What is the Best Course to Learn Python?

Like beauty, the best course for learning Python is often in the eye of the beholder. Tech professionals have different goals, so one person’s ideal format or program type can be another’s worst option.

Nonetheless, there are some criteria by which you can select the best course for your particular needs, goals, and budget—even before you enroll in a Python class. This article provides a broad overview of different types of Python programs and which can be the ideal choice for every situation.

Are You Brand New to Python?

Whether or not you are a total Python or even programming novice, your choice of training must include several essential criteria. Some courses require no previous experience, others have limited prerequisites like HTML/CSS, and others are intermediate or advanced programs.

Even if you are brand new to Python, you have multiple options. For example, consider the differences among the following programs:

Python in a Day - This introductory Python class is perfect for new Python users who want to learn fundamentals from the ground up. If you’re weighing the pros and cons of data science vs. data development, here is a great place to start. The class also serves as the ideal primer for those who want to use Python in a non-technical capacity like office administration. Check online schedules, as there may be a waiting list for this popular class.

Data Science Certificate - At the opposite end of the spectrum, the Data Science Certificate program from Noble Desktop is one of the renowned provider’s most popular programs. Available in four weeks full-time or twenty weeks part-time, this zero-to-hero approach takes Python novices from inexperienced to confident users through its multiple bootcamps and mentoring sessions. Topics include data visualization, automation, SQL, and machine learning, to name a few. Download a copy of the syllabus for more details.

Read on to learn more about other programs that feature Python or include it as part of a broader curriculum.

Do You Want to Become a Python Professional?

If you plan to work with Python regularly, you can still choose from a broad range of training options. Python is a widely used programming language, and its popularity ensures that trainers approach it from different angles to help their students. Consider the following roles that use Python and the bootcamps or certificate programs they can learn from.

Data Scientist - If you want to be a Data Scientist, chances are that you will learn Python along the way. Python is the preferred language of most data science and analysis professionals, and you can learn Python for data science through the Data Science Certificate from Noble Desktop. The beginner-friendly certificate program covers Python for automation, machine learning, data visualization, and more.

Data Analyst - Data Analysts and Business Analysts use Python skills to extract data for forecasting and decision-making. Many gain fundamentals through a program like the Data Analytics Certificate from Noble Desktop. While this course comprises some of the same units as the Data Science Certificate (like the Python for Data Science & Machine Learning Bootcamps), it also includes an immersive Tableau Bootcamp and units on data analytics.

Machine Learning Engineer - Want to use your Python training in a career like Data Engineer or Machine Learning Engineer? Again, your approach may differ from that of other Python professionals. Many ML novices get their start through a bootcamp or certificate program. The Python Data Science & Machine Learning Bootcamp is a certificate comprising smaller units and bootcamp-style modules. The 96-hour program covers Python for data science, machine learning, and automation, culminating in a data visualization unit. Previous knowledge is optional.

The Python Machine Learning Bootcamp is available as a separate introductory course. However, students save by taking the bootcamp as part of the Python Data Science & Machine Learning certificate program.

Financial Analyst - Financial Analysts, Data Analysts, and even Data Scientists may need the skills and tools covered through Noble Desktop’s FinTech Bootcamp. This intensive bootcamp is available in four weeks full-time or four months part-time. It covers Python for automation, data science, and machine learning and includes an SQL bootcamp. 

Python for Automation is available as a separate unit, but applicants can save by taking the course as part of the FinTech Bootcamp, Data Analytics Certificate, or Data Science Certificate.

Python Developer - The other area besides data science and analytics for Python trainees is development. Python Developers and Software Engineers are among the many development pros who use this essential object-oriented programming language in their day-to-day activities. 

The Python Developer Certificate from Noble Desktop gives attendees with HTML/CSS experience a solid foundation in Python for software development. Topics include Django REST, Git, and SQL, to name a few. Noble’s Software Engineering Certificate program includes Python within a comprehensive development curriculum. Topics include HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Django, and the MERN tech stack, to name a few.

What Is Your Budget?

Budget, scheduling, and availability are among the most essential practical considerations for anyone new to learning Python. Although you can gain some insights from free online resources, sooner or later, you must take the plunge and find formal training to get the best start in your chosen field.

If you can only budget for a short introductory Python class, consider enrolling in one you can use as a foundation. For example, you can enroll in a one-day class like Python in a Day (which often has a waiting list) or Python for Automation (which has a prerequisite). Such courses may be available as credit toward a longer immersive bootcamp or certificate, like the Data Science Certificate program or FinTech Bootcamp.

Another consideration is 0% financing or payment installment plans. Many course providers offer multiple options to pay tuition, including Noble Desktop. Veterans also may qualify for relevant programs, so check the Tuition & Financing section under course listings for more details.

Do You Prefer In-Person or Online Training?

