Top Programming Certificates & Certifications in Chicago

Computer programming is the process of telling a computer what tasks to perform and in which order.

Programming enables websites and web applications to be interactive and shareable. It’s also thanks to programming that people can connect through video conferencing platforms and internet forums. 

A Programmer is responsible for writing code using programming languages. This code then gets converted into a language that a computer can understand. The computer will then scan the code and execute what the Programmer has coded, allowing the computer to carry out different tasks like displaying an image or changing the font on a webpage. 

Commonly used programming languages are JavaScript, HTML, CSS, SQL, Python, and TypeScript. These languages are used to perform different tasks, from making a webpage interactive to communicating with databases. 

Programmers typically work within the tech industry, where they are some of the highest-paid workers in the country. Learning programming can help you start or transition into a new career. You can enroll in a certificate or certification program in Chicago or online to learn the fundamentals of programming and a variety of programming languages. 

Noble Desktop: Software Engineering Certificate

Key Information: Noble Desktop offers a full-time Software Engineering Certificate. This program takes 20 weeks to complete. Tuition is $10,995 with installment plans and financing options available. No prior knowledge is necessary to enroll, but students should be comfortable using a computer. 

This program is divided into three sections: front-end development, React Development, and Django (Python) Development. In the front-end development section, students will learn HTML, CSS, Flexbox, Grid, and Bootstrap. The first two languages will be taught as an introduction to marking up webpages and styling, while the other tools will be focused on as ways to manipulate webpage content.

In the second section of the course, students will learn fundamental JavaScript programming concepts. The section will start with the basics to help students in their effort to build a fully working desktop application using React. 

Next, students will learn the basics of Python. The instructor will introduce Django, a Python web framework used for back-end web programming. At the end of the program, students will walk away with not only a certificate of completion but also a portfolio of projects. 

Included in the cost of tuition are twelve 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, one year to refresh on the material, and 510 hours of hands-on instruction. 

Practical Programming: Python Immersive

Key Information: Practical Programming’s Python Immersive is a 30-hour beginner-level course in Python. Tuition is $1,495 and is due in full before the class starts. No prior coding experience is necessary to enroll, but students should be comfortable using a computer. 

In this immersive, students will be given a comprehensive understanding of Python programming fundamentals. This course is meant to prepare you to begin coding on your own. Over the 30 hours, you’ll learn about built-in data types and their behavior, and Control Flow Statements. You’ll also learn how to solve real-world challenges by creating objects in Object-Oriented Programming.

After the course has ended, you’ll walk away with a portfolio of projects and code samples that you can show to potential employers and a certificate of completion. If you ever feel the need to refresh on the course, you’ll have one year for a free retake.

Governors State University: Computer Programming Certificate

Key Information: Governors State University is in University Park, Illinois. At this university, you can earn a Computer Programming certificate. This program requires you to complete 24 credit hours (8 classes). You can reach out to the university to request tuition information. 

This certificate program will provide you with knowledge and understanding of modern computer programming. The courses you will take will provide you with the fundamentals of computer programming logic and development, the methods of underlying principles of object-oriented programming, database fundamentals of data storage and retrieval, and program implementation in multiple high-level languages. 

This certificate program has admissions requirements. To be admitted, you must meet the university’s requirements for graduate certificate admission. At the time of admission, the university catalog may or may not include prerequisite courses. 

NextGen Bootcamp: Java Programming Summer Program

Key Information: NextGen Bootcamp’s Java Programming Summer Program is open to high school students interested in learning Java, one of the most used programming languages. The live online program is 50 hours long and costs $2,199. Early enrollment is discounted at $1,999. Classes are scheduled every weekday from 10 am to 1 pm EST for three weeks. 

This beginner-level program is perfect for students with no previous programming experience. Over the course of the program, students will receive an introduction to the basics before transitioning into high-level programming topics. At the end of the program, students will create an original portfolio-ready product using Java. 

After finishing the program, students will earn a certificate of completion that can be shared online and posted to their LinkedIn profiles. This is a remote course, but NYC locals are welcome to enroll in the in-person program. 

