Start your coding journey with guided projects that make logic and syntax approachable, helping you apply what you learn to real-world programming challenges.
Unlock the power of Python for data-driven decision-making as you master Python programming fundamentals and dive into data analysis. Acquire essential skills to clean and manipulate data, create insightful visualizations, and perform statistical analysis, all through hands-on projects with real-world datasets.
Learn how to code webpages using HTML and CSS, from structuring and tagging content to styling and making the pages responsive. Upload and make your websites live using FTP.
Learn Python programming from scratch. Master variables, data types, loops, and functions, and tackle real-world challenges with object-oriented programming. Create a GitHub portfolio to impress employers and master practical Python skills.
Learn front-end development with HTML & CSS, JavaScript, and React, and back-end development with Python, Django, and Node.js. Get 1-on-1 mentoring and a structured curriculum to become a skilled Software Engineer or Full Stack Developer.
Gain the skills and knowledge to become a Full Stack Developer and meet the growing demand for professionals who can develop and maintain web applications. This project-oriented course teaches you how to code websites from scratch, and you'll build a portfolio of working web applications to showcase to potential employers.
Learn Python, SQL, automation, and machine learning to become a Data Scientist. Gain Python programming, data analysis, SQL querying, and predictive modeling skills. Perfect for beginners, this program prepares you for entry-level data science and Python engineering roles. Unlock high-paying job opportunities in the field of data science.
Learn how to build web apps with JavaScript, one of the most popular programming languages in the world. Develop in-demand skills, including creating dynamic web applications with React and Node.js, working with APIs, and incorporating third-party frameworks and libraries.
Learn front-end web development with HTML & CSS, and JavaScript, and gain skills in building responsive websites for any screen size. Additionally, learn how to use WordPress, the world's leading content management system, to create customizable websites and edit content without coding experience.
Learn the skills needed to become a Python Developer, from Python programming fundamentals to web development with Django and Django REST. Develop in-demand skills with Django, a popular Python web framework used for back-end web programming, and build a portfolio of projects under the guidance of the lead instructor.
Coding is the way that people communicate with computers. Computers use binary code rather than human language, so if a person wants to give a computer instructions about what to do, they need to translate those instructions into a language that can be understood by the computer. That language is code. One LinkedIn writer explains, “Computers… only understand the concepts of on and off. The capabilities of a computer are switched on and off by switches and transistors. The binary code represents these on and off transistors as 1 and 0 digits. An infinite number of combinations of these codes make your computer work. To make binary code manageable, computer programming languages were formed. These languages serve various purposes, but they all allow programmers to translate important commands into binary code.”
There are many different coding languages. Popular ones include HTML, CSS, and Python. In recent years, as digital devices have become increasingly important in our lives, coding has become an in-demand skill that is used in many different industries.
The concept of coding dates back to the 1800s, however, the first computer programming languages were developed in the 1940s and 1950s. FORTRAN is one of the most well-known early computer languages. Created in 1957, it is still used today. Over time, programmers continue to create new computer languages to address new computing needs. Some—like FORTRAN—remain in use for a long time, while others become obsolete. Today, hundreds of different coding languages exist, and they vary in complexity, structure, and purpose. According to Stack Overflow’s annual survey of developers, the most commonly used programming languages are JavaScript, HTML and CSS, Python, and SQL.
Coding is an important part of digital technology and by learning to code, you’ll be gaining in-demand skills that are needed in a wide range of industries. In a recent LinkedIn article, an IT recruitment agency reports that many of the most in-demand IT jobs at present are roles like Software Developer, Data Scientist, and Machine Learning Engineer, which include coding. Overall, it insists that there are not enough talented people to fill these roles. It says, “In terms of top talent in the IT jobs market, demand is still far outpacing supply.” This trend is expected to continue in the future. U.S. News & World Report list recently posted a list titled, “20 Careers with the Most Job Security Right Now, ” and it includes Web Developer, Database Administrator, Information Security Analyst, and Software Developer, which are all jobs that involve coding.
