updated November 8, 2023
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Coding bootcamps are immersive, intensive programs that equip participants with practical skills in specific fields, such as data science.
Data is the currency of the modern world. The ability to interpret and manipulate large datasets to make informed decisions is crucial across virtually all industries. By graduating from a data science bootcamp, you can prepare to pursue in-demand careers.
According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the number of bachelor's degrees conferred in computer and information sciences, including data science, has increased by 417% between the 1990-1991 and 2020-2021 academic years. With the rise of big data, this trend is likely to continue.
The following detailed roundup of the best data science bootcamps is your perfect starting point for an exciting career transition.
What Is a Data Science Bootcamp?
A data science bootcamp is a concentrated, engaging learning experience providing participants with essential skills in data science. Depending on their format and intensity, these programs typically run for several weeks to several months, though some extend beyond this timeline.
Unlike general coding bootcamps, data science bootcamps focus more on interpreting data and predictive modeling and less on software development. Expect to learn many subjects, such as statistics, machine learning, Python programming, and data visualization. These bootcamps are available in various formats — online, in-person, or hybrid through self-paced, full-time, or part-time delivery — and they can be independent or affiliated with schools.
One unique benefit of a data science bootcamp compared to traditional degree programs is the speed and specificity of learning. Bootcamps condense years of knowledge into an intensive learning period, focusing on industry-specific skills to meet the job market's immediate needs. Furthermore, data science bootcamps often foster direct connections to the industry, offering networking opportunities and potential job placements.
These programs are known for being outcome-oriented, with many providing practical projects that simulate real-world data scenarios, providing a robust portfolio upon graduation. This focused, immersive education model is what sets data science bootcamps apart.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Skills Learned in Data Science Bootcamps
In data science bootcamps, students can gain skills across several disciplines. Beyond coding proficiency in languages like Python and R, enrollees explore machine learning algorithms, statistical modeling, and data visualization, along with soft skills like problem-solving and communication.
Common topics explored in data science bootcamps include:
-
Python Programming: As one of the most popular languages in data science, Python's simple syntax and rich ecosystem of libraries (like Pandas and NumPy) make it an ideal language for manipulating and analyzing data. Bootcamps often begin with Python basics before moving to more complex operations. -
Data Visualization: Bootcamps cover how to present data with tools like Matplotlib or Seaborn in Python and ggplot2 in R. This skill is essential for communicating complex data insights to non-technical audiences in an understandable, visual way. -
Machine Learning: Bootcamp attendees gain familiarity with machine learning algorithms like linear regression, decision trees, and neural networks. Coursework covers methods of implementing these algorithms with libraries like scikit-learn. -
Structured Query Language: SQL is the standard tool for database interaction. In bootcamps, students learn how to write SQL queries to extract, manipulate, and analyze data stored in relational databases. -
Statistical Analysis: This crucial component of data science allows you to interpret sets of data to make conclusions. Bootcamps cover foundational statistical principles such as hypothesis testing and regression analysis.
What Will a Data Science Bootcamp Cost?
Data science bootcamps are a considerable investment, but their potential for career advancement can outweigh the initial cost. According to Career Karma's 2023 State of the Bootcamp Report, a non-coding bootcamp, which includes data science, costs $9,295 on average.
Tuition usually includes software and material costs, but you should verify any other potential fees with your chosen bootcamp. Additional charges may include application fees or optional preparatory courses.
Paying for a bootcamp is often flexible. Options include paying upfront, which may come with a discount, or choosing a payment plan to spread costs. Deferred tuition and income share agreements are popular choices in which a student owes nothing upfront and agrees to pay a percentage of their salary after securing a job.
Some bootcamps offer loans, often through third-party lenders. Scholarships are also available, particularly for underrepresented groups in tech. Moreover, certain bootcamps provide job guarantees, promising to refund tuition if the graduate does not secure a job within a specified period.
What Jobs Can I Get After a Data Science Bootcamp?
Coding bootcamps can provide a gateway to technical careers in many industries, including finance and healthcare. Computer science careers offer higher-than-average salaries and growth opportunities.
The following section details several potential pathways for bootcamp graduates.
Data scientists use programming, machine learning, and statistics skills to analyze complex datasets and derive actionable insights. A data science bootcamp offers practical, hands-on training in these areas, preparing students for a high-demand role across industries.
- Median Annual Salary: $100,910
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +36%
Software developers design and create software, handling the details of its implementation. They usually build specific applications or systems and write code. Furthermore, the programming skills you learn in a bootcamp are invaluable for software development.
