There are probably more courses in Python online than any other programming language - and for a good reason. This makes it tricky for students like you to know what to choose. Not all courses are good. This is why today I’ll introduce you to the best Python classes to take in 2023 on top e-learning platforms.
Python is everywhere. Google, Facebook, Netflix, Instagram, and Spotify just to name a few, use Python as the main programming language in their operations. Plus, users love it. Especially beginners. It’s easy, simple, versatile and cost-effective among oher things.
Python skills must be some of the most marketable skills you can acquire in this age of technology. In this article, you’ll find the best Python courses for beginners and intermediate students alike - there’s definitely something for you too!
Ready? Let’s find you the perfect Python course so you can get closer to achieving your goals!
Table of Contents
- 1. Python Classes: Why Take Them In 2023?
- 2. Python: Interesting Stuff You May Not Know About It
- 3. Quality Python Classes
- 4. Introduction To Python Programming Course (Enroll Here)
- 5. Introduction to Python Course for Data Science (Enroll Here)
- 6. Learn Intermediate Python Nanodegree (Enroll Here)
- 7. Intermediate Python Course for Data Science (Enroll Here)
- 8. 2023 Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python Course (Enroll Here)
- 9. Professional Certificate in Introduction to Python Programming (Enroll Here)
- 10. Conclusions
Python Classes: Why Take Them In 2023?
In 2023, Python is definitely worth your attention. It ranks as a #1 on the IEEE Spectrum’s list[1] of top programming languages according to popularity. To be fair, it’s not surprising, considering just how versatile Python is.
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What do I mean by that? Python can be applied in so many different fields. It’s a very dynamic language that supports multi-platform application development. Did you know that top websites including Youtube, Pinterest, Reddit, Dropbox, and Quora were built on Python?
Simple syntax and scalability as well as the fact that it’s an open source, object-oriented language make it a very attractive language across many industries. Also, there are more than 137,000 python libraries today, which are key players in developing machine learning, data science, data visualization, image and data manipulation applications and more.
Python goes beyond being a programming language for data science and web development. In case you’re wondering where else can Python be used, here’s a list of some real-world applications:
- Web Development
- Game Development
- Scientific and Numeric Applications
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Business Applications
- Data Science and Data Visualization
- Software Development
- Operating Systems
- Robotics
- Education
Of course, this list is not exhaustive. Though it does show you just how flexible Python is and how many different areas it can be used in. In fact, Python is most likely used in other areas too that I’m not yet aware of.
So, it’s fair to think that the demand for people with Python skills up their sleeve is probably not going to go down anytime soon. In 2020, Python's popularity grew by 2.27%[2], while Java's popularity decreased by -4.47%.
Instagram, Google, Netflix, IBM, Facebook, and Spotify are just some of the giant companies that use Python.
Not only is it the most versatile programming language. As I mentioned, its syntax is simple, making Python much easier to pick up than many others, especially if you’re a beginner.
Plus, it has an ever-growing community that is always there to help each other out and improve the system through constantly solving problems and making updates to meet the current market and user needs.
On top of that, there are probably more forums, online tutorials, webinars, and classes in python than any other programming language.
Python: Interesting Stuff You May Not Know About It
Here are some fun facts about Python that may spark your curiosity for this programming language even further!
- Why Is It Called Python?
If you thought the creator had an affection for some of the largest snakes in the world - think again. According to Guido Van Rossum, he named the language “Python” after the British comedy series "Monty Python’s Flying Circus". He's a big fan, it seems.
G. Van Rossum wanted something short, catchy and slightly mysterious, and I think we can agree that "Python" is all of these things!
- Unique Philosophy
When you start working with Python, try typing “import this” into your Python IDLE. What you should see is a poem by (yes, an actual poem!) written by Tim Peters. He wrote this poem as a guiding principle when writing Python code.
- Python More Popular Than French
Believe it or not, in 2015, Python surpassed French as the most popular language taught in elementary schools. A UK survey[3] revealed that 6 out of 10 parents preferred their children to learn Python over French. This just goes to show that a lot of people are aware of the importance of Python programming.
The same survey revealed that 75% of children attending elementary school preferred to learn to control a robot rather than learn French.
- Older Than Java
Python’s popularity has skyrocketed in the last 10 years, so many people tend to think that it’s a new programming language. However, Python has actually been around for quite some time.