In addition to providing a range of different job options, many people also find that coding is a fulfilling and rewarding activity. For example, Software Engineer Lindsey Redd—who has coded for Slack, Lyft, and Stripe—talks about working in coding. She says that the problem-solving involved in this career is one of the things that makes it so rewarding. She explains, “I enjoy the process of coding and not knowing what’s really going on, but testing and working through an issue, Googling whatever I need to, and then getting to a solution. That feeling, that gratification of figuring out how to do something or solving a bug, is unmatched.”
What you’ll learn in a coding class will vary, depending on the coding class that you choose. You’ll find a variety of different options when it comes to learning coding, including both shorter classes and longer, more comprehensive options. You’ll also find classes that cover several different coding languages—for instance, coding languages used in web development—and others that are focused on only one language, like Python or JavaScript. At the same time, however, there are several basic skills that you’re likely to learn no matter what class you pick. These include fluency in at least one coding language, front-end and back-end tools, frameworks, problem-solving, and best practices.
Fluency in at least one coding language is a fundamental part of coding. Depending on the course you choose, you may learn multiple languages or you may focus on just one. You’ll learn about the syntax of the language, and how to arrange words and phrases. You’ll also learn how to find errors in your code and how to fix them.
Front-end and back-end tools are tools that developers can use to help them when they are working on coding projects. Front-end tools are those that are used on the front-end of an application or website, which is the part that people see and interact with. They include things like Git, which is a tool that can be used to track changes in your code. Back-end tools are used when working on the back-end, which is the part of a website or application that helps it operate, but is not seen by users. Django is an example of a back-end tool.
A framework is a collection of prewritten code that you can build on. Frameworks are a common coding tool because they can help speed up the development process. Each framework is built around a specific programming language. An example of a framework is React.
Problem-solving skills are an important part of coding, and when you learn coding, you’ll develop your problem-solving skills and learn how to apply them to the coding process. LinkedIn explains that these skills are necessary because when you code, you will constantly be solving problems. It says, “Problem-solving skills are essential for understanding the problem and its requirements, breaking it down into smaller and manageable parts, choosing the best tools and methods to solve it, implementing and testing your solution, debugging and optimizing your code, and communicating and documenting your solution.”
In addition to learning how to code, it is important to learn about best practices. Best practices have been established to help programmers create code that is readable, high-quality, consistent, and secure. Best practices include things like writing your code in the most simple way possible, testing it regularly, and keeping it organized.
Coding is a technical skill that many people find intimidating at first. However, with time and practice, almost anyone can learn to code. The difficulty involved will partly depend on the level of proficiency that you’re hoping to achieve. It is relatively easy to learn some coding basics; however, if you want to become an expert in coding, the learning process is more difficult. Most experienced coders emphasize that to get good at coding, you need to spend a lot of time practicing. Another common piece of advice is to make sure you don’t advance too quickly; first, you need to build a strong foundation and master the basics. After that, you can move on to more complex coding skills. Enrolling in a paid class can also make the learning process easier because you’ll be able to ask questions, and receive guidance and feedback from an expert.
The process of coding involves constant problem-solving, and that can be challenging. The nature of this job is using code to solve problems. In addition, it is very common to encounter additional problems throughout the coding process, which will also need to be solved. While all of this problem-solving can be challenging, you can do many things to improve your problem-solving skills. LinkedIn insists, “Problem-solving skills are not innate, but they can be acquired and honed with practice and experience.” It explains that there are many ways to do this. For example, it says, “You can also solve coding challenges and puzzles on platforms like Codecademy, HackerRank, or LeetCode. Additionally, reading and analyzing code from other programmers can help you learn from their solutions.” Other suggested ideas are to work on collaborative or personal projects that involve coding, and to look for feedback and advice from experts. In addition, it says, “It is important to learn from your mistakes and failures and keep trying.”
Debugging can be another challenging part of learning coding. Debugging is the process of finding and fixing errors in your code. When you write code, even a tiny error can cause a result that you didn’t expect or intend. Unfortunately, it can be challenging to catch these errors, especially for a beginner. One LinkedIn writer comments, “Debugging is an art, a skill that every programmer must master on their journey toward becoming a proficient coder. It is the process of finding and fixing errors in your code, and it can often feel like navigating a maze in search of the elusive solution.” With time and practice, debugging will become easier.
