Frequently Asked Questions
You may have a few questions before applying to our free coding program. Below are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions from applicants:
Do I need previous coding experience?
It’s recommended to be familiar with coding programs and languages. While we don’t expect you to be well-versed in coding, we do want you to have some experience so you can hit the ground running.
What kinds of support will I have outside of class time?
Bay Valley Tech fosters an environment of students helping students, as well as instructors, teaching assistants and mentors from the corporate world to ensure students have a positive and successful experience in our program.
What should I do if I feel like I'm falling behind?
We suggest that you inform your instructor and work out a do-able plan to ensure that you successfully complete the program.
How does certification work / what do I get for completing this program?
There are 5 certificates of completion that you can earn as you progress through the program. When you reach the end of a subject section, you will create a project based on the coding language you studied. After evaluation by your instructor, you will receive a certificate of completion for that coding language.
What are the instructors' qualifications?
Bay Valley Tech’s instructors all have years of experience in software development and web development. This allows our instructors to provide real-world experience to our students.
How many hours will this take each week?
Typically, students commit to 20 hours per week, which includes class time and self-study, although there are options available to students who can only commit to fewer hours each week.
Can I work full time and still complete the program?
Yes, we have many alumni who have successfully completed the program while working full time. They now are working in lucrative tech jobs.
If I fall behind, can I re-start in another cohort?
Yes. We encourage students who fall behind to discuss your status with your instructor. They can provide guidance on how to catch-up in your current cohort, or perhaps join a future cohort.
Can I take all of the coding classes online?
Yes! Currently, Bay Valley Tech’s 7-month program is conducted entirely online.
Will the courses ever be taught in person?
Currently, our coding classes are taught entirely online through Discord. We hope to offer the option of in-person classes at our Modesto campus in the near future.
How does Bay Valley Tech differ from other free coding schools?
Unlike other collegiate coding programs and bootcamps, our code academy is 100% tuition-free to qualified students. We are able to source funding from several key partnerships to provide free training and resources to students like you transition into a lucrative tech career.