Table of Contents
Do you have a question about Code Platoon? Here are the answers to our most frequently asked questions. If your question isn’t answered below, please contact us.
Part 1: Full-Stack Software Engineering
1.1 Immersive, In-Person Program Q&A
Note: for all curriculum questions, see Full-stack Curriculum, as it is consistent across all full-stack programs. Questions and answers here will focus on what is specific to the Immersive, in-person program.
What is the in-person program, and how long is it?
The Full-stack Software Engineering Immersive program is a 15-week, full-time bootcamp. After completing the program, students will be eligible for potential placement, based on interviews and skillset, with our paid apprenticeships and employment as junior software engineers.
Classes are Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. CST. Students should prepare for homework and projects outside of classroom hours. Students spend 8-12 hours a day, including Saturdays, attending classes and working on projects and homework.
When and where are classes held?
Classes are Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. CST. You should prepare for 8-12 hours a day, including Saturdays, attending classes and working on projects and homework.
Our in-person classroom is in downtown Chicago at 1 S Dearborn St, Chicago, IL 60603.
How often is the Immersive program available?
The immersive full-stack program is offered three times per year. Upcoming cohorts and application deadlines are available on our application page.
Where do in-person students typically stay when they attend Code Platoon?
Code Platoon does not provide housing for in-person students. Students are encouraged to network with each other during the pre-work before the program’s start, which often results in roommate arrangements.
If I apply to the in-person program, can I attend hybrid/remote on some days?
Students attending Code Platoon in-person need to be in the classroom during class time unless they are sick or have an excused appointment.
1.2 Immersive, Remote Program Q&A
Note: for all curriculum questions, see Full-stack Curriculum, as it is consistent across all full-stack programs. Questions and answers here will focus on what is specific to the Immersive, in-person program.
What are the differences between the In-person and Remote Immersive programs?
In terms of curriculum, cost, applications, and classes, there is no difference. However, remote students are not eligible to use GI Bill® benefits or participate in in-person networking opportunities.
How are classes done remotely?
Remote classes will be conducted over Zoom in a real-time online learning environment. Classes are Monday – Friday from 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. CST and feature a mix of lectures, pair programming, and projects.
1.3 Remote Evening and Weekend Program
Note: for all curriculum questions, see Full-stack Curriculum, as it is consistent across all full-stack programs. Questions and answers here will focus on what is specific to the Evening & Weekend program.
When do classes meet for the Evening & Weekend program?
The Evening & Weekend option meets remotely on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. Central and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Central for 28 weeks.
How often is the Evening and Weekend program available?
The Full-stack Software Engineering: Evening & Weekend program is offered twice per year. Check our calendar for the most up-to-date program schedule and deadlines.
How do students attend the Evening and Weekend Program?
The Evening & Weekend program is offered over Zoom in a real-time online learning environment.
Is the GI Bill® applicable to the Evening & Weekend Program?
No, but you may qualify for VR&E or scholarships.
Are Career Services and the apprenticeship program offered to Evening & Weekend students?
All Code Platoon graduates qualify for Career Services, but our apprenticeship program is only offered for Immersive program graduates.
1.4 Self-Paced Program Q&A
Is the Self-paced program truly at my own pace?
Yes, it is 100% self-paced.
What is the cost?
The Self-paced program is free for Veterans, Servicemembers, and military spouses.
Are there any limitations to the Self-paced program?
Since the Self-paced program is free and at your pace, you won’t have access to instructors or Career Services and won’t earn a certificate of completion.
If I do the Self-paced program and want to do the Full-stack Software Engineering: Immersive or Evening & Weekend programs later, can any of my self-paced work transfer?
The Self-paced program doesn’t directly transfer, but it will help you become more familiar with the Full-stack curriculum.
1.5 Full-Stack Curriculum Q&A
What will I be learning at Code Platoon?
Check out our Full-stack curriculum page for more information or our YouTube channel for class recordings, student project demonstrations, and student experience videos.
Programming Languages: JavaScript and Python
Frameworks: React.js and Django for Python
Databases: PostgreSQL and Object Relational Mapping (ORM)
New AI Curriculum: Natural Language Processing (NLP), Language Models, Deep Learning, and Neural Networks
Industry Best Practices: Git & GitHub, Pair Programming, Test-Driven Development, and Prompt Engineering
Certifications: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
What is full-stack software engineering?
