Learning Python fundamentals takes time. Although some novices start with a clear roadmap, most Python learners need formal instruction. Finding the best Python course will depend on a student’s budget, availability, and preferred learning style. 

Full-time courses include bootcamps and certificate programs, many of which are also available part-time. On-demand learning—also called self-paced or asynchronous training—is another option. Read on to learn more about the different types of Python courses and how long they take.

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 data analysis, automation, and other tasks. Python is an object-oriented programming language (OOP), which means it organizes around data (objects) instead of functions or logic.

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 require Python expertise. Read more about why you should learn Python.

Benefits of Learning 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, 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 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 and Matplotlib. As companies become more data-driven, the need for visualization tools and the move to artificial intelligence make Python one of the most attractive, flexible tools.

How Long Do Python Courses Last?

Determining how long it takes to learn Python can be a challenging task. Some sources estimate that a beginner can learn Python fundamentals in a few hours, while others say it takes as long as eight months. These extreme ranges don’t match the data: most learners can get Python basics in a few weeks, but you can spend the rest of your life mastering advanced Python skills.

To learn usable Python skills, including libraries and frameworks, you’ll need at least 25 to 35 hours. That includes development or data science fundamentals, an understanding of object-oriented programming (OOP), and practical programming tasks. Many Python beginners get all of these through an intensive bootcamp.

Different Courses with Different Schedules

Factors that affect the length of Python training include the delivery method and depth of instruction. With self-paced classes, the student controls the schedule, and what one person learns in a month might take another learner three months.

Bootcamps and certificate programs typically run from 30 to over 100 hours. If you take one full-time, the shortest may be completed in a week, whereas the longest can run five or six months if taken part-time.

In-Person & Online Classes

In-person classes are among the most effective ways to learn Python or other programming languages. Typically available through course providers with multiple options, in-person courses can include bootcamps, and some are also available as part of broader data science or development certificate programs.

Live online training is another good option, comparable to in-person training. Many course providers host online live versions of their in-person classes. In-person and live online bootcamps and certificate programs are among the most popular methods of Python training.

One example of such a program is the Python for Data Science Bootcamp from Noble Desktop. This 30-hour course is appropriate for novices looking to break into Python data science. Those who want to learn as part of a broader data science or analytics curriculum can save by taking the bootcamp as part of the Data Analytics or Data Science Certificate. These programs are much longer, ranging from four weeks full-time to 24 weeks part-time.

Synchronous & Asynchronous Classes

Synchronous classes run live in-person or online, while asynchronous courses are available on the student’s schedule. Course providers may advertise asynchronous programs as on-demand or self-paced.

Because on-demand classes do not run on an instructor’s schedule, they can take many months to complete. However, many self-paced courses are only an hour long. You might find many examples of these seminars on your favorite course provider’s website. For example, Udemy offers a free course called Introduction to Python Programming. This on-demand program consists of less than an hour and a half of video, a worthy introduction for Python beginners.

Remember that most asynchronous or self-paced classes usually provide no instructor to answer questions: most are pre-recorded videos. If you need help, some course providers host a student-run community, but these are typically voluntary roles and may not have the expertise you need. For that reason alone, consider self-paced classes best for introductory knowledge and plan to attend a formal bootcamp or certificate program. 

Career-Focused & Skills-Focused Classes

Skills-focused courses typically focus on a single skill or group of skills. Career-focused programs, on the other hand, usually include multiple skill sets to prepare graduates for their careers. Many career-focused programs comprise several skills-based courses, like a data science or development curriculum.

A skills-focused class will usually run shorter than a career-focused class. For example, the Python for Data Science Bootcamp from Noble Desktop is a 30-hour program that teaches beginners Python fundamentals. However, a student who wants to learn Python as part of a broader data science curriculum can save by taking the Python for Data Science Bootcamp as part of Noble’s Data Science Certificate. This series focuses on Python fundamentals, machine learning models, and data visualization, preparing attendees for careers as Data Scientists or Data Analysts.

Introductory Classes & Immersive Courses 

Introductory Python classes and immersive programs often differ widely in length and focus. While shorter classes introducing Python may run in as little as an hour, longer courses teaching advanced Python skills take weeks or even months to complete.

Training centers frequently combine introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses into one long training program. For example, the Data Analytics Certificate from Noble Desktop features Python for Automation, Data Science, and Machine Learning bootcamps as part of a broader data analytics curriculum.

You might consider starting with a short Python course, like the Udemy Introduction to Python Programming class. However, if you want to learn Python for a predetermined career, an immersive bootcamp or certificate can give you the best value for your training investment.

Learn Python Skills with Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers in-person and live online Python training. Their Python for Data Science 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.

Students can save by taking the Python for Data Science Bootcamp as part of Noble’s Data Science Certificate program. The curriculum for this certificate also includes units on Python for automation, machine learning, and data visualization. In this intensive course, you’ll learn about SQL, along with libraries like Pandas, Matplotlib, and Scikit-learn.

Key Takeaways

• Python is one of the fastest-growing languages on the planet.
• Python training can take varying amounts of time, depending on the choice of course or series.
• Basics can take a few hours, but advanced skills take months or even years to master.
• To learn Python libraries and frameworks, consider programs that run at least 25-35 hours.
• Self-paced Python training can take more or less time, depending on your schedule.
• Bootcamps and certificates typically take 30-100 hours or longer.
• In-person and live online courses are among the most effective ways to learn Python.
• You can receive comprehensive Python training through Noble Desktop, either in person or online. Top options include:
• Data Science Certificate
• Data Analytics Certificate
• Python for Data Science Bootcamp
• FinTech Bootcamp