Key Questions to Ask When Selecting the Right Tech Programme
- Chisom Ugonna
- Sep 17, 2024
- 5 min read
Choosing the right tech programme is one of the most important decisions you'll make in your career journey. In today’s fast-paced world, where technology is constantly evolving, a solid tech education can be the key to unlocking exciting opportunities. But not all tech programmes are the same. Some will offer exactly what you need, while others may fall short of your expectations. How do you figure out which one is right for you?

This guide will walk you through some essential questions to ask before picking a tech programme. From understanding the curriculum to knowing the kind of support you’ll receive, these questions will help you make an informed choice.
What are your career goals?
Before going into the details of any tech programme, you need to have a clear picture of where you're headed. Ask yourself: What are your short-term and long-term career goals? Are you looking to start a new career, or are you trying to build on existing skills? Maybe you want to move into a leadership role, or perhaps you’re looking to specialize in a particular area of tech, like web development or data science.
By defining your goals upfront, you’ll be better equipped to choose a programme that aligns with your aspirations. This also helps you filter out programmes that don’t suit your needs.
Ask yourself:
Do I want to start a new career or advance in my current one?
What specific skills or knowledge do I want to gain?
What type of roles or industries am I aiming to enter or move up in?
Once you’re clear on these goals, it becomes easier to see which programmes will help you achieve them.
Who’s teaching the programme?
When it comes to tech education, the quality of the instructors makes a world of difference. It's not just about their qualifications, but also their real-world experience. Are they actively working in the tech industry? Do they bring practical insights into the classroom? These are important things to consider.
Instructors who have worked on real projects and understand current trends in the industry can provide you with knowledge that goes beyond textbooks. They’ll not only teach you the theory but also help you understand how things work in practice.
At Univad, for example, we make sure our students are learning from industry experts who’ve been in the trenches and know what’s required in the job market.
Some good questions to ask are:
Who are the instructors, and what is their background in tech?
Are they actively working in the field, and do they have real-world experience?
What do previous students say about their teaching style?
What does the curriculum cover?
A tech programme’s curriculum is the heart of the learning experience. You want to make sure it covers the latest tools, technologies, and industry trends. Does it focus on practical, hands-on learning, or is it more theory-based? While theory is important, hands-on experience is what will really prepare you for the job market.
Programmes like those at Univad offer a strong balance between theory and practice, ensuring that students work on real-world projects that mirror what they’ll face in the workplace.
Also, think about whether the curriculum aligns with your goals. For example, if you're interested in web development, does the programme teach HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and responsive design? If you're leaning towards data science, are topics like machine learning, data visualization, and Python covered?
Some things to look out for:
Does the programme teach current and relevant technologies?
Are there real-world projects or capstone projects included?
How is the curriculum structured – is it self-paced or guided?
What kind of support will I get?
Learning tech can be challenging, and having the right support can make all the difference. Before you choose a programme, find out what kind of support is available. Are there mentors or instructors who are available to help when you’re stuck? Is there a community of learners you can connect with?
At Univad, for instance, students have access to a vibrant community where they can share ideas, ask questions, and collaborate. There’s also access to mentors who provide one-on-one guidance to help students through challenges.
Support goes beyond just technical help. You also want to know if there are resources to help with career development, such as mock interviews, resume building, and job placement services. A programme that offers strong support will not only teach you new skills but will also help you successfully transition into the tech field.
Questions to consider:
Is there access to one-on-one mentorship or instructor support?
Is there a student community where you can ask questions and share ideas?
Does the programme offer career services or job placement assistance?
How flexible is the programme?
If you’re balancing work, family, or other responsibilities, flexibility is key. Look into the structure of the programme and see if it fits your lifestyle. Is it self-paced, allowing you to go through the material at your own speed, or is it time-bound with deadlines and live sessions? Both have their benefits, depending on how much time you can commit.
Univad’s programmes, for instance, are designed to be fully online and self-paced, which makes it easier for students to fit learning into their busy lives.
Consider also how long the programme takes to complete. If you’re looking to make a career switch quickly, a shorter, intensive programme might be the way to go. If you have more time to dedicate, a longer, more in-depth programme could provide a more comprehensive learning experience.
Ask yourself:
Can I balance this programme with my current schedule?
Is the programme flexible enough to accommodate my other responsibilities?
How long will it take to complete, and does that timeline work for me?
What’s the value for money?
Tech education is an investment in your future, so it’s important to consider the cost. But beyond just the price tag, think about the value you’re getting. Are there additional resources provided, like access to industry tools or certifications? Does the programme offer lifetime access to course materials? Will you get personalized feedback on your work?
Univad programmes, for instance, offer more than just lessons—you also get access to career guidance, job placement support, and networking opportunities, all of which add to the overall value.
Questions to ask:
What’s included in the cost of the programme?
Are there any additional costs, like for certifications or resources?
How does the programme compare to others in terms of value for money?
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tech programme is a big decision, but by asking the right questions, you can make sure you’re making a choice that aligns with your career goals and learning style.
It’s not just about what you learn, but how you learn it and who’s there to support you along the way. Taking the time to do your research will pay off in the long run, helping you build a strong foundation for a successful career in tech.
Why you should choose Univad?
Choosing the right tech programme is crucial, and Univad is here to help you make that decision with confidence. We offer a range of tech programmes designed to fit your unique career goals and learning style. Our courses are crafted by industry experts to ensure you gain the skills and knowledge that are truly relevant and in demand.
Our commitment goes beyond just delivering top-notch education. We provide ongoing support through our vibrant student community, personalized mentorship, and career development resources. Whether you’re looking to kickstart your tech career or advance in your field, Univad is dedicated to helping you achieve your aspirations.
Are you prepared for a fresh start?
Kickstart your Tech Career in just one click.
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