Java Coding Bootcamp — South Africa

Java & AI Software Engineering Bootcamp

Complete Beginners to Job-Ready Enterprise Java & AI Developers — 10 to 12 Months

Code College's most comprehensive program. Master three industry-leading tech stacks — Python/Django, MERN Stack, and Spring Boot Java — alongside Docker, Microservices, and AI/LLM integration. No experience required. Employers include FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, BMW, and Checkers/Shoprite.

Java Spring Boot React & Next.js Python & Django Docker Microservices ✦ AI/LLM NEW
Get a Quote → Download Curriculum
10-12 Mo
Duration
2000+
Hours of Training
R99,995
Pre-paid Price
3 Phases
Web · MERN · Java
JHB + Online
Hybrid & Live Online
Program Structure

Complete Phase Overview

Three carefully sequenced phases build your skills progressively — from web fundamentals through full-stack MERN development to enterprise Java engineering. Each phase is a complete, standalone block of learning.

📄

Download Full Curriculum (PDF)

Complete 2000+ hour curriculum with all phases, modules, learning outcomes, and capstone project details.

📥 Download PDF (Curriculum Details)
1

Web Programming

Months 1–3 · 500 hours
  • Module 1: JavaScript & Frontend Development
  • Module 2: Git & GitHub Version Control
  • Module 3: Python & Django Web Framework
2

Full-Stack MERN Development

Months 4–5 · 400 hours
  • Node.js & Express Backend
  • React Frontend Framework
  • Next.js Full-Stack Framework
  • MongoDB Database & MERN Integration
3

Java Enterprise Stack

Months 6–12 · 1340+ hours
  • PostgreSQL & Database Design
  • Java Beginner & Java Advanced
  • Spring Framework & Spring Boot
  • Spring Cloud & Microservices NEW
  • Docker & Containerization NEW
  • AWS Cloud Deployment (optional) NEW
  • AI/LLM Integration NEW
  • Capstone Project
Updated February 2026: The curriculum now includes Docker & Containerization, Spring Cloud Microservices, optional AWS Cloud Deployment, and AI/LLM Integration — skills commanding a 20–40% salary premium in the market.
Is This For Me?

Who Is This Bootcamp For?

🌱
Complete Beginners

Zero coding experience required. We start from the ground up.

🎓
School Leavers

Grade 12 graduates ready to build a serious tech career.

🔄
Career Changers

Break into enterprise software development from any background.

💼
Aspiring Developers

Anyone who wants to build a career in enterprise Java and backend development.

1
Phase 1 · Months 1–3 · 500 Hours

Web Programming

📖 Covers: JavaScript, Git & GitHub, Python & Django 🎯 Outcome: Full-stack web development foundations
Module 1: JavaScript & Frontend Development
  • Variables, data types, operators
  • Arrays, Objects, and Functions
  • Logic Statements and Loops
  • Built-in Methods and JavaScript utilities
  • JavaScript interaction with HTML & DOM
  • JavaScript animation with CSS
  • Event handling and user input
  • Projects: Games, Robot App, WishList App, Weather App
  • Capstone: Guessing Game, Shopping Cart, JS Quiz, Portfolio Website
Module 2: Git & GitHub — Version Control
  • Git fundamentals and core concepts
  • Commits, branches, and merging strategies
  • Remote repositories and GitHub
  • Pull requests and collaborative workflows
  • Resolving merge conflicts
  • Professional Git workflows and best practices
  • 17-lesson complete curriculum
Module 3: Python & Django
  • Variables, data types, lists, and dictionaries
  • if Statements, loops, and functions
  • Object-Oriented Programming with Classes
  • Files, exception handling, and testing
  • Django project setup and applications
  • Models, views, URL routing, and templates
  • Forms, authentication, and deployment
  • Projects: Alien Invasion Game, Data Visualization, Django Web App
Phase 1 Learning Outcomes
  • Write clean JavaScript and Python code
  • Build interactive front-end web applications
  • Manage code professionally with Git & GitHub
  • Build full-stack web apps with Django
  • Deploy live applications online
  • Have a portfolio of real projects for employers
🏅
Certification Alignment

PCEP™ — Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer

Issuer: Python Institute  |  Level: Entry-level  |  Exam: 30 questions · 40 minutes · 70% pass mark

Module 3 of this phase covers all PCEP exam objectives. By the time you complete Python & Django, you will have covered every topic the PCEP exam tests — making it a natural next step to formalise your Python knowledge with an internationally recognised credential.

