The University of Minnesota Boot Camp, offered through Continuing Professional Studies (CCAPS) in partnership with online learning platform edX, began teaching a new session of classes on Monday.
The bootcamp program was launched at the university in 2017 as a general web development program. In fall 2021, the program expanded to include five different specialty programs, including a digital marketing boot camp.
According to , Digital Marketing Boot Camp is an 18-week part-time program designed to equip students with basic industry skills and professional certifications. Website.
in 2021 studyA Gallup study found that one year after graduation, the median salary of 4,000 edX bootcamp graduates surveyed was $11,000 higher than when they attended the bootcamp. For graduates who were employed full-time in both years, the median salary rose from about $59,000 during the bootcamp to $70,000 after the bootcamp.
“In the face of a global technology talent shortage, edX Bootcamp brings together leading nonprofit universities and employers to equip thousands of working adults around the world with the skills and tools they need to succeed in the digital economy. ,” an edX 2U spokesperson said in an emailed statement to the Minnesota Daily.
While digital marketing is a growing field with many degree and certificate programs, the college's bootcamps prioritize a balance of affordability, time and skill development, said CCAPS Director Ryan Thoma. He stated that the company is trying to differentiate itself in these points.
Tolma said the program continues to expand. The number of graduates for the 2021-22 academic year was 50, which doubled to 105 the following year.
Tolma said course instructors are typically working professionals with extensive experience in their fields.
“We're particularly focused on people who have real experience in this space,” Tolma says.
CCAPS said in an email statement to the Daily that students are encouraged to take advantage of work opportunities by participating in paid micro-internships during the program or immediately after graduation.
According to CCAPS, these micro-internships offer students and recent graduates the opportunity to apply what they have learned, showcase their skills to potential employers and enhance their project portfolio.
Digital Marketing Boot Camp instructor Lori Shannon has over 20 years of experience as a digital marketing professional, which allows her to keep up with new trends in the field and benefit her students. I said that there is.
“That’s the nature of digital marketing, it’s always changing,” Shannon says. Just because you know how to do something on Google or Facebook now, six months from now everything will be different. ”
While the program doesn't have time to delve into digital marketing specializations, Shannon said it focuses on providing students with a broad understanding and an introductory knowledge to the various components. .
Shannon said the bootcamp focuses on developing skills in website design using platforms such as WordPress, ad creation with Google Ads, and social media marketing strategies.
Each bootcamp cohort has its own instructors and TAs, Shannon said. Once a section begins, a group of students will work through a series of online modules guided by an instructor.
Students in the program come from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels in marketing, but Shannon said it is structured to accommodate students with no experience.
“What I really appreciate about this type of group is that everyone comes together with unique skills and experiences,” Shannon said. “I think learning from each other is very important and very valuable.”
