This language has applications for tasks like data extraction, web testing, AI research, internet development, interface customization, and quick system integration. Python skills can open the doors to data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and software development careers. This open-source, object-oriented language is considered relatively easy to learn and use, contributing to its popularity. Even though it’s a high-level language capable of performing a range of complicated tasks, its clean syntax makes it a go-to for those new to programming and coders with years of experience. Not only are Python skills in-demand in a variety of careers, but those who know how to work with this language earn competitive, six-figure salaries. In the US, Python Developers earn $114,000 a year; Python Architects make $174,000 annually. Pursuing a certificate or certification in Python is a great first step in your career path.
General Assembly: Python Course
Key Information: Python Course, which is offered by General Assembly, is available online and in Miami for those interested in acquiring Python fluency. This class takes 40 hours to complete. Coursework can be completed through ten weeks of evening classes or on a one-week, rigorous, accelerated class format. Tuition is $4,500. Flexible financing plans are available. No prerequisites are required. Before class starts, students are provided with self-paced prep material that will cover basic Python concepts and provide a common course vocabulary, so all participants can be comfortable working with Python right from the start of class.
This beginner-friendly class gives participants a deep dive into core object-oriented programming and Python concepts. Python Course uses a “learn-by-doing” framework in which students become familiar with the latest Python techniques being used in the field. The curriculum is designed to focus on real-world Python applications. Those enrolled complete labs, code-alongs, and various projects that were created to prepare them for using this language in a professional setting. In the final unit, students become familiar with how Python can be used for web development and data science. Students also complete a final capstone project, which entails building an application from scratch. For this project, students either use Flask to integrate APIs into web applications or perform data manipulation and visualization using Pandas.
At all stages of the learning process, those enrolled in this program receive feedback and guidance from expert instructors, who are available both in class and during office hours for real-time support. In addition to hands-on Python training, this comprehensive program also connects participants to a global network of peers and nearly 100,000 alumni. Those who graduate from this class earn an industry-recognized certificate.
Noble Desktop: Python Developer Certificate
Key Information: For those who wish to pursue a career as a Back-end Developer, Software Engineer, or Python Developer, Python Developer Certificate offers hands-on training. This program costs $3,995. Financing options are available. Students should be familiar with HTML and CSS (equivalent to Noble Desktop’s Web Development with HTML & CSS course) as a prerequisite to study. It’s also helpful to know another programming language, though this isn’t a requirement for study. This class is available in the live online format. Certificate study takes 90 hours to complete during three weeks of full-time study. A free course retake for up to one year is included in tuition.
Those enrolled in the Python Developer Certificate become familiar with how Python can be used with tools like SQL, Django, Django REST, and Git for software development. The first week of this intensive program offers an overview of Python syntax. This program then progresses into more advanced Python skills such as working with dictionaries, custom functions, and sorting algorithms. During week two, students become familiar with object-oriented programming, using SQL to communicate with web databases, and using APIs.
Participants in this program not only receive live, hands-on training from an instructor with industry training working with Python, but they also have the chance to build a professional portfolio during this class. The lead instructor helps students complete several class projects that can be included in their portfolios. Learners also study Django for back-end web programming. By the end of this certificate, students will be familiar with querying models, task automation, and URL dispatchers. Additionally, they will be able to use Django REST when working with images, authentication, and API endpoints.
This certificate provides more than in-class instruction and portfolio development; students also get four individual mentoring sessions that can be used for additional support. Some participants elect to use this time to revisit complicated Python course material, whereas others use these sessions for professional development such as help with their resume or LinkedIn profile, professional portfolio, or job application questions.
Practical Programming: Data Science Certificate
Key Information: Practical Programming offers Data Science Certificate for those who are interested in an entry-level career in Python engineering or data science. Tuition is $3,995. Options for financing and flexible payment plans are available. It takes 114 hours to complete this class. All students can take a free course retake for one full year, which is included with tuition. This class is available in the live online learning format. It takes 21 full-day sessions to finish this program.