- Median Annual Salary: $120,730
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +26%
These professionals manage an organization's data, ensuring its accessibility, integrity, and security. Bootcamps often cover SQL, a key language for database management, to provide a foundation for this career.
- Median Annual Salary: $96,710
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +8%
Systems analysts evaluate and improve computer systems for organizations. Data science bootcamp graduates bring a valuable understanding of data processing, which aids in system optimization.
- Median Annual Salary: $99,270
- Job Outlook (2021-31): +9%
These professionals apply engineering principles to design, develop, and maintain software's system architecture and performance. They often take a holistic view, considering the entire software lifecycle from system design to testing, maintenance, and evaluation.
- Average Annual Salary (July 2023): $91,740
Other Computer Science Education Options
Although free coding bootcamps can provide a fast track into data science, other educational opportunities can enhance or complement these skills, potentially expanding your job prospects and allowing for deeper specialization.
An associate degree in computer science or related field provides a broad foundation in programming and data structures, making it a great starting point for someone considering a bootcamp. However, bootcamps are typically more intensive and focused on practical, hands-on learning.
A bachelor's degree in data science or a related field allows for more in-depth study, often including internships and capstone projects. These programs can lead to more job opportunities, including roles requiring a minimum four-year degree.
A master's degree in data science allows for even greater specialization in machine learning, big data, or artificial intelligence. Master's programs suit individuals looking to lead or tackle complex, high-level data science problems.
Individuals who aim to work in academia or research can consider doctoral degrees. These graduate programs build on the skills learned in a bootcamp or a master's degree, emphasizing research methods and cutting-edge data science techniques.
Each path has unique benefits and suits different career goals and personal circumstances. Balancing practicality and ambition is key to choosing the right educational pathway into data science.
Explore Other Coding Bootcamps
Bootcamps for Best Data Science
Data science bootcamps can equip you with the advanced data and machine learning skills to pursue in-demand tech jobs. Bootcamps may be offered as stand-alone programs or through affiliations with colleges and universities.
The best data science bootcamps are short, intense, and focused on setting graduates on a career path in data management or analytics. Explore this guide to find links to many of the top data science bootcamps in the U.S.
The Bloom Institute of Technology aims to help people land roles in the tech sector. Its name comes from the institute's belief that its learners can grow and flourish.
Data Science Course
This in-depth course prepares students to create real-world data sets using Python, SQL, and data visualization tools. Bloom divides topics into 24 "sprints" covering predictive modeling, machine learning, applied computer science, and more.
Students can take advantage of live classes, pre-recorded content, and academic and career support. Applicants must pass the criteria cognitive aptitude test, submit evidence of prior academic work, and complete a free three-week trial of the program.
- Cost: $21,950 (upfront tuition) or $23,000+ (deferred tuition)
- Format: Online or self paced; full time or part time
- Length: 960 hours
- CIRR Member: No
Other Courses Offered by Bloom Institute of Technology
- Full Stack Development
- Backend Development
Bloom Institute of Technology Job Placement Assistance
The company reports that 90% of its 2021 graduates have landed jobs. Their median increase in income mirrors that of a bachelor's degree but without requiring four years.
Founded in 2012, BrainStation has worked with more than 500 instructors to develop educational experiences used by more than 100,000 individuals. BrainStation maintains its headquarters in NYC and campuses in Miami, Toronto, London, Vancouver, and online.
Data Science Bootcamp
BrainStation's students participate in instructor-led courses, learning communities, and real-world simulation projects. The curriculum consists of five units: data analysis and visualization, analysis for data science, artificial intelligence and machine learning techniques, big data fundamentals with machine learning, and professional development.
The program concludes with a demo day for students to showcase their projects to peers, instructors, and potential employers. Applicants come from many backgrounds, and 80% of students have postsecondary education, with 20% holding a master's degree or Ph.D.
- Cost: $16,500
- Format: Online or on campus; full time or part time
- Length: 8 months (part time) or 3 months (full time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by BrainStation
- Software Engineering
- UX Design
- Web Development
- Digital Marketing
BrainStation's Job Placement Assistance
BrainStation reports that more than 90% of the program's graduates have landed jobs within 180 days of graduation. The company provides various career services, including workshops and one-on-one support.
Codeup began in 2014 as an initiative to prepare Texans for tech jobs. Since then, the organization has served more than 1,800 learners at campuses in San Antonio and Dallas.
Data Science
Students explore math, statistics, business, and programming. Course topics include SQL, applied statistics, regression, anomaly detection, and storytelling with data. The program concludes with a capstone project. Courses take place from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. throughout the week.
