Python Certifications and Certificates

If you’re looking for a way to demonstrate your Python skills, you may be overwhelmed by the different certifications and certificate programs available. Some course providers offer certificate programs, others offer certification exams, and others a combination of both. You might wonder whether you would be better off enrolling in a bootcamp or certificate program, sitting for a certification exam, or starting with a shorter class. You might also have many questions, like, Will a certificate help me get a better job? How do I prepare for these credentials? And how is a certificate different from a certification, anyway?

This article answers these questions so you can efficiently choose the right path toward a Python certification or certificate program. This popular programming language is essential to numerous careers, and you can benefit from Python expertise even if your position does not require it. Keep reading to learn more.

What is Python?

Python is one of the fastest-growing programming languages on the planet. Data Scientists, Web Developers, Business Analysts, and other tech professionals use Python for numerous tasks—from building websites to data analysis, automation, and machine learning (ML). Like Java and Ruby, Python is mainly an object-oriented programming language (OOP), which means it organizes around data (objects) instead of functions or logic.

Thanks to its straightforward syntax, adaptability, and the urgent need for Python skills in the 21st-century job market, this essential language ranks as the number one choice for those learning to code. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts the average growth rate for Web Developers will be 16% between 2022 and 2032, and many of these positions demand Python.

An even bigger area for Python expertise is that of data science. The BLS projects a stunning 35% growth rate for Data Scientists from 2022 to 2032—much faster than the average position. Other fields requiring Python include cybersecurity, software engineering, and business analysis.

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

What Can You Do with Python?

You might wonder what makes Python such a universal language. Python is a versatile programming language with nearly limitless applications, and tech professionals in multiple fields rely on it for everyday tasks. While some sectors are narrower than others, the following are among the best-known that require Python:

• Data Science - Data science extends to numerous industries, and using Python to understand data is paramount. Python libraries like NumPy and Matplotlib enable Data Scientists and other professionals to use visualization to gain insights into data. Additional Python libraries include TensorFlow, SciPy, Pandas, Beautiful Soup, and Scikit-learn. 

Python for data science training applies to many positions besides Data Scientist. For example, Business Analysts, Data Analysts, and Financial Analysts often learn Python through a curriculum similar to that of a Data Scientist. They may need to master tools like Excel, Structured Query Language (SQL), and Tableau or Power BI for data visualization.

• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML) - As one of the categories of artificial intelligence, machine learning, or ML, is essential to numerous positions today. Machine Learning Engineers, Architects, and other tech pros use Python to build predictive models. At the same time, AI Engineers and Architects may need this essential programming language for everything from assessing AI solutions to advanced automation. 

The concepts and algorithms at the foundation of artificial intelligence include everything from speech recognition to predictive modeling. Python for AI is easy thanks to many inbuilt libraries like matplotlib and NumPy. Python also has many benefits for users because it is scalable, portable, and provides interfaces to major commercial databases.

• Web Development - The use of Python in web development goes back to its beginnings. Frameworks like Django and Flask have famously provided web development for universally known companies like Instagram, Dropbox, and Pinterest. Tech pros, including Developers, report that Python is easy to integrate with other languages like C/C++ and Java. Other top frameworks include Bottle, CherryPy, and Dash.

However, Python is known for more than just web development. Software Developers, Software Engineers, and other development pros often prefer Python for back end development tasks. Thanks to Python's appeal and ease of use, some companies advertise for positions they designate as Python Developers. These skilled professionals may use their Python expertise for data analytics or science, back end development, or product development.

• Game Development - Many users new to Python are interested in coding because they want to create games themselves. A Game Developer (or GameDev for short) may work for an entertainment company, but that skillset is more than fun and games. Organizations that want experienced gamedev pros range from defense and aerospace companies that hire Software Engineers to create game-like simulations to insurance firms that need immersive training programs.

Python frameworks for game development include Pygame, PyKyra, and Panda3D, but there are many others. Python continues to support the gaming industry in meaningful ways, including leisure and business activities.

