Are Python Bootcamps Worth It?

For Python bootcamp participants, the time and effort are almost always worth investing. Most people who need a few Python basics do not enroll in bootcamps. For these users, Python is something to add to a resume, or they master a few fundamentals for automating tasks or scripting. But for those who plan to gain intermediate or advanced Python proficiency, an immersive bootcamp or certificate program is the fastest, most cost-effective method to learn this essential programming language.

Why Python?

Most online articles about Python find it vying with JavaScript as the most popular programming language worldwide. While there are many reasons for Python’s popularity, the best known are the following:

Versatility

Adaptability, flexibility, and versatility are among the most common descriptors you will find if you research Python. You can use Python in fields ranging from data science to cybersecurity, for good reason. Many tech pros pair Python with Structured Query Language (SQL), an essential skill for database queries.

Simplicity

Numerous online resources mention Python as an excellent choice for a first programming language. If you are looking for a beginner-friendly entry point into coding, Python is a great place to start. Its ease of use, adaptability, and portability make Python a highly recommended language.

Universality

Most online resources list Python as first or second among the world’s most popular programming languages. Only JavaScript sometimes surpasses it in surveys among tech professionals. Python’s universality adds to its appeal. You can always find fellow beginners in Python bootcamps.

Portability

Python skills are uniquely portable. One reason is that Python professionals typically know related tools and skills like cloud computing, web development, or machine learning algorithms. Tech pros with Python skills can take them from one role to another or even into a different industry. Use Python as a keyword when searching job postings, and you will find a broad range of positions and industries.

Worldwide Community

Click the Community tab at Python.org, and you will find numerous resources—forums, chat groups, mailing lists, and conferences, to name a few. Python is an open-source programming language. That means Python is free to use, and you can get support from the vast worldwide community. Python even offers a resource on its site for beginners, including a beginner's guide and Frequently Asked Questions.

All these advantages might make it seem like you can learn Python for free. However, nothing could be further from the truth. For the most efficient use of your time and resources, an intensive bootcamp like the Python Programming Bootcamp from Noble Desktop can help you level up from beginner to confident Python programmer in a strategic manner.

Advantages of Python Bootcamps & Certificate Programs

Python bootcamps and certificate programs offer unique advantages compared to other training methods. Although free online resources or a short introductory seminar can orient a Python beginner, formal training provides an unshakeable foundation that can pay for an entire career. Consider the following aspects of bootcamps that make them the top choice for Python pros in every industry and sector.

Bootcamps Are Strategic

By its very nature, formal training is strategic. That doesn’t mean you should never try to learn anything alone. On the contrary, watching or downloading free resources can be a valuable addition to paid training. However, the structure of a Python bootcamp or certificate program provides a laddered approach, where each lesson or unit can build on previous lessons or units. Many certificate programs consist of multiple bootcamps, and their combination of live training, outside assignments, and portfolio-building gives participants the best chance for success.

Context Is Key

Because it remains one of the most popular programming languages worldwide, the amount of information and opinions about Python grows by the minute. Books, videos, online forums, and other resources could fill a library. Even a targeted search among the many resources can lead to confusion, frustration, and wasted time. By contrast, a Python bootcamp provides information and experience within a strategic context, so you can quickly apply the knowledge and skills you gain.

The Motivation Factor

It can be challenging to stay motivated when taking a self-taught approach, and it takes little motivation to attend a half-day seminar. However, when you enroll in a paid program like a Python bootcamp, you have an automatically invested interest. Even better, the mix of structured lessons, hands-on training, and interaction with instructors and peers can keep you motivated to stretch beyond your original capabilities.

Accountability Counts

When a Python beginner enters a bootcamp or certificate program setting, the combination of motivation, student engagement, and information delivery can all be beneficial. However, one intangible aspect can help attendees more than they might otherwise expect: accountability. Self-teaching or learning through on-demand videos demands little accountability, but the classroom requires it.

Instructor Support

The opportunity to interact with expert instructors is one of the features of a Python bootcamp or certificate program. However, only some beginners realize that the advantages can extend beyond the classroom setting. For example, programs like the Python Developer Certificate, Data Science Certificate, or Software Engineering Certificate from Noble Desktop include multiple 1-on-1 mentoring sessions. Combine these benefits with the option to retake the course for free for up to a year, and you can see why many learners jump from a bootcamp approach into a full-length certificate.

Considerations For Choosing a Python Bootcamp

If you plan to enroll in an immersive Python bootcamp or certificate program, consider multiple course providers and types of classes. The following factors can be essential when you decide among the many Python training options.

Types of Classes

Python bootcamps and certificate programs come in many shapes and sizes. They can also emphasize Python or feature it within a broader data science, development, or FinTech curriculum. So when you begin to look for a Python bootcamp, you will have a significant advantage if you know how and where you intend to use the knowledge and skills you will gain.

A course like the Python for Data Science Bootcamp from Noble Desktop can take you from a Python beginner to a confident user. You’ll learn and apply lessons about data visualization, arrays and data frames, and machine learning.

However, if you plan to work in data science, you can save by taking the Python for Data Science Bootcamp as part of Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate program. This immersive certificate includes Python for Automation, an SQL Bootcamp, and an additional Python Machine Learning Bootcamp.

Those who want to use Python for development will take an entirely different approach. One excellent option is the Python Developer Certificate program. Forbes Advisor recently gave Noble Desktop its Best Python Bootcamp award for this comprehensive program. It includes a Python Programming Bootcamp and an in-depth Python Web Development with Django unit. There is a prerequisite: applicants should be comfortable coding HTML and CSS before enrolling. Check listings for scheduling, as classes fill up quickly.

