How Much is a Python Course?

If you are a Python novice and want to learn to start or change a career, your budget may be among your first considerations. Python-centered careers require different skills—especially when comparing and contrasting development with data science.

Before you pay to enroll in your first Python class, consider the many options you may have. This article addresses the costs of different types of training. Read on to find out more about Python and how to learn it.

Universities & Colleges: The Most Expensive Option

Some entry-level Python roles require a computer science or related degree, so many Python beginners think this applies to all such positions. While that is understandable, it’s also incorrect. Because Python skills remain in high demand, many companies will offer industry-specific training to a new employee with a certificate of completion from a qualified course provider.

Still, Python novices often research colleges and universities to see whether they are affordable and thus worthwhile for their tech careers. Only some are surprised to learn that post-secondary institutions are usually the most expensive of all options.

While a college or university degree can qualify a student for some desirable roles, there are a couple of other downsides besides cost. First is the time. Four years is a significant commitment, and the combination of time and money is beyond the reach of many. Another less obvious issue is that of obsolescence. In the fast-moving tech world, information learned in a student’s first year may become obsolete by graduation four years later. Consider the following additional options, as they may be better for Python novices. Many companies will reimburse entry-level employees who want to return to school to earn that bachelor’s degree.

Live Training Courses: Ideal for Beginners

Most students prefer to learn in person, although a growing number report that they like to take classes online if they have the option. Whether in-person or live online, however, an overwhelming majority report a high level of engagement when training in a live course. For that and other reasons, live training is ideal for Python beginners.

The bootcamp training model has become popular over the last few years. Bootcamps typically require full-time or part-time attendance, but the goal is always the same: give students as much information and hands-on training in the shortest possible time frame. A bootcamp or certificate program composed of multiple bootcamps is among the best ways to learn Python programming.

If you think the bootcamp model is for you, check out programs like the Python Developer Certificate, Data Science Certificate, or Software Engineering Certificate program from Noble Desktop. While these programs have differing goals, they have several things in common. They include multiple bootcamps and shorter training modules, feature expert instruction in person or live online, and offer 1-on-1 mentoring in addition to time in the classroom.

On-Demand/Asynchronous Classes

On-demand, or asynchronous learning, is another alternative with unique advantages and drawbacks. On-demand training typically features video modules, though some courses include additional supplementary materials like workbooks or a live chatbot. This training method may appeal if you work a non-traditional schedule, like a second or third shift. With on-demand videos, you can pause training whenever you need to, and many on-demand programs are less expensive than traditional in-person or live online programs. 

The main drawback is that on-demand learning has the lowest level of engagement of all training methods. Some students report feeling unmotivated when training by prerecorded video, and the lack of feedback from instructors or peers can be a downside. If you must learn Python on-demand, consider rearranging your schedule to attend live classes for your intermediate or advanced training.

Free Online Resources

The last category, free online resources, serves as the first stop for most beginners. Online videos and articles are a popular way to get oriented to learning about the many Python programming applications. For example, here in the Learn Hub, you can find articles about Python for data science and development. The Hub also features many recorded video tutorials on topics like strings, tuples, and data types, to name a few.

While these resources are excellent sources of information, developing a professional-level Python skill set isn’t free. Tech professionals who plan to work as Python Developers, Data Analysts, or Data Scientists need formal training. A bootcamp or certificate program that features Python or includes it within a broader data science or development curriculum provides the best value for your training dollar.

Learn Python Skills with Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers multiple training options for Python pros, from data science to development. If you plan to learn Python for your career, consider the following bootcamps and certificate programs:

Python Programming Bootcamp - This beginner-friendly Python introduction works for development and data sciences novices alike. You can save on tuition by taking it as part of the Data Science Certificate, FinTech Bootcamp, or Python Developer Certificate.

Python for Data Science Bootcamp - If you aren’t ready to dive into a Python certificate, you can begin your education with the Python for Data Science Bootcamp. However, you will save money if you take it as part of the Data Analytics Certificate, Data Science Certificate, or FinTech Bootcamp.

Python for Finance Bootcamp - If you take the Python for Data Science Bootcamp for a finance career, you can qualify for the Python for Finance Bootcamp. However, you will save on tuition if you get your Python and finance education through Noble Desktop’s FinTech Bootcamp.

FinTech Bootcamp - The immersive FinTech Bootcamp is a beginner-friendly certificate program consisting of multiple Python bootcamps, an SQL Bootcamp, and a Python for Automation training module. Applicants can also choose an additional free 18-hour finance elective after registration. Check course listings for more details.

Python Machine Learning Bootcamp - If you take the Python for Data Science Bootcamp for a machine learning career, you can qualify for the Python Machine Learning Bootcamp. However, you will save money if you take it as part of the Data Science Certificate program.

Data Science Certificate - Noble Desktop’s popular Data Science Certificate program covers Python programming fundamentals, machine learning, SQL to query databases, and plotting and dashboard libraries. This immersive certificate prepares participants for entry-level data science or Python engineering roles.

Python Developer Certificate - Students planning development careers can learn Python programming and build a professional-level portfolio with the Python Developer Certificate. Applicants should have HTML/CSS experience comparable to that gained in Noble’s Web Development with HTML & CSS course.

Software Engineering Certificate - Want to be a Software Engineer or Full Stack Developer? Get essential Python training in this comprehensive, beginner-friendly certificate program. Topics include front end development with JavaScript, Python development with Django, REST, and the MERN tech stack.