Hey all, I'm a complete newbie looking to dive into Python and maybe pursue a tech career someday. I've got a self-study plan in mind, starting with just 2 hours a week using free resources like Scrimba and Codecademy. I'm curious:
- Is it feasible to break into tech in 2026 as a self-taught developer without a degree? I know it's competitive, but I'm committed.
- How important is a portfolio versus certifications for someone who learns on their own?
- For those of you who made this transition successfully, how long did it take you to land your first junior role?
- Any specific advice for someone based in Waterford, Ireland?
I'm in no rush; I want to build a solid foundation first before looking for a job. Just trying to figure out if this path is realistic or if I'm being overly ambitious. Appreciate any insights from those who've been there or who hire self-taught developers!
6 Answers
Certifications aren't necessary. You’ll be competing with skilled candidates who have both degrees and experience. You should focus on showcasing your abilities with projects on GitHub. That's what employers care about.
I've been in tech for over 16 years without any formal schooling. Tech has become less about degrees and more about skills over the years. However, 2 hours a week isn't going to get you as far as you might like. If you really want to move ahead, think about devoting more time like a student would.
Rushing into a job within a year without prior experience is a tall order. You're pitting yourself against people who’ve spent three years in school. You need to up your weekly hours significantly—it’s going to be quite challenging otherwise.
I self-taught and landed a job in 2024 after roughly 800 hours of dedicated effort. At 2 hours a week, it would take almost 8 years to reach that point! You might want to increase your hours if you're serious about making this happen.
Thanks for the insight! I'm completely new, so learning that 2 hours isn't enough really helps. What would you suggest as a realistic weekly commitment?
If you're meant to be a programmer, you'll find yourself wanting to code during your spare time. It’s a commitment that should feel natural, and you'll likely want to spend more time on it than you initially plan.
Honestly, it's tough to break in at just 2 hours a week. If you've got connections in the industry, maybe you have a shot, but without a degree, getting your foot in the door can be an uphill battle—especially in the competitive landscape we're seeing nowadays.
I understand that. Currently balancing a full-time job, I just want to ensure I'm realistically planning my learning hours. How much do you think I should aim for weekly?