Data Science Certificate prepares students to work with a range of programming skills needed to analyze data and manipulate databases. Coursework begins with an exploration of Python fundamental concepts and how to analyze data using Pandas, Matplotlib, and NumPy. In addition to learning these three main data science libraries, students also become familiar with creating predictive models based on data with the help of scikit-learn and other machine learning packages. This program also teaches learners how to create and interpret queries and prepare and clean data so it is ready for Python analysis. Those enrolled also learn how to use Python to automate recurring tasks such as updating, aggregating, or formatting data. By the end of this intensive program, students will be able to apply machine learning algorithms to data and determine how machine learning models are performing. They also will be familiar with advanced techniques like stored procedures and subqueries.
This certificate consists of several individual courses: Python for Data Science Immersive, Python Machine Learning Immersive, Python for Automation, and SQL Bootcamp. All participants in this certificate program also receive four one-on-one mentoring sessions. These can be used to ensure students stay on track with their learning goals and understand complex course material. They also can be used to help with professional portfolios, resumes, portfolios, LinkedIn profiles, or job application support.
Flatiron School: Data Science Bootcamp
Key Information: Data Science Bootcamp prepares students for a career in data science. Coursework is available in Miami as well as in the live online format. Tuition is $16,900 for this beginner-friendly program. Students can opt to pay upfront, with loans, or through installment plans. This bootcamp comes with a money-back guarantee. Coursework can be completed full-time over 15 weeks or part-time over 40 weeks.
Data Science Bootcamp provides in-depth training in a range of tools and skills needed to work in data science. This class begins with prep work designed to provide participants with foundational data science skills. Those enrolled then work with programming languages like Python and SQL for data analysis and engineering. Instruction is provided on quantitative methods and scientific computing, which includes how to use NumPy and SciPy. The next portion of this class explores machine learning basics such as using artificial intelligence to create statistical models capable of offering predictions on unseen data. In the advanced machine learning portion of the bootcamp, learners move into advanced AI models.
The final unit in this class is devoted to a capstone project. This allows students to apply the skills they have acquired and use them toward an independent machine learning project that can be included in their professional portfolio to share with potential employers. Tuition to this program includes professional development, as well as job support. All students are paired with a one-on-1Career Coach for 180 days after graduation.
FAQ for Python Certificates
What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?
If you’re interested in studying Python, you may have heard of certificates and certifications but may not be sure what the difference is between them. Python certification involves paying a fee and signing up to take an exam. This test is offered by a third party that is unaffiliated with any school or institution. There are no formal requirements for preparing for this test. Students who are less familiar with Python will likely need to spend many hours preparing for the test. On the other hand, if you have an educational background working with this scripting language or have used it in a professional setting, you may require less test prep time. Although there isn’t a formal requirement for exam preparation, some students wish to enroll in a training program that is designed to teach core Python skills and prepare them to sit for the test. One certification learners choose to pursue is the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP). This exam tests students on a range of commonly used Python definitions and terms. To pass the test, you must know Python’s logic, operations, structure, runtime environment, variables, and functions, among other skills. Those who earn at least 70% receive Python certification.
Earning a certificate in Python requires a different process. Certificates are comprehensive programs that provide Python training. Some certificate study focuses exclusively on this one programming language; others are broader in scope and provide instruction on a range of data science skills and tools, like machine learning, SQL, statistics, data analytics, and AI. Depending on the provider, some certificate programs are taught live online in Zoom or a similar teleconferencing program. Others are available in-person. Certificate programs vary in length and price. Some programs take just weeks to complete, whereas others may require months of rigorous study. Coursework is often available full-time and part-time to accommodate various scheduling requirements. Tuition to certificates can run anywhere between $3,000 and $17,000, depending on the focus and provider. One of the main benefits of certificate study is that some programs provide much more than hands-on training in Python; they also offer students career support such as help with resumes, professional profiles, interview prep, and one-on-one mentoring. All participants who graduate from these programs earn a certificate.
Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?
Deciding between certificate study and certification in Python is an important consideration you may face as a learner. It’s important to consider several key factors to make the most informed decision. If you’re interested in learning Python for your current job or in using this programming language in a new career path, certificate study can be a great way to prepare. Certificate programs offer condensed, hands-on training to teach you to program with Python in just a few weeks or months. If you didn’t study programming in college or have not had a chance to enroll in a formal training program, you may have gaps in your Python training that a certificate program could help fill.
Even though not all employers require applicants to have a Python certificate, earning this credential provides you with essential training and is a great way to demonstrate to employers that you’re qualified for the job at hand and can begin putting your Python skills to work immediately. Whereas college coursework costs over $36,000 a year, Python certificates cost a fraction of this. They also often provide learners with professional development incentives such as career counseling, job search advice, or support crafting resumes and cover letters.
