How to Learn Python Programming

The number of options for learning Python programming might be overwhelming at first glance. There are books, video tutorials, classes, and more to choose from; the choice all depends on your learning style and personal preferences.

Fortunately, Python is not only one of the most popular programming languages, but it’s also easy to learn. Here, we’ll discuss the various methods of learning Python programming so you can decide how you’d like to get started.

What is Python Programming?

Python has emerged as one of the most popular general-purpose programming languages worldwide. While Python is the language of choice for many Data Scientists and Data Analysts, it’s also essential for Web Developers and Software Developers. Python’s easy-to-use frameworks and libraries contribute to its success, and the worldwide community of Python pros ensures that novices can always find assistance.

The essential language ranks within the top three among those learning to code, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the average growth for Web Developers will be 13% from 2020 to 2030. Many of these jobs require Python programming skills. Other fields requiring Python include data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML).

Read more about what Python programming is and why you should learn it.

What Can You Do with Python Programming?

Python is a high-level programming language with numerous applications. Its ease of use and scalability make it a popular choice among Back End Developers, Game Developers, and Software Engineers, among others. Companies ranging from Disney to JPMorgan Chase and Comcast need Python development pros for tasks like developing software, testing automation code, and developing back end elements in coordination with Front End Developers.

The most common areas for Python programming experts to find employment include:

• Software Development - Software development with Python involves tools like Django, Git, and SQL. Software development professionals using Python can have titles like Python Developer, Full Stack Developer, or DevOps Engineer, among others. 

• Web Development - Python pros famously used frameworks like Django and Flask to develop sites for companies like Instagram, Pinterest, and Dropbox. Positions for Python web development pros include:

• Python Developer
• Back End Developer
• Solutions Architect
• Web Developer
• Game Developer
• Software Engineer
• Automation Engineer

• Game Development - Python game development frameworks include Panda3D, Pygame, and PyKyra, to name a few. Tech pros with Python and game development expertise may have titles like Python Developer, XR Developer, or Video Game AI Engineer. 

• Enterprise Applications -  Enterprise-grade apps built with Python include large technology stacks like Microsoft and Netflix. Titles for pros in this area include Applications Architect, Solutions Architect, and Enterprise Software Engineer, to name a few.

In-Person Python Programming Training

People who learn Python programming in a traditional classroom setting often report that they consider it the most effective way to learn. In-person training offers several advantages, including:

• A higher level of student engagement than other methods
• Stronger connections with fellow students and instructors
• Using course provider equipment

If traditional classroom training has a drawback, it’s the need to commute. More often than not, however, graduates of Python programs tend to prefer this method.

There’s no shortage of in-person Python programming training alternatives. Although some students choose a full-length degree program, many learn Python through an immersive bootcamp or certificate program. Noble Desktop offers several Python-centered options. They include a Python Developer Bootcamp, Python Developer Certificate, and FinTech Bootcamp.

Live Online Python Programming Training

Virtual live coursework is one of the most popular Python programming training options today. Online bootcamps and certificate programs offer numerous benefits. They are hands-on and interactive, with expert instructors who can provide feedback in real-time. You can learn from the comfort of your home or office, so you save money on gas and vehicle maintenance. 

If online training has a drawback, it may be a lower level of engagement than in-person education. Still, the ability to network with peers or mentors via instant messaging or collaboration platforms may replace the in-person experience to your satisfaction.

You’ll find a variety of live online Python programming courses with Noble Desktop’s Classes Near Me search tool. Consider the following options that emphasize Python or include it as part of a broader development curriculum:

• Python Developer Certificate - This in-depth certificate program prepares attendees for roles like Back End Developer, Python Developer, and Software Engineer. Topics in addition to Python programming include Django task automation, API endpoints, and SQL, among others. Before enrolling, students should be comfortable with HTML and CSS; see Noble Desktop’s course listing for more detailed prerequisite information.

• Python Programming Bootcamp - If you’re starting out in Python programming, this multi-day immersive course will give you the tools you need to succeed. The bootcamp provides training in object-oriented programming and other computer science fundamentals, then takes participants from beginners to experienced programmers. Students can save by taking this course as part of Noble’s Python Developer Certificate or FinTech Bootcamp.

Other programs that offer live online training include NYC Data Science Academy’s Introductory Python, BrainStation’s Python Programming Certificate, and an Introduction to Python Programming course from Certstaffix Training.

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

If you’re not yet ready to dive into an immersive bootcamp or certificate program, you can still get an overview of Python programming. You can start learning Python programming online with a course like Noble Desktop’s Intro to Python Fundamentals. In this free introductory course, you’ll learn fundamentals like:

• Installing Python with Anaconda
• How to run Python in Terminal
• Jupyter Notebook
• Numeric data types
• Best practices

With this webinar under your belt, you may want to continue with a more intensive program like Noble’s Python Developer Certificate, Python Programming Bootcamp, or FinTech Bootcamp. Additional options include Create Your First Python Program from UST and Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose from Princeton University.

Read about more free Python programming videos and online tutorials.

On-Demand Python Programming Classes

Another approach to beginner-level Python programming involves on-demand or self-paced training. Unlike in-person or online training, on-demand classes can be priced either individually or as part of a subscription model. There are also numerous free options available. 

Each type of on-demand option typically has its advantages and drawbacks, and it’s essential to note which are courses for beginners, intermediate programmers, or advanced programmers. Always check course listings and the syllabus before enrolling in an on-demand course.

Free classes are generally the shortest, about one to three hours long. Paid programs offer a broader range of expected time commitment and price, from $85 for a 25-hour Python Bootcamp to as much as $699 for a six-hour Python Certification course. With subscription-based services, on-demand classes may be included as part of a monthly paid subscription to a platform like Cloud Academy or DataCamp.