• Enterprise Applications - Enterprise applications include billing systems, business intelligence (BI) systems, and customer relationship management (CRM) tools like Hubspot, Salesforce, and Zoho. Python's long history includes its importance in building numerous enterprise applications for many companies. Enterprise-grade apps built with Python include leading technology stacks like Netflix, Microsoft, and Spotify, to name a few.
• Scripting/Task Automation - While Python is a requirement for many high-tech positions, it's also a staple of many office and administrative roles. Task automation, also known as scripting, is one such use. Python has multiple scripts you can use to automate repetitive tasks like sending emails, working with files and folders, and submitting online forms. For these reasons, it's not uncommon for administrative or office workers to learn Python fundamentals. Adding Python to a CV or resume can benefit you even if you work in a non-technical role.

Certifications vs. Certificates: What's the Difference?

Certificates are typically completion-based programs, whereas you usually have to sit for an exam administered by a third party to demonstrate your mastery of a subject for a certification. While many certification credential holders have participated in certificate programs, most Python beginners will not start with a certification process.

Examples of comprehensive certificate programs abound: Noble Desktop offers programs like its Python Developer Certificate, Data Science Certificate, Data Analytics Certificate, and Software Engineering Certificate. All of these focus on Python, some exclusively and others as part of a broader data science, finance, or business curriculum.

The Python Institute provides the best-known certifications, like PCEP, PCAT, and PCAD. However, thanks to its international popularity, many institutions offer Python certifications of different types. You can learn much from the open-source Python community, especially if you want to learn how to create projects as part of a group. You might also consider a Python certification program through a local college or university.

Read on to learn more about certificates and certification programs.

Top Certifications & Certificates for Python

Whether you should pursue a Python certification or enroll in a certificate program can be influenced by factors like the time and budget you have available for training, your industry, and your combination of skills and experience. Most certificate programs cover a broad curriculum in areas like data science, software development, or finance; however, a select few prepare attendees to sit for a certification exam. While not a hard and fast rule, consider the main difference between certifications and certificate programs as follows:

• Certification can be for a service or platform like Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP), Adobe Certified Professional, or Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner. While some course providers offer training to sit for a certification exam, others come from the platform itself (such as Google, Microsoft, or Amazon).

• Certificate programs vary from course provider to course provider. Some offer business administration, basic coding classes, adult education, or different disciplines. Many provide a broad education in fields like Python data science, cybersecurity, or web development. These comprehensive programs are typically more in-depth than certification prep classes.

Entry-level employees typically do not have certifications when they begin their jobs. However, many Python beginners learn through immersive certificate programs, which may include boot camp-style training on multiple topics. Consider a certificate program an excellent way to start a new career or transition to a different role, whereas certification is one way to advance mid-career.

As for Python certifications and certificate programs, the most appropriate type of course depends heavily on factors like your industry, experience, and goals. You can find certificates and certifications that apply to anyone, but most likely you will want targeted training. For example, you might want to be a Data Scientist, a Software Developer, or a Financial Analyst. Each could dictate a vastly different training program than the others.

Consider first a course provider that offers training of varying lengths in multiple disciplines like development and data science. Noble Desktop is one such provider. Located in Manhattan, its state-of-the-art headquarters hosts in-person training, and most of its courses are also available live online via teleconferencing. Many are appropriate for those who need Python training at beginner, intermediate, or advanced levels.

Noble Desktop's most popular certificate programs for Python are its Data Science Certificate and Python Developer Certificate. These courses prepare beginners for web or software development or data-centered careers where Python is essential. Applicants for the Python Developer Certificate should have some HTML/CSS coding experience.

Python certification is another type of training altogether. You can take classes from Noble Desktop or another provider that prepares you to sit for a certification exam. The Python Institute or another entity may administer these exams. Research your options carefully before choosing training: you need to be sure the class is appropriate and that the exam is your best choice to meet your goals. Consider providers like Noble Desktop that offer certificate programs that prepare you for a certification exam.

The main tracks for Python certifications from the Python Institute include:

• Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP) - Python bootcamps from Noble Desktop prepare students well for PCEP certification since they cover universal programming concepts, functions, and data types. Graduates can move on to additional certifications from here, like Certified Associate and Certified Professional. If you enroll in a certificate program, discuss your goals with the instructor to ensure the PCEP certification is best for you. Noble Desktop's instructors have expertise in the field and can advise you on which courses are best for certification exam prep.

