A part-time schedule is often the only option for many Python beginners who want to enroll in a class or bootcamp.
In some cases, the difference between a part-time and full-time course is based on availability: the provider may currently offer only a full-time schedule.
However, many bootcamps and certificate programs are available in full-time or part-time formats, including evenings and weekends.
Some providers even offer customized schedules on a limited basis.
Part-time training offers several potential advantages over full-time coursework.
Many students and employees have work or school schedules that can't accommodate a full-time class schedule beyond one or two days.
Some course providers offer training in the evenings, on Saturdays, or on both.
One feature of attending a bootcamp or certificate program part-time is the opposite of the full-time experience: the pace of learning.
The immersive approach works well for many bootcamp participants, but some prefer a more gradual learning process.
Finally, a limited number of bootcamp students may be able to customize schedules that best fit their needs.
When this type of customization is available, it can be the perfect option for those with complex work, school, or family commitments.
For many, the drawbacks of learning any discipline part-time will be more apparent than the advantages.
One example of the difference is the immersive Noble Desktop Data Analytics Certificate.
While you can complete this in-depth program in just six weeks full-time, it requires 24 weeks if you enroll in the part-time evening format.
Of course, what may be a disadvantage for one person may be an advantage for another.
Learning style can also be a factor.
Another consideration is that not all bootcamp or certificate programs are available part-time.
For example, Noble Desktop's popular Python Developer Certificate program—recently awarded Best Python Bootcamp by Forbes Advisor—is available only in a full-time, weekday format.
The same may apply to other extensive programs such as the JavaScript Development Certificate or the Software Engineering Certificate.
Whether a part-time Python bootcamp or certificate program is right for you depends on numerous factors, including the type of Python training you need, your industry, how you plan to use Python, and your current skill set.
For example, the type of Python training you need may not require a full-time bootcamp or certificate program.
If you already work in a technical role such as in development or data science, you might need to upskill rather than start from scratch.
A full-time course might be the best option if you have no prior Python programming knowledge or experience.
Do you need to learn Python as part of a broader data science or development curriculum?
How you plan to use Python on the job is another important consideration.
If you want to learn Python for task automation, a part-time course might provide all the necessary information and hands-on training.
Your current skill set is another important factor.
However, you might have personal reasons for preferring a part-time option.
Are you already employed, or do you plan to seek an entry-level position after completing your Python training?
Learning Python can be challenging, whether full-time or part-time.
Part-time students may have nine-to-five jobs, family commitments, or other obligations that make full-time study impossible.
Consider the following resources and strategies for part-time learners.
- Time Management—Research essential soft skills for computer scientists, developers, and data analysts, and you'll often find time management near the top of the list.
- Look for time-saving strategies such as setting priorities, working on projects during pre-scheduled blocks of time, and using planning tools.
- Take advantage of available resources such as opportunities to interact with peers, when attending a class part-time.
- Explore the broader developer community through the Python website, including online forums, conferences, and mailing lists.
Students enrolling in a part-time Python bootcamp or certificate program face distinct challenges.
One consideration for part-time students is whether to choose in-person or live online classes when both options are available.
Due to their tight schedules and the broader availability of virtual coursework, many part-time learners prefer live online classes.
If they can avoid distractions at home, the virtual training model is typically ideal for part-time Python students.
You can complete this beginner-friendly certificate in 20 weeks part-time (approximately five months).
While the full-time schedule runs on weekdays, the part-time option is available in the evenings or on Saturdays.
The 30-hour program is also available to Saturday-only attendees.
Finally, the 30-hour Python Data Visualization and Interactive Dashboards module is available over one month if taken two nights a week.
You can save money by taking it as part of the Data Science or Analytics Certificate programs.
However, you can often save money by taking them as part of a broader certificate program, which may offer both part-time and full-time options.