NYC Career Centers: Data Analytics with R Bootcamp

Key Information: NYC Career Centers’ Data Analytics with R Bootcamp is a 30-hour live online program. Tuition is $1,495 and is due in full before the class begins. With tuition, you’ll receive 30 hours of hands-on instruction; live, project-based training from expert instructors; the chance to retake the bootcamp for free within one year; and a verified digital certificate of completion. 

This bootcamp will guide you through the basics of coding. As you learn the R language–a popular programming language among statisticians–you’ll create a robust portfolio of projects that can showcase your accomplishments and skills. The course consists of five sections, one of which presents you with project options. 

No prior knowledge of R or programming is required to enroll in the bootcamp, making it perfect for beginners. This is a live online course, but NYC residents are welcome to enroll in the in-person course available in the city. 

Northwestern University: Coding Boot Camp

Key Information: Northwestern University offers a virtual coding bootcamp in partnership with edX. The program can be completed in 12 (full-time) or 24 (part-time) weeks. You can study part-time while maintaining your work schedule as you take classes three days a week, or you can opt to take classes Monday-Friday from 10 am to 2 pm CT. Contact Northwestern to find out about the cost of part-time and full-time classes. 

This bootcamp follows a rigorous curriculum. Students will cover the most in-demand skills for full-stack web development so that they can be successful after the program ends. The bootcamp will begin with computer science fundamentals before diving into front and back-end web development. You’ll complete the program with an immersive portfolio of projects. 

This boot camp stresses professional development. You’ll be guided through the program with an emphasis on gaining real-world experience. Once you’ve enrolled, you’ll have access to continuation courses that cover additional in-demand technologies including Python, Java, C#, and Amazon Web Services. You’ll also have access to a wide range of career services and receive a Certificate of Completion from Northwestern University School of Professional Studies. 

Certstaffix Training: C# Programming E-learning Bundle

Key Information: Certstaffix Training offers several programming courses. Their C# Programming program is a self-paced e-learning bundle. The program consists of 12 courses which you’re given access to for six months. Tuition is $450 per person with bulk pricing available for 10 or more people. This is a lecture-only e-learning course, so if you would like to practice with hands-on activities, you’ll need to provide the software and materials. 

C# is used by programmers looking for an accessible, ubiquitous, and flexible programming language. This free programming language offers an easy solution for programming needs because it can be used in simple text editors and doesn’t require the installation of an integrated development environment. Despite its simplicity, training in C# is still recommended so that students can understand the ins and outs of the language. Through the course of this program, students will learn the basics of. NET and where Visual Studio and C# fit into it. 

You will receive instant access to the course after enrolling. This is an on-demand class, so you can work at your preferred pace within six months of access. Recorded video lectures make up the course content. To ensure that you understand each concept, it’s recommended that you practice on your own after each course. At the end of the program, you will receive a certificate of completion. 

Certstaffix Training: Java Programming

Key Information: Certstaffix Training’s Java Programming course is a live online class in the fundamentals of Java. This five-day course costs $2,850 per person. Group prices may be requested, and on-site course delivery is available. 

This course focuses on today’s best practices and covers both NetBeans and Eclipse. You’ll learn the main terms and concepts that are essential to programming in Java; what the language elements do and how to effectively apply them in practice; and receive an introduction to the key packages in the Java class library. No experience is necessary to enroll in the program, which is ideal for those with no programming experience, experience in other coding languages, or experience with older versions of Java looking to brush up on their skills. 

The software and files you need to attend classes are included in the cost of tuition. You’ll also have the chance to retake the class for free within six months. At the end of the course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. 

General Assembly: Software Engineering Immersive

Key Information: General Assembly’s (GA) Software Engineering Immersive is a foundation bootcamp in coding. Tuition is $16,450 and $16,000 when paid in full. General Assembly offers financing options in select US markets. This beginner-friendly program has no prerequisites although many previous students have engaged in self-learning before or were employed at tech start-ups or in tech-adjacent roles. 

