Explore the world of Python programming and its significant role in fields like web development, software engineering, and mobile app development. Learn about the various training formats available, including in-person and online bootcamps, self-paced courses, and free online tutorials.

Which Python Programming Training Format Is Right for Me? Compare Learning Methods

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

One of the world’s most popular programming languages, Python is essential to fields like web development, software engineering, and mobile app development. Read on to learn more about the different formats of Python programming training, how they compare to each other, and how to determine which is best for you.

What is Python Programming?

Python has emerged as one of the most popular general-purpose programming languages worldwide. While Python is the language of choice for many Data Scientists and Data Analysts, it’s also essential for Web Developers and Software Developers. Python’s easy-to-use frameworks and libraries contribute to its success, and the worldwide community of Python pros ensures that novices can always find assistance.

The essential language ranks within the top three among those learning to code, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the average growth for Web Developers will be 13% from 2020 to 2030. Many of these jobs require Python programming skills. Other fields requiring Python include data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML).

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

What Can You Do with Python Programming?

Python is a high-level programming language with numerous applications. Its ease of use and scalability make it a popular choice among Back End Developers, Game Developers, and Software Engineers, among others. Companies ranging from Disney to JPMorgan Chase and Comcast need Python development pros for tasks like developing software, testing automation code, and developing back end elements in coordination with Front End Developers.

The most common areas for Python programming experts to find employment include:

• Software Development - Software development with Python involves tools like Django, Git, and SQL. Software development professionals using Python can have titles like Python Developer, Full Stack Developer, or DevOps Engineer, among others. 

• Web Development - Python pros famously used frameworks like Django and Flask to develop sites for companies like Instagram, Pinterest, and Dropbox. Positions for Python web development pros include:
  • Python Developer
  • Back End Developer
  • Solutions Architect
  • Web Developer
  • Game Developer
  • Software Engineer
  • Automation Engineer

• Game Development - Python game development frameworks include Panda3D, Pygame, and PyKyra, to name a few. Tech pros with Python and game development expertise may have titles like Python Developer, XR Developer, or Video Game AI Engineer. 

• Enterprise Applications -  Enterprise-grade apps built with Python include large technology stacks like Microsoft and Netflix. Titles for pros in this area include Applications Architect, Solutions Architect, and Enterprise Software Engineer, to name a few.

Training Formats for Python Programming

Thanks to Python’s easy syntax and massive support community, you can choose from countless training alternatives. These include:

• In-person or online bootcamps and certificate programs
• On-demand/self-paced courses
• Free online tutorials, blog posts, and articles

On-demand and free resources can serve as solid introductory material. However, most Python programmers choose a comprehensive course of Python training, either in-person or live online. 

In-Person Python Programming Training

People who learn Python programming in a traditional classroom setting often report that they consider it the most effective way to learn. In-person training offers several advantages, including:

• A higher level of student engagement than other methods
• Stronger connections with fellow students and instructors
• Using course provider equipment

If traditional classroom training has a drawback, it’s the need to commute. More often than not, however, graduates of Python programs tend to prefer this method.

There’s no shortage of in-person Python programming training alternatives. Although some students choose a full-length degree program, many learn Python through an immersive bootcamp or certificate program. Noble Desktop offers several Python-centered options. They include a Python Developer Bootcamp, Python Developer Certificate, and FinTech Bootcamp.

Live Online Python Programming Training

Virtual live coursework is one of the most popular Python programming training options today. Online bootcamps and certificate programs offer numerous benefits. They are hands-on and interactive, with expert instructors who can provide feedback in real-time. You can learn from the comfort of your home or office, so you save money on gas and vehicle maintenance. 

If online training has a drawback, it may be a lower level of engagement than in-person education. Still, the ability to network with peers or mentors via instant messaging or collaboration platforms may replace the in-person experience to your satisfaction.

You’ll find a variety of live online Python programming courses with Noble Desktop’s Classes Near Me search tool. Consider the following options that emphasize Python or include it as part of a broader development curriculum:

• Python Developer Certificate - This in-depth certificate program prepares attendees for roles like Back End Developer, Python Developer, and Software Engineer. Topics in addition to Python programming include Django task automation, API endpoints, and SQL, among others. Before enrolling, students should be comfortable with HTML and CSS; see Noble Desktop’s course listing for more detailed prerequisite information.

• Python Programming Bootcamp - If you’re starting out in Python programming, this multi-day immersive course will give you the tools you need to succeed. The bootcamp provides training in object-oriented programming and other computer science fundamentals, then takes participants from beginners to experienced programmers. Students can save by taking this course as part of Noble’s Python Developer Certificate or FinTech Bootcamp.

Other programs that offer live online training include NYC Data Science Academy’s Introductory Python, BrainStation’s Python Programming Certificate, and an Introduction to Python Programming course from Certstaffix Training.

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

If you’re not yet ready to dive into an immersive bootcamp or certificate program, you can still get an overview of Python programming. You can start learning Python programming online with a course like Noble Desktop’s Intro to Python Fundamentals. In this free introductory course, you’ll learn fundamentals like:

• Installing Python with Anaconda
• How to run Python in Terminal
• Jupyter Notebook
• Numeric data types
• Best practices

With this webinar under your belt, you may want to continue with a more intensive program like Noble’s Python Developer Certificate, Python Programming Bootcamp, or FinTech Bootcamp. Additional options include Create Your First Python Program from UST and Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose from Princeton University.

Read about more free Python programming videos and online tutorials.

On-Demand Classes

Another approach to beginner-level Python programming involves on-demand or self-paced training. Unlike in-person or online training, on-demand classes can be priced either individually or as part of a subscription model. There are also numerous free options available. 

