2023 Best Product Management Bootcamps

There is no set path to becoming a PM. Companies seek applicants with different backgrounds depending on their product, the size of their team, and other factors. Hiring managers may look for strong business skills, familiarity with their sector, technical expertise, or a combination of these qualifications. Big tech companies often seek applicants with backgrounds in engineering, design thinking, and analytics when hiring PMs. A bachelor's degree in business, communications, data science, or management may also be useful for obtaining a position.

While you can break into the field without pursuing specialized training, product manager bootcamps are a great way to learn specific, targeted skills necessary for the role. For those looking to pivot into tech, bootcamps can help you learn the essential functions of a product manager and the role within the industry.

Another way to bolster your resume is to learn relevant technical skills. There are free or low-cost courses online that can help you get familiar with data analytics, user experience, product design, and other related topics. This is a good choice for those who are interested in the field but aren't ready to commit to a bootcamp or certificate program.

After completing a product management bootcamp, you'll be eligible for product manager jobs in a wide range of industries and types of businesses. Startups, established organizations, and tech giants alike need product managers and program managers. You may need to start with an entry-level junior PM position, but after a couple of years of experience, you'll be ready to advance to full PM and then senior roles.

In your job search, you will come across many listings for generalist product managers who are tasked with managing all aspects of one or two products. However, you may also find listings for product managers who can specialize in certain areas, which is an ideal opportunity for you to combine past experience with your new skills. Some of these specialties may require expertise in software engineering, business growth, product marketing, or market research.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), which is the definitive source for salary and job market information, does not provide data for product managers. However, looking at some related occupations is helpful. The BLS reports that project management specialists earn a median annual salary of $94,500 and data scientists earn a median annual salary of $100,910.

For those seriously interested in a position as a product manager, product management bootcamps are worth it. Product management bootcamps are excellent for people who want to break into the tech industry and learn specialized skills in a hands-on learning environment. Taught by instructors with experience in the field, they are also often more affordable and take less time than earning a college degree. 

Just be sure to choose a bootcamp that meets all of your specific needs. For example, you may want to select a bootcamp provider that offers mentorship opportunities so you can acquire up-to-date insights from working professionals. Some bootcamp providers also provide career services to help you land valuable job interviews and locate a new job where you can put your product management skills to work. If you need financial assistance, you may be able to find a boot camp that offers scholarships. Consider all of your goals and prior commitments when deciding if a bootcamp is right for you. 

Curious about other bootcamps and learning opportunities? Review our lists of best coding bootcamps and many other related subjects.