If there’s a drawback to on-demand training, it’s the lack of instructor feedback or student accountability. Most Python programmers use on-demand training as an introductory method, not a primary educational method.

Popular on-demand programs include Noble Desktop’s Exchanging Excel for Python, DataCamp’s Introduction to Python, and Simplilearn’s Python Tutorial for Beginners.

Which Learning Method is Right for Me?

With so many different resources available to help beginners learn Python programming, it can be challenging to decide which is best for you. Not everyone has the same learning style or preferences, and you can experiment with multiple tools to see which one feels right to you. An essential aspect of choosing a course of action is that you get to pick which combination of tools you prefer; you don’t have to stick with what an instructor selects.

If you’re in the initial phase of your Python programming education, you may want to do some research first to determine what type of position you want to get. Many courses include Python as part of a broader development curriculum; others cover Python fundamentals for a different field, like data science or analytics. Consider how you want to apply the knowledge you’ll gain before enrolling in a program.

It’s also essential to consider your current schedule before selecting a learning method. If you have a lot of responsibilities like a full-time job or family commitments, you may not be able to devote time to a structured course that requires you to attend at the same time every day. In this case, a self-paced class or video tutorials may be better since you can access them when your schedule allows. On the other hand, those with a more flexible schedule may prefer a structured course offered in-person or live online.

Why Learn Python Programming?

Python is a programming language with a diverse range of uses, particularly when you account for the amount of different libraries and frameworks available within the language. Learning Python fundamentals like scripts, variables, and modules will prepare you for learning frameworks like Web2Py and Pyramid and libraries like Scikit-learn, NumPy, and PyTorch. As companies in virtually every sector become more data-driven, the need for Python pros increases. Whether you plan to work in finance, manufacturing, or media, Python programming skills can help you excel.

Today Python is in-demand not only for Python Developers, Software Engineers, and Game Developers but also for Data Scientists, Cybersecurity Analysts, and Business Analysts. Companies even expect Python development professionals outside the data science realm to have skills like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and deep learning. Owing to this significant increase in demand, there’s never been a better time to start learning about Python—especially if you plan to work in web or app development.

Read more about why you should learn Python programming.

Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, & Cost 

Python has garnered a reputation as one of the easiest programming languages to learn. If you already know another language like C or JavaScript, you can learn it even faster. Programming novices often start with Python due to its beginner-friendly syntax and massive online support community. Python is an open source programming language and is therefore free for public use.

Strictly speaking, there are no prerequisites to learning Python programming. You can prepare for training by:

• Learning principles of object-oriented programming
• Making sure your computer is up to date for new downloads
• Researching complementary tools like SQL and Git

To learn Python programming while getting practical experience, consider enrolling in a bootcamp or certificate program. These high-level courses provide training from experts who can help you navigate Python libraries and frameworks while preparing you for an entry-level position.

Read on for more about how difficult it is to learn Python programming.

Learn Python Programming with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers numerous options for those looking to learn Python programming, both in-person and live online over teleconferencing applications like Zoom. They also provide a host of free resources online, including tutorials, seminars, and blog posts. 

Those interested in Python for development should consider one of the following options:

• Python Programming Bootcamp - The Python Programming Bootcamp features multiple days worth of hands-on intensive training. Participants new to Python learn the fundamentals of object-oriented programming and will create a portfolio of projects and code samples. There is no prerequisite for this bootcamp but students can save by taking this course as part of Noble’s Python Developer Certificate, FinTech Bootcamp, or Data Science Certificate.

• Python Developer Certificate - Noble Desktop’s Python Developer Certificate program is their flagship offering for Python programming on the server side. It combines the Python Programming Bootcamp with an advanced Python Web Development with Django course. The course has one prerequisite: attendees should feel comfortable with HTML/CSS, at the level offered in Noble’s Web Development with HTML & CSS class. Covered skills include:
• Django
• Django REST
• VS Code
• Git
• GitHub
• SQL

Additional programs that may be of interest to Python developers include:

• Python Web Development with Django 
• Software Engineering Certificate 

Those interested in Python for data science can get their training through multiple Noble Desktop programs, including: 

• Data Science Certificate
• Python for Data Science Bootcamp
• Python Machine Learning Bootcamp
• Python for Automation

Python for Finance and FinTech programs include: 

• FinTech Bootcamp
• Python for Finance Bootcamp

 

Python for Cybersecurity programs include:

• Cybersecurity Bootcamp
• Cybersecurity with Python
• Python for Network Security
• Offensive Security with Python

Noble Desktop’s bootcamps and certificate programs earn high marks from graduates. They are available live online or in-person in New York City. Additional perks include a Certificate of Completion upon graduation and free retakes for up to one year. Many certificates and bootcamps also feature 1-on-1 mentoring; check course descriptions for more details, including any prerequisite information.

Key Takeaways

• Python is not only one of the most popular programming languages, but it’s also easy to learn.
• Python is essential for web and software development, as well as data science and analysis.
• The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts the average growth for Web Developers will be 13% between 2020 and 2030.
• The best ways to learn Python programming, in order of maximum engagement, are:
• In-person bootcamps and certificates, like Noble Desktop’s Python Programming Bootcamp and Python Developer Certificate.
• Virtual live training, including bootcamps and certificate programs
• Free online courses and tutorials, like Noble’s Intro to Python Fundamentals course
• On-demand or self-paced classes, like Noble’s Exchanging Excel for Python
• You can receive comprehensive Python programming training through an in-person or live online course with Noble Desktop.