Are Python Classes Worth It?

Formal Python training is more than worthwhile for careers demanding Python proficiency: it’s essential. Careers that require Python expertise range from Data Scientists and Data Analysts to Machine Learning (ML) Engineers, Python Developers, and Software Engineers. Others can include Full Stack Developers, Quantitative Engineers, and DevOps Engineers. If you want to learn Python for your career, you must understand whether it’s worth taking formal Python training. While the answer might seem an obvious yes, every Python novice has to start from the beginning. This article addresses which types of Python training apply to varying roles. Read on to find out more about this popular programming language.

What Is Python?

Python is among the most versatile programming languages in the world, and many tech professionals learn it before moving on to other languages. Python is the go-to programming language for most data science and analysis pros. Consider Python as a fundamental skill for data and analytics-centered roles, including:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst
• Data Analyst
• Data Scientist
• Financial Analyst

A structured course is also essential for those who must learn Python for a development or software engineering career. If you are experimenting with Python, there may be other choices than a paid program. However, any tech professional whose position requires regular Python use should consider finding the best training program.

Why Python?

Your reasons for learning Python can be as varied as the career choices open to those with Python expertise. Some tech pros learn Python for development, others for data science or analytics, and others for FinTech or cybersecurity. Each approach is valid, and the required level of Python proficiency can vary from industry to industry and organization to organization.

Consider the example of someone who learns Python fundamentals for an entry-level data analysis position. They might master Python and some of its libraries and frameworks in a Data Analyst position, then progress through varying levels, like Junior or Senior Data Analyst, before qualifying to become a Data Scientist.

Another tech pro might take a completely different approach to Python for FinTech. This person might start in a business intelligence (BI) position that requires only beginner-level Python skills. However, as they move into more demanding roles, they might need increasingly complex tools for stock trading, portfolio rebalancing, or data aggregation.

These examples mostly pertain to positions requiring Python expertise. However, thanks to its popularity, Python can be a great addition to any CV or resume. Read on for more about the advantages of learning Python. 

Advantages of Learning Python

Unlike less essential skills, the advantages of nearly any Python course or program far outweigh any perceived disadvantages. Even if you don’t need Python expertise for your job, adding it to your resume or CV can only help, not hurt your chances.

Python is so popular today that office workers ranging from Administrative Assistants to Marketing Content Creators often have some Python skills. Whether you need advanced Python proficiency or can get by with a few fundamentals, consider the following advantages of a Python class.

Flexibility

Versatility, adaptability, and flexibility are all words you often find when reading up on Python. The versatile object-oriented programming (OOP) language is essential to numerous industries and diverse positions within each. It’s been called the Swiss Army knife of coding.

Universality

Similar to its flexibility, Python’s universality is another huge benefit. Online surveys often list Python vying with JavaScript as the world’s most popular programming language. Its universality makes it a smart choice for coding beginners.

Simplicity

Simplicity is another essential feature of Python. When you start reading up on Python programming, you frequently come across words and phrases like beginner-friendly, ease of use, or easy to understand. Python makes an excellent first programming language, and for good reason.

Portability

Thanks to the characteristics mentioned above, like versatility, simplicity, and universality, Python is uniquely portable. You could make a dramatic career change into another industry—like moving from a healthcare Data Analyst to an IT Business Analyst—and still find your Python proficiency serves you well.

Supportive Community

The vast worldwide Python community is a final advantage to learning this essential programming language. There are numerous online forums, tutorials, and chat groups devoted to Python—from Python development to Python for data science and analysis.

Considerations For Choosing a Python Class

Anyone considering enrolling in a Python class will make their selection by weighing varying factors. For some, a short introductory class will be the best approach; for others, an immersive bootcamp or certificate program featuring Python will be the way to go. Consider the following when you decide among the many Python training options.

Types of Classes

Among the first decisions you must make when evaluating Python training options is what type of class you will take. Several factors can influence your decision, from budget and schedule to learning style or preference. Though traditional classrooms offer significant benefits, you might also evaluate other alternatives. Consider the three primary types of Python courses:

• In-Person Training
• Live Online Programs
• On-Demand Learning

Training in the traditional classroom setting offers unique advantages. Some students prefer this setting to other options. Learning in-person delivers the highest level of engagement possible. Participants can interact with the instructor and classmates, so many report feeling more connected to the material when they learn in a classroom. If in-person training has a disadvantage, commuting and finding parking or taking another means of transportation to attend class is it.

Learning online, however, has become a popular alternative. Online training offers engagement similar to the traditional classroom, and many providers offer a virtual option. Some host live online classes exclusively, whereas others provide in-person and live online training. Others host courses live online with the option to use their computer labs for students who live nearby. Another advantage to training online is that it increases the number of available options. Your city or town may offer little or no in-person classes in your chosen subject, but you can take live online classes from anywhere with an internet connection.

