Build your future in
A nonprofit helping you change careers without quitting your day job.
Find Your Future Career
Thousands of learners have changed their lives without a four-year degree
What made Merit America special for me was a shared experience and a coach who wants nothing more than your success.
I went from being a stay at home mom to working full-time as a software engineer.
Merit America and Amazon gave me the confidence I needed to get into IT. A year ago, I wouldn’t have said I’d be working in IT, but here I am today!
Without Merit America, I don’t know where I would be career-wise. It’s been a life-changing experience, and I’m proud to be a Merit America alum.
Merit America built my confidence and my skill set. I would not have been able to get the jobs I’ve had without Merit America’s help.
Merit America allowed me to upskill myself without having to worry about spending the time or money on college.
Merit America has changed my life entirely through enhancing my transferable skills, boosting my confidence, and embracing my unique interests.
The flexibility was great! I was working 50–60 hours per week and was able to keep up with the program. I really enjoyed the coursework.
Merit America was the stepping stone I needed. It was a huge boost. This is my foot in the door to the next step.
I had no tangible qualifications to put on a resume and couldn’t afford training and exams. Merit America provided everything I was looking for.
Programs like Merit America allow you to open a door that otherwise you would not be able to.
Attending Merit America has not only equipped me with more tools in the tech field, but it has also brought me a network of support.
The professional coaching at Merit America was the biggest piece for me. It separates Merit America from other programs.
Merit America is invested in helping people succeed not only in their work life, but in life in general.
I learned a lot of skills I was never taught. The coach meetings gave me the accountability I needed to succeed.
Merit America has changed so much for me that I couldn’t be more grateful. I felt like I would never get out of the dead end that I was in.
Merit America has greatly improved my coding abilities and my job prospects. My professional skills are much better, including searching for jobs!
Everything I learned in the Merit America program, I do at my job.
Merit America gave me the tools and resources to further my learning in IT.
It’s a great program that pushes you to learn every day. The program is set up to help you succeed.
My new career in IT has provided me with opportunities for success that I didn’t have before, and I owe my move into this career to Merit America.
I’ve always wanted to learn Java and had looked at options available at community colleges. It was going to cost me more and take longer than Merit America.
At Merit America, I knew I had people — the Merit America team as well as my peers — in my corner pushing me and helping me, no matter how tough it got.
Programs like Merit America give people with great minds a chance to pursue their dreams. To any Merit America learner, know that you’re in the right place.
Through the program I learned how to effectively pitch myself to an employer, and was given great resources to rework both my resume and cover letter.
Real-life wage gains
The majority of our alumni provide outcome data and report an average annual wage gain of nearly $21,000 three or more months after completing the program — raising their average pre-program salary from $27,800 to $48,500 post-program.
Learn about our impact
Learn on your time, from anywhere, while keeping your day job
Our programs are built for people with busy lives. Your coursework and meetings are fully online, with just 3–5 hours of live meetings per week. Complete your technical coursework — through providers like Google — in between shifts, on weekends, or whatever works for your life.
Explore career options
Work with a coach dedicated to your success
Get personalized career coaching and join live, topic-based workshops that fit your schedule, while technical advisors provide dedicated support for your coursework. You choose your own coach and can take advantage of evening and weekend availability, so you always have help when you need it.
Meet our coaches
Our alumni work for the world’s top companies
Real outcomes, backed by real data
Learn AI-powered, in-demand skills
Our programs are built for working adults—part-time, flexible, and focused on real-world results. You’ll earn industry-recognized credentials, master in-demand technical skills, and learn to work with AI the way employers actually expect.
IT Support
Build job-ready technical skills through live workshops, hands-on labs, and 1:1 coach guidance. You’ll finish with a portfolio and practical experience ready for the job market.
What you’ll learn
- SysAdmin & InfrastructureMaster Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, Microsoft 365, and system recovery in Windows and Linux.
- Security & NetworkingDevelop key skills in encryption, authentication, and use tools like tcpdump for network testing.
- Cloud & TicketingGain hands-on experience with cloud computing, system backups, and enterprise ticketing systems.
- Career Coaching & Interview PrepPractice AI-powered mock interviews and translate your past work experience into a competitive tech resume.
Data Analytics
Engage in weekly workshops, 1:1 career planning, and intensive training on tools like Excel, SQL, BigQuery, and Python — culminating in a portfolio-ready Capstone project.
What you’ll learn
- Excel & Data CleaningMaster spreadsheets and clean “dirty” data for exploration and reliable analysis.
