Here are a few of the most common questions that pop up about our .NET and Java coding boot camps. If you have any questions not covered here, feel free to email info@claimacademystl.com directly!
What classes do you offer? Which one is for me?
We currently offer classes in Java and .NET. Both are taught as frameworks based around a single object-oriented programming language (Java and C#, respectively). This includes work with the full stack of development tools available for each framework, from databases, to web deployment, to object-relation database mapping, to version control, to unit testing, to security... everything that you'll need to succeed as a developer!
Our classes are built around jobs the market demands. If you're looking to make a career as a programmer, either class is for you. If you prefer using open-source tools with a bit more flexibility in the developer stack, you might like Java more. If you prefer using a framework that is heavily supported by a single company like Microsoft .NET might be for you. There are plenty of jobs available to participants in either camps.
What kind of jobs are available for Claim Academy graduates?
Demand for programming jobs in America outstrips current supply by such a wide margin that companies of all shape and size are clamoring for entry-level talent. By 2020 the US Bureau of Statistics expects there to be 1.4 million technology jobs left unfilled. Many of the companies with the greatest need for entry-level talent range from startups to large corporations. We've focused our curricula on the needs the job market demands in technology.
That's not to say, though, that Claim Academy graduates would not be a good fit for smaller companies. In fact, the rapid pace of learning and wide variety of topics covered over the course of each boot camp would also prepare students for the kind of rapid, self-directed learning that smaller companies require from their development teams. While the needs of each smaller company vary too much for us to try to tailor each student's experience to each company's technical requirements, graduates from our program are perfectly capable of learning what needs to be learned at a smaller company quickly and enthusiastically.
What is the weekly time commitment?
We expect students to be spending around 70 hours per week on Claim Academy work. This includes both the nine or ten hours on-site at Claim Academy as well as time required outside of class to complete all assignments and projects.
For the 12-week program this includes:
- Pair programming with fellow students Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm
- Guided mentorship time Monday through Friday from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
- Daily lectures Monday through Friday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm
All class time is on-location at our downtown space at 1520 Washington Avenue.
Am I a good fit for this program?
If you're a self-directed and driven go-getter with a passion for learning and technology looking to change careers into a full-time programming position, we'd love to see you in class.
Do I need any previous experience with programming?
It certainly helps to have a programming language already under your belt, but it's not a requirement. The strongest candidates will have already used free online resources to learn as much programming as they could in their free time, will have built a few basic applications in some language, and have the drive and motivation to spend lots of time learning and developing a new skill.
Some candidates excel in the interview process without previous experience. The application process includes basic programming work. If you can handle the challenges we send you, you'll do just fine in the class and in your future career as a programmer. Give it a shot!
Do I need my own computer?
Yes. You will need a laptop that you can move easily between home and class. For Java, any operating system will work (except for ChromeOS/chromebooks), be it Linux, Mac, or Windows. For .NET, Windows machines are required, preferably running Windows 7 or later.
What does the application process look like?
So, you're ready to apply to Claim Academy. Congratulations! We're glad you're interested in one (or more) of our classes. Our programs will prepare you for the tech jobs that St. Louis businesses need, and this is the first step towards your new programming career. Here's a step-by-step guide through our application process:
- The initial interview provides you the opportunity to meet with a Student Affairs Advisor. The Student Affairs Advisor will ask basic questions to help determine if you are a good fit for the Claim Academy as well as an opportunity to see if Claim Academy is a good fit for you. Claim Academy recommends you begin applying for financial aid at this time.
- If you are found to be qualified to move to the next step you will need to register for pre-course work. The pre-course work is free and provides an opportunity for you to develop a level of confidence in order to see if this is something you are willing to invest your time and money into. This also provides Claim Academy an opportunity to initially assess your ability to successfully deal with the rigors of the program.
- After the you have successfully completed the pre-course work, you must arrange for a technical interview. During the technical interview, the instructor will ask questions about the solutions provided to assess the logic applied to your solution, and to verify that you were the one who provided the solution.
- When you have successfully defended your technical challenge, you will be encouraged to register for your selected program by completing the Claim Academy Enrollment Form and finalize payment arrangements before the start of the program orientation.
The prerequisite process allows students with the greatest potential to succeed in the program to move forward. Each student has a substantial financial and time investment in the program. This process provides the best opportunity for only students with the skills necessary for success to risk such an investment.
You can begin your application process by clicking the link provided here.
How much do your bootcamps and classes cost?
The following table shows the cost for tuition for each program for the Claim Academy 2020 Academic Year.
The full tuition is due prior to the start of the program.
Student may cancel their Enrollment Agreement within three working days (excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays) of the date signed by the Student and Claim Academy. Enrollment Agreements cancelled as such will allow the Student to receive a full refund of all monies paid. After the three-day cancellation period, any Student who withdraws for any reason prior to an immersive boot camp start date or up to one week into the program receives all monies returned, except for the non-refundable $500 deposit.
Refunds after the first week will be pro-rated based on the date of withdrawal in the following amounts:
1 Subject to the three-day cancellation policy.
2 For Week 5 for the 9-Week programs, a 25% refund is only available through Wednesday of Week 5. After Wednesday of Week 5 no refunds will be given.
Are there scholarships available? Financial aid?
Yes to both! We have financing and scholarship options available. For more information about financial aid, simply mark "interested in financial aid" on your online application, and we'll be sure to go over options with you during the interview process.
Who are some potential employers?
Claim Academy graduates have gained employment from MasterCard, Wells Fargo, Express Scripts, Centene Corporation and many more.