Technology

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Online Python Course for Beginners

Python has become one of the most popular programming languages in recent years. Its simplicity, versatility, and wide range of applications make it an ideal language for beginners and experienced developers alike. If you’re looking to learn Python or enhance your skills in this language, taking an online course is a great way to achieve your goals. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best online Python courses for beginners, considering factors like course content, instructor expertise, hands-on projects, and industry recognition. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect Python course for you!

Why Take an Online Python Course?

Taking an online Python course offers several advantages. First and foremost, it allows you to learn at your own pace and convenience. Whether you have a full-time job, other commitments, or prefer a flexible learning schedule, online courses provide the flexibility you need. Additionally, many online Python courses offer lifetime access to course materials, allowing you to revisit the content whenever you need a refresher. Online courses also often provide practical hands-on projects and coding exercises, allowing you to apply your knowledge in a real-world context. Finally, many online Python courses offer certificates upon completion, which can enhance your resume and demonstrate your commitment to learning Python.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an Online Python Course

With the abundance of online Python courses available, it can be challenging to choose the right one for your needs. To help you make an informed decision, consider the following factors:

Course Content and Syllabus

The course content and syllabus should align with your learning goals. Look for courses that cover Python fundamentals like variables, data types, control flow, functions, and modules. Consider whether the course also includes advanced topics like object-oriented programming (OOP), web development, data science, or machine learning, depending on your interests. A comprehensive course that covers both fundamental and advanced Python concepts will provide a strong foundation for your Python journey.

Instructor Expertise

The expertise and teaching style of the course instructor are crucial to your learning experience. Research the instructor’s background, including their experience with Python, programming, and teaching. Look for instructors who have a strong reputation and positive reviews from previous students. Instructors who are industry professionals or have extensive experience in the field can provide valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Hands-On Projects and Coding Exercises

Practical application is key to mastering Python. Look for courses that offer hands-on projects and coding exercises. These projects allow you to apply your newly acquired skills in real-world scenarios and build a portfolio of Python projects. Practical experience is invaluable when it comes to landing a job or advancing your career in Python.

Industry Recognition and Certificates

While certificates may not be the sole measure of your skills, they can demonstrate your commitment and dedication to learning Python. Consider courses that offer industry-recognized certificates upon completion. These certificates can add credibility to your resume and increase your chances of being noticed by employers. Look for courses that are recognized by reputable organizations or tech giants like Google, Microsoft, or IBM.

Student Reviews and Testimonials

Reading reviews and testimonials from previous students can provide valuable insights into the course’s quality and effectiveness. Look for courses with positive reviews that highlight the course’s strengths, such as clear explanations, engaging content, and practical exercises. Pay attention to reviews from students who had similar learning goals or backgrounds to yours.

Price and Value for Money

The cost of an online Python course can vary significantly. Consider your budget and the value you expect to receive from the course. Some courses offer free access or a free trial, allowing you to assess the course before committing to a paid version. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality course with comprehensive content and practical projects can provide long-term benefits for your Python journey.

The Best Online Python Courses for Beginners

Now that we’ve discussed the factors to consider, let’s explore some of the best online Python courses for beginners. We have compiled a list of courses that cover a wide range of Python topics, taught by experienced instructors, and offer practical projects to enhance your learning experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some programming experience, there’s a course for you.

1. [Udemy] 100 Days of Code: The Complete Python Pro Bootcamp for 2023

  • Course Summary: This bootcamp-level Python course spans 100 days, with one hour of daily coding practice. It focuses on building projects and covers AI, data science, web development, and more.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Dr. Angela Yu
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 60 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid
    • Certificate: Yes
    • Enrolled Students: ~1M
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: 4.7/5

Why we chose this Python course: This course stands out for its practical approach to learning Python. By dedicating one hour daily to coding projects for 100 days, you’ll build a diverse portfolio and gain proficiency in AI, data science, and web development. Dr. Angela Yu, a top-tier instructor with over 2 million students, leads the course. The curriculum covers essential Python concepts and tools in high demand in 2023, including web scraping, game development, and data science libraries like Pandas and NumPy.

Pros:

  • Bootcamp-level learning from a highly respected instructor
  • Build projects every day for 100 days to master Python
  • Gain in-demand Python skills, including AI and web development

Cons:

  • Some reports of dead links in course materials

2. [Coursera] Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)

  • Course Summary: This course is part of the Python for Everybody Specialization and provides a foundational understanding of Python for beginners. It covers variables, expressions, conditional statements, and loops.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Charles Russell Severance, University of Michigan
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 19 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid (Free to audit)
    • Certificate: Yes (Paid option)
    • Enrolled Students: 2.9M+
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: 4.8/5

Why we chose this Python course: As part of a specialization program, this course offers a solid introduction to Python for beginners. With nearly 3 million students and the expertise of the University of Michigan, it covers essential Python programming skills and provides a certificate upon completion. The course includes video tutorials, text content, and quizzes, making it an ideal starting point for beginners.

