FinTech classes vary in length, so it's important to consider how much time you can devote to learning before enrolling in a class. The amount of time you have to learn and practice will directly impact how quickly you grasp FinTech concepts. The more time you have to learn and practice, the faster you’re likely to develop the skills you need. This article will help you learn how long different FinTech classes last to help you determine which type best fits your schedule.
Length of Classes
Your prior experience with FinTech concepts and software, as well as your motivation to learn, will influence how long it takes you to master FinTech topics such as data science, financial analysis, and Python programming. When considering the length of a FinTech class, also think about how much time you have available. Training schools and centers usually offer short-term classes, which may last one to two days; bootcamps, which can run for several days or weeks; and certificate programs, which often span several weeks or months. You may also have the option to choose between part-time and full-time programs, with part-time classes extending the timeline and full-time classes offering an accelerated pace. The curriculum covered often depends on the length of the class.
Introductory Classes
Introductory classes provide beginners with short introductions to FinTech. Classes may last one or several days and may be offered in part-time or full-time formats. FinTech is a broad subject, with classes covering a wide range of topics such as data science, financial analysis, machine learning, and programming. When selecting an introductory class, you can expect to learn the basics of the topic you choose. Introductory data science classes, for example, will cover the essentials of data management and working with data. Introductory machine learning classes may require prerequisites that you should be familiar with before starting.
Advanced
Advanced FinTech classes will help you develop the specialized skills that FinTech companies look for in potential employees. An advanced FinTech class will help you take your skills to the next level. These classes cover advanced concepts and teach students to use software and programming tools to develop innovative solutions in the FinTech industry. Most training centers offer advanced FinTech classes for students to take after completing introductory or intermediate-level classes, or they may only offer advanced training in the form of a FinTech bootcamp or certificate program.
FinTech Bootcamps
FinTech bootcamps provide comprehensive and accelerated training. Lessons covered in FinTech bootcamps will prepare students for an entry-level job in FinTech, and some also prepare them for specialized positions that companies are looking to fill. Many bootcamps start at the beginner level and end with students having completed advanced-level lessons, though some focus exclusively on advanced FinTech skills. Bootcamps do not provide the same level of career readiness as full certificate programs, though some bootcamps include mentoring sessions where students can receive career advice and have the chance to work on professional development projects.
On-demand
Have a packed schedule? Students with busier schedules can turn to on-demand classes to learn FinTech. On-demand classes, or self-paced classes, allow students to log in to a virtual classroom and work through course material on their own. These courses offer instant access and may include pre-recorded video lectures, reading material, and worksheets. This learning option best suits students who work or attend school full-time. On-demand classes lack the structure of live classes, which some students find flexible while others find challenging. Self-paced learning, therefore, works best for students who can find the motivation and time to work through their on-demand class without needing the help or guidance of an instructor.
Part-time or Full-time?
In addition to course format, you should also consider whether part-time or full-time classes work best for you. Individuals with flexible schedules may want to consider full-time classes. Full-time classes provide long, accelerated lessons that allow students to progress through the content quickly. On the other hand, students with less time to dedicate to learning may consider enrolling in part-time classes.
Part-time classes run for longer periods than full-time classes, but each session typically covers less material. For this reason, full-time classes can require a bigger time commitment than part-time classes. Both formats may require you to complete homework outside of class, so you should factor in the time required to complete assignments in addition to the time spent in class. Prices for both types of classes are usually similar, but it’s always wise to check tuition details for each option before enrolling—especially if you’re working with a budget.
Learn FinTech with Noble Desktop
Learn FinTech skills by enrolling in one of Noble Desktop’s FinTech programs. Noble Desktop offers most classes live online, where students learn under the guidance of an instructor via a web conferencing platform, as well as in-person at their Midtown Manhattan campus.
Noble’s FinTech Bootcamp is an interactive program that covers the essential skills required to launch a career in the FinTech industry. Under the guidance of an instructor, you’ll learn Python programming, data science, financial analysis, data visualization, and machine learning. Noble Desktop offers the bootcamp in a 4-week full-time weekday schedule or a 4-month part-time evening and weekend schedule. In addition to five units covering Python and SQL as used for FinTech, you’ll also have the option of choosing a bonus 18-hour elective unit covering either Python or financial modeling.
Students pursuing or currently working in a finance-related profession who are interested in using Python’s financial libraries to manipulate and analyze financial data should enroll in Noble Desktop’s Python for Finance Bootcamp. Over the 18-hour live online course, students will learn how to use Python’s financial libraries and gain hands-on experience gathering and manipulating financial data, fetching data via APIs for company and economic information, analyzing SEC financial statements, building risk models, and applying linear regression for stock price predictions. Aside from a financial background, students should also have taken Noble’s Python for Data Science Bootcamp or have equivalent knowledge. If you want to take the course but don’t think you have the financial background necessary, contact Noble after registration to access a free on-demand supplemental guide.
Financial modeling plays an important role in the FinTech industry. Analysts working for a firm or taking on clients should understand how to use financial models to predict risk and evaluate, compare, and support financial decisions. In Noble Desktop’s Financial Modeling Bootcamp, you’ll learn essential financial and accounting concepts to help you develop the core skills required for a career handling equity research, financial planning and analysis, investment banking, private equity, or corporate finance. Prior financial experience is helpful when enrolling in the bootcamp, but not required. After completing the three-day course, you’ll receive a verified digital certificate of completion and have access to a retake for free within one year.
Noble Desktop’s beginner-level Data Science Certificate program will provide you with the hands-on training needed to start an entry-level data science or Python engineering position. You can complete the program in four weeks full-time (weekdays) or 20 weeks part-time (evenings or Saturdays), learning how to program with Python, perform data analysis, query with SQL, and create predictive models. The course includes 114 hours of instruction plus six additional one-on-one mentoring sessions to support your success, where you’ll receive professional advice, detailed and personalized feedback, and map out your learning goals. No prior knowledge is required to enroll, making the class ideal for individuals looking to get started with data science, Analysts who want to transition to using Python and SQL, and Developers looking to gain additional skills.