You’ve conquered the Piscine, and now you are about to embark on a journey through 42 Berlin’s curriculum. This handbook is designed to guide you through the next phase of your learning. Here, you’ll find everything you need to know to navigate the upcoming challenges, the expectations, and the tools available to help you succeed.
While this document aims to offer a useful starting point, keep in mind that much of your learning at 42 will still come from the exploration and discovery that peer-to-peer education allows. So, DON’T PANIC, and get ready for a deep dive into coding, collaboration, and creativity.
The Curriculum will be your long-term adventure through programming and computer science. Struggles, challenges, and breakthroughs will be your new norm, but you will never face them alone. Your PEERS and our staff are always here to support you. This isn’t about competition, but growth. So remember: collaborate, work hard, and above all, have fun!
The 42 Berlin campus continues to be your second home.
Address: Harzer Str. 42, 12059 Berlin
Access: Open 24/7 for students with your badge. Guests must be signed in at the front desk and are allowed between 09:00 and 18:00.
42 Berlin can provide you with various certificates that may be required by official bodies or organisations. To request these certificates please email contact@42berlin.de. Examples of available certificates include:
Certificate confirming enrollment: Verifies that you are an active student at 42 Berlin.
Certificates for government bodies: These can be issued for visa applications, insurance purposes, or other official needs. However, as we are not recognised as an official university in Germany, they are not legally binding.
The Core Curriculum introduces foundational topics like C programming, algorithms, and data structures, essential for building a strong technical base. As you progress, you will encounter Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), explore new languages like Python and Java, and dive into databases and network programming.
The Core Curriculum is divided into circles, each representing a distinct phase of learning with projects that increase in complexity. These circles are designed to help you progressively master different aspects of computer science. From the second circle onward, you will take an exam at the end of each phase to assess your knowledge and skills.
Once you complete the Core Curriculum, you’ll enter the Advanced Curriculum, where the projects become even more challenging and reflect real-world industry demands.
From this point on, you can choose which path to take.
You’ll be able to work on web development, tackling both front-end and back-end systems, explore cybersecurity fundamentals, and participate in problem-solving projects that simulate professional scenarios. You’ll also collaborate on large-scale projects, and learn to architect complex systems.
Time management is crucial to maintaining a steady learning pace and completing each circle effectively.
The “learning by doing” approach will continue to challenge you, and peer evaluations remain an essential part of your development. Code reviews, and group projects, are also integral to the experience.
Below is an overview of what to expect:
Introduction to C programming, algorithms, and data structures. This phase builds a strong foundation.
Object-Oriented Programming (OOP), algorithms, databases, and network programming. You will also explore new languages like Python, and Java.
Web development, cybersecurity, and real-world problem-solving projects. You’ll learn how to architect larger systems, collaborate on bigger projects, and work on internships.
At 42 Berlin, the curriculum is designed to be flexible, allowing you to progress at a pace that suits your schedule. You can choose to complete the Common Core in 8, 12, 15, 18, or 22 months, depending on how many hours per week you can dedicate to your projects.
You’re in control of your learning journey, so choose a pace that works for you while ensuring consistent progress.
You can find all the relevant information on this dedicated Notion page: Pace System
Becoming an alumni of 42 Berlin means more than just completing the curriculum; it signifies joining a global network of forward-thinking innovators in the tech industry. After progressing through the Core and Advanced Curriculum, participating in internships, and tackling real-world projects, you’ll graduate with a robust portfolio of skills. As an alumni, you’ll gain access to career opportunities, networking events, and continued support from the 42 community, which spans tech hubs worldwide. This lifelong membership connects you with other alumni, offering valuable collaboration, mentorship, and professional growth opportunities long after you’ve finished the program.
You can find all the relevant information on this dedicated Intra page: Alumnisation.
You’ll have the opportunity to complete internships during your core curriculum. These internships are not just a formality but a way to gain real-world experience. Start thinking early about the kind of companies and positions you are interested in.
💡Good to know: 42 Berlin offers resources for students nearing the end of their Cursus, including workshops on CV writing, interview prep, and networking events to connect you with potential employers.
While the curriculum is more flexible than the Piscine, it still requires full-time commitment for you to progress efficiently. There are no hard deadlines for projects, but it’s essential to stay consistent and maintain regular coding practice.
You manage your own time. However, being on campus often allows you to benefit from peer support, real-time feedback, and a focused learning environment.
While some students manage to work part-time, the curriculum is a full-time commitment. It’s advisable to focus primarily on your studies, especially during the more intense initial phases. Some students start part-time work after their first internship so they can continue studying while sustaining themselves.
There’s always someone around to help. Your peers are your first go-to. You’re also encouraged to help others, as teaching is one of the best ways to reinforce your learning.
Yes, but use them wisely. All tools can help when you’re stuck, but they should not be a crutch. Avoid copy-pasting solutions and instead focus on understanding the underlying concepts. Plagiarism is strictly prohibited.
Failure is part of the learning process at 42. You’ll always have the chance to redo or improve on your work. Projects and exams are designed to be challenging, so don’t get discouraged.
If you encounter personal challenges or issues, you can always reach out to the Pedagogy Team or any staff member for support. Peer support is also an essential part of the 42 experience.
Upon reaching Level 21 and completing the final project, you will officially graduate from 42 Berlin. The world of tech will be your oyster, and you will have the skills and experience to pursue any number of opportunities, whether in startups, major companies, NGOs, or launching your own projects.
The curriculum is a transformative journey. You’ve already shown your perseverance during the Piscine, and now it’s time to take those skills to the next level. Be patient, stay curious, and trust the process. We’re here to help guide you, but ultimately, your success will depend on your dedication and passion for learning.
We wish you the best of luck and can’t wait to see what you achieve!
42 Berlin 2023
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