Codeup's program involves hands-on projects and direct instruction from real-world experts. Applicants do not need prior experience in data science to register for the program, but they must provide their own Apple laptops.
- Cost: $31,250
- Format: On campus; full time
- Length: 20 weeks
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Codeup
- Cloud Administration
- Full Stack Web Development
Codeup's Job Placement Assistance
Codeup provides career coaching, resume and cover letter assistance, and mock interviewing opportunities. The organization offers a six-month job guarantee with a 100% tuition refund.
With more than 13,000 worldwide alumni, Coding Dojo is among the largest bootcamp providers. It is located in Colorado Springs and serves students from diverse backgrounds.
Data Science and Machine Learning in Python or Data Science & Visualization
Coding Dojo offers data science bootcamps covering machine learning and data visualization. The first program requires 20 weeks, and the second lasts 16 weeks. Students should expect to spend 30 hours per week studying. The curriculum includes courses in Python for data science, Pandas for data manipulation, and exploratory visualizations.
A candidate does not need a background in data science but must complete an interview after submitting their application.
- Cost: $10,995-$13,995
- Format: Online; part time
- Length: 16-20 weeks
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Coding Dojo
- Cybersecurity
- Software Development
Coding Dojo's Job Placement Assistance
Coding Dojo's career service managers work with students throughout the program. They provide one-on-one mentoring, resume and interview prep, mock interviews, technical interview practice, and workshops.
Data Science Dojo officially launched in 2013 and became affiliated with the University of New Mexico in 2019. It has provided instruction to more than 10,000 individual learners and 2,000 organizations.
Data Science Bootcamp
Data Science Dojo's bootcamp blends machine learning, programming, and data science instruction in a comprehensive, interactive learning environment. The curriculum comprises 16 units, including storytelling with data, decision tree learning, deploying a model as a service, and linear models of regression.
Instructors with real-world experience lead courses in R and Python coding. Each graduate receives a certificate and seven continuing education units.
- Cost: $2,659-$4,500
- Format: Online; part time
- Length: 16 weeks
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Data Science Dojo
- Data Science for Business
- Python for Data Science
Data Science Dojo's Job Placement Assistance
Data Science Dojo maintains partnerships with several leading technology companies. The organization also hosts an active jobs board. Graduates can participate in post-bootcamp tutorials and connect with an alumni network.
Established in 2013, Deep Dive Coding teaches the principles of applied technology topics in cooperation with Central New Mexico Community College (CNM).
Data Science
Students begin the program with an online pre-bootcamp experience, which includes multiple tutorials and exercises. Then, the bootcamp unfolds in three sections: data science fundamentals, statistical and machine learning, and the capstone project. Coursework covers Python, data visualization tools, data wrangling, and regression techniques.
Graduates can receive credit for prior learning from CNM for completing the course. This option permits them to count the course toward a degree from CNM.
- Cost: $9,995
- Format: Online (part time only) or on campus (full time only); Full time or part time
- Length: 12 weeks (full time) or 24 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Deep Dive Coding
- Java and Android
- Fullstack Web Development
- Internet of Things
- Digital Media
- Video Production
- Data Science for Business Leaders
- Cybersecurity
- UX/UI Design
Deep Dive Coding's Job Placement Assistance
Deep Dive Coding brings in guest speakers and hosts regular demo days for students to meet data science professionals. The bootcamp also provides career coaching and keeps students updated on job prospects.
Flatiron School launched in 2012 and became the first bootcamp to partner with the government just one year later. This program works with New York City to help reverse underrepresentation in tech fields.
Data Science Bootcamp
In this program, students learn to visualize data, leverage it for insights, and use it to make powerful predictions. The bootcamp includes instruction on gathering and organizing data, applying statistical analysis, and creating visualizations using data.
The program uses five phases: data analysis and engineering, scientific computing and quantitative methods, machine learning fundamentals, advanced machine learning, and a data science project. Students in the live course access instruction through Canvas and should be available 60 hours per week.
- Cost: $16,900
- Format: Online or on campus; full time or part time
- Length: 15 weeks (full time); 40 weeks (part time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Flatiron School
- UX/UI Product Design
- Cybersecurity
- Software Engineering
Flatiron's Job Placement Assistance
The bootcamp provides individualized career coaching and introduces students to job opportunities through industry partnerships.
Launched in 2014, LearningFuze offers bootcamps and courses for technology professionals in cooperation with Concordia University Irvine. The program maintains headquarters in Orange County and offers online learning.
