Choosing the Best Coding Bootcamp: App Academy vs Hack Reactor - A Reddit Comparison
Seeking a career change in the lucrative tech industry? Then choosing the right coding bootcamp is critical. Two of the most talked-about options on Reddit are App Academy and Hack Reactor. But which one is the best fit for you? Let's break down the pros and cons of each.
The Basics
First off, both App Academy and Hack Reactor are intensive coding bootcamps that turn beginners into full-stack developers in less than six months. They teach fundamental coding languages such as JavaScript, CSS, and HTML, and advanced topics like React, Node.js and PostgreSQL. Both schools also offer job support and access to a vast network of alumni.
Admissions
The admissions process for App Academy and Hack Reactor differs significantly. App Academy's applicants must pass two coding challenges, followed by an interview with an instructor. The school boasts a 2-3% acceptance rate and admits about 1,000 students yearly. Hack Reactor assesses candidates in multiple ways, including coding challenges, phone interviews, and behavioral assessments. Its acceptance rate is around 3-4%, accepting roughly 600 students per year.
Curriculum
The curriculum at App Academy is designed around project-based learning. Students work on various projects throughout the course, culminating in building a full-stack project before graduation. On the other hand, Hack Reactor prioritizes a more theoretical approach, with classroom lectures, daily group discussions, and programming drills.
Teaching Staff
The quality of instructors is crucial when it comes to learning. At App Academy, each student has a dedicated advisor who offers guidance and support throughout the course. Hack Reactor recruits top-performing alumni to contribute to the curriculum and guide students through the program.
Tuition
App Academy and Hack Reactor both offer income share agreements, where students only start paying tuition after getting a job. App Academy's agreement is steeper, with graduates paying 28% of their salary for two years. In contrast, Hack Reactor students pay between 10-17% of their wages over a three-year period.
Locations
App Academy has campuses in San Francisco, New York, and an online learning platform. On the other hand, Hack Reactor's campuses are located in seven cities worldwide, including San Francisco, Austin, Los Angeles, and New York City.
Culture
App Academy values hands-on learning, teamwork, and grit. The school expects its students to put in long hours, work collaboratively on projects, and learn from mistakes. Hack Reactor, on the other hand, emphasizes individual learning, self-starting motivation and taking ownership of one's education.
Job Placement
One of the most important metrics for comparing coding bootcamps is their job placement rate. According to Course Report, in 2019, App Academy had an 83% graduation rate and a 70% job placement rate within three months. Hack Reactor graduated 68% of its students that same year, with a 63% placement rate within three months.
The Verdict
So which coding bootcamp should you choose between App Academy and Hack Reactor? Both schools have their advantages and disadvantages, and it ultimately depends on what you're looking to get out of your career switch. Do your research, attend webinars, and reach out to alumni to make an informed decision about which program will set you up best for success. One thing's for sure - investing your time and resources in one of these top-tier bootcamps will pay off in dividends for your future career.
Introduction
When it comes to learning to code, there are a lot of different resources and programs to choose from. Two of the most popular bootcamps are App Academy and Hack Reactor. Both offer intensive coding courses designed to help get you job-ready in just a few months. But how do they compare? Here's a deep dive into App Academy vs. Hack Reactor, as seen through the eyes of Reddit.
Background
Before we dive into what Reddit has to say about App Academy and Hack Reactor, let's take a quick look at these two programs. App Academy is a 16-week bootcamp that teaches full-stack web development using Ruby on Rails. Students spend about 90 hours a week working on projects and assignments, and the program boasts an impressive job placement rate of 98%. Hack Reactor, on the other hand, is a 12-week program that focuses on JavaScript and Node.js. It's known for its rigorous curriculum and high job placement rates as well; according to its website, 93% of grads from its San Francisco location accepted full-time jobs within 90 days of graduating.
App Academy on Reddit
Positive Reviews
Reddit has plenty of positive things to say about App Academy. Many Redditors praise the program for its intense structure, saying that the long hours and heavy workload helped them learn faster and retain more information. One Reddit user called it a truly transformative experience that changed my life. Another said that the pace was fast and relentless, but I wouldn't have wanted it any other way.
Negative Reviews
That being said, not everyone had a positive experience with App Academy. A few Redditors noted that the program was quite expensive, with a tuition rate of $17,000. One person also mentioned that the program's curriculum was quite outdated, which made it hard to find a job afterwards.
Hack Reactor on Reddit
Positive Reviews
On Reddit, Hack Reactor gets praise for its challenging curriculum and expert instructors. One Redditor said that the instructors are ridiculously knowledgeable, while another noted that the program really honed in on the most important JavaScript concepts to set us up for success. Many also appreciate the program's emphasis on collaborative work and pair programming.