How long it takes to learn coding will depend on several different factors including whether you already have any experience in this subject, and how much time you can devote to the learning process. Most people say that you can become relatively comfortable with coding in about three to six months. Gaining the skill to code at a professional level can take a year or more. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and good memorization skills can all help you learn more quickly. Another thing that will affect your learning is how much time you spend practicing; the more time you can spend practicing your new skills, the quicker you’re likely to master them.
There is more than one way to learn coding. Some coding classes are offered in-person, while others take place in a live online format. Certain schools also offer a third option; on-demand coding classes. Each of these formats has its own unique advantages, and the choice of which format is right for you will depend on many things, including your learning style and your unique situation. In-person instruction is the traditional way to learn something new, and it remains popular today. Many students find this format to be highly engaging, and they like that they can interact face-to-face with the instructor and other students. Some instructors also prefer this format because they say that it can be easier for them to see whether students are understanding the course material, and to determine whether or not anyone needs additional help. Many students find that in-person learning is also conducive to collaboration and networking, which can both be beneficial in the learning process and after the class is over. A downside to in-person learning is its lack of flexibility. Students are required to attend class at a specific location and at a set time. In addition, they are limited to courses that are available in their location.
In recent years, live online classes have become an increasingly popular alternative to in-person classes because they offer more flexibility. With this format, students still learn live, and they get real-time interaction with the instructor and other students, but they attend remotely, via computer. They don’t need to spend time and money commuting to a classroom, and they are not limited to classes in their geographic area. Since students can attend live online classes from any location, these types of classes can offer increased networking opportunities and also expose students to a wider range of perspectives throughout the learning process. However, while the live online format offers more flexibility, students still need to attend class at a set time. In addition, they usually need to supply their own equipment and software, and deal with any technical difficulties that may arise.
A third learning option is the on-demand format. This format offers even more flexibility than live online learning. With an on-demand class, content is pre-recorded, and students work through it at their own pace; they can even pause or rewind the lecture if they need to, or fast-forward through sections that they have already mastered. Some on-demand classes also include the opportunity to network with other students. Finally, on-demand learning is often cheaper than live options. One of the biggest downsides to this format is the lack of access to a live instructor. Another downside is that on-demand learning often requires more self-discipline and focus, and some students have trouble keeping up with the coursework on their own.
There are many different free coding resources online, and people often wonder if it's possible to learn coding entirely online for free. YouTube has many short, free coding tutorials. Noble Desktop also has a variety of free coding resources. Free online resources like these can be valuable to students. For instance, they can be a good way to get an overview of a coding topic, learn a specific skill, or troubleshoot a problem that you’re having. However, if you’re serious about learning to code, you’ll probably want to invest in a paid class. With a paid class, you’ll get a comprehensive education, and will be guided by an experienced instructor who can answer your questions and provide feedback on your progress. In addition, with a paid class, you’ll know that you’re receiving accurate and up-to-date information. Finally, paid classes often come with a certificate that you can use as evidence of your new skills.
If you’re learning to code, it can be helpful to strengthen your teamwork and communication skills. Many people think that this is a job that you do alone, however, in reality when you work in the field of coding, you’ll also need to work with other people frequently. One Software Engineer explains, “A big misconception is that software engineers just code, which is not true. A lot of my job is writing documentation to explain things to people or communicate or pitch ideas. A lot of it is meetings where we figure out the direction of a particular piece of software or a product. And those all involve a lot of other skills that are not coding.” She explains that a big part of a coding job is collaborating with others. She says, “I think people have this vision of software engineers who we’re in a dark room coding by ourselves all the time, which is the vibe sometimes. I’m not going to lie. Sometimes there’s a problem you need to hammer out with code. But a lot of the job is very collaborative and not solo work at all—a lot of planning, being a team player, communicating what you’re doing, and asking questions you might have so that people can help you.” By working on your teamwork and communication skills, you’ll be better equipped to deal with these aspects of a coding job.
