Qwasar-Silicon-Valley-Blog-02

Flexible Learning Options for Qwasar's Certificate Programs

Aug 13, 2024 10:12:18 AM / by Deidra Moss

Let's face it, industry professionals, traditional programs can take years to catch up to the latest programming languages and frameworks employers are actively seeking. At Qwasar, we understand this struggle. One size doesn't always fit all when it comes to education. That's why we offer a range of flexible learning options designed to address your specific needs.

Software engineering professionals, career switchers, or computer science graduates can gain targeted skills, competencies, and programming languages in a fraction of the time. Our curriculum at Qwasar is designed for maximum impact. This means 90% coding, actively finding solutions, experimenting, and collaboratively building software solutions. 

Whether you prefer self-paced online learning or intensive bootcamps, Qwasar offers a choice of flexible course options you can select based on your schedule and ambition:

  • Self-Learning Upskill 
  • Part-Time Professional Flex 
  • Intensive Bootcamp - Part-Time
  • Intensive Bootcamp - Full-Time 

Flexible Learning Options for Qwasar Certificate Programs

Here's how you can choose the perfect fit:

Self-Learning Upskill (Independent and Self Paced)

Perfect for - Busy industry professionals who crave ultimate flexibility.

This option does not have course meetings or any required attendance. Learn at your own pace, whenever and wherever it works for you. Complete assignments, projects, and receive auto-corrections and peer reviews – all on your own schedule.

Course Support - 

  • Dedicated instructor support via Discord 

Registration - 

  • Application and verification of identity generally takes 24 hours (helps ensure a safe and friendly learning community)
  • Agreement to terms and conditions
  • Payment

Time commitment - 

  • Up to 6 months to complete the course

Part-Time Professional Flex (Structured with Flexibility)

Perfect for - Industry professionals seeking a balance between structure and flexibility.

This option gives you some flexibility with course meetings, but without the pressure of project deadlines. Ideal for those who want some guidance and support while still fitting learning around their existing commitments.

Course Meetings  - 

  • Mandatory monthly course meetings on 2nd Saturday of the month   
  • Optional attendance at daily standup meetings

Course Support - 

  • Dedicated instructor support via Discord 
  • Optional office hours
  • Quarterly 1-on-1s with Program Manager 
  • Small group support sessions

Registration -

  • Application form submission
  • Behavioral and technical interview (both at once) to evaluate skill level
  • Admissions decision
  • Enrollment contract
  • Payment

Attendance and Time commitment - 

  • 1- 50 hours per week (based on your schedule) 
  • Up to 6 months to complete the course

Intensive Bootcamp Part-Time (Structured and Immersive)

Perfect for - Individuals who thrive in a structured learning environment and want to dedicate focused time to upskilling.

With this option, you will be immersed in a part-time, intensive bootcamp experience. Regular attendance and project deadlines keep you on track and motivated.

Course Meetings  - Tuesdays and Thursdays

  • Standup
  • Live coding sessions
  • Coding collaboration workshops 
  • Engineering case studies
  • Technical presentation of the week
  • Virtual library study time
  • Pair programming pods
  • Career Preparation!

Course Support - 

  • Dedicated instructor support via Discord 
  • Optional office hours
  • Quarterly 1-on-1s with Program Manager 
  • Small group support sessions

Registration -

  • Application form submission
  • Behavioral and technical interview (both at once) to evaluate skill level
  • Admissions decision
  • Enrollment contract
  • Payment

Attendance and Time commitment - 

  • Minimum 20 hours per week (based on your schedule) 
  • Up to 6 months to complete the course

Intensive Bootcamp Full-Time (Highly Structured and Accelerated)

Perfect for -  Highly motivated learners seeking the fastest path to mastering new skills.

Dive headfirst into an intensive, full-time bootcamp designed for rapid skill acquisition. Regular attendance and project deadlines ensure fast-paced learning and progress.

Course Meetings  - Monday - Friday

  • Standup
  • Live coding sessions
  • Coding collaboration workshops 
  • Engineering case studies
  • Technical presentation of the week
  • Virtual library study time
  • Pair programming pods
  • Career Preparation!

Course Support - 

  • Dedicated instructor support via Discord 
  • Optional office hours
  • Quarterly 1-on-1s with Program Manager 
  • Small group support sessions

Registration -

  • Application form submission
  • Behavioral and technical interview (both at once) to evaluate skill level
  • Admissions decision
  • Enrollment contract
  • Payment

Attendance and Commitment - 

  • 40 hours per week minimum / Attend all course meetings Monday - Friday
  • Upskill fast – complete the program in just 3 months

Qwasar's course meetings are designed to be interactive and engaging, in a collaborative learning environment. The course meetings go beyond lectures, offering a mix of live coding sessions, collaborative workshops, and presentations. This interactive environment allows you to solidify your understanding through hands-on practice, teamwork, and public speaking experience – all essential for developing the well-rounded skill set valued by employers in industry.

Qwasar Course Meetings

Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

Daily Standup

Daily standup meetings are conducted to kick off the day, learners share progress since last session, discuss roadblocks, and brainstorm solutions -  encouraging collaboration and goal clarity. 

Live Coding Sessions

As part of the group session, a learner will tackle a coding problem, sharing their thought process to the group, inviting discussion and alternative solutions.

Coding Collaboration Workshops

Students collaborate in small groups on unique timed coding challenges. Results are shared and then to reinforce their grasp of terminology and potential interview questions, a quick 'Skills Check' quiz is presented.

Tech Presentation of the Week

Weekly sessions explore industry-relevant technical subjects that are not typically addressed in projects, in preparation for technical interviews. Activities range from individual presentations to group work completing "new technology canvas" worksheets followed by brief presentations.

Engineering Labs

A case study is selected in advance that aligns with the program's curriculum, learning objectives, and student expertise levels, ensuring a variety of topics. Following this, learners are engaged in reading, analyzing, and discussing business challenges and data privacy issues, etc. promoting collaboration and diverse viewpoints.

Virtual Library (Required Study Time)

Our virtual library offers private breakout rooms for one-on-one conversations or focused group discussions. 

Pair Programming Pods

A collaborative workspace where two learners work together on the same project. Partners can readily share ideas, solve problems, and learn from each other's coding skills.

Career Preparation

Qwasar’s Intensive Bootcamps goes beyond just technical skills. Included within the bootcamp is the Technical Interview Preparation Program (TIPP). This program is designed to assist in gaining experience with mock interviews, tackle HackerRank-style challenges, and receive expert guidance on crafting your resume, building your technical portfolio and LinkedIn profile.  Plus, learners gain access to exclusive hiring platforms – all to ensure you're not only technically proficient but also job market ready.

Making the Best Choice

Choosing the best path depends on your goals, schedule, and learning preferences. Whether you're looking to upskill in your current field, transition to a whole new career, or even launch your own entrepreneurial venture, Qwasar's flexible course options provide a clear roadmap to successfully upskill.  Don't wait any longer to take the first step to explore our programs today and discover how Qwasar can be the pathway to achieve your goals!

For questions about the course options, or to speak with one of our Program Managers, contact us via our website form.

Deidra Moss

Written by Deidra Moss