What’s the difference between all the courses?

New to tech? Can't tell your Python from your SQL? Don't worry - this article gives you the run-down on each of our fantastic (and 100% free 👀) courses.

Code First Girls is dedicated to empowering women in the tech industry by providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed. We believe that everyone should have the opportunity to excel in tech. The programmes below are designed to provide women and non-binary people with the confidence and tools they need to succeed in this fast-paced industry.

MOOCs
Kickstarter Classes
CFGdegree
+Masters
MLA

 

MOOCs 

Our MOOCs (Massive Open Online Courses) come in two forms – our MOOC Sprints and our MOOC Challenges. Together, our MOOCs are great for beginners or those with some tech knowledge and know-how!

Our MOOC Sprints are 4-week quick learning courses that will give you a good foundational knowledge across key tech topics, including languages, problem-solving and career confidence. 

Following our Sprints, our MOOC Challenges allow you to test your knowledge and skills with a challenge, project or task with real-life examples and problem-solving. Much like a hackathon, there will be a kick-off event, time to develop your response, and a final presentation session – with this all happening over four weeks.

Kickstarter Classes

Our Coding Kickstarter classes are 8-week learning courses designed to help you gain the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the tech industry. We welcome women from all walks of life, whether you're a tech returner, a mum, a career changer, a recent graduate, or simply looking to upskill. Our courses cover four learning areas: Web Dev, JavaScript, Python & Apps, and Data & SQL, with more options on the way. 

To access our Kickstarter classes you must identify as a woman or non-binary and be 18+. Our free Coding Kickstarter classes are for anyone - whether you're currently studying, out of work at the moment, or are looking to get back into work and need a refresh, you are more than welcome to apply!

Please note, that our Coding Kickstarter classes do not lead to a job and you are not in any way tied to our sponsoring company as a student. It will prepare you for the tech assessment we have for our CFGdegree which does offer a job placement in some instances.

Students are able to take all four of our Kickstarter classes, but we ask that you only apply to them and complete them one at a time! ⭐

CFGdegree

Elevate your expertise to new heights with our exceptional 16-week CFGdegree programme - currently offered in data science, software and data engineering, full-stack, or product management. The CFGdegree is a free opportunity for those who identify as women or non-binary and would like to start a career in tech.

Before applying to this opportunity, we would recommend taking a Kickstarter class or MOOC related to the specialisation you are interested in so you have the knowledge to pass our Tech Assessment.

You must be available to accept a position within the sponsoring company and in their selected working region if specified. Some spaces are mentorship-only opportunities that do not lead to a job offer. This will be clear in the description of the opportunity.

For more information on the CFGdegree, such as eligibility and how to apply, please read this article!

+Masters

The Code First Girls +Masters is a four-week intensive course that will provide learners with additional skills and knowledge across DevOps & Cloud, Mobile App Development, Data Analyst or Cyber Security.  

The +Masters is intended as an extension for recent graduates of our CFGdegree, to help prepare candidates for more specialised job roles with our partner companies. The +Masters courses will be timed to commence approximately one week after each CFGdegree cohort finishes.

To be eligible for the +Masters you will need to apply for a role at a company that is sponsoring both CFGdegree & +Masters learning. You can find an eligible company by going to our +Masters page here

MLA

The Mid-Level Accelerator (MLA) programme is open to any candidates with a minimum of 2+ years in a tech role, who wish to upskill their technical and professional skills to progress into mid-level roles within the tech industry. The programme aims to develop and accelerate women with coding experience to the next level and help you move forward on your career path, no matter where you are in your career. 

The MLA programme lasts for 12 weeks but can be boosted (depending on the opportunity being offered by the sponsoring company) with a 4-week +Masters that aims to upskill individuals into a new specialism and/or develop mid-level specialists.

Still need help? Ask us!