Before you enroll: questions to ask about a career program
A career program is a commitment of time and money. Before you enroll, compare what is included with the work you need to do, the support you want and the time you can realistically set aside.
Start with the work you want to pursue
Choose a role or type of work you want to understand better. Read actual job descriptions and note the skills, experience and work samples they request. A broad interest in AI is a starting point; a specific role gives you a more useful way to evaluate a curriculum. Requirements vary by employer and position.
Inspect the curriculum and the practice
Ask which topics are covered, what you will build or practice and which prerequisites you need. Look for a clear explanation of how exercises relate to the work you want to pursue. Distinguish access to lessons from feedback on your own work. If an example is hypothetical, treat it as an illustration rather than proof of a participant's result.
Confirm the support included
Find out whether support is self-paced material, a group session, individual feedback or something else. Check how questions are handled, what access lasts for and any limits on availability. Do not assume a service is included because another program offers it. Review the current product details and the terms presented before payment.
Make the time and cost explicit
Estimate when you can study and practice alongside your other responsibilities. Compare the current price, payment terms, access period and refund conditions with that plan. Ask about anything unclear before making a commitment. The current checkout and applicable written terms govern the purchase; this article does not create an additional offer.
Keep learning and hiring outcomes separate
Finishing lessons, creating a work sample, applying for a role, interviewing and receiving an offer are different steps. A program can describe its learning materials and support, but an employer makes its own hiring decisions. Salary and job outcomes vary. Evaluate the substance of the program and your own starting point rather than treating an advertised outcome as a result you can count on.
Bring a short question list
What prior knowledge do I need? What will I practice? Who reviews my work, if anyone? What support and access are included? What are the full price and applicable terms? Use the MakeTheLeap homepage to review the current program, then resolve any unanswered questions before enrolling.