In the ever-evolving digital era, programming has cemented its place as a critical skill across various industries, and Python has emerged as a leading language due to its simplicity, versatility, and wide range of applications. From web development and data analysis to artificial intelligence and scientific computing, Python’s applicability is vast, making it an attractive skill for professionals and hobbyists alike.
As we navigate through 2024, the demand for proficient Python programmers continues to soar, prompting a surge in the availability of online courses designed to cater to learners at all levels. Whether you’re taking your first steps into programming or looking to deepen your expertise, the right course can significantly impact your learning journey. This review explores the top 5 online Python courses available in 2024, delving into their unique features, costs, and what makes them stand out in the crowded landscape of online education.
The LearnPython Full-Track Course is a holistic program designed to cater to a wide array of learners, from beginners to those looking to delve into data science with Python. What sets this course apart is its blend of over 100 hands-on exercises set in real coding environments, enabling students to apply their learning in practical scenarios. This extensive practice is complemented by lifetime access to the course materials upon a one-time payment, offering unmatched value and flexibility. This course is especially beneficial for individuals uncertain about their Python learning path or career goals, as it allows them to curate their learning journey according to their own pace and interests. However, it’s important to note that its relative novelty means it has a lower student count, which could affect peer learning opportunities.
The pricing for the LearnPython Full-Track Course starts at $29 enrollement for lifetime access to each individual course and $349 for lifetime access to the full library of 13 courses and future courses. Promotions are offered and at the time of publishing, the full course library enrollement is offered at $129.
Educative’s Learn Python 3 from Scratch course takes a unique, interactive approach to teaching Python, making it one of the best choices for complete beginners in 2024. Unlike traditional video-based tutorials, this course utilizes interactive coding playgrounds and text-based lessons, fostering an environment where students learn by coding. The course’s structure is built to encourage active learning, with a plethora of quizzes and coding challenges to reinforce concepts. The emphasis on hands-on learning from the outset prepares students to tackle real-world problems with confidence. However, its reliance on text-based content over videos might not cater to all learning preferences.
The cost for courses on Educative typically requires a subscription to access. The Standard Plan starts from £7.09/mo with 12 months access, and completion certificates. The Premium plan starts from£11.35/mo with added features and Premium Plus plan from £13.01/mo which is best for learning. Educative often offers both monthly and annual subscription plans that give access to their entire course library.
DataCamp’s Intermediate Python course is specifically tailored for individuals with a basic understanding of Python who aim to further their skills in data science, visualization, and manipulation. The course’s strength lies in its focus on teaching practical skills that are directly applicable to industry needs, such as using Matplotlib for data visualization and pandas for data manipulation. With over 1 million enrolled students, its popularity underscores the quality and effectiveness of its curriculum. Despite its short duration of just 4 hours, the course is packed with 87 exercises, ensuring that learners gain hands-on experience. It’s an excellent step for those looking to build upon their Python foundation, though it’s not designed for absolute beginners.
DataCamp operates on a subscription model, providing access to its courses, including “Intermediate Python,” through monthly or annual subscriptions. Basic Limited access is offered from free, with Premium access offered from £21/mo and a 50% discount offered at the time of publishing taking it to £10.65/mo.
The Complete Python Developer: Zero to Mastery course, available through a Zero to Mastery (ZTM) membership, is tailored for both novices and seasoned programmers. The course’s comprehensive curriculum covers a wide range of applications, from web scraping to building complex Python applications for automation. This course stands out for its project-based learning approach, where learners are encouraged to apply their knowledge in creating real-world projects. The requirement of a ZTM membership for access might be seen as a barrier, but it also opens doors to a plethora of other courses, making it a worthwhile investment for those committed to learning.
This course is accessible through a Zero to Mastery (ZTM) membership, which costs around $39 per month. You may also use coupon codes, such as FRIENDS10 for a discount, to access this and other courses on the platform.
Dr. Angela Yu’s 100 Days of Code: The Complete Python Pro Bootcamp on Udemy is distinguished by its extensive curriculum that covers the basics to advanced topics in Python. This course is designed with beginners in mind, offering a step-by-step guide through Python’s fundamentals with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning. What makes this course particularly appealing is its project-based structure, encouraging learners to build projects that range from simple applications to complex systems. This approach not only solidifies programming concepts but also equips students with a portfolio of projects to showcase their skills. The commitment required to complete the course might be intensive, but it’s an investment that promises substantial returns in skill development.
Pricing for Udemy courses, including Dr. Angela Yu’s “100 Days of Code: The Complete Python Pro Bootcamp,” can vary due to frequent sales and promotions. At the time of publishing the course is offered on a subscription basis from $15.00/mo or a one off payment of £59.99 with access to all 222 articles and 54 hours of on-demand video content.
Python is revolutionizing programming by simplifying complex tasks across diverse fields, making coding more accessible and versatile for developers worldwide.
Choosing the right Python course can be a pivotal decision in your programming journey, one that requires careful consideration of your learning preferences, career objectives, and budget. The courses reviewed here—LearnPython Full-Track Course, Educative’s Learn Python 3 from Scratch, DataCamp’s Intermediate Python, Complete Python Developer: Zero to Mastery, and 100 Days of Code: The Complete Python Pro Bootcamp—each offer a unique approach to mastering Python. From comprehensive curriculums that cover the breadth of Python’s applications to specialized tracks focusing on data science or web development, these courses cater to a wide array of learning needs.
While the costs associated with these courses vary, from subscription models to one-time payments, the investment in learning Python promises substantial returns in the form of career opportunities, skill development, and the sheer joy of coding. As you embark on or continue your Python learning journey, consider not only the financial investment but also the time and effort you are willing to commit. The best course for you is one that not only fits your budget but also aligns with your learning style, paces you appropriately, and ultimately helps you achieve your programming goals.
With Python’s prominence only set to increase in the foreseeable future, now is an opportune time to dive into learning this versatile language. Armed with the knowledge from the right course, you’ll be well on your way to unlocking new opportunities, solving complex problems, and contributing to the vast world of technology. Remember, the journey of learning Python is a marathon, not a sprint; choose a course that will be your companion, guide, and catalyst in the exhilarating adventure that programming promises.
“Python is not just programming; it’s a philosophy, transforming how we solve problems, democratizing technology, and bridging gaps between ideas and execution, thereby redefining the boundaries of what’s possible.”