Negative Reviews
However, some Redditors have had negative experiences with Hack Reactor as well. A few complained that the program was too expensive (currently priced at $18,000), or that they didn't feel like they got enough support from the staff. Others felt that the program was too focused on teaching specific technologies, rather than allowing students to gain a deeper understanding of programming concepts.
Job Placement and Prospects
In terms of job placement rates, both App Academy and Hack Reactor are highly regarded. However, some Redditors expressed concern that these rates might be overstated, or that graduates may not be able to find jobs outside of major tech hubs like San Francisco and New York. Some also noted that the bootcamp model doesn't necessarily prepare students for the daily realities of working as a developer, such as navigating office politics or dealing with difficult coworkers.
The Verdict: App Academy vs. Hack Reactor Reddit
So, which one is better: App Academy or Hack Reactor? The answer, of course, depends on your specific needs and goals. Both programs have plenty of satisfied graduates, but there are pros and cons to each. Some things to consider when making your decision might include:
- Your budget - Hack Reactor is slightly more expensive than App Academy
- Your preferred language - App Academy teaches Ruby on Rails, while Hack Reactor is focused on JavaScript and Node.js
- Your learning style - App Academy is known for its intense structure, while Hack Reactor emphasizes collaboration and hands-on experience
- Your job goals - both programs have high job placement rates, but App Academy is generally considered stronger in the East Coast job market, while Hack Reactor may offer better prospects on the West Coast.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the best way to make a decision between App Academy and Hack Reactor is to do your research, talk to alumni, and determine which program feels like the best fit for you. Both programs offer rigorous, immersive learning experiences that can be truly transformative - but it's up to you to determine which one will help you achieve your coding goals.
App Academy vs Hack Reactor Reddit: A Comparison
If you're aspiring to become a successful software engineer, attending a coding bootcamp can be an excellent way to get started on your journey. Two of the popular programs that often come up in discussions are App Academy and Hack Reactor. In this article, we compare App Academy vs Hack Reactor on various aspects, including curriculum, cost, outcome, and student experience.Background
App Academy is a coding bootcamp founded in 2012, with locations in San Francisco, New York, and online. It offers a 12-week immersive program that teaches full-stack web development using Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, SQL, and React/Redux. The bootcamp has an acceptance rate of around 5%, and students don't pay any tuition until they secure a job within 12 months of graduation.Hack Reactor, on the other hand, was founded in 2012 and has since merged with Galvanize, a tech education giant. Hack Reactor's flagship program is a 13-week full-time course that covers full-stack JavaScript development, including React, Node.js, SQL, and other related technologies. The course is available onsite or remotely, and their graduates have a job placement rate of around 90%.Curriculum
Both App Academy and Hack Reactor have intensive, project-based curriculums designed to prepare students for real-world software engineering roles. However, there are some differences worth noting.App Academy's curriculum is more structured, divided into four modules, each lasting three weeks. The modules cover topics such as Ruby, Rails, JavaScript, React, and algorithms. Students work on solo projects, pair programming activities, and group projects throughout the course. In the final month, students work on building a capstone project, which they can showcase to potential employers. The curriculum is updated frequently to keep up with industry trends.Hack Reactor's curriculum is based on a series of projects that become increasingly complex as the course progresses. The program is divided into three phases, with the first phase focusing on core competencies such as JavaScript, CSS, and HTML. In the second phase, students learn how to build full-stack applications using Node.js and backend technologies. In the final phase, students work on building advanced topics such as machine learning and natural language processing.Cost and financing
Both App Academy and Hack Reactor are intensive programs that require a significant financial investment. However, they have different pricing models.App Academy doesn't charge any upfront tuition fees, and students only have to pay a tuition fee plus a deposit once they get a job in the tech industry. The tuition fee is either $17,000 for their on-campus bootcamps or $15,000 for their online program. The deposit is $5,000 for all students.Hack Reactor charges $19,810 in tuition for their on-campus course and $17,980 for their online course. They also offer financing options, including student loans and income share agreements (ISAs). Their ISA model allows students to pay back their tuition fee if they get a job within six months of graduation.Job outcomes
The ultimate goal of attending a coding bootcamp is to land a job as a software engineer. Both App Academy and Hack Reactor have excellent job placement rates.App Academy's student outcomes are impressive, with a job placement rate of around 98%, according to their website. The average salary of graduates is $105,000 in San Francisco and $90,000 in New York.Hack Reactor has a job placement rate of 87.5%, according to a report by Course Report. The average starting salary for graduates is $85,000.Student experience
The student experience is an important factor to consider when choosing a coding bootcamp. Both App Academy and Hack Reactor have supportive communities and resources to help students succeed.App Academy has a rigorous program that demands a lot of time and energy from students. The bootcamp has a high-pressure environment, and students are expected to work long hours and weekends. However, the instructors are knowledgeable and supportive, and the alumni network is one of the largest in the industry.Hack Reactor has a collaborative learning environment where students work together on projects and share knowledge. The bootcamp emphasizes the importance of community building, and students have access to a vast array of resources, including meetups, hackathons, and career services.Table Comparison
To summarize the comparison, we've created a table that highlights some of the key differences between App Academy and Hack Reactor.| Comparison Factors | App Academy | Hack Reactor |
|---|---|---|
| Curriculum | Ruby on Rails, JavaScript, React, Redux | Full-stack JavaScript, Node.js, React |
| Cost | No upfront fees (tuition + deposit after getting a job) | $19,810 (on-campus) and $17,980 (online) |
| Job Placement Rate | 98% | 87.5% |
| Student Experience | High-pressure, supportive community | Collaborative, community-building |
Conclusion
Choosing between App Academy and Hack Reactor can be challenging, as both are excellent bootcamps that can provide you with a strong foundation in software engineering. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and learning style. Consider the curriculum, cost, job outcomes, and student experience before making your choice. Whichever bootcamp you choose, remember that success depends on hard work, persistence, and dedication.App Academy vs Hack Reactor Reddit: Which Coding Bootcamp is Right for You?