• Certified Professional in Python Programming 1 (PCPP1) - The PCPP1 certification is the first of two general-purpose Python programming credentials, typically followed by Certified Professional in Python Programming 2 (PCPP2). This certification represents advanced or specialized skills and expertise for roles like IT Specialists, Python Developers, System Architects, Software Engineers, and other professionals. Demonstrated proficiency in Python at the PCPP1 level typically leads individuals to sit for the PCPP2 exam.

• Certified Professional in Python Programming 2 (PCPP2) - The PCPP2 credential is for experienced Python Programmers, many of whom hold senior roles. These can include positions with titles like Senior Python Developer, Senior Data Engineer, and Senior Software Architect, to name a few. PCPP2 is typically the highest certification level for Python pros who already have PCEP, PCAP, and PCPP1 credentials. 

• Certified Associate in Testing with Python (PCAT) - PCAT requires familiarity with intermediate-level Python programming. The Python Developer Certificate from Noble Desktop can help prepare students for this certification. It covers everything from object-oriented fundamentals to custom functions. The PCAT certification is one of the few that may be appropriate for entry-level tech professionals. You might want to be a Software Tester, but there are plenty of other reasons to sit for the PCAT exam. If you want to work in quality assurance, software development, cybersecurity, or project/product management, the PCAT might be right for you.

• Certified Entry-Level Data Analyst with Python (PCED) - Data analytics professionals who have mastered Python fundamentals may want to sit for the Certified Entry-Level Data Analyst with Python exam. This certification is typically for Data Analysts, Business Analysts, or IT or computer science students. Tech professionals looking to transition into data analytics careers may also be interested in this credential. 

• Certified Associate in Data Analytics with Python (PCAD) - Like PCAT, the PCAD certification is for the associate level and requires intermediate Python skills. Programs like Noble's Data Analytics Certificate can help programmers prepare, covering topics like regression models, SQL, Tableau, and machine learning (ML). The Data Analytics Certificate program and subsequent PCAD certification can be appropriate for Business Analysts, Financial Analysts, Data Analysts, and other roles.

• Certified Associate in Python Programming (PCAP) - Often confused with PCAD, the PCAP credential is in the general programming category. PCAD, by contrast, typically applies to data analytics and predictive data modeling. Both PCAP and PCAD are associate-level certifications, but PCAP applicants most likely get the PCEP (Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer) certification first.

Should I Get Certified in Python?

While adding a certification to your resume can benefit you, few entry-level positions require Python certifications. Want to become a Cybersecurity Analyst? You might need CompTIA or Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certifications, but you most likely will not have to have a Python certification.

However, this by no means implies that you should avoid getting certified. Plenty of Python professionals hold one or more certifications, and a credential like this might make an employer choose you over another candidate. If you think your career track will take you to a high-level cybersecurity or software engineering role, it’s worth exploring.

One position where certification can be a common requirement is that of the Python Developer. These highly skilled professionals typically work on back-end development, data analysis, or data science. A Python Developer usually has a deep understanding of Python syntax and semantics, possibly beyond the levels attained by development pros who do not specialize in Python.

Other areas of expertise that benefit from advanced Python certifications include:

• Artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML)
• Quality assurance
• Software testing
• Project management
• Finance 
• Business intelligence (BI)

Depending on your need for Python certification in one form or another, you might want to take a certificate program that includes certification exam prep. Compare and contrast listings from different course providers before you commit.

Beyond the Python requirements for entry-level positions, those working in the BFSI field—banking, financial services, and insurance—should also consider sector-specific credentials. For example, those working in investment advisory services may need Certified Financial Planner (CFP) or Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) credentials.

Other roles can require prioritizing another certification before getting a Python-certified credential. Management professionals may need a PMP (Project Management Professional), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), or Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) certification. Others require knowledge of tools and skills related to Google, Salesforce, Hubspot, or Amazon Web Services (AWS). Consider the standard requirements for the job you seek, and be prepared to go above and beyond them. 

How Hard Is It To Become Python Certified?