A full-stack software engineer works with both front-end and back-end development and is competent in the languages necessary for both. The things you click on, pictures, and menus on a website are front-end development. The databases, infrastructure, and “under the hood” work—are back-end development.
Does the Full-stack curriculum cover Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools?
We believe that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a fundamental aspect of modern software engineering that our students must master. We have integrated AI training throughout our curriculum, ensuring that you understand its importance alongside core software engineering skills. You will learn prompt engineering and the judicious use of AI tools like PyTorch, Numpy, Pandas, and Jupyter Notebooks. By the end of the program, you’ll have the chance to train your own AI models and integrate them into your full-stack projects.
What will I learn in addition to programming? Will I have help developing my soft skills?
You’ll participate in our Beyond Tech workshops covering team building, diversity & inclusion, interviewing, salary negotiation, and more skills necessary to become a well-rounded tech employee.
Do graduates receive any certifications?
Graduates receive a Code Platoon Certificate. You’ll also train and test for the AWS Cloud Practitioner Certification exam.
Part 2: DevOps Engineering
2.1 DevOps and Cloud Engineering Program Q&A
How are classes done remotely?
DevOps and Cloud Engineering classes will be conducted over Zoom in a real-time online learning environment. Classes meet Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30-9:30 p.m. CST and Saturdays from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. CST for 28 weeks and feature a mix of lectures, presentations, and hands-on project time.
Is there something I should do to prepare for the DevOps and Cloud Engineering program?
Check out the Intro to Coding: Python playlist on our YouTube channel to prepare for the coding exercises in Part Two of the application.
How much does the program cost? What funding options are available?
The DevOps and Cloud Engineering program costs $19,000. DevOps and Cloud Engineering program students may be eligible for Code Platoon’s scholarships.
What are the career options available to me after the program?
You’ll learn the skills for many different roles, including:
- DevOps Engineer
- Cloud Engineer
- Platform Engineer
- Site Reliability Engineer
- Network Engineer
Students who complete the program may be eligible for apprenticeship opportunities with our Apprenticeship Partners or positions with our Preferred Hiring Partners.
Will I be a good fit for a DevOps and Cloud Engineering career?
If you’re extremely disciplined and organized, work well under stress, and enjoy diagnosing and solving problems, you may be well-suited for DevOps and Cloud Engineering.
2.2 DevOps and Cloud Engineering Curriculum Q&A
What is DevOps and Cloud Engineering? How is it different from Full-stack Software Engineering?
DevOps and Cloud engineers work alongside software engineers and IT operations to create digital pipelines for software applications. But DevOps focuses on system architecture, security, monitoring, and building pipelines. Students will only sometimes write code. The tools and technologies you’ll learn will also be different from those typical software engineers work on.
What will I learn during the DevOps and Cloud Engineering program?
You’ll learn how to connect web applications and technologies at a larger scale. You’ll be exposed to a wide range of tools and practices to prepare for the varying responsibilities DevOps engineers handle.
Technologies: AWS, Docker, Terraform, Ansible, Kubernetes, DataDog
Specializations: Cloud, Platform & Network Engineering, Machine Learning Operations, Generative AI
Practices: DevOps Lifecycle, Infrastructure as Code (IaC), Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD), Automation, Service Level Management, and Incident Management
Collaborative skills: Architecture Diagramming, Documentation, and Presentation
Certifications: AWS Associate Certifications (SysOps & Solutions Architect)
Check the DevOps and Cloud Engineering page of our website for more details.
Does the DevOps curriculum cover Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools?
We believe that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is not just about tools but a fundamental aspect of modern software engineering that our students must master. You’ll learn prompt engineering and the judicious use of AI tools for DevOps, balancing efficiency with a strong understanding of the fundamentals.
Part 3: Application Q&A
3.1 Standard Application Q&A
Why is the application in two parts? What do they contain?
Part One of the application includes personal information, program and cohort preference, and interest in scholarships or VA funding. Part Two has two sections: Coding Exercises and Short Essays and Video submissions. You must complete both parts of the application before your preferred cohort’s application deadline on the calendar page.
How long will it take to complete the application?