✓ Variables & Data Types
✓ Control Flow & Loops
✓ Functions & Scope
✓ Lists, Dicts & Tuples
✓ Exception Handling
✓ Introductory OOP
2
Phase 2 · Months 4–5 · 400 Hours

Full-Stack MERN Development

📖 Covers: Node.js, Express, React, Next.js, MongoDB 🎯 Outcome: Build complete full-stack JavaScript applications
Node.js & Express Backend
  • Node.js runtime and the event loop
  • Building REST APIs with Express
  • Middleware, routing, and request handling
  • Authentication with JWT
  • Error handling and validation
  • Connecting to databases from Node.js
MongoDB & Database Design
  • NoSQL vs relational databases
  • MongoDB documents and collections
  • Mongoose ODM and schema design
  • CRUD operations and querying
  • Data relationships and population
  • Aggregation pipelines
React Frontend Framework
  • React components and JSX
  • State management and hooks (useState, useEffect)
  • Props and component composition
  • React Router and single-page applications
  • Fetching APIs and async data
  • Forms and user interactions in React
  • Context API and state lifting
Next.js Full-Stack Framework
  • Next.js project setup and file-based routing
  • Server-Side Rendering (SSR) and Static Site Generation (SSG)
  • App Router and React Server Components
  • API routes and full-stack Next.js applications
  • Data fetching strategies (getServerSideProps, getStaticProps)
  • Image optimisation and performance best practices
  • Deploying Next.js applications (Vercel and beyond)
MERN Integration & Deployment
  • Connecting React front-end to Node/Express API
  • Full-stack authentication flows
  • Deployment of MERN applications
  • Project: Full-Stack MERN Application
Phase 2 Learning Outcomes
  • Build and deploy complete MERN stack applications
  • Design and implement REST APIs
  • Work confidently with React and component-based UIs
  • Build full-stack applications with Next.js using SSR and SSG
  • Use MongoDB for flexible, scalable data storage
🏅
Certification Alignment

MongoDB Associate Developer Certification

Issuer: MongoDB, Inc.  |  Level: Associate  |  Exam: Multiple choice · 75 minutes · Covers Node.js & other languages

The MongoDB module in this phase maps directly to the MongoDB Associate Developer exam objectives. You will learn CRUD operations, aggregation, schema design, indexing, and Mongoose — covering the core competencies MongoDB tests in their developer certification, giving you a clear path to a recognised database credential.

✓ CRUD Operations
✓ Aggregation Pipelines
✓ Schema Design & Modeling
✓ Indexes & Performance
✓ Mongoose ODM
✓ Data Relationships
3
Phase 3 · Months 6–12 · 1340+ Hours

Java Enterprise Stack

📖 Covers: PostgreSQL, Java, Spring Boot, Microservices, Docker, AWS, AI/LLM 🎯 Outcome: Enterprise-grade Java developer ready for top employers
3.1
PostgreSQL & Database Design Relational databases, SQL queries, schema design, joins, indexes, and transactions
160 hrs
3.2
Java Beginner Java syntax, data types, control flow, arrays, methods, and OOP fundamentals
160 hrs
3.3
Java Advanced Design patterns, collections, generics, streams, lambdas, concurrency, and testing
160 hrs
3.4
Spring Framework Fundamentals Spring Boot, dependency injection, Spring MVC, REST APIs, JPA/Hibernate, security
160 hrs
3.5
Spring Cloud & Microservices NEW Service discovery, API gateway, distributed tracing, resilience patterns, inter-service communication
160 hrs
3.6
Docker & Containerization NEW Docker fundamentals, Docker Compose, container networking, multi-service deployments, container best practices
160 hrs
3.7
AWS Cloud Deployment NEW (Optional) EC2, RDS, S3, ECS — real cloud deployment experience for advanced students. Zero credit card barrier for core curriculum.
40 hrs
3.8
AI/LLM Integration NEW OpenAI API, prompt engineering, ChatGPT capabilities, integrating AI features into Java applications — 20–40% salary premium
40 hrs
🏆
Capstone Project 5-microservice e-commerce platform built with Spring Boot, Docker, and AI features — your flagship portfolio project
80 hrs
Phase 3 Core Skills
  • Object-oriented programming and design patterns
  • Relational database design and optimisation
  • Spring Boot REST API development
  • JPA/Hibernate ORM and database integration
  • Microservices architecture patterns
  • Service discovery and resilience (Eureka, Resilience4j)
  • Containerising apps with Docker and docker-compose
  • AI/LLM integration with the OpenAI API
  • Unit and integration testing (JUnit, Mockito)
Phase 3 Learning Outcomes
  • Build and deploy enterprise Java applications
  • Architect and implement microservices systems
  • Containerise applications with Docker and docker-compose
  • Design and optimise relational databases with PostgreSQL
  • Integrate AI/LLM capabilities into backend applications
  • Write comprehensive tests and follow TDD principles
  • Deploy to AWS cloud infrastructure
  • Be ready for senior roles at major employers
🥉
Foundation Milestone

Oracle Certified Foundations Associate — Java (OCFA)

Issuer: Oracle  |  Level: Foundation (Entry)  |  When to sit: After completing Java Beginner modules

The Java Beginner module covers the core objectives of the Oracle Certified Foundations Associate exam — Java fundamentals, OOP basics, control flow, methods, and arrays. This is a natural first credential to pursue partway through Phase 3, giving you a recognised Oracle certification on your CV before you complete the full programme and target the OCP.

