Learning the open-source Python web framework known as Djangocan help you launch a new career or advance your current one. Web Developers, Data Scientists, and other professionals use Django to create websites, manage content, and more. Once you’ve decided to learn Django, the next important question is deciding how you plan to learn these skills. Most students find that they learn better when they receive guided training. To learn more about the different Django training options and what advantages and disadvantages they carry with them, read on.

What is Django?

Django is a popular, open-source Python web framework used to rapidly, efficiently, and securely develop websites and web applications. Django streamlines the web development process by emphasizing reusable components. These components eliminate the need for developers to manually enter the same code repeatedly. The time Django saves developers empowers web development teams to increase scalability, meet deadlines, and quickly build multiple websites and web applications.

Read more about what Django is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with Django Skills?

Django has numerous use cases for web development, data science, and more. Python objects called models allow Django web applications to query and manage data. Django’s template systems allow developers to define an output document’s structure, delivering content in nearly any format, including RSS feeds, HTML, XML, and JSON. Django supports its native templating system, the Jinja2 Python library out of the box, and can also be modified to support other systems. 

Other things you can do with Django include: 

• Collecting user data with HTML forms
• Manage a user permission and authentication system
• Create an administration site
• Serialize data

Why Training Format Matters

The training format you choose makes a tremendous impact on how quickly you learn Django, what Django skills you obtain, and which lessons you retain. There are many different training formats, so researching your options will help you decide on a path that fits your needs. When considering the Django training method you prefer, consider your learning style, schedule, and budget. The following sections detail the different types of training methods you can choose from. 

Types of Training Formats

There are three main training formats when learning Django. You can learn through live in-person, live online, or on-demand classes. You can also gain an introduction to Django through free courses. Learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of each training method in the following sections.

Live In-Person Classes

Live in-person classes offer a traditional learning environment. Students gather at a physical location where they are led through lectures and hands-on activities by a knowledgeable instructor. This method works very well for students that wish to learn Django skills while building local connections. You can network with your classmates, and your instructor can serve as a local mentor. You can also collaborate with classmates, ask questions of your instructor, and receive personalized feedback. The main drawbacks to this training format are that your class offerings are limited to those available near you, and you will have to commit extra time and money to commute to the class location.

Live Online Classes

Live online Django classes offer many of the same benefits as in-person classes, with the added convenience of skipping the commute. Live online classes connect you to classmates and an instructor in real time, allowing you to collaborate with others, ask questions, and receive instant feedback, all while learning remotely. Live online classes also enable you to take classes from schools and organizations around the world. This allows maximum flexibility in finding a class that teaches the skills you want to learn, fits within your budget, and meets at a time that works for your schedule. 

One of the few drawbacks to live online learning is that it does not provide the same networking opportunities as in-person classes. Classes also meet at a fixed time, which can be difficult for those with hectic schedules. The good news is that you can find many live online classes that meet on evenings and weekends, which works well for those balancing classes with a nine-to-five job. 

On-Demand Classes

On-demand classes are courses that you progress through at your own pace. These classes consist primarily of video and quiz content and can be found on learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, and Udemy. Most self-paced courses are accessed through a monthly subscription ranging from around $30-$50. This means that on-demand classes offer an affordable way to start learning Django. However, that cost adds up over time, as completing a course or program often takes several months. 

The biggest drawback to this learning method is that you have little to no access to an instructor. Some classes allow you to email an instructor with questions, but you can only progress once you receive an answer, which can take hours or days to receive. For this reason, on-demand classes often serve as a good way to supplement in-person or live online learning. You can also use self-paced courses to gain a foundational understanding before taking an instructor-led class. 

Free Courses

Free Django training courses let you explore whether these skills will benefit your current career or help you launch a new one. Django is often taught as part of a larger Python training curriculum, so exploring free Python learning resources lets you better understand the many professional uses of Python and Django. You can also explore free Django tutorials and other resources specific to Django. Free classes often serve as an introduction, helping you gain a high-level overview of a topic. You can then decide if you’d like to dive deeper with an instructor-led course.

Depth of Training Formats

Once you have decided on the type of Django training method you want to pursue, you can decide the depth of training that’s right for you. If you want to learn one specific skill or tool, a bootcamp can help you jumpstart those skills in a few days or weeks. A certificate program is a longer, more in-depth way of learning Django skills and works best for those looking to launch a new career. Learn more about the different depths of training below. 