- SQL & BigQueryAnalyze massive datasets to answer complex business questions at scale.
- Python & VisualizationUse Python for analysis and visualization to share compelling data stories.
- Career Coaching & Interview PrepPractice technical interviews covering SQL and statistics with AI-accelerated job search support.
UX Design
Train in research, wireframing, prototyping, Figma, and Adobe XD through weekly workshops and 1:1 coaching — culminating in a portfolio-ready Capstone project.
What you’ll learn
- Wireframes & Lo-Fi PrototypesSketch, iterate, and build low-fidelity prototypes that test ideas before committing to visual detail.
- Hi-Fi Designs in FigmaCreate polished, interactive prototypes in Figma — the industry-standard design tool.
- Capstone ProjectDesign a complete user experience around a real challenge — a portfolio centerpiece.
- Portfolio & Career CoachingBuild a UX portfolio that showcases your process, then practice portfolio reviews and design exercises.
Cybersecurity
Move from concepts to hands-on practice with industry-standard tools like Linux, SQL, Splunk, and Wireshark. Execute packet analysis, build incident response playbooks, and automate tasks with Python.
What you’ll learn
- Linux & SQLExecute Bash shell commands, query databases, and complete hands-on TryHackMe labs.
- Network SecurityPerform network monitoring and packet analysis using Wireshark and tcpdump.
- SIEM & PythonPractice log analysis with Splunk and automate critical security tasks using Python.
- Portfolio & Interview PrepDocument your TryHackMe journal and security projects into a professional portfolio, then complete rigorous interview practice.
Project Management
Master agile methodologies and traditional project frameworks. Get hands-on with industry-standard tools like Gantt charts, Kanban boards, and Asana to track milestones and manage budgets.
What you’ll learn
- Planning & ExecutionMaster project planning, track milestones, and run projects using Gantt and RACI charts.
- Agile & ScrumDeep dive into Agile project management, execute Scrum frameworks, and build Kanban boards.
- Real-World ApplicationApply your skills to real scenarios, managing schedules, budgets, and team dynamics.
- Strategic Job SearchBuild your LinkedIn presence, master behavioral interviews, and practice salary negotiation.
Human Resources+
Integrate HR compliance with Agile project management through blended projects. Select a “Choose Your Own Adventure” scenario and build it using the full PM lifecycle — a portfolio-ready proof point.
What you’ll learn
- Total Rewards & RelationsMaster compensation strategy, benefits administration, and employee relations.
- Agile & Project ExecutionImplement Scrum methodologies, quality control, and work breakdown structures.
- Systems & ComplianceGain hands-on expertise with Asana, comprehensive legal compliance, and Workday basics.
- Dual Portfolio CreationFinalize work samples that prove both HR strategy and PM execution skills.
Supply Chain
Progress through advanced ASCM courses while engaging in intensive interview prep, LinkedIn networking, and active job applications with your coach.
What you’ll learn
- Inventory ManagementLearn foundational strategies for tracking and controlling stock efficiently.
- Manufacturing & PlanningMaster operations planning and the fundamentals of manufacturing management.
- SCOR OptimizationGain hands-on knowledge of supply chain management using the SCOR framework.
- Strategic Networking & NegotiationBuild your LinkedIn presence, conduct informational interviews, and prepare for salary negotiation.
Semiconductor
Deepen your knowledge of semiconductor systems and processes, including mandatory in-person lab sessions at Austin Community College where you’ll work with real semiconductor equipment.
What you’ll learn
- In-Person Cleanroom LabsFour full-day hands-on lab sessions at Austin Community College: VR/Gowning & Cleanroom, Electronics, Pneumatics, and Tolerance & Soldering.
- Industrial MaintenancePreventive and predictive strategies for mechanical and electro-mechanical systems.
- Robotics & AutomationUnderstand robot operations, sensors, and automated system management.
- Behavioral Interviews & Job SourcingPractice the STAR method and learn to navigate job boards, work with staffing agencies, and track applications via Huntr.
Operations+
Master inventory, procurement, lean production, and quality control while learning to apply AI for data analysis, content creation, and app building.
What you’ll learn
- Inventory & ProcurementMaster inventory replenishment, sourcing strategies, and purchase order management.
- Manufacturing & LeanLearn lean production principles, process improvement, TQM, and statistical quality control.
- AI ApplicationsApply AI for writing, data analysis, content creation, and app building through the Google AI Certificate.
