Bootcamp vs Degree ROI Calculator

Coding bootcamps typically cost between $10,000 and $20,000 in tuition and fees, with most completing in 3–12 months. A 4-year CS degree at a public university averages $40,000–$80,000 all-in, while private universities can exceed $150,000. The degree also carries a larger opportunity cost since you forgo 4 years of full-time income.

Bootcamp graduates in the US typically earn $70,000–$85,000 in their first role, depending on the stack and city. CS degree holders generally start at $85,000–$110,000, with higher long-term earning potential in senior engineering and leadership roles. The salary gap often narrows within 3–5 years of experience.

Most bootcamp graduates land their first tech job within 2–5 months of completing the program. CS graduates typically take 3–6 months due to longer graduation timelines coinciding with traditional hiring cycles. Total time-to-employment from starting your education is dramatically shorter for bootcamps — usually 9–18 months vs. 4–5 years for a degree.

Because bootcamps are cheaper and faster, many graduates break even within 1–2 years of starting their new job. A CS degree typically takes 3–5 years of post-graduation earnings to recover the total cost of education. This calculator shows your personal breakeven point based on your specific costs and expected salaries.

CS degrees provide deeper theoretical foundations in algorithms, systems, and computer science, which can open doors to senior roles, big tech companies (FAANG), and research positions. Bootcamps are optimized for rapid job entry in web and software development roles. Over a 15–20 year career, degree holders may outearns bootcamp grads — but early-career earnings and lower debt can offset this advantage significantly.

Beyond tuition, factor in living expenses during the program, lost income while studying, laptop/software costs, and job search expenses. Bootcamps often have income share agreements or deferred tuition that affect your effective cost. Degrees carry room, board, and opportunity costs that can double the sticker price.

Reputable bootcamps report job placement rates of 70%–90% within 6 months of graduation, though definitions vary. Industry surveys suggest ~79% of bootcamp graduates are employed in a tech-related role within 6 months. CS degree placement rates are typically higher at 85%–95%, partly due to established university recruiting pipelines.

Yes, significantly. Full-stack web development and data science bootcamps command the highest entry salaries. Similarly, CS degree specializations in machine learning, cloud computing, or cybersecurity can push starting salaries well above average. The calculator uses your custom salary inputs so you can model any specialization scenario.