It was first released in 1991, while the first version of Java came out in January, 1996. Ever since its release, Python’s community has worked hard to improve the language, and continues to do so, which is another reason why it’s not going away soon.
- Python Does Not Require A Compiler
As an interpreted, high-level language, Python does not need a compiler. In this sense, it’s different from others such as Java and C ++. They must be compiled first to be able to write a program.
Instead, Python is based on an application known as an interpreter. Python byte code is stored as a .pyc file which is then executed by an appropriate virtual machine.
- Python Is More Like English
It might seem crazy to think that Python is basic English, especially after hearing crazy stories about how frustrating other languages can be (Yes, thinking of you, JavaScript).
However, when it comes to learning Python, you won't have to spend countless hours trying to understand the nuances of the language. After a few rounds of practice, it will start to make sense.
- Python Is Beginners’ Favorite
Part of why Python is so popular is that it’s designed in a way that makes it easy to understand, so it takes less time to learn than other languages. Plus, it doesn’t require a lot of investment.
Because it’s an open-source software, anyone can download, install and start working with it immediately. This makes it very simple and cost-effective (free, in fact!). So, download the software and you’ll be all set for starting your Python classes online!
All right, now that you know a little bit more about it, we can actually look at what classes in Python you can take right now.
Quality Python Classes
Just so you’re aware, I’ve chosen only the best Python courses, designed by top institutions and experts in their field. These Python courses have also been taken by students across the globe, and it’s not hard to find many positive reviews about them.
You can find all of these courses on the top e-learning platforms, who work hard to provide high-quality education to learners all around the world.
Ready? Let’s explore the best Python classes available right now!
Introduction To Python Programming Course (Enroll Here)
- Platform: Udacity
- Duration: 〜 5 weeks
- Price: FREE
- Certificate: NO
- Level: Beginner
- Where to apply? Here
100% free Python classes? Why not! This is a beginner-friendly Python online course that doesn’t require previous experience in Python specifically. It’s ideal for students who are somewhat familiar with programming already, however beginners (with enough motivation) will also be able to follow the Python classes.
The best thing is, this Python online course also doesn’t require any payments. You can access it right at this second if you want to!
All you need to do to start learning is to create an account and log in. That’s it!
While free access doesn’t provide you a verified certificate, it is a unique opportunity to build a solid foundation of knowledge in the fundamentals of Python programming that will prepare you for more advanced courses.
Led by Juno Lee, Python classes within this course will introduce you to Python, its applications, and best programming practices. Through completing various hands-on activities, you’ll learn to work with data using different data types and variables, complex data structures and more.
Topics covered:
- Why Python Programming
- Data types and Operators
- Control Flow
- Functions
- Scripting
After completing this course, you’ll have a solid understanding of the basic Python functions and will be able to write your own. You’ll know how to detect and fix errors, and use modules in the Python Standard Library.
These Python classes are completely self-paced, meaning you can spend as much time as you need on each topic. So I advise you to actually take your time. Don’t rush it! Really try to soak in the new information and do all the exercises.
Having said that, setting some sort of boundaries for yourself is highly recommended. Without other students around to motivate you, you’ll have to use all your inner resources to push through, especially when it gets challenging!
If you need some advice on how to learn online efficiently, check out this free course which has all the top tips for students like you who want to make the most out of their e-learning experience.
Nanodegree Program
This course is part of the Nanodegree in Programming for Data Science with Python. So if data science is something you’re thinking of diving into, completing this program is a quick and efficient way to gain in-demand skills at very reasonable prices.
Introduction to Python Course for Data Science (Enroll Here)
- Platform: Datacamp
- Price: Check the description below
- Certificate: YES
- Level: Beginner
- Where to apply? Here
This is a beginner Python online course on Datacamp led by Hugo Bowne-Anderson. If you’re interested to find out more about what he does or maybe get familiar with his way of speaking, check out Hugo’s podcast “Data Framed” here.
Unlike Introduction To Python Course on Udacity, this course focuses on Python skills for data science. The course content includes 11 videos and 57 exercises that will build your skills in scientific computing with numpy. You don’t need prior experience in Python to take on Python classes within this course.
Topics covered:
- Python Basics
- Python Lists
- Functions and Packages
- NumPy
After completing this course successfully, you will receive a certificate of completion. Though keep in mind it’s not an official certificate. This means it doesn’t act as an accreditation, however it does show your initiative to learn and shows you have an understanding of the fundamental topics in Python.
