This beginner-friendly language is relatively easy to learn and has applications across various industries such as software engineering, data science, machine learning, and artificial intelligence. With more than 125,000 libraries, Python is a versatile language that can integrate with other languages such as Java and C. This language has a supportive online community with a plethora of online forums and meetups. Python Developers are in high demand at major companies. Those who know how to work with Python have a range of career options that offer competitive, six-figure salaries. One of the best ways to master Python is to study this language through certificate programs or to seek certification.
Noble Desktop: Python Developer Certificate
Key Information: Noble Desktop’s Python Developer Certificate is available for those interested in pursuing a career as a Python Developer, Software Engineer, or Back-end Developer. This class spans 90 hours and takes learners three weeks of full-time study to complete. As a prerequisite, students should know basic CSS and HTML coding skills such as those taught in Web Development with HTML & CSS. Additionally, it’s helpful to have knowledge of another programming language, though this isn’t required. Tuition is $3,995 for this program. Financing options are available. All participants can retake this class for free for up to one year.
Python Developer Certificate is available as an in-person program in New York City and in the live online environment. Participants work with Software Developer tools like Django, Django REST, SQL, and Git. Coursework begins with Python basics in the first week. Students explore Python’s lexical syntax before progressing into more advanced concepts like custom functions, sorting algorithms, and dictionaries. The second week of instruction covers how to work with APIs, object-oriented programming, and SQL for accessing web databases.
Over the course of this hands-on program, students cultivate in-demand Django skills with applications for back-end programming. Instruction is provided on URL dispatchers, task automation, querying models, and using authentication, images, and API endpoints with Django REST. During this certificate, students complete several portfolio projects under the guidance of one or more lead instructors.
In addition to instruction in the small group setting, this certificate provides participants with four one-on-one mentoring sessions. These sessions can be used at the student’s discretion to work on challenging concepts presented during class or for professional development. Some students opt to work on their LinkedIn profile or resume, whereas others focus on their professional portfolio or seek advice on the job application process.
NYC Career Centers: Data Science Certificate
Key Information: NYC Career Centers Data Science Certificate is available for those in Manhattan looking to learn Python programming alongside other data science tools.Â
Tuition is $3,999 and includes the option to retake this course for free for up to one year. Financing options are available. This certificate includes 114 hours of instructor-led coursework that takes two months of full-time or eight months of part-time study. No prerequisites are required. This class is also available in the live online format.
Data Science Certificate is for beginners who want to prepare for an entry-level Python engineering or data science position. This intensive program begins by helping students acquire Python programming basics and how to work with its core data science libraries to perform data analysis. Students explore how to clean data to prepare it for analysis, read and create advanced database queries, and use Python to automate repetitive tasks like aggregating and updating data. Coursework then progresses into machine learning concepts. Participants learn how to create machine learning models with their data and evaluate how they perform. They use Pandas to balance and clean data and work with the scikit-learn library to apply machine learning algorithms to real-world problems. Instruction is also provided on how to analyze data results to identify areas for improvement.Â
In the next portion of the Data Science Certificate, students create and share data visualizations and dashboards. To do so, they work with Python’s core dashboard and plotting libraries such as Dash Enterprise, Plotly, Matplotlib, and Seaborn. All students have the opportunity to deploy these projects online via GitHub so they can be seen by potential employers. In addition to teaching students a range of in-demand data science skills, this program also allows learners to tackle real-world projects that can be included in their professional portfolios. All participants also receive a one-on-one mentoring session in which they can revisit course material or receive help with their job application materials, LinkedIn profile, or professional portfolio.
BrainStation: Python Programming Certificate
Key Information: Python Programming Certificate provides participants with introductory-level Python training. This course requires no prerequisites. The cost of study is $2,950. Financing options are available. Students can complete this program in-person in New York City or opt to study in the live online environment. It takes five three-hour sessions to earn this certificate.
Python Programming Certificate begins with instruction on core Python concepts such as data types, algorithm basics, and syntax. During the first unit, those enrolled also become familiar with Jupyter Notebooks, which they will use to run code, complete examples and exercises, and learn to handle various data types. The second unit progresses into more advanced Python skills such as the ideas behind dynamic software. Unit three provides instruction on working with Python libraries and packages. Students also explore how to use PivotTables, data cleaning, and datasets.Â
To earn certification in Python, participants complete a collaborative project with this programming language. This involves using Python packages to complete end-to-end processing on a dataset. Participants work with other learners in their cohort and the instructor to import, organize, and clean data. They then apply course concepts to manipulate these data to return specified values and create a professional-looking data visualization. Those who successfully complete this program earn a BrainStation Python certificate.