Like many aspects of Python careers, getting certifications can be more or less challenging, depending on multiple factors. These include the following:

• Type of certification - Certifications typically come in multiple categories, and Python is no exception. The Python Institute offers the following types of certification:

• General purpose programming (PCEP, PCAP, PCPP1, PCPP2)
• Testing (PCAT)
• Data analytics (PCED, PCAD)

Some certification exams pertain to beginner-level students, others to intermediate, and others to advanced-level students. Check listings on the Python Institute website and always request a copy of the syllabus for your review before applying.

• Scheduling - As in any educational experience, your schedule is crucial to proper planning. Students already enrolled in a college or university typically won't want to add a class to an already-challenging calendar. However, those working in the field or with other full-time positions may need to make night-time classes their only options. Consider other personal obligations like family time, doctor appointments, and other care-related issues before you add a bootcamp or certificate program to your duties.

• Budget - Depending on whether you are still in school or on your own, the household budget can be an essential factor to consider. Students, those with roommates, and families with children all have situations that require sitting down and making sure the addition to the budget will work for all concerned. Remember to check all options when applying for a certificate or certification program, like tuition reimbursement, financing, and payment plans. Veterans, active duty military personnel, and other specialized categories may also provide unique benefits for new or continuing educational programs.

• Skill set - Always evaluate course materials and your goals before committing to a Python certification or certificate program. If you have some Python skills, a class that mainly draws complete beginners may be boring for your first few hours or days. You don’t want to waste time doing something overly easy. On the other hand, don't jump into an intermediate-level program if you will find yourself over your head. If you plan to start beyond the beginner level, check with admissions officers or other relevant personnel to ensure you're starting on the best course for your current skill set.

• Experience - Like skill set, experience counts for something when learning a programming language like Python. However, that doesn't mean you have to have years of experience to obtain an entry-level job. For some data analysis and software development beginners, a certificate program comprised of multiple bootcamps can provide the requirements for basic Python positions. On the other hand, if you have meaningful experience from a previous role, that can help you stand out from the crowd. As in any market, human resources directors and job recruiters will search among candidates for a combination of relevant skills and experience.

• Industry (or sector within that industry) - The industry or sector where you work or plan to work can affect the need for certification. For example, consider the broad field comprising banking, financial services, and insurance, commonly designated as BFSI. While most people in the insurance industry will consider their industry separate from banking or FinTech, a Python beginner might view it as a sector within the BFSI industry. The job requirements—including certifications, if any—will be much different for a Claims Adjuster than for an Investment Advisor. If you are a beginner in Python programming and open to working in any industry, consider the ramifications of investing time in a certification that might or might not be relevant for different roles.

If you are at the starting line of a possible Python career, you should also weigh the advantages of mastering a broad range of subjects. For example, many skills and tools you learn in a data science or data analytics certificate program can be relevant for multiple roles in varying fields. Consider the following hypothetical examples.

Say you are interested in training for a data-centered role but are unsure which position or field you should investigate. If you enter a software or web development certificate program, it might offer training in skills like:

• Python
• Django REST (Representational State Transfer)
• Structured Query Language (SQL)
• MongoDB
• Git/Github
• Visual Studio Code (VS Code)

This type of certificate can prepare you for entry-level work in roles like:

• Back End Developer
• Full Stack Developer
• Python Developer
• Software Engineer

On the other hand, if you enroll in a broad data science or analytics certificate program, it might offer training in skills like:

• Python
• Matplotlib
• NumPy
• Pandas
• SQL
• Tableau
• Power BI

The inherent challenges of getting Python certified can depend much upon what type of course or program you take. Weigh all the factors that apply to your case—including budget, scheduling, and experience—and you may find certification easier than expected.

How to Get Certified in Python

If you are new to Python, and especially if you are new to programming, consider taking a certificate program emphasizing Python before setting your sights on a certification process. The best certification credentials typically require one or more years of on-the-job experience. A certificate program emphasizing Python as part of a broader data science or web development curriculum can pave the way. Many graduates from these programs can find entry-level positions with the Certificate of Completion from a bootcamp-style certificate program and a solid resume.