Datacamp Pricing
On datacamp, you can access classes in Python on a subscription basis. Check out the image below for an overview of what plans are available right now:
Learn Intermediate Python Nanodegree (Enroll Here)
- Platform: Udacity
- Duration: 〜 2 months
- Price: $558
- Certificate: YES
- Level: Intermediate
- Where to apply? Here
Perhaps you’re already familiar with Python, in which case you’ll need intermediate-level Python classes to deepen your knowledge. This nanodegree on Udacity is a great way to gain in-depth knowledge in Python and develop skills for real-world scenarios.
If you want to step up your Python game - this program is for you. You’ll dive into more complex topics such as classifying files, data mining a webpage, and more.
I can almost hear you ask, “but what’s a nanodegree?”
Well, in this case, it’s a combination of Python classes designed to equip students with job-specific skills that are in-demand. Nanodegrees aren’t free, though they include much more than just video lectures.
Plus, sometimes you can find great deals available, which give you full access to selected programs at much lower prices. Check out this website for more information. Who knows, maybe today will be your lucky day!
The program content includes real-world projects, project reviews, and project feedback from experienced reviewers. On top of that, full access to this nanodegree comes with technical mentor support, student community, and even career services, such as resume support, github review, and LinkedIn profile optimization.
Real-world projects are definitely the most exciting part of this degree.
The Near-Earth Objects Project will push you to apply the skills you learn in the first part of the course and answer the question “when does Halley’s comet pass by Earth?” and "what are the next ten close approaches of big, hazardous asteroids whose orbit takes them exceptionally close to Earth?"
The second project, Meme Generator will test your ability to solve web and data problems, and your understanding of design patterns to write your own code and handle different file types. You’ll also get to work with images (memes), and practice making your service available for others to use as a command line utility and as a deployable web service.
These Python classes are led by two enthusiastic instructors Sam Redmond, a co-founder of Hedron Vision and Gabriel Ruttner, the CTO at Ursa & Tech Advisor for Start-Ups.
Topics covered:
- Advanced Python Topics
- Large Codebases with Libraries
After completing Intermediate Python Nanodegree, you’ll not only have practitioner-level Python skills that you can apply on the job, but also a portfolio that showcases those skills. Having a portfolio increases your marketability as an employee, and shows that you have real experience. In some cases, it’s even more valuable than simply having a paper that proves you’ve completed a course.
Prerequisites
Since Python classes within this nanodegree cover some advanced topics, students should already possess an understanding of the fundamental Python concepts. Before you enroll, make sure you can read basic Python syntax, distinguish between object types, build basic algorithms and run basic programming scripts.
Intermediate Python Course for Data Science (Enroll Here)
- Platform: Datacamp
- Price: Check the description below
- Certificate: YES
- Level: Intermediate
- Where to apply? Here
Looking for classes in Python for data science? This is one of the best online Python courses for upgrading your existing skill set by learning to create visualizations using Matplotlib and manipulating DataFrames with pandas.
If you want to go down the road of data science, I recommend combining this course with the Introduction to Python course on Datacamp, which is the best Python online course that focuses on Python in data science for beginners.
This course is taught by the same instructor, Hugo Bowne-Anderson, who is a data scientist, educator, writer and podcaster at Datacamp.
Overall, you’ll get 18 videos, 87 exercises to complete, and one detailed case study “Hacker Statistics”, where you’ll get to apply everything you learn in the first few chapters of the course.
This course is divided into 5 different sections. Each contains a few short video classes in Python, focusing on a particular topic.
Topics covered:
- Matplotlib
- Dictionaries & Pandas
- Logic, Control Flow and Filtering
- Loops
- Case Study: Hacker Statistics
Like with other courses on Datacamp, you get full access to these Python classes by purchasing one of the plans below:
2023 Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python Course (Enroll Here)
- Platform: Udemy
- Price: $154 (pre-discount)
- Certificate: YES
- Level: Beginner - Advanced
- Where to apply? Here
According to the online community, this is one of the best Python courses available which can take you from being an absolute beginner to someone who knows what they're doing.
That’s not to say that it’s only for beginners though! Even if you’re already familiar with programming, you can use this course to level up your skills.
Created and taught by Jose Portilla, this is an extensive course that includes everything from Python setup to advanced Python objects, data structures and decorators. The whole course includes 22 hours on-demand video, 14 articles, 19 coding exercises, and a certificate of completion.
