First OU Cybersecurity and Coding Bootcamp Students Earn Certificates
The University of Oklahoma recently awarded its first class of students with Certificates of Achievement for completing the Cybersecurity and Web Development Coding tech bootcamps offered through OU Outreach.
Launched in the fall of 2021, 27 students participated in the bootcamps, which were offered online and took approximately six months to complete. Cohorts consisted of working adult students seeking to make career transitions, upskill or build on existing talent.
“We are extremely proud of these students for their outstanding accomplishments,” said Belinda Biscoe, senior associate vice president for outreach. “While the courses were difficult, the students quickly mastered how to balance life, work and online learning.”
During virtual graduation ceremonies, graduates, friends and family heard from instructors who shared the challenges faced by the students as they worked to complete the programs. The graduates then presented their final projects and were recognized individually by their instructors.
“It was heartwarming to see the students virtually with their support networks of family and friends,” said Nina Barbee, director of continuing education and lifelong learning. “As educators, we were impressed by the knowledge, skills and creativity displayed in the final group projects. The students demonstrated mastery by creating projects involving the highest levels of technical skill with creative artistry.”
As part of the bootcamps, students are offered advising and career placement services and have the opportunity to attend resume-building sessions during the last quarter of the course.
“Because of the support provided through our bootcamps, our students are well-prepared to hit the ground running after graduation,” Biscoe said. “We are already hearing exciting and inspiring success stories about the next chapters in their career journeys.”
One student in particular, Jason Rader, was offered a job immediately upon graduating from the coding course.
“In a matter of six months, I was able to go from a novice developer to being offered, and accepting, a full-time position as a professional web developer for a company currently ranked No. 12 on Forbes’ America’s Largest Private Companies list,” Rader said. “I would not be employed at such a great company, putting to use and building on my newfound skills and knowledge, if it were not for my incredible instructors.”
To learn more about the noncredit tech bootcamps offered through OU Outreach, visit bootcamp.outreach.ou.edu.
Article Published: Wednesday, February 9, 2022