While you can take the Noble Desktop Python Programming Bootcamp separately, you’ll save by taking it as part of the Data Science or Python Developer Certificate. You can also take it as part of Noble’s FinTech Bootcamp. This intensive certificate combines the programming bootcamp with the same Python for Data Science and Python Machine Learning bootcamps available through the Data Science Certificate program. Additional options featuring Python include the Software Engineering Certificate and Data Analytics Certificate.

Required Skills

Different Python-centered careers require vastly different skills—especially when comparing and contrasting development with data science roles. Consider the following tools and skills that may be essential to a position that requires Python expertise:

• Django REST - The Django REST framework is a standard requirement for Python development roles. REST stands for representational state transfer, and many development classes include or feature Django REST in the curriculum. Data science or analytics courses do not necessarily include Django REST training.
• MERN Tech Stack - MERN is short for MongoDB, Express.js, React, and Node.js, a popular web development framework. Like Django REST, the MERN tech stack is a common subject in many Python development courses, though not in data science programs.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - If you work with a team, you may have to use a CRM to communicate or collaborate. Common CRM platforms include HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zoho.
• Content Management System (CMS) - Python is an increasingly popular language for content management systems, or CMSs, including Django CMS, Mezzanine, and Cobra. Other common CMS platforms include WordPress, Shopify, and Squarespace.
• Financial Modeling - Python users in FinTech may start their careers through an immersive program like the FinTech Bootcamp from Noble Desktop. Enrollees in this course qualify for an additional free elective unit like the Financial Modeling Bootcamp or Python for Finance Bootcamp. Check course listings for prerequisite information.

In-Person Vs. Live Online

When learners new to Python search for training options, many are overwhelmed by the sheer number of choices. Personal preferences like learning style (auditory, visual), previous experience (programming, databases), and factors like family budget or work schedules all come into play.

Selecting from among the numerous options, most Python bootcamp or certificate applicants prefer in-person or virtual training over pre-recorded on-demand videos. Live training is a must if you plan to sit for a Python certification exam.

However, if your choice of bootcamp or certificate program is between an online or an in-person course, you should weigh the potential advantages and drawbacks of each. Some course providers offer live online training only, others host in-person training, and others offer both. Evaluate your Python options from a realistic viewpoint, and you can find a bootcamp that meets all your training goals.

Is it Worth Enrolling in a Python Bootcamp?

Careers Requiring Python Expertise

Many tech careers require intermediate- or advanced-level Python proficiency. Python is essential in development, data science, and data analytics roles. Consider the following careers where Python is a guaranteed requirement:

Python Develope r - Whether the job title is Python Developer, Python Full Stack Developer, or Python Web Developer, you must have sufficient expertise if Python is in it. Although a Junior Python Developer role might require only entry-level skills, most other Python development positions are at least mid-level, requiring Python proficiency and on-the-job experience. 

Data Analyst - Although not a strict requirement for every Data Analyst position—some require SQL and Excel instead—Python is a top priority for most of these skilled professionals. Many companies demand Python experience for entry-level data analytics applicants and the fact that Data Analysts might go on to become Data Scientists makes Python proficiency all the more urgent.

Data Scientist - While not all Data Scientists have advanced-level Python skills, consider Python programming fundamentals essential for any data science role. Python is widely acknowledged as the preferred language among Data Scientists, and today most of these positions require it. Because Data Scientists are such highly skilled and well-paid tech pros, Python is one of their many tools, including SQL, SAS, NLP, and machine learning, to name a few.

Back End Developer - Back End Developers working on server-side applications need Python skills, including frameworks and libraries like NumPy and Flask. They may also need to master Java, PHP, Ruby, and multiple additional tools and skills. Consider Python a priority if you plan to work in back end development.

Full Stack Developer - A Full Stack Developer needs multiple skills—front end languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and languages for back end applications like Python, Ruby, and PHP. Additional tools can include MySQL, Oracle, and the MERN tech stack.

Machine Learning Engineer - While Machine Learning Engineers need Python, Java, C, or other languages, they also need extensive proficiency with ML frameworks and libraries. These can include Scikit-learn, NumPy, Pandas, and TensorFlow, to name a few. ML Engineers typically also know cloud platforms, DevOps, and version control.

Software Engineer - Software Engineers include Application Engineers and Systems Engineers. Although Python development with Django is typically one of their skills, it is one among many. Software Engineers may know JavaScript, C++, and Agile. Entry-level Software Engineer job descriptions often list numerous soft skills, including excellent verbal and written communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.

Careers Where Python Can Be Useful

Professionals in some non-technical roles can also benefit from Python proficiency, whether or not their jobs require it. Workers in managerial positions can use Python to automate repetitive tasks, and marketing or HR pros can use it for data analysis. Many non-technical roles in tech companies gain an advantage from understanding Python basics to better communicate with development or data analysis teams. This is especially true for Program Managers, who can also benefit from SQL basics.

Non-management positions can also realize the advantages of learning Python fundamentals. Thanks to Python’s ability to automate repetitive tasks or manage data, workers in industries ranging from construction to business administration get things done faster with Python. Anyone who needs to perform web scraping, create real-time project updates, or manage inventory can use Python in their day-to-day activities. While a bootcamp or certificate might not be necessary, a shorter Python class may do the trick.

Final Considerations

The Python bootcamp or certificate program can be the best method to learn this essential program in a concise time frame. If you plan to work in data science, data analysis, web software development, software engineering, or machine learning, Python should be at or near the top of your priority list.

If you plan to work in finance, consider a Python bootcamp even if your job description does not require it. A shorter course like the Python for Finance Bootcamp from Noble Desktop can pay dividends for an entire career, and your employer may even provide tuition reimbursement. Bootcamps and certificate programs that feature Python or include it within a broader curriculum include automation, machine learning, data analysis, data science, and development.