Part One will take about 10-15 minutes. The length of time to complete Part Two varies depending on your coding experience.
What can I do to prepare for the application coding exercises?
Start with our Intro to Coding course, which offers video tutorials and practice problems to help you complete the coding exercises. Those who spend more time on self-learning to ace the coding exercises are more likely to be accepted than those who don’t.
If you’d rather complete your application with instructor-led support for the coding exercises, you can opt into our Guided Application instead.
Do I have to complete my coding exercises in one sitting?
No, you can return to Coderbyte as many times as you need to complete the exercises, but make sure you save copies of your work when you exit Coderbyte.
For more information, watch our walkthrough video.
Do I have a time limit to complete the coding exercises?
No, but you will need to complete the exercises before your cohort’s application deadline. Check our application deadlines on our calendar page.
What score do I need on the coding exercises to be accepted?
Your scores on the individual exercises are not evaluated. The cumulative score on all completed exercises combined is used for evaluation. You will submit three short coding exercises and receive feedback from an instructor on any skills you’ll need to develop further before you’re ready to tackle coding bootcamp.
Can I get help on the coding exercises?
You can ask others for help, but the work submitted for the exercises must be your own. Cheating, including looking up answers and copying or modifying them, will lead to automatic rejection. If you can’t complete the exercises independently, we recommend you apply using our Guided Application process instead.
What coding language should I use to complete the exercises?
Full-stack Software Engineering program applicants can complete the coding exercises in JavaScript or Python. DevOps and Cloud Engineering program applicants must complete the coding exercises in Python.
Do I need to complete the coding exercises before submitting the essays and video component?
Yes, you will be asked to explain one of your coding exercise answers in the short video. Make sure to save a copy of your answers so you can reference them.
My exercise solution didn’t pass all of the test cases. Can I change my solution before submitting the assignment?
Yes, you can adjust solutions before submitting the coding exercises, but you’ll no longer have access to them once you submit them all.
What types of questions can I expect to answer in the short essays and video?
For the three short essay questions, you’ll describe your interest in Code Platoon, professional experiences, and personal motivation.
For the video, you’ll tell us about your learning style and coding interest. You’ll also explain your solution to one of the coding exercises. (Make sure to save a copy of your solutions so you can complete the video.)
I didn’t save my coding exercise answers and cleared my cookies. How can I get my solutions back?
We recommend you redo the exercises you lost. It shouldn’t take too long to redo your work, and you’ll get more practice with these crucial coding skills.
Can I change the cohort I applied to after submitting Part One or Part Two of my application?
Yes, send an email to info@codeplatoon.org with the cohort you want to switch to. If you haven’t finished your application yet, you can also choose a different cohort when you submit Part Two of the application. See all our future cohorts on our calendar.
3.2 Guided Application Q&A
What is the Guided Application and how do I sign up?
Our Guided Application is a streamlined training, application, and enrollment process for Code Platoon’s programs. You’ll complete a three-week instructor-led training session to prepare for admission to Code Platoon. Check our Guided Application page for more details about this application method.
What will I learn in the Guided Application session?
During your Guided Application, you’ll learn the basic problem-solving and Python skills needed for Code Platoon’s application. You’ll take part in lectures and assignments to prepare for and enroll in coding bootcamp.
How do I enroll in my Code Platoon program during the Guided Application?
You must submit the Application Part Two coding exercises and complete a live technical assessment before you may complete your enrollment.
What is the Guided Application session schedule?
Guided Application classes meet remotely on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday evenings from 6 – 9 p.m. Central Time. Check the Guided Application page for our upcoming session dates.
Which programs can I enroll in after completing Guided Application?
You may enroll in any future Full-stack Software Engineering or DevOps and Cloud Engineering program after completing your Guided Application.
I’ve already started a Standard Application. Can I still enroll in Guided Application if I change my mind?
Yes, just submit the application form on our Guided Application page.
If I plan to do the SkillBridge program, can I enroll via Guided Application?
Yes, our Student Outreach Manager can help you complete any documentation for SkillBridge during your Guided Application sessions.
Part 4: Pre-work Q&A
For additional pre-work questions, contact us at info@codeplatoon.org.
4.1 Pre-work Q&A
What is pre-work?