Introduction
Choosing the right coding bootcamp can be a daunting task, especially when there are so many options available. Two of the most popular bootcamps are App Academy and Hack Reactor. Both have garnered positive reviews on Reddit, but which one is right for you? In this article, we will compare these two bootcamps in terms of curriculum, fees, job support, and alumni network to help you make an informed decision.Curriculum
The curriculum of App Academy and Hack Reactor is intensive and designed to turn anyone – from beginners to experienced coders – into a full-stack developer. However, the approach is slightly different. App Academy focuses on Ruby on Rails, while Hack Reactor covers JavaScript. Both languages have their advantages and disadvantages. Ruby on Rails is known for its simplicity, making it easier to learn, while JavaScript has a steeper learning curve. It's important to consider your goals and preferences when choosing between the two bootcamps.Fees
The cost of tuition is another crucial factor to consider. Both bootcamps offer financing options, including deferred payment plans and scholarships, but App Academy operates on an Income Share Agreement (ISA) model, meaning you only pay once you secure a job in tech. The fee is 18% of your first-year salary, up to a maximum of $31,000. Hack Reactor's tuition fee is $17,980 upfront. If you're looking for a more affordable option, App Academy might be the way to go.Job Support
One of the reasons people enroll in coding bootcamps is to improve their chances of finding a job in tech. Both App Academy and Hack Reactor offer job support, including resume preparation, interview training, and access to the bootcamp's hiring partners. App Academy boasts an impressive job placement rate of 98%, while Hack Reactor claims a job placement rate of 90%. However, it’s important to note that these figures aren't independently verified.Alumni Network
The alumni network of a coding bootcamp can be a valuable resource when looking for job opportunities or mentorship. Both App Academy and Hack Reactor have active alumni networks, and you can find reviews from former students on Reddit and other forums. App Academy has a larger alumni community, as it has been in operation for longer than Hack Reactor. However, both networks offer plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.Location
Another important factor to consider is location. App Academy has campuses in San Francisco, New York, and Austin, while Hack Reactor has campuses in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin, and New York. If you live close to one of these cities or are willing to relocate, you can attend the bootcamp in person. However, both bootcamps also offer a remote option for those who can't attend in person.Class Size
The class size can have a significant impact on your learning experience. App Academy divides its classes into cohorts of 25-30 students, while Hack Reactor keeps its cohorts smaller, with only 12-16 students. Smaller class sizes can offer more personalized attention and a tight-knit community, but larger cohorts can provide a more diverse learning experience.Duration
The duration of the bootcamp varies depending on whether you choose the in-person or online option. App Academy and Hack Reactor offer a full-time, in-person bootcamp that lasts around 12 weeks. The online bootcamp takes longer, about 16 to 24 weeks, depending on the course. The duration of the bootcamp can affect the amount of material covered and your ability to absorb it.Reviews from Reddit
Reddit is a valuable resource for reviews and experiences of past students. Both App Academy and Hack Reactor receive praise from their alumni, with high job placement rates being a common theme. However, some students report feeling overwhelmed by the fast pace of the bootcamp or frustrated by the lack of diversity in the curriculum. It's important to read as many reviews as possible before making a decision.Conclusion
Choosing between App Academy and Hack Reactor ultimately comes down to personal preferences, goals, and needs. Factors like the curriculum, fees, job support, and alumni network should all be taken into consideration. Both bootcamps have their strengths and weaknesses, and your decision should be based on which one aligns best with your learning objectives. Remember to read reviews from past students and connect with alumni to get a better understanding of what you can expect from each bootcamp.App Academy Vs Hack Reactor Reddit
If you're considering a career in programming, there's a good chance you've come across coding bootcamps. And if you've done any research about coding bootcamps, you've probably discovered two of the most popular ones: App Academy and Hack Reactor. These coding schools have been around for a while and have gained a reputation for churning out qualified and successful developers. But how do they compare to each other? Which one should you choose? Let's dive into the App Academy vs. Hack Reactor debate.