Pros:

  • Introduction to Python programming for total beginners
  • Quizzes and assessments to reinforce learning
  • Taught by the University of Michigan, with a large student base

Cons:

  • None reported

3. [LearnPython] Learn Programming with Python

  • Course Summary: This comprehensive Python course covers Python fundamentals and offers over 100 hands-on exercises. It includes specializations for data science and web development for a single price.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Learn Python
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 38 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid
    • Certificate: Yes
    • Enrolled Students: 10K+
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: N/A

Why we chose this Python course: LearnPython offers an intriguing approach to learning Python. In addition to covering Python syntax, variables, control flow, and essential data structures, the course offers specialized Python courses for data science and web development. By opting for the full-track course, you gain access to 13 different Python courses, allowing you to curate your own Python learning path. With over 100 hands-on exercises, this course emphasizes practical application and prepares you for real-world coding environments.

Pros:

  • Over 100 interactive exercises to reinforce learning
  • Five interactive Python courses in a 38-hour program
  • Pay once for lifetime access to course materials

Cons:

  • Lower student count due to its newer status

4. [Udacity] Learn Intermediate Python Nanodegree

  • Course Summary: This intermediate Python course covers advanced Python topics like web development and app creation. It includes career support and involves practical projects for a comprehensive portfolio.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Sam Redmond, Gabriel Ruttner
    • Prerequisites: Basic Python
    • Duration: 80 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid
    • Certificate: Yes
    • Enrolled Students: N/A
    • Difficulty: Intermediate
    • Rating: N/A

Why we chose this Python course: For those with programming experience and a solid understanding of Python basics, this nanodegree program provides comprehensive training. It covers topics like web development, software design patterns, and application dependency management. The course includes real-world projects developed in partnership with top-tier companies, ensuring you apply your skills practically. Additionally, career mentorship and support are provided, helping you optimize your LinkedIn profile and prepare for interviews.

Pros:

  • Intensive and comprehensive Python program with real-world projects
  • Learn in-demand skills for various Python careers
  • Mentor support and career services

Cons:

  • None reported

5. [Coursera] Crash Course on Python

  • Course Summary: This introductory Python course is part of Google’s Automation with Python Certificate Program. It covers Python basics, automation via scripting, and advanced topics like modules and packages.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Google Career Certificates
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 22 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid (Free to audit)
    • Certificate: Yes (Paid option)
    • Enrolled Students: 900K+
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: 4.8/5

Why we chose this Python course: This course, offered by Google, is an excellent introduction to Python for beginners. It covers the fundamentals of Python programming and the role of programming in modern IT. The course includes interactive exercises, quizzes, and real-world examples to provide valuable hands-on experience. It also forms part of Google’s Automation with Python Certificate Program, which adds recognition and value to your learning.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive introduction to Python for beginners
  • Quizzes and assessments to reinforce learning
  • Taught by Google, with a large student base

Cons:

  • None reported

6. [Educative] Learn Python 3 from Scratch

  • Course Summary: This interactive Python course focuses on hands-on coding practice using interactive coding playgrounds and text-based lessons. It covers Python basics, data structures, and algorithms.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Educative
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 10 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid
    • Certificate: Yes
    • Enrolled Students: N/A
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: N/A

Why we chose this Python course: Educative offers a unique approach to learning Python through interactive coding playgrounds and text-based lessons. This beginner-friendly course is designed for total beginners and emphasizes learning Python by coding rather than watching videos. The course covers essential Python concepts like variables, control flow, functions, and data structures. With quizzes and coding challenges, you can reinforce your learning and immediately apply your knowledge.

Pros:

  • Mixture of exams, coding playgrounds, quizzes, and coding challenges
  • Interactive Python course for total beginners
  • Small time commitment to learn Python from scratch

Cons:

  • 100% text-based learning may not suit those who prefer video content

7. [Codecademy] Learn Python 3

  • Course Summary: This beginner Python course from Codecademy covers Python syntax, control flow, data structures, and object-oriented programming. It includes coding challenges and projects.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Codecademy
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 25 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid (Free to audit)
    • Certificate: Yes (Paid option)
    • Enrolled Students: 2M+
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: 4.6/5

Why we chose this Python course: Codecademy’s Learn Python 3 course is ideal for beginners interested in web development, data science, or software engineering. With over 2 million enrolled students, this course offers a comprehensive introduction to Python programming. It covers Python fundamentals like variables, control flow, and data structures, along with more advanced topics like file management, object-oriented programming, and testing. Coding challenges and projects provide hands-on experience and build your portfolio.