Other soft skills can be useful too, in coding and in almost any other job. Some other important soft skills are adaptability, problem-solving, networking, listening, and public speaking. Soft skills can help you solve a variety of problems and can also help you maintain good relationships with other people. Indeed stresses, “These skills are equally important as technical abilities such as writing code and creating user interfaces. Soft skills complement technical skills by allowing one to identify the needs of team members and organise ideas for developing programmes.”
Coding is one of the most widely-used skills in industry today. As explained by Career Karma, “Coding is important because it is the bedrock upon which modern applications and software programs are built.” It is utilized in many different types of companies in Philadelphia, ranging from tech, to the life sciences, to advanced manufacturing, to finance. It is used for a wide range of purposes including managing and analyzing data, improving company functions, automation, and the creation of a wide variety of digital products. Career Karma says, “Coders are needed in every industry, from insurance to finance and from data analysis to marketing. Coding makes possible the development of the digital systems that support these industries.”
Coding plays an important role in tech, and Philadelphia has a growing tech scene. According to Greater Philadelphia, “The technology sector is booming in Greater Philadelphia. Every key technological innovation of the 21st century – robotics, ecommerce, artificial intelligence, advanced logistics, digital health, FinTech, telecommunications, you name it – can be found in our 11-county region.” The organization explains that the region has an excellent quality of life and supports innovation, and for these reasons, it has been attracting a high level of tech talent.
Many people don’t associate the life sciences with coding, however, there are many uses for coding skills within this field. Life sciences professionals regularly work with data, and they use programming languages to help them organize and analyze that data. The life sciences are one of Philadelphia’s key industries. Select Greater Philadelphia reports, “Ranked among the top 10 life sciences markets in the U.S., Greater Philadelphia is home to world-class research institutions, inventors of breakthrough medical treatments and technology, and 15 major health systems.”
Philadelphia is also known for its advanced manufacturing, and coding plays a key role in this industry, where it helps companies streamline and automate their processes. Select Greater Philadelphia reports that the area is home to more than 5,600 manufacturers and employs more than 190,000 people. Companies with manufacturing operations in the area include Dow Chemical, Boeing, Merck, and Pfizer.
Coding is also used in finance. Programmers use applications and coding languages to analyze financial data. FinTech—short for “financial technology”—is a term that has recently been coined to describe the use of technology in finance. Financial services is one of Philadelphia’s key industries. Select Greater Philadelphia says, “Located at the heart of one of the most vital regions in the nation’s economy, Greater Philadelphia’s financial services industry has deep roots and far-reaching ambitions. Our region is the home base of world-class financial services companies like Colonial Penn, Delaware Funds by Macquarie, FS Investments, Lincoln Financial, Radian, SEI, and Vanguard.”
Software Engineers use coding to create operating systems, games, and other types of applications and software. Some create products for computers, and others work on operating systems. Mobile Developers create software for mobile devices. According to Payscale, a Philadelphia Software Engineer earns approximately $88,000 yearly.
This is a rapidly growing job field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (the BLS), a federal agency that collects and analyzes statistics about the U.S. job market, predicts that between 2022 and 2032, software development jobs will grow by 25 percent, which is much faster than the average job growth rate of only 3 percent. It says, “Increased demand for software developers, software quality assurance analysts, and testers will stem from the continued expansion of software development for artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, and other automation applications.” In addition, it notes, “Software developers, software quality assurance analysts, and testers are likely to see new opportunities because of the increasing number of products that use software. For example, software systems continue to be built for consumer electronics and other products, including IoT-connected devices and electric vehicles.”
Web Developers create and maintain websites. There are many different specializations within this field. For instance, Front-End Developers work on the front-end of a site, which is the part that users see and interact with. Back-end Developers work on the back-end, which is not seen by users but is essential to the operation of the site. Full Stack Developers know how to work with both the front-end and back-end. Glassdoor reports that a Web Developer in the Philadelphia area earns about $98,000 per year.