While there’s no doubt that in-person training offers the highest possible level of engagement, online training has become an increasingly popular way to learn. Online education was once a niche market, but even before the COVID-19 pandemic, more and more students signed up for virtual courses. Online learning offers engagement comparable to in-person coursework, but you can train from the comfort of your office or home.

Consider in-person, live online, or either method when researching Python classes. Even if you prefer in-person training, you should remain open to the online live option. The reason is simple: adding virtual training to your list of potential courses will expand your choices exponentially. Some course providers offer in-person classes, others mostly live online, but many providers offer both alternatives. If you live in a large metropolitan area, you might have both options, but if not, a virtual course can bring world-class training into your home.

Learn Python Skills with Noble Desktop

Whatever your budget, work or school schedule, or availability, Noble Desktop has a course that will help you meet your goals. From one-day workshops like Python for Automation to immersive programs like their Data Analytics Certificate, Noble brings experience and hands-on training to beginners and skilled tech pros alike.

Beginners can level up quickly with a program like the Data Science Certificate or FinTech Bootcamp. If you want to learn Python for back-end development to go with your front end development training, you can learn from A to Z with the Software Engineering Certificate program. Finally, if your team needs corporate or onsite training, contact Noble Desktop about custom training programs in Python, machine learning, automation, or data visualization.

Learn SQL with Noble Desktop

Enrolling with Noble Desktop comes with a wide range of benefits including live, project-based training, the option to retake your course for free within a year, expert instruction, and a verified digital certificate on completion, to name a few. Noble Desktop also offers setup assistance and 1-on-1 bonus training in order to ensure you’re supported before, during, and after your course. Classes are offered both in-person and live online, giving you the option to fully customize how you learn depending on how you learn best. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to enhance your SQL skills, Noble Desktop has courses to fit your needs. If you’re ready to dive into the world of databases and queries, there are many options for you to consider.

Beginners will feel most comfortable starting with SQL Level 1. Students can expect to learn the fundamentals of SQL and relational databases, including SQL syntax, database tables, and writing SQL queries. This SQL starter course will provide you with strong foundational skills to explore the tables, columns, and rows stored in a database and write/code SQL queries to extract and start analyzing that data. Using practical, hands-on exercises, your expert instructor will guide you through understanding the basics of database architecture and will develop your skills in writing real SQL code. By the end of this introductory, hands-on course, you’ll be able to write basic SQL queries for Microsoft SQL Server and learn how to use the free SQL Server Management Studio app to explore the database and execute your SQL theories.

Once you’ve finished SQL Level 1, you can move on to SQL Level 2. In this intermediate SQL course, you’ll build on your knowledge of SQL fundamentals, enhancing your skills to join, filter, group, and analyze data. You’ll also learn how to group data and perform common statistical calculations using aggregate functions. SQL Level 2 focuses on how to use Outer Joins and find NULL data, how to group data and perform common statistical calculations using aggregator functions, and how to change the data type when it’s not what you need. By the end of this intermediate hands-on course, you’ll know more SQL techniques to extract and analyze the specific data you want from the database. This will enable you to more easily turn raw data into actionable insights.

With SQL Level 1 & 2 under your belt, you’ll be ready for SQL Level 3. This advanced course will take your SQL skills to the next level where you will learn about subqueries, views, variables, functions, stored procedures, and more. SQL Level 3 goes over how to add If-Else logic to queries using CASE statements, how to use string functions to get just the part of text you need, and show you how subqueries allow you to grab data from anywhere in a database. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of SQL techniques that will better prepare you for roles in data analysis, data science, and working with data in databases. 

For a more streamlined learning experience, check out Noble Desktop’s SQL bootcamp options. Noble’s SQL Bootcamp is great for beginners or anyone looking to brush up on their SQL skills. Bootcamps are designed to be comprehensive and immersive, so you’ll need to manage your time well in order to benefit from the course structure. In SQL Bootcamp you’ll learn to extract information from databases by writing SQL queries, joining tables, aggregating data, and filtering results. You’ll also be introduced to PostgreSQL, but the concepts will equally apply to other databases such as SQL Server and MySQL. When you’re finished with this bootcamp, you’ll be able to filter data, group it, and turn raw data into insights as well as combine information from multiple tables using joining statements. More advanced techniques like subqueries and how to use functions with parameters are also part of the curriculum. 

Another great bootcamp option offered by Noble Desktop is the SQL Server Bootcamp. This bootcamp equips students with the skills needed to work with databases and extract valuable insights. In this hands-on course, you’ll learn Microsoft SQL Server and use the SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) app to explore databases and execute SQL queries. The course covers fundamental SQL concepts, including viewing tables, columns, and rows, as well as coding queries to extract specific information. Students also learn how to filter data, group it, and combine information from multiple tables using join statements. Additionally, the bootcamp delves into more advanced techniques such as aggregate functions and subqueries. The knowledge gained from this course can be applied to other types of SQL (such as PostgreSQL, Microsoft Access, MySQL, etc.) with minor syntax differences.