First, let's talk about the similarities between the two programs. Both App Academy and Hack Reactor are intensive coding bootcamps that aim to give students the skills and knowledge they need to land a job as a software engineer. They both teach full-stack web development, which means you'll learn how to build the front-end and back-end of web applications.
Another similarity is their approach to teaching. Both schools use a curriculum that's focused on hands-on, project-based learning. You'll spend most of your time coding and building projects, rather than listening to lectures. This approach is effective because it allows you to apply what you've learned in a practical setting. It also gives you a taste of what it's like to work as a developer.
Now, let's move on to the differences between the two programs. One of the biggest differences is the length of the programs. App Academy's course is 24 weeks long, while Hack Reactor's is only 12 weeks long. This means that if you choose App Academy, you'll be spending twice as long in the program. However, this also means that you'll have more time to absorb the material and get a deeper understanding of the concepts.
Another difference is the cost of the programs. App Academy charges a tuition fee of $17,000, while Hack Reactor's tuition is slightly higher at $18,800. However, App Academy has a deferred payment plan where students only have to pay the tuition after they've landed a job in the industry. This means that if you don't get a job after completing the program, you won't have to pay anything.
The teaching style is also different between the two schools. App Academy uses a mix of online lectures and in-person instruction, while Hack Reactor's program is entirely immersive. This means that you'll be coding with your cohort from morning to night, six days a week. The immersive approach can be intense, but it also means that you'll be fully immersed in the learning experience.
When it comes to job placement, both schools have impressive statistics. According to App Academy's website, 98% of their graduates find jobs within six months of completing the program, with an average starting salary of $101,000. Hack Reactor also boasts an impressive job placement rate of 99%, with an average starting salary of $105,000.
One thing to consider when choosing between the two schools is their locations. App Academy has campuses in San Francisco, New York City, and online. Hack Reactor has campuses in San Francisco, Los Angeles, Austin, and New York City. If you're not located near any of these cities, you may need to factor in travel and accommodation costs.
In terms of the curriculum, both App Academy and Hack Reactor cover similar topics such as JavaScript, HTML/CSS, Node.js, Express.js, and React. However, App Academy also includes Ruby on Rails in their curriculum, while Hack Reactor covers more advanced topics such as computer science fundamentals and algorithms.
So, which one should you choose? The answer depends on your personal preferences and goals. If you want a longer program that's more relaxed, App Academy might be the better option for you. On the other hand, if you want an intense, immersive experience, Hack Reactor might be more your style. It's also worth considering the location of the campuses and the specific curriculum of each school.
Ultimately, though, both App Academy and Hack Reactor are excellent choices for anyone looking to start a career in programming. They both have great reputations and high job placement rates, so you can't really go wrong with either one. Good luck with your decision!
Thank you for visiting our site and reading about the App Academy Vs Hack Reactor Reddit. We hope this article helped you gain some insight into these two popular coding bootcamps. Remember, choosing the right bootcamp is a big decision, so take your time and do your research. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. We'd love to hear from you!
People Also Ask About App Academy Vs Hack Reactor Reddit
What is App Academy and Hack Reactor?
App Academy and Hack Reactor are both coding bootcamps that teach web development skills, including front-end and back-end development, as well as software engineering principles.
What is the duration of both courses?
App Academy offers a full-time course spanning 24 weeks or a part-time course that runs for 52 weeks. Meanwhile, Hack Reactor offers a full-time course for 12 weeks.
What is the cost of both courses?
The cost for both courses varies depending on the type of program and location, but in general, App Academy ranges from $0 to $31,000, while Hack Reactor costs around $19,000.
Do they have any job placement assistance?
Both bootcamps offer job placement assistance to their students, including preparation for technical interviews, resume review, and access to their career network.
Which one is more rigorous?
Hack Reactor is often considered more rigorous compared to App Academy, partly because of its shorter duration, which means you'll be putting in longer hours per day.
Which one should I choose?
The choice between App Academy and Hack Reactor largely depends on your needs, preferences, and priorities. Hack Reactor may be suitable for those who want a faster-paced learning environment, while App Academy may be ideal for individuals who want more flexibility and a wider range of options. It's important to research and compare both programs before making a decision.