According to the BLS, over the next ten years, Web Developers will see 16 percent job growth. The agency attributes some of this growth to increasing ecommerce. In addition, it says that the popularity of mobile devices plays a role. It explains, “The continued use of mobile devices to search the web is expected to generate demand for web developers and digital designers to create websites and interfaces that work on mobile devices with many different screen sizes.” Philadelphia is one of the top-paying metropolitan areas for Web Developers, according to the BLS.
Data Scientists collect and analyze information to extract insights from it. They use math, programming, and communication skills. In addition to analyzing data, they work on new models to use for their analysis. Skilled Data Scientists are highly sought after. The yearly wage for a Philadelphia Data Scientist is about $98,000, as reported by Payscale.
Like other coding-related jobs, data science is expected to see strong job growth in the future; the BLS predicts 35 percent growth in this field between 2022 and 2032. The agency explains, “Employment growth for data scientists is expected to stem from an increased demand for data-driven decisions. The volume of data available and the potential uses for that data will increase over the projections decade. As a result, organizations will likely need more data scientists to mine and analyze the large amounts of information and data collected.”
A Security Analyst monitors an organization’s computer systems and helps keep data safe. They do this through a variety of methods including creating data encryption methods, testing security, installing firewalls, and investigating security breaches. They also develop security standards and may help educate employees about how to protect company security. According to data provided by Glassdoor, an Information Security Analyst in Philadelphia has a yearly salary of about $132,000.
The BLS predicts 10 percent growth in this career over the next ten years. It says, “As organizations across the economy continue to rely on information technology (IT), computer systems analysts will be hired to design and install new computer systems.” U.S. News & World Report lists this career as one of the 20 Careers with the Most Job Security Right Now.
If you’re based in the Philadelphia area and you want to take a coding class, there are numerous options. Some classes run in-person, while others are offered in a live online format.
For students who are interested in coding in relation to artificial intelligence, the University of Pennsylvania College of Liberal and Professional Studies offers an Artificial Intelligence Bootcamp. The program features a market-driven curriculum. Students work on real-world projects and learn skills that can be used across a wide range of different industries. Students will learn about programming for artificial intelligence, which includes Python. They will also learn about making predictions with data, machine learning optimization, and AI ethics. In addition, deep learning and natural language processing are covered. The course will also cover a variety of emerging topics such as generative AI and applications outside the computer. This school also offers a CyberSecurity Bootcamp, where students can learn coding skills for cybersecurity.
The Community College of Philadelphia offers a Coding Certificate. This is a multi-day course that is focused on HTML and CSS. Students take three classes. In Introduction to Coding, instructors cover the basics of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and students learn about their practical uses. The next class is HTML Fundamentals, where students learn many different HTML skills including hand coding, and using HTML tags. They will also learn to create a simple, multi-page website with images, text, and a navigation bar. The last class is CSS Fundamentals. This class covers web typography, formatting text, working with web colors, using Google fonts, working with class selectors, and inline, internal, and external CSS. Students also learn about working with elements, creating page layouts with elements, and the CSS box model.
Noble Desktop is a New York City-based school that offers a variety of different coding classes both in-person, at its Manhattan facility, and in a live online format. Its Full-Stack Web Development Certificate is a popular option. This course covers everything you need to know to create a website from scratch. You’ll learn both front-end and back-end skills. Some of the specific skills covered include HTML and CSS, JavaScript, MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js. You’ll also learn about databases, APIS, databases, server environments, and interactivity. Ten one-on-one mentoring sessions are included. As part of the course, you can also choose to attend Noble’s ||CPN834|| or ||CPN907|| for free. Finally, this hands-on program includes working on real projects that can be used for a portfolio. Noble Desktop is licensed by the New York State Education Department.
