Which Python Training Format Is Right for Me?

When comparing types of Python training, there are many factors to consider. Everyone learns differently, and choosing the right kind of training is critical to your experience.

One of today’s fastest-growing programming languages, Python is crucial for fields like data science, cybersecurity, and web development. Keep reading to find out more about the different formats of Python training, how they compare to each other, and how to determine which is best for you.

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.

Training Formats for Python

Thanks to this essential language’s ease and popularity, you can find numerous Python training options. From most expensive to least expensive, these include:

1. College or university degree programs
2. In-person or online bootcamps and certificates
3. On-demand or self-paced classes
4. Free online seminars, tutorials, and articles

While free or on-demand options can provide a solid introduction, most students find they require a comprehensive course of Python training, whether in-person or live online.

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

Python beginners often find various ways to learn this essential programming language, and many novices start with free online resources like blog posts and video tutorials. Many Python learners begin with free tutorials and videos. It makes sense that novices should learn a few things about their subject before committing to a paid program. Start with Noble Desktop’s YouTube channel, which offers an entire playlist of Python, data science, and SQL webinars and tutorials. Blog posts provide significant benefits for those who learn best by reading, and Noble’s Python Blog hosts valuable information as well.

While not as popular as the intensive bootcamp model, learning Python through self-paced training has become a viable option thanks to the many courses available on-demand through providers like Noble Desktop. These programs often focus on an attendee’s level of learning, which may include beginner (apprentice), intermediate (journeyman), or advanced.

Read the full guide on how to learn Python.

Comparison of Python Training Formats

Most students prefer a comprehensive approach when learning Python, with in-person programs leading the way, followed by live online training via teleconferencing. Students of virtual courses can learn anywhere but with the same guidance and feedback as an in-person class.

Other primary factors include why you’re learning the topic, the cost of training, and the opportunity to network with instructors or peers. Learning Python may be easy, but using it in real-world applications in the classroom can provide the greatest benefit.

All Python libraries and frameworks are available free of charge, but knowing which ones to choose can be overwhelming. Though you don’t have to invest money to download Python or watch free online seminars, most students need to take a class to get the most out of this essential programming language.

Is it Possible to Teach Yourself Python?

In a word: yes. You can learn Python all by yourself.

Many students start learning Python fundamentals by watching video seminars or tutorials. However, to fully grasp Python—especially if you are learning it for professional reasons—you’ll need an instructor with Python expertise who can give you the best information about its libraries and frameworks.

To determine the best training method for your learning style, it’s crucial to weigh the advantages and drawbacks of a variety of options.

How to Decide the Best Way to Learn Python

To choose the best method for learning Python, you should know how and where you want to apply this essential programming language. While beginners may not want to incur any costs, they can only get a general overview from free tutorials, like Noble’s Intro to Python Fundamentals seminar.

If you want to develop Python expertise, either to start a career or level up from a

current role, consider a bootcamp or certificate program. Because Python’s application reaches so many fields, your choice will depend on your career path. Check out Python-centered programs from Noble Desktop like:

• Data Science Certificate
• Python Developer Certificate
• Python for Data Science Bootcamp
• FinTech Bootcamp
• Software Engineering Certificate

Other factors in the decision may include your budget, availability, current skill set, and whether you prefer live online or in-person training.

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.