Noble Desktop: Python for Data Science & Machine Learning Bootcamp
Key Information: Those interested in learning Python programming fundamentals can enroll in Python for Data Science & Machine Learning Bootcamp. This 96-hour program can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis. This program costs $3,495. Financing plans are available. All students can retake this bootcamp for free for up to one year after graduating. No prerequisites are required to enroll.
Over the course of this intensive bootcamp, students explore how to analyze data using NumPy, Matplotlib, and Pandas. Instruction is provided on how machine learning can be used to apply statistical analyses like regressions to create predictive models. This program also covers how to create data visualizations and dashboards.Â
During this hands-on program, students explore a range of useful Python skills and techniques. Instruction is provided on using Python to manipulate databases and execute different levels of analysis on the data collected. During the machine learning and automation portion of this class, Python programming skills are covered, including how to use scikit-learn to create predictive models. Students also become familiar with how Python can be used to automate recurring, everyday tasks like formatting, aggregating, and updating data. Participants work with real-life data in the final unit. They work with Seaborn, Matplotllib, Dash Enterprise, and Plotly to create dashboards and data visualizations that can then be deployed to GitHub, where they can be seen by employers.
Not only do bootcamp participants receive small class instruction, but they also have access to one-on-one mentoring during this program. All students receive four mentoring sessions in which they work one-on-one with an instructor to either drill down on complex class material or receive professional support. These sessions can be used to develop professional portfolios, revise resumes, improve LinkedIn profiles, or prepare for the job application process. Those who graduate from this bootcamp can pursue entry-level Python engineering and data science positions. This bootcamp is available in-person in New York City as well as in the live online training format.
FAQ for Python Certificates
What is the Difference Between a Certificate and a Certification?
If you’re interested in learning Python programming, you may have heard of certificates as well as certifications but might not be certain what the difference is. Certificates typically entail enrolling in a training course in which Python is taught. Some certificate programs teach Python skills exclusively, while others provide a broader focus and offer instruction on this programming language alongside other data science tools or skills such as data visualization, SQL, and/or machine learning. Certificate programs span different lengths, depending on the focus of the course and the provider. Some certificates take weeks to complete, and others may require months of study. Often, students have the option of completing their studies full-time or part-time. Python certificates are available in-person as well as in the live online format. In addition to intensive classroom instruction, these programs sometimes offer incentives like mentoring, career counseling, or professional support and development. Graduates of these programs earn a certificate.
Earning a Python certification is a much different process than completing a certificate program with this language. Certifications entail sitting for an exam that’s offered by a third party. Those who pass this test earn a certification, which is a professional credential that demonstrates the test-taker’s mastery of universal Python skills, semantics, and syntax. One such certification is the Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer certification (PCEP). To pass this test, students must show they know core Python definitions and terms, its structure and logic, variables, operations, data collections, functions, and runtime environment. Unlike certificates, which require completing coursework, there are no prerequisites to sit for a Python certification exam. Students can opt to complete a training course or rely on their own preparation and the programming skills they’ve acquired from work. For the PCEP, those who pay a fee and pass with a 70% or better score earn a certification.Â
Should I Pursue a Certificate or a Certification?
If you’re committed to learning to program with Python, you may not be sure whether seeking a certificate program or pursuing certification is more useful. The answer to this question is largely subjective and will depend on a host of factors. If you didn’t attend college, or if your college major was in a field outside of computer programming, pursuing certificate study can be an excellent way to learn this in-demand language. This is especially true if you’re interested in applying for Python programming jobs. Employers will likely expect to see that your education in some way involves learning the programming skills that are taught through certificate study. Certificates are also usually much shorter and less expensive than college study. Rather than spending over $36,000 a year on college study, certificates are often available for several thousand dollars and provide a much more focused educational path. Additionally, they can be completed in just weeks or months rather than four years.Â
If you already have a background working with Python, either at your current job or for previous employers, or if you studied computer programming or a related field in college, you may instead opt for a certification. Employers don’t always require this designation, but it can be an effective way to distinguish yourself from other applicants who haven’t earned this achievement. Additionally, the time spent studying Python to prepare for the exam is beneficial because it will help you revisit essential programming skills that are in-demand in many professional roles. Since a third party offers the exam, it’s a universally recognized achievement that indicates you’ve achieved an industry-recognized level of Python expertise.
