Python is an open-source programming language, which means it’s completely free to use: you can download Python and its frameworks and libraries at no charge. You can also use free IDE and code editors with Python, like Visual Studio code (VS), PyCharm, and Atom.
Costs associated with learning Python involve mostly external factors, like upgrading a computer, taking a bootcamp, or obtaining a professional certification. If your computer is over five years old, consider upgrading even if it’s not crucial for Python. Most CPUs will run Python, but a higher resolution screen will allow you to display more lines of code.
Overall, however, your best bet is to invest in high-level training, like Python bootcamp or certificate.
What is Python?
Python is one of the fastest-growing programming languages on the planet. Data Scientists, Web Developers, and other tech professionals use Python for a range of tasks—from building websites to data analysis, automation, and machine learning. Like Java and Ruby, Python is mainly an object-oriented programming language (OOP), which means it organizes around data (objects) instead of functions or logic.
Thanks to its straightforward syntax, adaptability, and the urgent need for Python skills in today’s job market, this essential language ranks as the number one choice for those learning to code. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the average growth rate for Web Developers will be 13% between 2020 and 2030, and many of these positions demand Python. Other fields requiring Python include cybersecurity, software engineering, and business analysis.
Read more about what Python is and why you should learn it.
What Can You Do with Python?
Python is a versatile language with a host of applications, but the most well-known include:
- Data Science - Data science extends to numerous industries, and using Python to understand data is paramount. Python libraries like NumPy and Matplotlib enable Data Scientists and other professionals to use visualization to gain insights into data. Additional top Python libraries include TensorFlow, SciPy, Pandas, and Scikit-learn.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) - Machine Learning Engineers and Architects use Python to build models. At the same time, AI Engineers and Architects may need this essential programming language for everything from assessing AI solutions to advanced automation.
- Web Development - The use of Python in web development goes back to its beginnings. Frameworks like Django and Flask have famously provided web development for household name companies like Instagram, Dropbox, and Pinterest. Tech pros, including Developers, report that Python is easy to integrate with other languages like C/C++ and Java. Other top frameworks include Bottle, CherryPy, and Dash.
- Game Development - Frameworks for game development include Pygame, PyKyra, and Panda3D, but there are numerous others. Python continues to support the gaming industry in meaningful ways.
- Enterprise Applications - Enterprise-grade apps built with Python include leading technology stacks like Netflix, Microsoft, and Spotify.
In-Depth Review of the Cost
As a top programming language, Python continues to grow across the world. Its status as an open-source language makes it accessible to learn from anywhere, and a large support community has grown around it. Python’s many libraries and frameworks can be accessed easily, encouraging programmers to explore them. And the easy availability of free IDE and code editors makes Python a desirable alternative.
You most likely won’t need to upgrade your hardware unless you’re running a machine over five years old. A screen with 4K resolution can provide optimum viewing, but it’s not crucial. Python and its libraries will work on most desktops and even laptops.
The true investment in Python comes from taking a formal training program, either in-person or live online. Before diving in, however, you can avail yourself of some free articles and tutorials online to help orient you in the Python universe.
Check out free recorded classes like Noble Desktop’s Intro to Python Fundamentals seminar. Here, you’ll learn more about how to get started, including how to install Python and even write code. This seminar is a perfect way to prepare for investing in a full-length course like the Python Developer Certificate or Data Science Certificate programs, which run from $3,495 to $3,995.
Why Learn Python?
One of the world's most popular open-source programming languages, Python remains essential for nearly every industry, including public and private sector roles. Academia, electronics, government, manufacturing, and media are among the top areas where Python reigns. Python is an in-demand skill not only for Python Developers but also for Data Scientists, Software Engineers, Financial Analysts, and Cybersecurity Analysts.
Learning about Python fundamentals like scripts, modules, and variables prepares you for learning frameworks like Django and Flask, and libraries like NumPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib. As companies become more data-driven, the need for data visualization tools and the move to artificial intelligence and machine learning make Python one of the most attractive, flexible tools.
Read more about why you should learn Python.
Free Introductory Python Course Online
Whether you’re not ready to commit to a full-length bootcamp or certificate program or seeking an overview of Python before diving in, you might want to start learning about Python for free online. In Noble Desktop’s free Intro to Python Fundamentals seminar, you’ll learn how to install this popular programming language, how to get started, and essential related subjects like the Anaconda platform, Jupyter Notebook, and how to run Python in Terminal. Once you have that foundation under your belt, you may be able to take the next step with a Data Science Certificate or Python Developer Certificate.
Other free online courses include Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose from Princeton University; Data Processing Using Python from Nanjing University; and the University of Toronto’s Learn to Program: The Fundamentals.
Read about more free Python videos and online tutorials.
Learn Python with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop
Noble Desktop offers multiple ways to learn Python, both in-person and online through teleconferencing. They provide Python training as an essential component of areas like data science and analytics, FinTech, cybersecurity, and web development. Their Python Programming Bootcamp offers hands-on Python training in an immersive environment. Beginners learn Python fundamentals in this 30-hour bootcamp, where participants develop project-based coding portfolios. Graduates receive a verified Certificate of Completion and can retake the course for up to a year at no additional charge.
Students can save by taking the Python Programming Bootcamp as part of Noble’s Python Developer Certificate program. The curriculum for this certificate includes a 60-hour unit on Python Web Development with Django. In this intensive course, you’ll learn about URL dispatchers and automation, along with GitHub and SQL. Attendees should have some experience with HTML and CSS before enrolling.
Additional courses featuring Python include Noble Desktop’s Python for Data Science Bootcamp, FinTech Bootcamp, and Data Science Certificate program. Students planning careers in data science, data analytics, cybersecurity, or financial analysis should consider enrolling in one of these programs to get comprehensive Python training.