I'm interested in finding online courses that cover the same material I'd learn in a traditional Computer Science degree program. I know that nothing will fully replace a real degree in the eyes of employers, but I really just want to pick up the knowledge and skills associated with it. With my work and childcare responsibilities, I'm looking for options I can complete on my own schedule. I'm open to spending up to $500, which is much more feasible compared to the typical $9000 annual tuition. Any recommendations?
6 Answers
If you're really dedicated, it's possible to learn everything through self-study with lots of discipline. For instance, start with an introductory book on Java or C, then tackle data structures, and get involved with open-source projects online. But just know, becoming a software engineer often benefits greatly from having a formal degree.
MIT Open Courseware has some excellent self-study material if you want to dive into programming concepts. While it won't give you the same experience as a full degree, it's a top-notch free resource for learning at your own pace.
I've heard good things about a GitHub resource called OSSU Computer Science; it's designed as a self-study program that covers a lot of ground in CS. It might not be as structured as a degree, but it’s still pretty reputable!
Yeah, boot.dev looks good! Whatever path you choose, just stay motivated and engaged with your projects! It'll pay off.
You might want to check out WGU (Western Governors University). With financial aid, it can cost around $4,000, which is significantly cheaper than a traditional college degree, and it offers both Software Engineering and CS tracks. If you're leaning more towards IT, CompTIA certifications like Networking, Cloud Computing, and Security are well-regarded. If you're more into hands-on experience, consider starting a project on your own; resources like The Odin Project or Leetcode could be really helpful for that. Good luck!
It blows my mind that some think they can replace years of study with a handful of online courses for under $500. There’s a reason people pay $9,000 a year after all.
Honestly, the closest equivalent to a CS degree is still just that—a degree. Sure, there are alternatives, but they can be quite challenging to obtain. If a BS in CS isn’t possible, it might be tougher to find a substitute that’s recognized by employers.
Also, check out boot.dev! While it's not a degree program, it's a solid option for back-end programming and arguably more substantial than many boot camps. They focus on teaching multiple programming languages to make you a versatile developer. I joined their Discord for community support, and it’s a great environment!