Each type of on-demand option typically has its advantages and drawbacks, and it’s essential to note which are courses for beginners, intermediate programmers, or advanced programmers. Always check course listings and the syllabus before enrolling in an on-demand course.

Free classes are generally the shortest, about one to three hours long. Paid programs offer a broader range of expected time commitment and price, from $85 for a 25-hour Python Bootcamp to as much as $699 for a six-hour Python Certification course. With subscription-based services, on-demand classes may be included as part of a monthly paid subscription to a platform like Cloud Academy or DataCamp.

If there’s a drawback to on-demand training, it’s the lack of instructor feedback or student accountability. Most Python programmers use on-demand training as an introductory method, not a primary educational method.

Popular on-demand programs include Noble Desktop’s Exchanging Excel for Python, DataCamp’s Introduction to Python, and Simplilearn’s Python Tutorial for Beginners.

Comparison of Python Programming Training Formats

Learning Python programming can be easy, especially if you know how you’ll use the knowledge gained from training. Bootcamps and certificate programs, either in-person or live online, remain among the most popular formats. Although there’s no ideal training method for every situation, consider the advantages and drawbacks of each before you choose one.

Many students and busy professionals report that training in a traditional classroom setting offers more benefits than other training options. In-person training is the most engaging and interactive format since students can get immediate instructor feedback and interact directly with fellow participants. Training in the classroom also means you don’t have to use your office or home equipment, so instructors or other staff can assist with any technical issues.

Next to in-person coursework, live online training offers the highest level of student engagement. You still benefit from face-to-face training but without a commute or search for a parking space. Many students prefer online learning, especially those with full-time jobs or family commitments. Course providers frequently offer online courses on a part-time evening or weekend schedule, which may be the only free time open for these participants.

On-demand or self-paced courses are yet another training alternative. These often provide appropriate introductory materials for subjects like Python programming and offer some of the most affordable options for learning online. The biggest drawback to relying on self-paced training is usually a lack of human interaction or student accountability for assignments. Still, this option may be your preferred method for starting a Python programming education.

Is it Possible to Teach Yourself Python Programming?

Many programming novices want to know: can you learn Python programming yourself?

The answer may vary from user to user, but one thing is clear: while you can learn fundamental Python programming concepts by watching videos and coding on your own, you’ll eventually need to get more formal training if you plan to use Python for professional reasons.

The reasons for taking Python programming classes include:

• Having an instructor who is an expert on the topic and can give you the correct information is essential.
• It can be overwhelming to sift through the mass of online resources, and you have no way of knowing which are good or correct.
• On-demand and free classes, while valuable, provide little engagement or student accountability.
• Getting a Python development role based on self-training alone is difficult. Most employers want you to have a certificate of completion, a degree, or both.

How to Decide the Best Way to Learn Python Programming

To decide the best way to learn Python programming, the most important thing to consider is how and where you want to use the knowledge and experience gained from training. You will also want to consider how much time and money you plan to invest in your training. If you don’t want to spend money upfront, consider watching free tutorials or webinars. These can be perfect introductory material and prepare you for more in-depth training.

Want to learn Python programming to launch a development career or advance from a current position? A bootcamp that features Python or includes it as part of a broader curriculum can work well. Consider enrolling in the Python Programming Bootcamp or Python Web Development with Django from Noble Desktop. Check listings for more information, including prerequisites.

If you want to master the skills required to become a Python Developer, Noble’s Python Development Certificate offers targeted training. Students can save by attending this program, which combines the Python Programming and Python Web Development with Django bootcamps.

Of course, your situation may include additional factors, like budget, whether you prefer to learn online or in person. Check all listings carefully before you decide.

Learn Python Programming with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers numerous options for those looking to learn Python programming, both in-person and live online over teleconferencing applications like Zoom. They also provide a host of free resources online, including tutorials, seminars, and blog posts. 

Those interested in Python for development should consider one of the following options:

• Python Programming Bootcamp - The Python Programming Bootcamp features multiple days worth of hands-on intensive training. Participants new to Python learn the fundamentals of object-oriented programming and will create a portfolio of projects and code samples. There is no prerequisite for this bootcamp but students can save by taking this course as part of Noble’s Python Developer Certificate, FinTech Bootcamp, or Data Science Certificate.

• Python Developer Certificate - Noble Desktop’s Python Developer Certificate program is their flagship offering for Python programming on the server side. It combines the Python Programming Bootcamp with an advanced Python Web Development with Django course. The course has one prerequisite: attendees should feel comfortable with HTML/CSS, at the level offered in Noble’s Web Development with HTML & CSS class. Covered skills include:
• Django
• Django REST
• VS Code
• Git
• GitHub
• SQL

Additional programs that may be of interest to Python developers include:

• Python Web Development with Django 
• Software Engineering Certificate 

Those interested in Python for data science can get their training through multiple Noble Desktop programs, including: 

• Data Science Certificate
• Python for Data Science Bootcamp
• Python Machine Learning Bootcamp
• Python for Automation

Python for Finance and FinTech programs include: 

• FinTech Bootcamp
• Python for Finance Bootcamp

Python for Cybersecurity programs include:

• Cybersecurity Bootcamp
• Cybersecurity with Python
• Python for Network Security
• Offensive Security with Python

Noble Desktop’s bootcamps and certificate programs earn high marks from graduates. They are available live online or in-person in New York City. Additional perks include a Certificate of Completion upon graduation and free retakes for up to one year. Many certificates and bootcamps also feature 1-on-1 mentoring; check course descriptions for more details, including any prerequisite information.