The number of options for learning Python might be overwhelming at first glance. There are books, video tutorials, classes, and more to choose from; it all depends on your learning style and personal preferences. The good news is that there’s an option for everyone who is committed to learning, regardless of their schedule or current skill level.
Here, we’ll discuss the various methods of learning Python so you can decide how you’d like to get started.
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-Person Python Training
Many tech students prefer the traditional in-person classroom approach, particularly those learning their first computer programming languages. Perks include a comfortable learning environment, equipment provided for students, and the opportunity to interact face-to-face with instructors and peers alike. If there’s a drawback to this engaging method, it’s travel time, especially if the location is far from your home or work.
Students new to Python programming can approach this language in a variety of ways. Some tech roles require a college degree, whereas others may require the type of training students can get months or even weeks through a bootcamp or certificate program. Noble Desktop offers multiple Python training classes, including a Python for Data Science Bootcamp, Python Developer Bootcamp, and FinTech Bootcamp. You can also learn Python as part of a broader curriculum through Noble’s Data Science Certificate program.
Live Online Python Training
Among the most popular methods of learning Python, online courses and certificates offer a host of benefits. First, they’re live and interactive, providing hands-on experience in a dynamic learning environment. Expert instructors give you all the materials you need and can give real-time answers to all your questions, and you can learn from the comfort of your home or office. One potential drawback to online learning may be a slightly lower level of engagement for students who like to be in an actual classroom surrounded by their peers.
As for live online training options that include Python, you’ll find a variety of them using Noble Desktop’s Classes Near Me search tool. Noble hosts many of these at its Madison Avenue campus in New York City, but if you can’t attend in person, you can catch them live online through teleconferencing. Consider the following options that emphasize Python or include it as part of a broader curriculum:
- Data Science Certificate - One of Noble’s most popular programs, this course includes Python training as part of a more comprehensive data science curriculum and can be completed in three weeks full-time or three months part-time. Here you can learn Python fundamentals like database analysis, automation, and formatting. You’ll also master other topics like SQL and machine learning.
- Python for Data Science Bootcamp - This immersive bootcamp covers topics like Boolean Operations, linear regression, and data visualization and can be completed in 30 hours. Students can save by taking this bootcamp as part of the Data Science Certificate, FinTech Bootcamp, or Data Analytics Certificate.
- FinTech Bootcamp - Students looking to train in financial analysis, business analysis, or machine learning models can get their Python training as part of this intensive program. The FinTech Bootcamp is open to beginners, but applicants should be familiar with finance concepts like net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR).
For other virtual Python programs, check out the Python Intro from Ziggourat Formation, Practical Programming’s Python for Data Science Immersive, or the Introductory Python course from NYC Data Science Academy.
Free Online Courses & Tutorials
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.
On-Demand Classes
On-demand or self-paced training offers yet another way of getting started with Python. Unlike in-person or live online coursework, on-demand classes typically fall into three categories:
- Free of charge
- Paid
- Subscription-based
With subscription-based services, on-demand classes may be included as part of your subscription to a particular platform like Skillsoft or LinkedIn Learning. Current on-demand offerings include courses like Python for Developers, Making a Twitter Bot in Python, and Data Visualization for Web Apps Using Python.
On-demand or self-paced courses can offer a solid foundation for learning Python programming and typically cost less than comprehensive bootcamps. However, without instructor feedback or student accountability, most students find them more of a stepping stone than a primary educational approach.
Which Learning Method is Right for Me?
With so many different resources available to help beginners learn Python, you might not know which one will work best for you. Depending on your learning style and preferences, you can always experiment with multiple alternatives to see which one feels right. One of the best aspects of self-directed learning is choosing which combination of tools you prefer; you don’t have to stick with what your teacher decides.
It’s also important to consider your current schedule before you select a specific method to learn Python. If you already have a full-time job, family obligations, or other commitments, you might find it challenging to devote time to a structured Python course that requires you to attend at the same time every day. In cases like these, a self-paced class or video tutorial may be the best way to begin, as you can access them whenever time permits. On the other hand, those with more flexible schedules may prefer a structured course offered either in-person or live online.
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.
Level of Difficulty, Prerequisites, & Cost
You might think Python will be difficult to master, especially if you lack coding experience. Fortunately, Python is one of the easiest programming languages to learn. You can master Python fundamentals in a few months or even less, though learning its many frameworks and libraries may take longer.
Before you begin studying Python, you should have a plan for how you’ll apply your newfound skills. Python training for a Data Scientist differs from that of a Financial Advisor or Cybersecurity Analyst. It’s also important to have basic computer skills, but your operating system won’t cause problems; Python runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Python is one of many programming languages available for free. You can download its libraries and frameworks at no cost whatsoever. While you can find many free online Python seminars and tutorials, you’ll eventually want to enroll in some form of paid training. Python bootcamps and certificate programs provide hands-on experience, and you can master it in months or even weeks for under $5,000.
Read about how difficult it is to learn Python.
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.
Key Takeaways
- Python sits atop many lists as one of the fastest-growing programming languages worldwide.
- Learning Python is easy thanks to its simple yet elegant syntax, adaptability, and the high demand for Python skills in the job market.
- Top fields requiring Python expertise include data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence, game development, and back end web development.
- The best ways to learn Python, in order of maximum engagement, are:
- In-person bootcamps or certificate programs
- Courses delivered live online via teleconferencing
- Free online courses and tutorials (live or prerecorded)
- On-demand/self-paced courses
- Choosing a method for starting Python training should be based on factors like availability, budget, and learning style.