Note: Code College's curriculum is aligned to this certification's objectives. The exam itself is taken and funded independently through Oracle's certification portal.

🏅
Certification Alignment

Oracle Certified Professional: Java SE 21 Developer (OCP)

Issuer: Oracle  |  Exam: 1Z0-830  |  Level: Professional  |  Duration: 90 minutes · 50 questions · 68% pass mark

The Java Beginner and Java Advanced modules in Phase 3 are structured around the OCP Java SE 21 exam objectives. From core OOP and generics through streams, lambdas, concurrency, and modules — the curriculum systematically covers every domain the OCP exam assesses, positioning graduates to pursue Oracle's most respected Java credential.

✓ OOP & Design Patterns
✓ Generics & Collections
✓ Streams & Lambdas
✓ Concurrency & Threads
✓ Modules & Java Platform
✓ Exception Handling & I/O
✓ JUnit Testing
✓ Records & Sealed Classes
Why This Bootcamp

Key Features & Competitive Advantages

🏗️

Three Technology Stacks

Python/Django, MERN Stack (React + Node.js), and Spring Boot Java — you graduate as a versatile, multi-stack developer.

🔬

Microservices Architecture

Spring Cloud with distributed tracing, service discovery, and resilience patterns — the architecture behind systems at FNB, Absa, and BMW.

🐳

Docker & Containerization NEW

Professional docker-compose skills for modern deployment. All core curriculum uses free, open-source tools — zero credit card required.

🤖

AI/LLM Integration NEW

OpenAI API, prompt engineering, and ChatGPT integration. AI-skilled developers command a 20–40% salary premium in today's market.

☁️

Optional AWS Deployment NEW

EC2, RDS, S3, and ECS — real cloud deployment experience. Hybrid approach: free local Docker development + optional AWS in production.

🏆

Professional Capstone

Build a 5-microservice e-commerce platform complete with Docker and AI features — a flagship portfolio project that impresses employers.

Comprehensive Learning Outcomes

Skills You Will Master

🌐

Web Development

HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, Python & Django, React & Node.js, MongoDB

☕

Java & Enterprise

Object-oriented programming, design patterns, Spring Boot, JPA/Hibernate, comprehensive testing

🔗

Microservices

Service discovery, resilience patterns, distributed tracing, API gateways, inter-service communication

🐳

Docker & Containers

Containerisation, Docker Compose, container networking, multi-service orchestration

🤖

AI/LLM Integration

OpenAI API, prompt engineering, ChatGPT capabilities, AI-powered application features

☁️

Cloud Deployment

AWS services (EC2, RDS, S3, ECS), auto-scaling, monitoring and production deployment

🗄️

Database Design

PostgreSQL, relational schema design, SQL query optimisation, MongoDB NoSQL

🤝

Professional Skills

Architecture design, documentation, team collaboration, code reviews, Agile workflows

Career Outcomes

Career & Employment Outcomes

Career Paths After Graduation

Full-Stack Developer (MERN or Java)
Java Software Engineer
Microservices Developer
Cloud-Native Java Developer
✦ AI-Enabled Backend Developer
✦ Full-Stack AI Developer

Salary Ranges Post-Graduation

Indicative ranges based on graduate placement data. AI skills command a significant premium.

Role Base Salary With AI Skills AI Premium
Backend Developer $75,000–$100,000 $100,000–$150,000 +$25–50K
Microservices Developer $85,000–$120,000 $115,000–$160,000 +$30–40K
Cloud-Native Developer $95,000–$140,000 $130,000–$190,000 +$35–50K
Full-Stack Developer $80,000–$110,000 $120,000–$180,000 +$40–70K

Where Our Graduates Work

FNB Standard Bank Absa BMW Checkers / Shoprite International Organisations

Graduates secure employment within weeks. Enterprise companies specifically seek developers with the Java, Spring Boot, Docker, and Microservices skills taught in this bootcamp.

How It Works

Course Format & Delivery

⏱️

10–12 Months · 2000+ Hours

Full-time intensive with continuous enrollment — no breaks between phases. Designed for maximum learning momentum.

🎓

Expert-Led Training

Experienced Code College instructors with 30+ years combined industry experience — real-world practice, not just theory.

