If you’re a Scot looking to start a career in tech, you’re likely looking at one of two paths into the industry: a university computer science degree or a coding bootcamp. Both have their advantages, so which one is right for you? 

Benefits of a Computer Science Degree

One of the best parts of studying for a computer science degree in Scotland is that tuition is free for Scottish students. That’s a great advantage over other countries where degrees can cost thousands of pounds.

University degrees also allow you to learn a lot of theory, such as how computers actually work, classifications, or their history. Understanding the core principles of computer science, its importance, and its limitations, can make you a stronger developer. 

Another big perk of university is the student life. You can join student groups, such as coding or tech-related societies, and meet new friends or even future business partners.

Drawbacks of a Computer Science Degree

Unfortunately, university curriculums can be slow to adapt to the latest trends of the fast-paced tech industry. The focus on theory also tends to overshadow practical skills. This means you may miss out on learning real world skills used by software developers, such as debugging or  test-driven development.

Degrees also stretch out over a long period of time, usually 3 to 4 years. This can be a big commitment, especially if you’re eager to start working quickly to gain experience and earn a full-time salary.

University classes, especially lectures, can also be in large groups of hundreds of students. This makes it harder to get one-on-one time with your lecturers and can make it feel overwhelming or impractical to ask questions as you go along.

Finally, universities’ career services tend to be generalised support. It’s meant to apply to all students at the university, regardless of degree. This means you are unlikely to benefit from industry expertise or support aimed specifically at your ideal jobs.

Benefits of Coding Bootcamps

If you’re looking for a faster, more hands-on route into tech, a coding bootcamp might be the perfect fit. Bootcamps teach you practical programming skills in a few months, meaning you can be job-ready much sooner than with a degree. Northcoders bootcamps, for example, transform you from beginner to job ready software developer in just 13 to 20 weeks.

You’ll also get the chance to work on real-world projects and learn workplace skills like pair programming and test-driven development. This is not only valuable experience, but also a great way for you to know exactly what kind of tasks to expect when you start your first tech role. 
At a coding bootcamp like Northcoders, the curriculum is regularly updated to reflect changing industry trends and employers’ priorities. Many bootcamps also offer one-on-one mentoring. Most students find this personalised guidance invaluable, as highlighted in feedback in this article. 

Additionally, the careers teams of coding bootcamps specialise in this industry. This means they can offer support specifically relevant to the job you want. Knowing exactly what to expect from the tech hiring process, such as common technical tasks and interview questions, can help you sail smoothly through a competitive process.

Finally, bootcamps are often available both full-time and part-time. Do you want to learn all the skills you need as quickly as possible to start working in tech right away? Or are you looking for a flexible schedule that fits around your current job or family responsibilities? Whatever your priorities, there’s likely a bootcamp option that suits your lifestyle.

Drawbacks of Coding Bootcamps

The biggest downside to bootcamps is the cost. Some can cost up to £8,500, which can feel steep compared to a free degree. That said, many bootcamps offer interest-free payment plans, making them more manageable.

Many bootcamps also run entirely online, which might not suit everyone. If you prefer in-person learning, you’ll need to do additional research to find a bootcamp that offers this.

Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, both options can take you to a rewarding Tech career with a salary to match. Junior software developers in the UK earn around £27,000 for their first job. After three years of experience, you will be looking at an average salary of £41,000 as a software developer. 

The best choice for you will come down to your learning preferences, time availability, and financial priorities. 

If you’re someone who values the depth of a formal education, and you’re happy to invest a few years to build a strong theoretical foundation, then a free computer science degree might be the way to go. However, if you’re eager to dive into the job market quickly and learn the hands-on skills employers are looking for, a coding bootcamp will be a better fit.

Whichever path you choose, your motivation, dedication, and skills will make the biggest difference!