Python has become one of the most popular programming languages due to its simplicity, readability, and versatility. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, learning Python can significantly enhance your career prospects. In 2024, there are numerous online courses available that not only teach Python but also provide certificates upon completion. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best Python courses online with certificates.
1. Python for Everybody by Coursera
Instructor: Dr. Charles Severance
Platform: Coursera
Duration: 8 months (at 3 hours per week)
Level: Beginner
Certificate: Yes
Overview: Python for Everybody is a highly rated course series offered by the University of Michigan on Coursera. Taught by Dr. Charles Severance, the course covers the basics of programming using Python, data structures, databases, web scraping, and more. It’s designed for beginners and requires no prior programming experience.
Pros:
- Comprehensive curriculum covering fundamental to advanced topics.
- Hands-on assignments and projects.
- Flexible learning schedule.
- Financial aid is available.
Cons:
- Some topics may be too basic for experienced programmers.
2. Complete Python Bootcamp: Go from Zero to Hero in Python 3 by Udemy
Instructor: Jose Portilla
Platform: Udemy
Duration: 24 hours of on-demand video
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Certificate: Yes
Overview: This course by Jose Portilla is one of Udemy’s best-selling Python courses. It covers everything from Python basics to advanced concepts like object-oriented programming and web scraping. The course also includes exercises, quizzes, and real-world projects to solidify your learning.
Pros:
- Extensive coverage of Python 3.
- Lifetime access to course materials.
- Engaging instructor with clear explanations.
- Practical projects and coding exercises.
Cons:
- May lack depth in advanced topics.
3. CS50’s Introduction to Computer Science by edX
Instructor: David J. Malan
Platform: edX
Duration: 12 weeks (at 10-20 hours per week)
Level: Beginner
Certificate: Yes (Paid)
Overview: Harvard University’s CS50 is a renowned introductory computer science course available on edX. It covers a range of programming languages, including Python, and provides a strong foundation in computer science principles. The course is rigorous and suitable for those looking to understand the broader context of Python within computer science.
Pros:
- Prestigious course from Harvard University.
- In-depth understanding of computer science fundamentals.
- Challenging problem sets and projects.
- Free to audit with an option to pay for a certificate.
Cons:
- Time-intensive and demanding.
- Not exclusively focused on Python.
4. Python 3 Programming Specialization by Coursera
Instructor: Multiple Instructors from the University of Michigan
Platform: Coursera
Duration: 5 months (at 4 hours per week)
Level: Intermediate
Certificate: Yes
Overview: This specialization is a more advanced continuation of the Python for Everybody course. It delves deeper into Python 3 programming, covering topics like data visualization, machine learning, and web development using Django.
Pros:
- Advanced topics and practical applications.
- Hands-on projects and capstone projects.
- Flexible deadlines.
- Financial aid is available.
Cons:
- Requires some prior Python knowledge.
5. Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate by Coursera
Instructor: Google
Platform: Coursera
Duration: 6 months (at 5 hours per week)
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Certificate: Yes
Overview: Developed by Google, this professional certificate course aims to equip learners with Python programming skills and automation techniques. It covers basic Python programming, IT automation, and more advanced topics like using Git and GitHub for version control.
Pros:
- Industry-recognized certification from Google.
- Focus on practical IT automation skills.
- Comprehensive and beginner-friendly.
- Hands-on projects and interactive content.
Cons:
- May be too focused on IT automation for some learners.
6. Python for Data Science and Machine Learning Bootcamp by Udemy
Instructor: Jose Portilla
Platform: Udemy
Duration: 25 hours of on-demand video
Level: Intermediate
Certificate: Yes
Overview: This course by Jose Portilla on Udemy is designed for those interested in data science and machine learning. It covers essential Python libraries such as NumPy, Pandas, Matplotlib, and Scikit-learn, along with machine learning algorithms and data visualization techniques.
Pros:
- Focus on data science and machine learning applications.
- Practical, hands-on projects.
- Lifetime access to course materials.
- Engaging and experienced instructor.
Cons:
- Requires some prior Python and statistics knowledge.
7. Automate the Boring Stuff with Python by Udemy
Instructor: Al Sweigart
Platform: Udemy
Duration: 9.5 hours of on-demand video
Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Certificate: Yes
Overview: Based on the popular book of the same name, this course by Al Sweigart focuses on practical programming skills to automate everyday tasks using Python. It’s perfect for beginners who want to learn Python through real-world examples and projects.
Pros:
- Practical and fun approach to learning Python.
- Useful automation projects.
- Lifetime access to course materials.
- Beginner-friendly with clear explanations.
Cons:
- May lack depth in advanced Python topics.
8. Data Science with Python by edX
Instructor: University of Washington
Platform: edX
Duration: 6 weeks (at 4-6 hours per week)
Level: Intermediate
Certificate: Yes (Paid)
Overview: This course from the University of Washington on edX is part of a MicroMasters program in Data Science. It covers data analysis, machine learning, and data visualization using Python, providing a solid foundation for a career in data science.
Pros:
- Part of a comprehensive MicroMasters program.
- Focus on practical data science skills.
- High-quality instruction from a reputable university.
- Free to audit with an option to pay for a certificate.
Cons:
- Requires prior knowledge of Python and statistics.
9. Learn Python 3.6 for Total Beginners by Udemy
Instructor: Stone River eLearning
Platform: Udemy
Duration: 8.5 hours of on-demand video
Level: Beginner
Certificate: Yes
Overview: This beginner-friendly course by Stone River eLearning covers the basics of Python 3.6. It’s designed for absolute beginners and covers topics like variables, loops, functions, and error handling.
Pros:
- Beginner-friendly and easy to follow.
- Lifetime access to course materials.
- Practical coding exercises and projects.
- Affordable pricing.
Cons:
- Limited coverage of advanced topics.
10. Professional Certificate in Data Science by edX
Instructor: Harvard University
Platform: edX
Duration: 1 year (at 2-4 hours per week)
Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Certificate: Yes (Paid)
Overview: Harvard’s Professional Certificate in Data Science is a comprehensive program available on edX. It covers a range of topics including R, Python, data visualization, and machine learning. While it includes multiple programming languages, Python is a significant part of the curriculum.
Pros:
- Prestigious certification from Harvard University.
- Comprehensive and in-depth curriculum.
- Hands-on projects and case studies.
- Free to audit with an option to pay for a certificate.
Cons:
- Time-consuming and requires a significant commitment.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking to start learning Python or enhance your existing skills, these courses offer a variety of learning experiences and certifications. From beginner-friendly courses to advanced specializations, there’s something for everyone. Investing in one of these courses can open doors to numerous career opportunities in programming, data science, automation, and more. Choose the course that best fits your learning style and career goals, and take the first step towards mastering Python in 2024.