There are no specific requirements for you to join the course, apart from having access to a computer or a laptop with a decent Wi-Fi connection, of course.
Topics covered:
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Like other best online Python courses, it includes a couple of milestone projects and a final capstone project which are a way for you to test your knowledge and learn to apply new skills to real challenges.
After completion, you should be able to manage even advanced features. Also, create GUIs in the Jupyter Notebook system or create games similar to Tic Tac Toe and Blackjack!
If you want a course that contains everything in one place - this one might be for you. Purchase it once, and you’ll get full lifetime access to all the content, starting from the basic concepts to advanced projects.
Udemy Pricing
Now, I know the price for this course may seem a bit much, considering it’s not offered by an “official” institution per se. The thing is, on Udemy, instructors are the ones who set prices for their courses, which is why they are so different when you look at other courses.
The greatest thing is that Udemy often drops the prices for many courses by up to 90%! So, with a little luck and patience you can get this course for $14 instead of $154.
If you’re too eager to start learning and don’t want to wait - you don’t have to. Check out these coupons, which will give you a discount on Udemy. This way you’ll still get full access to the course for a much lower price than the original, and you won’t have to wait!
Professional Certificate in Introduction to Python Programming (Enroll Here)
- Platform: edX
- Offered by: The Georgia Institute of Technology
- Duration: 5 months
- Price: $536
- Certificate: YES
- Level: Beginner - Intermediate
- Where to apply? Here
This is one of the most extensive programs available right now in Python programming. It includes 4 different courses that are designed to help you build in-depth knowledge in Python for computer science.
Designed by the Georgia Institute of Technology (GIT) and taught by David Joyer, this program will take you on a journey starting at the fundamentals of computing in Python all the way through to algorithms and object-oriented programming.
It is a bit pricey compared to other courses available, however it is a professional certificate from GIT we’re talking about. Receiving it is a great way to showcase your skills to potential employers, and to reward yourself for all the hard work!
This program has a unique structure. First, you start off by learning the fundamentals of computer science that can be applied to any programming language. After that, you dive deeper into all things Python and learn to apply those concepts in Python specifically.
Courses within this program:
- Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming (Enroll Here)
- Computing in Python II: Control Structures (Enroll Here)
- Computing in Python III: Data Structures (Enroll Here)
- Computing in Python IV: Objects & Algorithms (Enroll Here)
These courses are the best Python online courses on edX for beginners, taken by thousands of students.
You know what the best thing is? You can also take these courses individually, for free! So, if you like the structure of this program and the topics it includes, but don’t need the certificate - go on and enroll in single courses!
Or perhaps you’re already familiar with some concepts and want to jump straight to more advanced ones - no problem!
All of the Python classes on edX are provided to you by well-known universities and some of the top institutions. There are many more Python classes available, feel free to browse the online course catalog here. There are many classes in python on edX that you can choose from. There are simply too many to list them all here!
Did you know?
Have you ever wondered which online learning platforms are the best for your career?
Conclusions
Today, we looked at these Python courses:
- Introduction To Python Programming Course (Enroll Here)
- Introduction to Python Course for Data Science (Enroll Here)
- Learn Intermediate Python Nanodegree (Enroll Here)
- Intermediate Python Course for Data Science (Enroll Here)
- 2023 Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python Course (Enroll Here)
- Professional Certificate in Introduction to Python Programming (Enroll Here)
These are the best Python online courses available right now. All of them are accessible on top e-learning platforms such as Udacity, Datacamp, Udemy and edX. All of the courses on this list offer a certificate of completion, apart from Udacity’s Intro to Python Course.
If you’re a newbie in the field, I highly recommend taking the Introduction To Python Programming Course on Udacity first, so you can get a taste of what Python is really all about. It’s a 100% free course.
To earn a professional certificate, check out the Professional Certificate Program in Introduction to Python Programming on edX. It’s a combination of in-depth Python classes suitable for beginners. Another in-depth program is the Nanodegree in Python.
If you’re interested in Python for data science specifically, these Python classes will suit you just right: Introduction to Python Course for Data Science and Intermediate Python Course for Data Science.
Udemy’s Bootcamp Course contains Python classes in basics as well as advanced topics. If you want a less formal vibe, this course has it all!
Scientific References
1. IEEE Spectrum: The Top Programming Languages
2. Texas News Today: The popularity of the programming language Python: ahead of Java, still following C
3. Ocado Group: Python overtakes French as the most popular ‘language’ taught in primary schools