This program will help you master full-stack web development through live instruction, supported study with independent work, and real-world challenges. Students will hone their fluency in multiple frameworks and stacks, apply essential object-oriented programming concepts, leverage JavaScript libraries, and incorporate functionality from third-party APIs. The immersive is made up of four units and pre-work, with focus given to front-end development, full-stack development, front-end frameworks and APIs, and other technologies. 

General Assembly provides students access to a personal career coach who can help them individualize their path to a new software engineering career, help them master technical interviews, and build a personal brand. GA students will also have access to alumni discounts, networking events, and career workshops. A GA course certificate will be awarded to you upon completing the immersive. 

FAQ for Programming Certificates

What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?

There are a few differences between certificate programs and certification programs that you should keep in mind when deciding to enroll in one. 

Certificates are awarded to students who have completed a training course. They may be physical or digital. They signify that you have completed training in a course that has focused on the foundations of programming or a programming language. 

Certifications are awarded to students who have passed an exam. You may enroll in a certification program that prepares you to take an exam in a specific programming language or that tests your experience with front-end, back-end, or full-stack development. 

The key difference between certificates and certifications is that certificates are awarded by training schools and certifications are only awarded after you have passed an exam. These exams are typically given by third-party testing sites. The certification program will prepare you for the exam, but you’ll likely need to pursue the certification on your own time. 

Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?

There are several things to consider when deciding to pursue a certificate or a certification. First, you should think about your professional goals. If you’re a mid-career bprofessional-looking to improve your skill set or stay up-to-date with your industry, it’s recommended that you pursue a certificate. Certificate programs are designed to introduce and reintroduce industry practices that you may need to get by in your field. These programs are ideal for individuals looking for further training. 

Certifications indicate that you have received a level of training in your field and meet industry standards. Jobseekers and mid-career professionals looking to switch fields benefit most from certification programs. Passing a certification exam shows employers that you have received enough training to pass a standardized exam. Working professionals can also pursue certification to move their way up in the industry. 

Keep in mind that you will have to pay for a certification exam on top of the cost of the program you enroll in. Some programs will include exam fees in their tuition costs, but most require students to schedule and pay for an exam with a third-party testing company. If you fail the exam and need to retake it, you’ll be required to pay the fee again. 

Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?

Certification might be required to fill certain roles in your field. Some companies require employees to be certified to testify that the employee is skilled in the area that they are working in. Having a certification proves to them that you can pass an exam that meets their standards in terms of skill level. 

Your job may not require you to be certified when you’re first hired, but some companies may implement certification requirements at a later date. In this case, they may or may not pay for your program and exam fees. Look into training schools that accept employer sponsorship or corporate payments if those options are available to you. 

What Certificate Program is Right for Me?

Certificate programs are offered in several different course deliveries. You may enroll in an in-person, live online, or asynchronous class. When deciding between course delivery methods, you should consider your learning needs and schedule. Keep reading to determine which type of certificate program is right for you. 

Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes

In-person classes take place at a physical location. These classes are best for learners who like traditional classroom settings and learn best when they’re face-to-face with the instructor. In-person classes give you the chance to socialize with your peers and are more likely to provide you with the necessary course materials than online classes. 

Online classes are a more flexible way to learn because you don’t have to travel to a classroom. These classes work best for students who have busier schedules and like learning online. If you have difficulty using computers on your own or would prefer to learn from your instructor face-to–face, this might not be the best learning method for you. However, if you thrive in an online learning environment, you have the option of choosing between live online or asynchronous classes.

Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?

Live online classes are scheduled online classes that are taught over a video conferencing platform. Like in-person classes, live online classes are led by expert instructors who can answer your questions and provide you with feedback. Although these classes are still scheduled, they’re more flexible than in-person learning options. They eliminate the need to commute, which can save you time, and may be offered during the day, in the evenings, or on weekends. 

Asynchronous classes are best for busy individuals and motivated self-learners. These classes are on-demand, meaning you have access to the course and are expected to work your way through the content by yourself. No instructor is guiding you or available to answer your questions. Instead, you’ll work when you have the time to. This is the most flexible learning option; however, you should be sure that you are motivated enough to work through a full course on your own before enrolling in an asynchronous course.