LaunchCode Foundations

Foundations is a 4-week, self-paced course designed to help busy adults explore coding and build essential professional skills before committing to a full-time program and transition into a new tech career.

Whether you’re testing the waters or looking for a faster way to apply to our immersive programs, Foundations is a low-pressure way to get started.

Our next cohort starts September 15, 2025.

Apply Now

How it Works

Self-Guided (with a Deadline)
Once you sign up for Foundations, you will be added to the next available cohort.
You’ll move through the program at your own pace—there are no live classes or individual due dates. That said, all course work must be completed within the 4-week period, and you’ll need to pass all required assignments to successfully finish the program.

Asynchronous Support

Stuck on something? Get help through our Help Desk or connect with other learners in our community space.

Fast Track to Immersive Programs

While Foundations does require a simple application to join, successfully completing the course can serve as your fast track to our Full-Time or Part-Time programs—no separate course application needed (pending seat availability).

Is Foundations a Good Fit for You?

This program might be right for you if:

You’re new to coding and want to try it out before making a bigger commitment
You want to explore tech careers but aren’t ready to quit your job or go back to school full-time
You prefer working independently and managing your own schedule
You’re interested in applying to our immersive programs but want to skip the traditional application process

This program might not be the best fit if:

You learn best with live instruction and real-time support
You need a highly structured learning environment to stay on track
You don’t currently have 15–20 hours/week to dedicate to learning

Sample Syllabus

Foundations is a self-guided series of lessons designed to give you a strong starting point in your coding journey. You’ll get hands-on with real tools and build core skills that set you up for success in more advanced programs.

Here’s what you’ll explore over 4 weeks:

Week 1: Why Code? Why JavaScript?

Understand what software engineers do and why coding is a valuable skill
Explore JavaScript: a beginner-friendly, widely used language across the web
Reflect on your goals and how coding might align with your future

Week 2: How Computers and Programs Work

Learn how computers “think” and process instructions
Discover how code translates into real-world behavior
Get familiar with the building blocks of programming

Week 3: Setting Up Your Software Engineering Environment

Install the tools developers use every day (like VS Code and your terminal)
Learn how to navigate your coding workspace with confidence
Get introduced to key resources and communities for continued learning

Week 4: JavaScript Fundamentals

Master the basics of JavaScript: variables, data types, and operators
Dive into Boolean logic and conditionals: making your programs smarter
Practice debugging: how to find and fix common coding mistakes
Build simple loops and learn how iteration powers real-world programs

By the end of the program, you’ll have a solid grasp of core programming concepts, experience using real development tools, and the confidence to decide whether coding -and a career in tech- is right for you.