Do I Need to Become Certified to Find a Job?
One important consideration with any educational training or certification is whether it will ultimately help you get a job. Because each employer’s expectations differ, it’s essential that you research the programming jobs you’ll be applying to determine what qualifications they are seeking in a candidate. If you need to acquire Python skills that you don’t currently possess, seeking a certificate is a good opportunity, regardless of whether employers require it. This is especially important if you didn’t attend college or don’t have any formal educational background with Python. While some employers may ask job applicants to have a certificate demonstrating their skills, others may simply ask for applicants’ qualifications at the job interview or search their resumes and cover letters to see their qualifications.Â
Python certification may also not be required by all employers. However, since the exam requires that test-takers possess a universally verifiable level of programming expertise and can apply these skills in real-world scenarios, earning Python certification is a great way to demonstrate you can contribute to their organization. Passing the exam shows you have the dedication and work ethic to study Python, apply what you’ve learned in a timed environment, and use these skills at a future time. The time spent studying for the exam or pursuing a certificate is all in service of becoming a better programmer and a more competitive job applicant. These credentials can also lead to higher-paying positions and a wider range of job opportunities.
What Certificate Program is Right for Me?
Choosing the certificate program that’s right for you can be challenging for some learners. Because so many learning options are currently available, finding the coursework that will benefit you most requires considering a few important points. First, you will need to explore what type of learner you are to determine whether in-person or online coursework is a good match for you and if you do better with the structure of live training or are okay with asynchronous content. Additionally, your learning goals and the specific skills you’re looking to acquire are also important factors to weigh.
Which is Better: In-Person or Online Classes?
Python coursework is available in the in-person format, as well as through live online training. Each of these types of instruction has its own benefits and drawbacks.
For extroverted learners who thrive in the traditional classroom environment, in-person Python classes are a great way to learn this language. Training is provided by an instructor who has industry experience writing Python code. You can ask questions as they come to you and receive on-the-spot feedback and support. Additionally, you have the benefit of learning Python alongside other students, which can provide additional support and a sense of community. In-person certificates do require that you commute to class for regularly scheduled meetings, which can require extra time and additional costs for parking, tolls, or gas. This training format also requires having reliable transportation, as well as living near a training facility. This may be prohibitive for those who live far from major cities or who don’t have access to a car.
If you prefer to study Python from your home or office space, live online classes are a great alternative to in-person study. They provide many of the same educational benefits as attending class in-person such as access to a live instructor and other students. You still have the chance to ask questions in real-time and receive immediate feedback. In this training format, you connect with an instructor using a teleconferencing platform like Zoom or Teams. You can even share your screen with the teacher (with permission) for additional help. When studying Python online, there’s never a need to battle rush-hour traffic or waste time searching for parking in New York City. However, This type of coursework requires that you attend classes that meet regularly. This may mean that you will need to arrange your work schedule to facilitate Python studies.
Which is Better: Live Online or Asynchronous Classes?
If you’ve already decided that you want to learn Python in the online environment, the next decision is whether to choose a live course or one with asynchronous content. Live online Python training options provide an engaging way to learn to code. Students benefit from a real-time connection with the instructor and other students attending the class virtually. There’s no need, even, to leave home to receive expert coding instruction. In live online Python classes, there’s an opportunity for all participants to ask questions and receive individualized support. This training format usually costs more than asynchronous material because of the supportive and interactive platform it provides for those who want to acquire Python skills.
Asynchronous Python training material is recorded at an earlier time and placed online. Those who enroll in a self-paced Python course can complete their studies at any time, any day, and from any location with an internet connection. On-demand content is the most flexible way to acquire Python training. You not only can determine how long you want to spend studying at any given time, but you also can set your own learning pace. Some students may opt to spend fifteen minutes at lunch watching Python tutorials or completing exercises, whereas other learners may wish to devote an entire weekend to mastering how this language can be used to visualize data. When learning asynchronously, you can pause and rewatch video content as often as necessary or even revisit entire lessons. This can help improve retention. It’s important to consider that online Python content can become outdated. This is why it’s important to research the coursework and provider before committing. Additionally, since no instructor is available in asynchronous classes, you will have to find answers to questions on your own. For most learners, self-paced Python content can be a good place to start. However, to fully master this programming language, enrolling in a more structured, live program may be beneficial.