To get a Python certification (as opposed to a certificate program), you'll have to do a cost/benefit analysis. General-purpose programming certifications like PCEP and PCAP can help, but the specialized high-level tracks like PCAD and PCAT typically require multiple years of experience. Resources through The Python Institute can provide additional details to help students decide which certification will best meet their professional needs, but consider the following factors:

• Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP) is an option for those new to the field and looking to qualify well for entry-level positions. You can prepare for the PCEP exam by taking a specialized course, but you may also prepare through a bootcamp or certificate program. Your choice of prep planning depends on your current skill set and experience level. Exams like PCEP only take around 45 minutes, but you may be allowed to retake it through some training programs.

• Certified Entry-Level Data Analyst With Python (PCED) is another option for Python programmers at the foundational level. The exam for this certification requires those who sit for it to know Python for tasks like data cleaning, analysis, and visualization. While the PCEP certification is often a stepping stone to the more advanced PCAP credential, PCED certification is typically an interim step to PCAD certification. Consequently, plan where to go with your certification credential, as each typically prepares you for another along the path.

A final consideration: some courses that prepare you to sit for certification include multiple practice exams. These can be essential to anyone sitting for their first certification. Although Data Analysts and other professionals need only score around 70% to pass these exams, the 45-minute time window allows for only a slim margin of error. If you plan to sit for a Python certification exam, look for training that includes one or more practice exams.

Additional Skills for Python Professionals

Python is such a universal programming language today that it can be challenging to determine which other skills you will need as a Python pro. While multiple roles require tools and skills like SQL and Tableau, several popular programming languages also match well with Python for specific users. Consider the following potential job requirements for Python professionals:

• Bootstrap - Software Engineers and other development pros often use Python as one of several programming languages. They also may need Bootstrap and Flexbox for layout tasks. You can use Flexbox without Bootstrap, but many development professionals prefer to use them together with HTML. 

• CSS - Many Web Developers and Web Designers use CSS, or Cascading Style Sheets, with HTML for development and design tasks. These two tools are so interrelated that you often see them written together as HTML/CSS. Consider CSS essential if you plan a career in design or development.

• Express.js - Back-end frameworks for Node.js include Meteor.js, Total.js, and the most popular, Express.js. Companies known to use Express.js include eBay, IBM, Netflix, and Uber. Among the many professionals who learn Express.js for their careers are Software Engineers, Node.js Developers, Full Stack Developers, and Back End Engineers. If you master Python as part of a broader development curriculum, you will likely learn it, too.

• Flexbox - Flexbox and Bootstrap go hand in hand, although some users prefer Flexbox without Bootstrap. If you plan to build and maintain web apps, you will likely get your Python skills as part of a training program that includes Flexbox, Bootstrap, and Grid. 

• Grid - If you work with Flexbox and Bootstrap, you might also be required to work with CSS Grid. Other companies prefer Flexbox over Grid or vice versa. Both layout models are popular, so you might want to have at least some familiarity with both of them before you look for a Python development role. Check out the Software Engineering Certificate from Noble Desktop for an excellent example of a training program that includes Flexbox, Grid, Bootstrap, and Python as part of a broader full stack development curriculum.

• HTML - Typically paired with CSS, HyperText Markup Language has been the bedrock of web design and development since the early 1990s. The range of tech pros who know HTML varies, from Web Designers and Web Developers to Social Media Managers, Digital Marketing Coordinators, and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialists. You might learn HTML with CSS as part of a design or development program or a more comprehensive curriculum like the Software Engineering Certificate program from Noble Desktop.

• JavaScript - Check many top 10 lists of popular programming languages, and you'll find JavaScript competing with Python for first place. Essential among Software Engineers, Full Stack Developers, and Web Designers, you can find JavaScript Developers alongside Python Developers in the hectic web and app development job market.

• MongoDB - Touted as the leading modern database, MongoDB is a developer data platform. This open-source database is popular among tech pros ranging from Data Engineers to Solutions Architects, Software Engineers, Full Stack Developers, and comparable roles. You might learn MongoDB as part of an immersive program like the Software Engineering Certificate from Noble Desktop or a shorter class like a seminar or workshop.

• WordPress - WordPress offers one of the most popular website design services platforms. It's also a content management system (CMS). Besides the well-known WordPress website builder, their products include a hosting service, domain names, a blogging platform, email, and newsletter services. While many companies prefer to use other builders for creating and maintaining sites, individual tech workers should know their way around WordPress: it powers an estimated 43% of websites worldwide.