Data Science
LearningFuze divides its data science bootcamp into two modules. Module one provides an introduction to machine learning, along with instruction in Python and statistics. Topics include web scraping, data cleaning, Pandas, Matplotlib, and SQL.
Module two emphasizes advanced data science. Students explore deep learning and artificial intelligence. Topics include neural networks, image recognition, natural language processing, and machine learning in the cloud.
- Cost: $11,990
- Format: Online or on campus; part time
- Length: 24 weeks
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by LearningFuze
- UX/UI Product Design
- Web Development
LearningFuze's Job Placement Assistance
The bootcamp maintains relationships with employers throughout Orange County. Graduates receive job search assistance through LearningFuze's employer network.
Founded in 2013, Springboard maintains a 10,000-strong alumni network around the world. With 15 nationalities and 40 languages represented on the team, the company has a strong commitment to diversity.
Data Science Bootcamp
This data science bootcamp equips students with job-ready, in-demand skills through 28 mini-projects and three capstones. Enrollees explore topics such as SQL, data wrangling, Python statistics, and data storytelling. You need 500-plus hours to complete the curriculum.
Springboard provides one-on-one meetings with a data science mentor throughout the bootcamp. Mentors offer personalized guidance, accountability, and industry insights. They also assist with career coaching to help you get a job right after graduation.
- Cost: $9,900
- Format: Online; Self-paced
- Length: Varies; average of six months
- CIRR Member: Yes
Other Courses Offered by Springboard
- Analytics
- Design
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Tech Sales
Springboard's Job Placement Assistance
Springboard reports that it has placed 90.6% of job-qualified graduates within 12 months of graduation. The organization provides a full refund if you do not receive a qualifying job offer within six months.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
- Data Science Immersive, Data Analytics
- Online
- Full time
- $16,450
- Data Science, Data Engineering
- San Francisco, New York City, Boston, Seattle, Toronto, Los Angeles, or remote
- Full time
- $24,000 or 12% of your gross income for two years if you get a job earning $90,000 or more within 6 months of the program's end
- Data Science, Data Analytics
- NYC, Online
- Full time, part time
- $17,600
- Data Science, Data Science, Engineering
- Online
- Full time, part time
- $10,000-$11,000
- Mastering Data Science with Deep Learning, Mastering Applied Data Science
- California (Los Angeles, Irvine, San Diego, Walnut Creek); Washington (Lacey)
- Part time
- $14,995
- Data Science, Data Analytics
- Online
- Full time or part time (data analytics); part time (data science)
- $9,500-$13,475
- Data Science
- Online
Bootcamps offered in partnership with edX/Trilogy Education Services
edX, formerly Trilogy Education Services, opened in 2012 with a mission to increase access to education and advance research. The organization partners with 50-plus universities to provide 12-24 week online bootcamps. Data science-related programs are listed and linked below.
- Columbia Engineering
- Berkeley Extension
- Vanderbilt University
- University of Oregon
- University of Minnesota
- University of Denver
- University of Central Florida
- UC Irvine Continuing Education
- UC Davis
- UNC-Chapel Hill
- Rice University
- Northwestern University
- The University of Texas at Austin
- George Washington University
- University of Wisconsin
- The University of Texas at San Antonio
- University of Richmond
- University of Pennsylvania
- University of Miami
- University of Kansas
- UNC Charlotte
- Southern Methodist University
- The Ohio State University
- Michigan State University
- Case Western Reserve University
- Arizona State University
- Washington University in St. Louis
- Tulsa Community College
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
FAQ About Data Science Bootcamps
Are the best data science bootcamps hard to get into?
The best data science bootcamps can be challenging to gain admission into due to their high standards and popularity. However, dedication, a strong application, and a clear demonstration of potential can substantially increase your chances.
Can I get a job after going to a data science bootcamp?
Yes — many data science bootcamp graduates successfully land jobs in the field. The practical skills, networking opportunities, and job placement assistance often provided by bootcamps can increase your chances of securing employment after graduation.
Is it worth it to attend a data science bootcamp?
Attending a data science bootcamp can be a worthwhile investment. These programs offer fast, focused learning, equip you with industry-relevant skills, and can considerably boost your employability in a rapidly growing and high-paying field.
What is taught in a data science bootcamp?
A data science bootcamp teaches skills such as Python programming, statistical analysis, data visualization, machine learning algorithms, and SQL. It also often includes soft skills like problem-solving and communication in data-oriented contexts.
Last reviewed June 19, 2023.
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