Pros:

  • Mixture of challenges and projects for hands-on learning
  • Option to audit the course for free without a certificate
  • Previous Codecademy students have landed jobs with major tech companies

Cons:

  • None reported

8. [Udemy] The Complete Python Bootcamp from Zero to Hero in Python

  • Course Summary: This comprehensive Python course covers Python basics, web scraping, file I/O, OOP, and advanced topics like decorators and generators. It includes three major Python projects.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Jose Portilla
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 22 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid
    • Certificate: Yes
    • Enrolled Students: 1.7M+
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: 4.6/5

Why we chose this Python course: This course offers a deep understanding of Python, covering both fundamental and advanced topics. With over 1.7 million enrolled students, it is highly regarded by learners worldwide. The curriculum covers Python basics, control flow, data structures, OOP, file I/O, and advanced topics like decorators and generators. The course also includes three major Python projects to enhance your portfolio and provide hands-on experience.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive Python course from basics to advanced topics
  • Three milestone projects to enhance your portfolio
  • Taught by an experienced instructor with a large student base

Cons:

  • Some students suggest that explanations can be vague

9. [Google] Google’s Python Class

  • Course Summary: This free Python course from Google is designed for students with basic programming skills. It covers Python syntax, control flow, data types, and file handling.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Google for Education
    • Prerequisites: Basic Programming Skills
    • Duration: Self-paced
    • Free or Paid: Free
    • Certificate: No
    • Enrolled Students: N/A
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: N/A

Why we chose this Python course: For students with some programming experience, Google’s Python Class offers a free and intensive introduction to Python. The course covers Python basics like variables, expressions, conditional statements, control flow, and data types. It also includes lessons on code reuse, code style, and refactoring. Being developed by Google, the course materials are used internally and provide practical insights into Python programming.

Pros:

  • Completely free Python course
  • Intensive Python course for students with basic programming skills
  • Taught by Google using materials used internally

Cons:

  • None reported

10. [Programming with Mosh] Python Full Course

  • Course Summary: This free Python course from Programming with Mosh covers Python syntax, control flow, functions, modules, file I/O, and advanced topics like decorators and generators.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Mosh Hamedani (Programming with Mosh)
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 6.25 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Free
    • Certificate: No
    • Enrolled Students: 35M+ Views
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: N/A

Why we chose this Python course: Programming with Mosh is a popular YouTube channel for learning programming. This free Python course provides a comprehensive introduction to Python, covering essential concepts like variables, control flow, functions, and modules. It also covers advanced topics like decorators and generators. The course is short but concise, making it an ideal choice for beginners looking for a quick introduction to Python.

Pros:

  • Free Python course from a highly regarded instructor
  • Hands-on format encourages learning by coding
  • Learn Python basics and advanced topics in a concise manner

Cons:

  • No certificate of completion or access to instructor support

11. [FreeCodeCamp] Python for Beginners, Full Course

  • Course Summary: This free Python course from FreeCodeCamp covers Python basics, control flow, data structures, functions, file handling, and more. It includes practical coding examples and exercises.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Beau Carnes, FreeCodeCamp
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 4.5 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Free
    • Certificate: No
    • Enrolled Students: 1.5M+ Views
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: N/A

Why we chose this Python course: FreeCodeCamp’s Python for Beginners course is a comprehensive introduction to Python programming. It covers Python basics, control flow, data structures, functions, file handling, and more. The course includes practical coding examples and exercises to reinforce your learning. With over 1.5 million views, this course is highly regarded by beginners seeking a free and accessible Python course.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive introduction to Python for beginners
  • Quizzes and coding exercises to reinforce concepts
  • Taught by an experienced instructor with a large following

Cons:

  • No certificate of completion or access to instructor support

12. [LinkedIn Learning] Python Essential Training

  • Course Summary: This Python course from LinkedIn Learning covers Python basics, control flow, data structures, object-oriented programming, and file handling. It includes coding challenges and practical examples.
  • Key Information:
    • Course Instructor: Ryan Mitchell
    • Prerequisites: None
    • Duration: 4.5 Hours
    • Free or Paid: Paid
    • Certificate: Yes
    • Enrolled Students: N/A
    • Difficulty: Beginner
    • Rating: 4.8/5

Why we chose this Python course: LinkedIn Learning’s Python Essential Training offers a comprehensive introduction to Python programming. It covers Python basics like variables, control flow, and data structures, along with advanced topics like object-oriented programming and file handling. The course includes coding challenges and practical examples to apply your knowledge. With a high rating and positive reviews, this course is a reliable choice for beginners.

Pros:

  • Comprehensive introduction to Python with practical examples
  • Coding challenges to reinforce learning
  • Taught by an experienced instructor with positive reviews

Cons:

  • Some students suggest that the course content can be challenging for beginners

Conclusion

Choosing the best online Python course for beginners is a crucial step in your Python learning journey. By considering factors like course content, instructor expertise, hands-on projects, and industry recognition, you can make an informed decision. The courses mentioned in this guide offer a range of options, from comprehensive bootcamps to focused introductions to Python. Whether you prefer video tutorials, interactive coding playgrounds, or text-based lessons, there’s a course that suits your learning style. So, get ready to embark on your Python learning adventure and take the first step towards mastering this versatile programming language!

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