- 1.2U shut down coding bootcamps, saying long-form intensive training 'no longer aligns with what the market needs' (Inside Higher Ed, 2025)
- 2.Multiple bootcamps closed in 2023-2024: SNHU, Epicodus, Momentum Learning's Triangle program
- 3.79% of bootcamp graduates still land programming jobs within six months, but job searches take 3-6 months (Course Report, 2025)
- 4.Surviving bootcamps are pivoting to teach AI collaboration skills, not just coding fundamentals
79%
Graduate Job Placement
51%
Avg. Salary Increase
3-6 mo
Job Search Duration
245K
Tech Layoffs (2025)
The Wave of Bootcamp Closures
2U's decision to shut down its coding bootcamps represents the most significant closure in the industry. The online program management company announced the end of bootcamp programs it offered in partnership with universities, with interim CEO Matt Norden stating bluntly: 'Simply put, the long-form, intensive training that boot camps provide no longer aligns with what the market wants and needs.'
2U's closure follows a cascade of shutdowns across the industry:
- 2023: Southern New Hampshire University shut down its coding bootcamp, citing low-cost competition and AI tools
- Early 2024: Portland-based Epicodus closed after enrollment fell amid tech layoffs
- August 2024: Momentum Learning's Triangle bootcamp (Raleigh, NC) closed for similar reasons
- Late 2024: 2U announced university-partnered bootcamp closures
Source: Matt Norden, 2U Interim CEO
Why Bootcamps Are Struggling
According to Inside Higher Ed's analysis, a confluence of factors has contributed to the bootcamp shakeout:
- Generative AI — AI tools can now do much of the programming work that bootcamps taught, elevating demand for higher-level skills
- Market saturation — Too many bootcamps chasing a shrinking pool of students
- Tech industry layoffs — 245,000 tech jobs cut globally in 2025, reducing hiring for bootcamp graduates
- Entry-level hiring decline — Companies want experienced developers, not bootcamp fresh-outs
- Alternative credentials growth — Shorter courses, certifications, and micro-credentials are taking market share
- Employer skepticism — Many hiring managers remain unconvinced by bootcamp credentials alone
As one industry expert noted: 'In 2025, AI-powered machines can do much of programming work, which has elevated demand for higher-level workers who have an understanding of the specific business problems you want to solve rather than specific coding skills.'
Bootcamp ROI in 2026: The Honest Numbers
Despite the closures, bootcamps aren't dead—and the outcomes data remains respectable, though not as strong as marketing suggests. According to Course Report:
- 79% of bootcamp graduates land programming jobs within six months
- 51% average salary increase post-bootcamp
- 3-6 months is the realistic job search timeline in the current market
- $14,000-$20,000 average bootcamp tuition cost
Nucamp's 2026 ROI analysis notes that while concerns about AI's impact on coding jobs persisted, bootcamp graduates continued to find opportunities as employers increasingly valued practical skills over traditional degrees. However, the conversation has shifted from 'learn to code' to learning to work effectively alongside AI tools.
| Factor | 2021 Peak | 2026 Reality |
|---|---|---|
| Time to Job Offer | 1-3 months | 3-6 months |
| Starting Salary Range | $70-90K | $65-85K |
| Employer Acceptance | High enthusiasm | Cautious, want experience |
| Curriculum Focus | Learn to code | AI collaboration + coding |
| Career Changer Success | Very high | Moderate, depends on background |
Source: Course Report, Nucamp, Industry Analysis
How Surviving Bootcamps Are Adapting
The bootcamps that remain are rapidly evolving their curricula. According to BestColleges, successful programs now teach students how to effectively and ethically use AI coding tools, preparing them to thrive alongside industry advancements in AI.
- AI tool proficiency — Teaching Copilot, Claude, and other AI coding assistants
- Prompt engineering — How to get useful outputs from AI systems
- Code review skills — Evaluating and improving AI-generated code
- System design — Architecture skills AI can't replicate
- Specialization — Focusing on cybersecurity, data engineering, or DevOps rather than general coding
Industry experts believe 'Boot camps may never be as big as they were, but they won't ever disappear from the fabric of the learning world.' The survivors will be those that pivot from teaching code syntax to teaching how to build systems with AI assistance.
Should You Attend a Bootcamp in 2026?
Bootcamps remain viable for the right candidates in the right circumstances. Here's an honest assessment:
- Good fit if: You have relevant background (STEM degree, analytical job), can commit to 3-6 month job search, choose a program that teaches AI collaboration
- Poor fit if: You expect quick job placement, have no technical background, choose a program still teaching 2020-era curriculum
- Key question: Does the bootcamp teach AI tools integration, or just basic coding? The latter is increasingly obsolete.
Consider alternatives like part-time programs, micro-credentials, or self-study with AI tutoring tools. The intensive 12-week format may be less relevant when AI can accelerate self-directed learning.
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Consider a Coding Bootcamp
As weaker bootcamps exit the market, programs that survive—like Springboard—tend to offer stronger outcomes and better support.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
- Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
- Self-taught developers seeking structured training
- Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- Fast-track to job-ready skills in 12-24 weeks vs 4-year degree
- Hands-on project-based learning with real-world applications
- Career services and interview prep often included
- Many programs offer job guarantees or tuition refunds
- Lower total cost than traditional degrees ($10-20K vs $100K+)
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- Intense pace—requires full-time commitment for best results
- Less depth than CS degrees in algorithms and theory
- Some employers still prefer traditional degrees for entry roles
- Quality varies widely—research the bootcamp thoroughly
- Self-motivation essential—no hand-holding like traditional school
Save $1000 on Springboard Bootcamps
Springboard offers career-focused bootcamps with 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals. Their programs include a job guarantee—complete all requirements, and if you don't land a qualifying role, you may be eligible for a full tuition refund. Use our exclusive link to save $1000 on enrollment.
Programs for Software Engineering careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
- Data Science Career Track
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Frequently Asked Questions
Sources
2U closure announcement and industry analysis
Rise and fall of coding bootcamps analysis
2025 year in review and placement statistics
2026 ROI analysis and success rates
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.