Learn Python with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers multiple ways to learn Python in-person or online via teleconferencing. They provide Python training as an essential component of data science and analytics, FinTech, cybersecurity, and web development.

Their Python Programming Bootcamp provides hands-on Python training in an immersive environment. Beginners learn Python fundamentals in this bootcamp, where participants develop project-based coding portfolios. Graduates receive a verified Certificate of Completion and can retake the course for up to a year at no additional charge.

Students can save by taking the Python Programming Bootcamp as part of the Python Developer Certificate The Python Developer Certificate curriculum combines the Python Programming Bootcamp with a Python Web Development with Django training module. Participants learn Django fundamentals for web applications, querying models, URL dispatchers, automation, GitHub, and SQL. Attendees should have experience comparable to that gained in the Noble Desktop Web Development with HTML and CSS course before enrolling in the Python Developer Certificate program.

Additional Noble Desktop courses featuring Python include:

• Data Science Certificate- The immersive Data Science Certificate program provides all the skills tech pros need for entry-level data science, data analysis, or software engineering roles. Students learn how to write complex queries and build machine-learning (ML) models while preparing a professional-level portfolio. Skills covered include Python, SQL, NumPy, Pandas, and Jupyter Notebook. Attendees also learn Python data visualization with Plotly and Dash. 

This certificate features six hours of 1-on-1 mentoring sessions, where students can learn from experts. Mentors can help certificate program attendees with goals and skills measurements, review portfolios, polish resumes, prepare for interviews, and even dial in LinkedIn profiles. 

• Software Engineering Certificate- Software engineering is an increasingly in-demand career path, and the Software Engineering Certificate from Noble Desktop can pave the way. Beginner students who want to get their Python training as part of a comprehensive certificate program can start here.

The course begins with multiple web development training modules, including:

• HTML
• CSS
• Flexbox
• Grid
• Bootstrap
• JavaScript
• React.js
• Node.js
• Express.js
• MongoDB

After students have absorbed the lessons from the initial development modules, the curriculum continues with a deep dive into Python. The combined Noble Desktop Python Programming Bootcamp and Python Web Development with Django modules give participants the tools and skills they need for back end development. Topics in this section include querying models, URL dispatchers, authentication, and API endpoints. The program finishes with web development labs and coding challenges. Graduates from the Software Engineering Certificate program can also attend the SQL Bootcamp or WordPress Bootcamp at no additional charge.

• Python for Data Science Bootcamp- Among the many beginner-level programs Noble Desktop offers, the Python for Data Science Bootcamp is one of the most popular. This training program is comprehensive but targeted. Attendees begin with Python fundamentals and then move into how to handle data, floats, integers, and strings. The curriculum continues with conditional statements, how to simplify code, and data analysis with the essential NumPy and Pandas libraries for building machine learning models with Python. Finally, the course finishes with Matplotlib for creating data visualizations and Scikit-learn for linear regression.

• FinTech Bootcamp- Noble Desktop’s FinTech Bootcamp offers an excellent starting point for those planning to work in business, financial services, or insurance (BFSI). The FinTech Bootcamp is one of the best possible ways to begin training for a financial job that includes Python programming. Attendees typically work or seek work as Financial Analysts, Business Analysts, Data Analysts, or Data Scientists.

This bootcamp is open to FinTech beginners, but applicants should be familiar with financial statements, stock market fundamentals, and financial concepts like net present value (NPV) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR). Graduates from the FinTech Bootcamp can also attend the Python for Finance Bootcamp or Financial Modeling Bootcamp at no additional charge.

If you search online for Python certifications, many results will be certificate programs rather than actual certifications. Online course providers like Udemy and Coursera often host bootcamps, seminars, or workshops that feature Python fundamentals. Always read course descriptions from start to finish, including any prerequisite information, to be sure you will get what you expect in terms of a certificate of completion or a paid exam.

Students planning careers in data science, data analytics, cybersecurity, or financial analysis should consider enrolling in one of these programs to get comprehensive Python training. Those interested in development can take their Python education through the immersive Software Engineering Certificate program.