Learn Python with online courses and programs

Benefits of learning Python online

Whether you're already working in tech or looking to break into the industry, proficiency in Python is a highly marketable skill for programming professionals. Other benefits of learning Python are listed below.

• Popularity: According to a 2024 report from Statista, Python ranks third among the most-used programming languages globally.
• Versatility: Python can be used in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data analysis, web development, and more.
• Free tools for efficient coding: Python programmers freely use and share libraries and frameworks of pre-written code that can be used by anyone, therefore eliminating the need to rewrite code that already exists.
• Relatively easy to learn: Because of its simple syntax that resembles human language, Python is considered ideal for beginner programmers.
• Flexible learning options: Learning Python online allows you to build new programming skills while keeping personal and professional commitments. You have the freedom to choose the course or program that best suits your learning pace and goals.

How to start learning Python

Step one: Explore the fundamentals

If you're a newcomer to computer science and programming, consider taking an online Python course for beginners.

Introductory courses usually cover:

• Overview of Python and what it's used for
• How to set up Python and an Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
• Basic syntax, variables, and data types
• How to open, read, and write files
• Data structures
• Modules and libraries

Step two: Build projects to sharpen your skills

Practicing coding is an effective way to commit what you've learned to memory. It's also helpful in identifying areas for improvement and — when you take on more challenging coding projects — to develop new skills.

Some examples of beginner projects include:

• Number and word guessing games
• Rock, paper, scissors game
• Live weather notifications for desktop
• Flight data generation
• Crawl restaurant data

Step three: Challenge yourself with advanced concepts

Once you've mastered the basics, advance your skills by challenging yourself to learn advanced concepts. Some popular areas of focus include data science, generative AI, machine learning, and software development.

Boosting your Python skills may require you to learn about new, related subjects, such as cloud computing, the Agile project management approach, and other programming languages.

Professional certificates are another way to add credibility to your résumé.

How long does it take to learn Python?

While most learners can begin reading and writing basic Python programs in 4–8 weeks with consistent weekly practice, mastering the language can take several years of experience. How long it takes to learn Python depends on what you plan to do with it — for example, you may be able to qualify for an entry-level programming role after studying and practicing Python for 3–6 months. If you plan to become an expert or specialize in a certain area of programming, it may take you much longer to reach your goals.

Consider the following timelines for learning Python online:

Courses: 4–12 weeks of study

Certificates: 2–10 months of study

Executive Education: 6–8 weeks of study

Degree programs: 2–4 years of study

Jobs that use Python

With Python, you can build websites, automate tasks, enhance data visualizations, and test software. Below are a few popular jobs that use Python, with salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).