Certificate Programs

Django certificate programs often cover multiple bootcamps and focus on teaching the range of skills needed to launch a professional career. Most certificate programs that teach Django will actually be Python development certificates or software engineering certificates. Certificate programs offer several benefits, including:

• Boosting your resume: Completing a certificate program demonstrates to employers that you have acquired a certain level of expertise and competence in your field. This can enhance your resume and improve your job prospects.
• Providing specialized training: Django certificate programs are designed to provide targeted, in-depth training in a particular area of expertise. This can help you develop highly sought-after skills and knowledge relevant to your career goals.
• Time-efficient learning: Professional certificate programs are often shorter and more focused than degree programs, allowing you to gain valuable skills and knowledge in a shorter time.
• Cost-effectiveness: Professional certificate programs are typically less expensive than degree programs, making them a more accessible option for individuals looking to enhance their professional development.
• Flexible learning options: Many professional certificate programs are offered online, allowing learners to complete coursework at their own pace and on their own schedules.
• Real-world projects: Many Django certificate programs provide hands-on training by having students work on real-world projects. This allows students to develop their skills in a practical setting and build a portfolio of work they can showcase to potential employers.
• Mentorship: Django certificate programs that include mentorship provide the opportunity to have a professional review your resume, cover letter, portfolio, and the other essential materials needed to secure a Django-related profession.

Training Bootcamps

Training bootcamps that teach professional Django skills may last from a few days to a few weeks. Bootcamps focus on a specific aspect of Django, such as introducing the fundamentals or using Django skills for a specific field. Django training bootcamps offer several benefits, including:

• Intensive learning: Django bootcamps are designed to provide an immersive and intensive learning experience. This means you can acquire a comprehensive understanding of Django in a relatively short time.
• Networking opportunities: Django bootcamps allow students to connect with other like-minded individuals and build professional relationships. This can lead to future collaborations, mentorship opportunities, and potential job leads.
• Experienced instructors: Django bootcamps are taught by experienced instructors with significant industry experience. Students can learn from professionals who have a deep understanding of Django and can provide valuable insights and guidance.
• Affordability: Choosing the exact bootcamps you want to take can cost less overall than a certificate program and much less than a degree. 
• Short time commitments: Django bootcamps often last a few days or a few weeks at most, so they work well for those looking to quickly upskill. Scheduling a bootcamp can also prove more manageable than scheduling a certificate program.

Introductory Courses

Introductory Django courses allow you to learn more about Django and its uses without making the financial or time commitment required of a bootcamp or certificate program. Introductory Django classes offer several advantages, including:

• Cost-effectiveness: Since introductory Django classes are often free or offered at a reduced cost, they provide a cost-effective way to explore whether Django is a good fit for your career goals or interests.
• Learning the basics: Introductory Django classes typically cover the basics of Django, including its core features and functionality. This provides a solid foundation for further exploration and learning.
• Exploring Django's potential: Introductory Django classes can help you better understand the many professional applications of Django, such as web development, data analysis, and machine learning.
• Deciding on further training: After completing an introductory Django class, you'll better understand whether you want to pursue further training in Django. If you do, you can explore more in-depth courses or programs that provide more advanced training and instruction.

Learn Django Skills with Noble Desktop

In-person and live online Django classes led by an expert instructor can help you overcome obstacles, answer questions, and provide mentorship as you develop your Django skills. You can learn Django with Noble Desktop’s Software Engineering Bootcamp, Python Developer Certificate, and other Python classes and bootcamps. Students already familiar with Python but wishing to learn Django can enroll in the Python Django Development course. 

Noble’s small class sizes ensure you receive personal feedback from your instructor. Courses include free retakes and offer flexible payment plans to finance your new career without immediately paying the full tuition. Certificate courses include one-on-one mentorship and the creation of professional portfolios.

Key Insights

• There are three main Django training methods: in-person learning, live online classes, and on-demand classes. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. 
• In-person learning works well for those who want to learn and collaborate face-to-face. It also affords the opportunity to network locally with classmates and an expert instructor.
• Live online classes offer many options that allow you to find a curriculum and schedule that meets your goals. You can collaborate with classmates and ask questions of your instructor in real time without the need to commute. 
• On-demand classes are affordable and allow you to self-determine your schedule and learning pace. The major drawback to this format is that you will have no or limited access to an instructor. Therefore, on-demand and free classes work best as an introduction to Django. 
• You can receive comprehensive Django training through Noble Desktop, either in person or online.