On-demand learning, sometimes called asynchronous learning, is another training option. This type of training usually consists of pre-recorded videos, although some courses include additional supplementary materials. On-demand training may appeal if you have a non-traditional work schedule or family obligations that make it difficult to commit to live training. While on-demand training is less expensive than traditional in-person or live online programs, its main drawback is that it offers the lowest engagement level of all the options. If you must learn Python fundamentals on-demand, consider rearranging your schedule to attend live classes for your intermediate or advanced training.

Required Skills

For many students, one of the most appealing aspects of learning Python is that they often don’t have to have any previous experience. For example, a beginner-friendly certificate program may feature Python as part of a broader data science curriculum. Some courses focus on using Python for back-end software engineering, whereas others take novices from Python beginners to job-ready Python development pros. Course length, emphasis, and prerequisite requirements can differ from provider to provider and class to class.

However, compiling a baseline of possible skills and tools many Python-centered roles require is still relatively easy. Consider the following:

• Languages - Python is essential, but it’s hardly the only language in town. Consider your planned career goals and what other programming languages you need. Top candidates can include JavaScript, Java, C++/C#, HTML, and CSS, among many others. Check relevant job listings to learn more.
• Libraries - Learning Python means getting familiar with multiple Python libraries. Depending on your skill set and career plans, you may need to know Python libraries like NumPy, Pandas, and Matplotlib. Other top libraries include Scikit-learn and BeautifulSoup, but there are many others.
• Frameworks - Often confused with libraries, Python frameworks perform a different function. Framework types include full stack, asynchronous, and microframeworks. Top Python frameworks include Flask, Django, CherryPy, and Bottle.
• Content Management System (CMS) - Many development pros use a content management system to build or maintain sites and apps. Top CMSs include WordPress, Joomla, and Drupal.
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - A good CRM works for everyone, from internal users to external clients. Top CRM platforms today include HubSpot, Salesforce, Insightly, and Zoho CRM.

External Factors

When choosing among the many options for learning Python, you must consider your personal and professional situation. Previously mentioned factors—learning preference and style, current experience level, and additional training—are all important. However, you may have other reasons for selecting one type of course over another.

These can range from personal factors like your budget, family obligations that make you unavailable at certain times, or whether you need beginner, intermediate, or advanced Python knowledge and skills. One learner new to Python may be able to thrive after learning fundamentals, whereas another must prepare to sit for a certification exam. Evaluate your situation from a realistic standpoint, and you are sure to pick the best training option that meets all your goals.

Is it Worth Enrolling in a Python Class?

Careers Requiring Python Expertise

Whether it’s worth enrolling in a Python class is ultimately up to you, the end user. However, understand that having some Python tools in your toolkit is far better than having none.

The most important consideration for many tech professionals is what type of Python program to take. Most benefit from an immersive course like the Python for Data Science Bootcamp from Noble Desktop. Others are better off saving some of their education dollars by taking the Python for Data Science Bootcamp as part of a broader curriculum like Noble’s Data Science or Data Analytics Certificate program.

Chances are good that you need Python expertise if you work in software engineering, data collection or analysis, data science, machine learning, deep learning, full stack development, or quality assurance. You will also need training in additional languages, tools, and skills for most technical roles. Check job listings in your industry or sector to learn which roles require advanced Python programming.

Careers Where Python Can Be Useful

Many professionals, especially those in administrative and management roles, can benefit from having Python skills. However, Python may or may not be a job requirement. For example, an Administrative Assistant might use Python libraries or modules to automate repetitive tasks like handling files. A Product Manager might need a basic understanding of Python fundamentals to prototype product ideas or collaborate with an engineering team.

Retail, media, and education pros can also benefit from basic Python proficiency. Although their positions might not require them to learn Python, they can use it for inventory control, automation, or scripting. However, professionals in these fields must use their judgment as to whether a Python class is necessary. Some will be able to pick up enough tools and skills from an online tutorial, whereas others will prefer to get formal training. 

Final Considerations

After weighing all the relevant factors, some new Python learners base their training choices primarily on budget and availability. While availability is crucial, Python novices should be flexible about budgetary considerations. An immersive bootcamp or certificate program can pay dividends for a lifetime, and many course providers offer flexible tuition options like installment plans or no-interest financing. Your provider may even allow you to retake an entire program at no additional charge to solidify lessons, get a refresher, or fine-tune your professional portfolio.

Finally, if you already work for a company that needs you to learn Python or expand your skill set, the organization may pay for you to go. Professional development, certification designations, or continuing education units (CEUs) can all be sufficient reasons to begin learning Python or expand your proficiency. For more information on corporate or onsite Python training for individuals or teams, check out the many corporate Python training options from Noble Desktop. These range from short beginner-level workshops to full-scale bootcamps. Noble can also customize a program to meet your organizational needs, and you can get more information during a free consultation.