Another popular Noble Desktop option is the Software Engineering Certificate. This comprehensive, multi-week course is designed for students who want to become a Software Engineer or a Full Stack Developer. It covers front-end development, React Development, and Django (Python) Development. You’ll learn a variety of front-end tools including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You’ll learn how to use Flexbox and Grid for layout and adapting to different screen sizes, and Git for version control. In addition, you’ll learn about JavaScript, including data types, loops, and variables. Instructors will also cover the JavaScript library, React. As part of the course, you’ll create a working desktop application with React and deploy it using AWS. In this course, you’ll also learn about Python, including syntax, dictionaries, sorting algorithms, and custom functions. Finally, you’ll learn to use Django and Django Rest. Twelve one-on-one mentoring sessions are included, and you’ll also create a portfolio.
If you want to focus on Python, which is one of the most popular programming languages in the world, Practical Programming offers a live online course called Python Developer Immersive, which is designed to cover all the skills you’ll need to work as a Python Developer, a Software Engineer, or a Back-end Developer. You’ll learn to work with Python, Django, and Django REST, and you’ll also learn about Git, SQL, and other developer tools. Other skills in this course include custom functions, object-oriented programming, working with authentication, sorting algorithms, and using API endpoints. In addition, you’ll work on your own projects, with help from your instructor. The course also includes resume support and assistance in preparing for job interviews. Practical Programming also offers a ||CPN788||, which is designed for students who want to work as a React Developer or a Front-end Web Developer.
Fullstack Academy also runs coding classes in a live online format. Full-Time ||CPN827|| is a multi-week course where students can learn software engineering, build a professional portfolio, and gain industry experience. Covered skills include front-end development tools like HTML5, CSS, JavaScript, Git, and GitHub. Students also learn about web interface and design concepts and the front-end framework. In addition, the course covers back-end development and development libraries, which include JavaScript, JavaScript APIs, React, React Router, React Hooks, and Redux. Finally, there is a Capstone project, which is completed as part of a team of students. As part of the course, students also work on a portfolio, and they get professional career coaching.
General Assembly is another school that offers online coding classes. The Software Engineering Bootcamp covers coding languages, libraries, and frameworks. It is intended to prepare students to work in software engineering. Students learn to create a front-end application by using JavaScript frameworks such as Angular or React. They also learn to create full-stack applications using Python with Django, Ruby on Rails, and Express with Node.js. Other topics covered in this course include building secure applications, practicing version control, and safely modeling and storing data in NoSQL and SQL databases. Throughout the course, students will work on projects that they can include in a portfolio.
Tech Elevator offers a Coding Bootcamp. This is an online course designed to help students quickly learn a variety of full-stack development coding skills. Students learn Java, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and SQL. Instructors are industry professionals with extensive experience working in software development. This course is available in either a full-time or part-time option. Students also receive career coaching.
For students who want to learn coding skills for data science, UCLA Extension offers a ||CPN411||. This online program covers data management and visualization, statistical models, and machine learning. Students learn to work with Python, R, and Tableau. They learn about big data, building forecasting models, and applying machine learning techniques. There are three required courses; Introduction to Data Science, Exploratory Data Analysis and Visualization, and Big Data Management. Students also choose one machine learning course. The course also includes online career services. Students can choose to enroll in the standard program, or the intensive ten-week program.
Noble Desktop also runs a data science-related coding class. The Python for Data Science Bootcamp is a multi-day course designed for students who want to work in data science or machine learning and covers both basic and advanced Python skills. Students learn to structure programs and work with arrays and dataframes, including using NumPy and Pandas. They also learn about analyzing and filtering data, which includes filtering and cleaning it, and using data science libraries like Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib. A one-on-one training session is also included.
Employees who can code are a valuable addition to almost any company. If you’re interested in training existing employees in coding, Noble Desktop offers several different corporate coding training programs. You can choose from onsite or live online training, and can either select from one of Noble’s existing courses or customize a training program to suit your unique needs. All classes are run by experienced professionals who have extensive real-world experience. Scheduling options are flexible and include weekday, weeknight, and weekend options. Students will also receive support materials to use after the training is complete, including handouts and access to training videos.
If you’d like to give your employees more flexibility, you can also opt to purchase vouchers for Noble’s regular group classes and let them enroll individually. With this option, you can choose which classes are available to employees. There is a discount with the purchase of multiple vouchers. To get more information about corporate training options, or to schedule a free consultation, email Noble Desktop.