This article is based on discussions with colleagues and an extensive review of online forums where similar topics are frequently debated. It reveals that opinions on the most effective paths to becoming a confident job candidate in the tech industry split between two main types of training:
- Higher Education in IT
- Self-Education with Purchased Courses on Specialized Platforms
- Another pathway into development is through Higher Vocational Education. While there are positive aspects to this route, it also has several negative points that attract considerable criticism.
Keys to Success
A Clear Plan
Sticking to the Plan
Diligence
Higher Vocational Education: A Critical Overview
Higher vocational education faces significant criticism. These courses often cover up to four or five different programming languages and additional skills such as database management, Git, and deploying services on platforms like Azure. The program typically lasts about two years. Graduates often have an “Advanced Programming” level in languages like Java, Python, or C#. While this level can suffice for job applications, it heavily depends on the applicant’s practical skills. Those who excel usually have prior experience or have studied programming as a hobby or through other courses.
Recent statistics (from the past 2-3 years) indicate that students from these vocational programs often do not receive job offers from companies where they interned during their 20-week practical training. Consequently, they need additional specialized training post-graduation, extending the time to employment by up to a year.
Employer Preferences
Employers prefer candidates with a higher education degree because of their solid educational foundation. Next in preference are self-taught candidates who, despite lacking an official diploma, possess practical skills and knowledge. These candidates can confidently say, “I know Java and can handle tasks in Spring Boot,” which is highly appealing to employers.
The Path of Higher Education
Higher education follows a clear path: enroll, study, graduate, and receive a diploma. However, how does one go about self-education to become a qualified junior developer, particularly in a language like Java?
Self-Education: A Practical Guide
Opinions from colleagues converge on several key steps for effective self-education:
- Interest and Engagement: Start with simple projects using tutorial videos. For instance, create a basic website using platforms like WordPress. This mostly involves frontend work but will spark interest in backend development.
- Choose a Programming Language: If you don’t have specific interests or plans, start with any widely-used language.
- Core Language Study: Find and complete a core programming course. Many excellent courses are available on various platforms.
- Advanced Language and Database Course: Follow up with an advanced programming course that includes database management.
- Frameworks: Learn a framework relevant to your chosen language.
- Version Control Systems: Take a course on version control systems, such as Git.
- Real Project Development: Find courses that involve real project development. Ideally, work on at least two projects and create your own based on them.
Adapting the Plan
This plan should be adjusted to fit individual needs and capabilities. Consistently reading textbooks and dedicating 15-20 hours a week to study can make this journey manageable and enjoyable if you are genuinely interested.
Timeline for Confidence
Participants in the discussion agree that it’s possible to progress from beginner to job interview-ready within one year. Compared to the two-year vocational education track, diligent self-education provides better chances and saves time. Simply having a diploma without solid knowledge does not significantly increase job prospects.
Keys to Success
- A Clear Plan
- Sticking to the Plan
- Diligence
Don’t worry if your math skills aren’t top-notch; high-level math is rarely needed. Most importantly, don’t be afraid—just start and keep going!
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