Python certification is another way to show potential employers that you’re dedicated to learning Python. Although not all jobs require that applicants earn professional certification in this language, achieving this designation is a great way to show that you really know Python. If you are applying for a job and competing against other equally qualified candidates who lack this credential, Python certification can be the factor that sets you apart from everyone else. It shows employers that you have devoted time and effort to acquiring fluency with this language and have the dedication and motivation to pass a difficult test. Moreover, Python certification is transferable to other jobs that you may apply for in the future. Since the exam is proctored by a third party, it’s a respected and universally recognized way to show you’ve mastered this language.
Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?
One of the most important considerations you may have when deciding whether to pursue a Python certificate or certification is whether doing so will make you a more competitive job applicant. Since every employer has their own unique set of requirements they seek in prospective employees, it’s important to do research to see what they are looking for in applicants. Whereas some may specify that they want those with a specific credential like a certification or certificate, others may instead ask applicants to demonstrate their Python background in their cover letter, resume, or interview.
If you didn’t attend college, or if your college major was in a field unrelated to programming, certificates and certifications may help your chances of employment, regardless of whether they’re required. Completing certificate coursework or studying for a Python certification exam can prove that you’ve acquired a set of programming skills that can be applied professionally. The weeks or months spent acquiring hands-on Python training in a certificate program or studying to pass the PCEP exam is an investment in your ongoing education and will make you a more well-rounded, competitive job candidate. These credentials are a great way to set yourself apart from other job applicants and make your resume stand out from the pile.
What Certificate Program is Right for Me?
Once you’ve decided to enroll in a Python certificate program, the next step is choosing the one that’s best for you. Many study options are available in-person and online, so it’s essential to consider several factors when selecting a class. This decision will depend on the kind of learner you are, how flexible your work schedule is to accommodate studies, and what your goals are for pursuing a certificate.
Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes?
There are two ways to learn Python: through online training or in-person coursework. Each has its own benefits as well as drawbacks.
Live online Python classes are taught using a teleconferencing platform like Teams. Participants connect with an expert instructor, who is there in real time to lead the class discussion, answer questions, and even share their screen (with permission) if they need additional support. Since all coursework is virtual, there’s no need to sit in Miami rush-hour traffic, waste time and money on parking, or even leave the comfort of your home or office space to study Python. One important consideration when studying Python through live online certificates is that you still must be available to attend regularly scheduled classes. This may mean rearranging your schedule or taking time off work to make it to meetings.
If you’re an extroverted learner who enjoys studying in the classroom environment, in-person certificate programs are a great option. This interactive training format takes place in a training facility, which is usually located in or near a major city. Students not only have access to computers with Python and other related tools installed, but they also have access to an instructor and cohort of learners. This provides a sense of support and community. In-person Python classes provide a platform where you can ask any questions you have as they occur and get an immediate answer. It’s important to remember that in-person certificates require attending class that meets regularly, which will require a commute. It also may mean spending a bit more on your studies to cover gas, parking, tools, or other transportation-related fees. This learning format, therefore, may be challenging if you don’t live near the Miami metro area or if you lack reliable transportation.
Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?
There are two formats for online Python coursework: live online and asynchronous. Live online coursework is synchronous and provides you with real-time access to the instructor. You can ask questions in the moment and even opt for screen-sharing with the instructor (with permission) for additional support. Since this form of Python coursework is completely online using a teleconferencing platform, you’ll never have to battle rush-hour Miami traffic or waste time searching for parking to attend class.
Asynchronous Python classes are the most flexible way to learn this programming language. The instructor records lessons earlier, and you can access them as time permits. This means that you can determine when you wish to study and your own learning pace, which is not possible in live online Python classes. You may wish to study Python for an entire weekend or opt instead to spread your studies out during your lunch break at work. An additional perk of asynchronous material is that you can pause, rewind, and rewatch entire videos or lessons to help you retain the presented information. Asynchronous content doesn’t provide access to an instructor, though, which can make it challenging for some learners to learn Python exclusively in this format. This is why some opt to begin their Python studies with self-paced content, then eventually progress into live coursework at a later time to fully master more complex computer programming concepts.