After you’re accepted to Code Platoon, you’ll complete pre-work before your program starts. The pre-work for each program is different and designed to be completed independently. Our pre-work coordinator will help you complete the pre-work assignments.
When is pre-work due?
You should finish the first four weeks of the pre-work and be ready to take the live technical assessment six weeks before your cohort’s start date to avoid scheduling issues. After that, you should complete week five of the pre-work before your first class.
What language should I complete the pre-work coding exercises in?
You may complete the pre-work in JavaScript or Python. You should be comfortable using both of these languages before the start of your program.
May I complete the pre-work coding exercises multiple times?
Yes, you may attempt the coding exercises multiple times. Just make sure you complete them before your pre-work deadline.
I’ve completed the first four weeks of the pre-work and need to schedule my live technical assessment. Who do I contact?
Send an email or Slack message to the pre-work instructor, Guillermo Aguilar.
What happens during the pre-work live technical assessment?
You’ll be asked to solve three short coding exercises. The entire assessment usually takes less than an hour to complete, and you may use your favorite text editor.
I have completed the pre-work. How else can I prepare before the program starts?
Make sure you’re comfortable working with JavaScript and Python. Students without a strong command of these languages sometimes face a greater challenge when they begin the program. You can also complete the pre-work coding exercises multiple times for extra practice.
4.2 Foundations of Programming Q&A
What is Foundations of Programming and when is it offered?
Foundations of Programming (FOP) is a free remote course for accepted students to start learning essential concepts taught during our programs. An FOP course is scheduled before every Full-stack Software Engineering: Immersive cohort.
Is Foundations of Programming required to enroll in Code Platoon?
No, but it’s highly recommended.
What is the schedule for Foundations of Programming?
Classes meet online Monday – Friday from 5:30 – 9 p.m. CST.
What will I learn in Foundations of Programming?
You’ll be exposed to the biggest sticking points during the program: JavaScript and Python syntax, Object-Oriented Programming, and Data Structures and Algorithms. You’ll also learn study habits to help prevent burnout during the program.
Can I use VA education benefits for Foundations of Programming?
No, the course isn’t approved by the VA, but it’s free for accepted students.
Can I add Foundations of Programming to my approved SkillBridge time for Code Platoon?
Yes, you may be able to add the course to your approved SkillBridge window. Contact our Student Outreach Manager at info@codeplatoon.org for more information.
Part 5: VA Benefits, Scholarships, and Tuition Q&A
5.1 VA Benefits Q&A
Can I use VA education benefits for Code Platoon?
Yes, you may qualify to use the GI Bill® (in-person programs only) or VR&E to attend Code Platoon. Check our VA Benefits and Scholarships page for more information.
Can I use the GI Bill® for a Remote or Evening & Weekend program?
No, the GI Bill can only be used for the Full-stack Software Engineering: Immersive In-person program.
How much of the tuition is covered by the GI Bill®?
Your benefits will depend on a few different factors, so contact the VA for your EES (Education Enrollment Status). Code Platoon is not authorized to look at your file with the VA.
What is VR&E and can it be used for Code Platoon?
Veteran Readiness and Employment (formerly called Voc Rehab) is a VA program designed to “help with job training, employment accommodations, resume development, and job-seeking skills coaching.”
You may qualify to use VR&E if you have a disability that prevents you from working in certain capacities. You must be accepted to a VR&E plan to use it for Code Platoon.
Can I get a stipend for supplies like a laptop?
VR&E may pay for your laptop (determined on a case-by-case basis). Code Platoon scholarships do not provide funds for supplies or computers.
Can military spouses attend Code Platoon with VA funding?
Military spouses can attend Code Platoon. If your Veteran spouse has done a Transfer of Entitlement (TOE) of their GI Bill®, you can use that for our In-person program. You may also qualify for a scholarship if you can’t use VA funding.
Can I use Chapter 35 benefits to attend Code Platoon?
Military spouses can use Chapter 35 benefits to attend one of our programs, but Code Platoon doesn’t train children of Veterans or Servicemembers.
How long does it take to be approved by the VA?
It usually takes two to three weeks to be approved by the VA but can take up to 30 days during Spring and Fall. Check your Education Enrollment Status (EES) online, then email it to tish@codeplatoon.org or mail it to Code Platoon, 1 S Dearborn St, 20th Floor, Chicago, IL 60603.