📍

Johannesburg + Everywhere

Hybrid delivery at our Woodmead campus (JHB), or 100% live online for students across South Africa and globally.

💻

Zero Credit Card Barrier

All core curriculum uses free, open-source tools. Local Docker development means no cloud costs required during training.

📜

Certificate of Completion

Receive a Code College Java & AI Software Engineering Bootcamp certificate — recognised across South Africa's enterprise tech sector.

🤝

Career Support

Job placement assistance included. Many graduates secure positions at major employers within weeks of completing the program.

2026 Pricing

Pricing & Enrollment

Pre-paid — Best Value
R99,995
Full commitment price
Save R20,000
Full Price
R119,995
Flexible payment options
available

What's Included

  • Duration: 10–12 months (2000+ hours) — Phases 1, 2, and 3
  • Format: Full-time intensive, continuous enrollment
  • Delivery: Johannesburg (Hybrid), Everywhere Else (Live Online)
  • Phases: Web Programming · MERN Stack · Java Enterprise Stack
  • New 2026: Spring Cloud, Docker, AI/LLM Integration, optional AWS
  • Includes: All course materials, projects, mentoring, career support
  • Post-graduation: Lifetime access to all course materials
  • Financing: Flexible payment plans and student loans available

All pricing options: codecollege.co.za/pricing  |  Financing: codecollege.co.za/student-loans

Get a Quote →
Graduate Stories

Real people. Real career changes.

School leavers, career changers and working professionals — here’s what they say.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

No prior experience is required. The bootcamp is specifically designed for complete beginners — Phase 1 starts from the very basics of programming and builds progressively through all three phases to enterprise Java development.

This is Code College's most comprehensive program. Unlike a 3-month bootcamp that covers one stack, this 10-12 month program gives you three complete technology stacks (Python/Django, MERN, and Java/Spring Boot) plus Docker, Microservices, and AI integration — the full breadth of skills that enterprise employers at companies like FNB, Standard Bank, and BMW require.

Added in February 2026, the AI/LLM Integration module (40 hours) teaches you to work with the OpenAI API, apply prompt engineering techniques, and integrate ChatGPT capabilities directly into Java applications. Developers with these skills currently command a 20–40% salary premium in the market.

No. All core curriculum uses free, open-source tools. The Docker module enables local development at no cost. AWS deployment is an optional module (40 hours) for advanced students who want cloud experience — it is not required to complete the bootcamp.

The Java & AI Software Engineering Bootcamp runs for 10–12 months, covering 2000+ hours of training across three phases. It is full-time intensive with continuous enrollment — there are no breaks between phases to maintain momentum and ensure complete knowledge retention.

Both options are available. Students in Johannesburg attend on a hybrid basis (combination of in-person and online classes at our Woodmead campus). Students everywhere else attend 100% live online with the same instructors, curriculum, and interaction.

The final Capstone (80 hours) is a professional 5-microservice e-commerce platform built using Spring Boot, Docker, and AI features. This becomes the flagship project in your portfolio — the kind of real, production-quality project that enterprise employers specifically look for when hiring Java developers.

Our graduates secure employment within weeks at leading South African enterprises including FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, BMW, and Checkers/Shoprite, as well as international organisations. The Java, Spring Boot, Docker, and Microservices skills taught here are exactly what enterprise development teams require.

Yes. We offer flexible payment plans and student loan options to ensure cost is not a barrier. Visit codecollege.co.za/student-loans or contact us directly to discuss what works for your situation.

Yes. Upon completion you receive a Code College Java & AI Software Engineering Bootcamp certificate, plus a portfolio of real projects across all three phases — including your Capstone 5-microservice platform — that demonstrates your full capabilities to potential employers.

Backed by Compuways

We Train You. Then We Help Place You.

Code College is backed by Compuways — an IT recruitment firm that started by placing developers at top SA employers, and built this bootcamp around exactly what those employers hire for. Today Compuways focuses on helping Code College graduates find their first roles. That closed loop — deep employer knowledge built into the curriculum, plus active placement support after graduation — is something no other South African bootcamp can offer.

🏢
Employer-Shaped Curriculum

Built around what SA's top tech employers actually hire for — not a generic syllabus.

🤝
Active Placement Support

Compuways helps graduates find roles at companies including FNB, Standard Bank, Absa, BMW, and Checkers/Shoprite.

🎯
The Closed Loop

Train you. Then helps place you. No other SA bootcamp has this built-in employer pipeline.

Ready to Become an Enterprise Java & AI Developer?

Join South Africa's most comprehensive coding bootcamp. Master Java, Spring Boot, AI/LLM, Microservices and Docker — and graduate job-ready, with Compuways helping you find your first role.

Apply Now → Chat on WhatsApp 📞 (+27) 010 970 7777
💬