- Resume & Interview MasteryDraft your resume and LinkedIn with 1:1 coaching, then practice interviews using STAR methodology and AI-powered simulators.
Not sure which path fits your skills?
Take the career quiz$0 upfront, flexible options for every learner
Build a career based on your potential, not your bank account. You won’t pay anything until at least three months after you complete or exit your program — with the option to defer until you’re earning at least $40,000.
| Payment option | Details |
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$0 Down with a Zero Percent Loan from Ascent
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Ascent Funding offers a Zero Percent Loan that you can use to pay for Merit America. You can learn more about the $0 Down With a Zero Percent Loan from Ascent at Ascent Funding. |
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Employer Sponsorship
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Some employers or organizations may partially or fully cover the program costs for eligible learners. Any remaining amount can be covered with self-pay or a Zero Percent Loan. Reach out to your employer to see if they can sponsor your program costs. |
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Pay in Full Up Front
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If you prefer to pay the entire program cost upfront, please send an email to success-sharing@meritamerica.org requesting to pay in full. |
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Opportunity For All
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If you apply for an Ascent Zero Percent Loan and do not qualify, are not sponsored by your employer, and cannot pay in full upfront, you can apply for the Opportunity For All, which will cover 100% of the cost for Merit America. To learn more, reach out to our Admissions team for additional information. |
The Merit America Guarantee
If you complete the program and don’t earn at least $40,000 within two years, we refund what you paid. Plus, you have 5 weeks to cancel with no penalty.
We envision a world in which anyone can advance their life based on merit, not money
We’ve generated $1B+ in wage gains, connecting talented learners to in-demand careers through a combination of third-party technical training from industry-recognized partners with best-in-class coaching and peer support, building a pathway to the middle class. To get there, we focus on:
- Family-sustaining careers: Merit America analyzes tens of millions of job postings to identify the roles that offer the shortest path to higher wages and the job markets with the greatest demand.
- An effective combination of tech & “touch”: We offer fast part-time training programs designed for working adults, combining flexible online learning led by third-party providers with our best-in-class coaching.
- A singular focus on wage gains: We equip learners to pursue opportunities across a broad constellation of local and national employers, helping them launch higher-paying, family-sustaining careers.
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Don’t just land a job, build a career
Our learners’ success rate is 75%, meaning nearly three out of four alumni with outcome data reported a better job or earned a salary above our success benchmark.
Succeeding in the modern workforce requires more than technical skills. Alongside the training offered by providers like Google, you will receive the holistic support to build the AI-resilient skills you need to stand out. As you work toward your industry-recognized certificate, you will build new technical capabilities while actively developing your professional toolkit.
You will join live, topic-based workshops and receive personalized 1:1 career coaching to focus on the exact skills you need most. Through this guidance, you will learn how to translate the valuable experience you already possess as a talented worker into the professional language employers expect.
To ensure you are fully prepared, you will also access a Technical Advisor for coursework help, connect with a community of peers and build a showcase-ready portfolio to prove your practical capabilities. This comprehensive support ensures that upon completing the program, you are fully equipped to step into your new, well-paying career.
We prepare you for an AI-integrated workforce by weaving practical AI skills directly into your journey, ensuring you feel confident in today’s evolving job market. In fact, 70% of Merit America learners feel positive about AI, compared to just 48% of workers. You will build foundational AI literacy and learn to use emerging tools to draft your resume, practice for interviews, optimize your portfolio, and launch a strategic job search plan. By the time you complete the program, you will be highly capable of leveraging AI to advance your new, family-sustaining career.
At Merit America, you are never on your own.
From day one, you are paired with an expert career coach skilled in career strategy, professional development and job search navigation to help you uncover your unique strengths and stay focused on your goals. And while your career coach supports your professional growth, our expert technical advisors are right there to support you directly with your coursework.
Coaching adapts to your needs and offers evening and weekend availability so you can get support when it works for you.
Transitioning to a new career takes strategy, which is why we offer Job Search Your Way. After completing your technical training, you choose how you want to engage in your job search.
You can opt into our Alumni Career Accelerator for up to six weeks of structured 1:1 coaching to build momentum right away. If you prefer more flexibility, you can utilize our on-demand Career Services for targeted help with interview preparation or offer negotiation whenever you need it.
We’re here to help
Whoever you are and wherever you’re starting from, our team is here to answer questions, walk you through your options, and help you find a career track that fits your skills, lifestyle, and goals.