Should I apply for my VA benefits or Code Platoon first?
Apply to Code Platoon and your benefits simultaneously. Each process can take a few weeks, so don’t wait for one before starting the other. We require all documents to use the GI Bill® or VR&E six weeks before the class start date.
What if I don’t have enough VA benefits to cover the cost of the course?
Our scholarship options reduce the course cost by 80 to 100%. Check if you qualify with our scholarship eligibility form.
Do I still need to pay the tuition deposit if I’m using VA benefits?
Yes, your VA benefits do not cover the tuition deposit.
5.2 Scholarships Q&A
What scholarships are available to help me pay for Code Platoon?
We have scholarships available for qualifying Veterans, Servicemembers, and military spouses, including affinity scholarships for women, Black or Hispanic, and transgender students. See all our scholarship listings or check if you qualify for a scholarship on our website.
How do I apply for scholarships?
You can check your scholarship eligibility by filling out a brief questionnaire on our scholarship eligibility page. Once you’re accepted, you may apply for the scholarship you qualify for.
How much are the scholarships worth?
We offer full tuition and partial scholarships. We work to ensure qualifying students have the funding they need to attend our program.
If I get a partial scholarship, can I set up a payment plan for the rest of my tuition?
Yes, our enrollment coordinator can help you pay your tuition in increments if you need to.
5.3 Tuition Q&A
What is the cost of Code Platoon’s tuition?
Tuition for all our programs is $20,000. Our Full-stack Software Engineering programs are eligible for VA education benefits, and all our programs offer scholarships for eligible Veterans, Servicemembers, and spouses.
Can I set up a payment plan for my tuition deposit?
Yes, our enrollment coordinator can help you pay the deposit in increments after you’re accepted.
Part 6: Admissions-Prep Questions
6.1 Intro to Coding Q&A
What is Intro to Coding?
Intro to Coding is a free, self-paced course. Code Platoon instructors designed the course to cover the JavaScript Fundamentals and problem-solving skills that you’ll need to pass the application coding exercises.
How long will it take to complete it?
The course covers seven hours of content split into eleven videos and over 120 practice coding exercises.
Is there a way to get help during this course?
Yes, Veterans, Servicemembers, and military spouses can connect with Teaching Assistants on our Intro to Coding Slack channel.
Do I have to complete Intro to Coding before I can apply to a program?
No, but if you have little or no previous coding experience, we encourage you to complete Intro to Coding to prepare for Part Two of the application.
Part 7: Logistics-related Questions
7.1 SkillBridge Q&A
How do I get accepted to Code Platoon via the SkillBridge program?
You must complete the Code Platoon application and secure command approval to attend. We recommend you complete your Code Platoon application and seek your command approval at the same time to avoid delays.
What do I need to do to secure command approval?
We provide an introductory letter and template for command approval to help with this process on our SkillBridge page. Email our Student Outreach Manager if your command needs anything else from Code Platoon.
Is SkillBridge a funding source?
No, the SkillBridge program doesn’t provide funding to attend Code Platoon. You’ll need to use VA education benefits or qualify for a scholarship to cover the tuition.
7.2 Career Services Q&A
Will I have help getting a job after graduation?
Yes, you’ll participate in our Career Services program, which includes mentorship, weekly check-ins and workshops on networking, salary negotiation, interviewing, and more. You can also sign up for “intro events” with our Preferred Hiring Partners.
What is the apprenticeship program?
Immersive program graduates may interview to be placed in three to six month paid apprenticeships with our Apprenticeship Partners. Many of these apprenticeships end in full-time job offers.
What are the job prospects for software engineers?
Software engineers are one of the most highly in-demand job categories in our current economy. Over the next several years, this field is expected to grow much faster than average. The skills a software engineer possesses will be sought after for the foreseeable future.
How much money can I expect to make?
Our graduates report a median salary of $85,000 within six months of graduating and a median salary of $115,000 after two years. Check our most up-to-date outcomes report for more information.
7.3 Computer Requirements Q&A
What computer do I need for my Code Platoon program?
We recommend a MacBook running macOS X 12 Monterey or higher for all of our programs. If you’re interested in using another computer or operating system, please contact us for the required specifications.
