The Top 10 Best Online Python Courses for Beginners
Python has become one of the most popular programming languages due to its ability to be used for web development, data analysis, and other applications. Nonetheless, learning it can be difficult without assistance and guidance. That is why this compilation of the top 10 free Python courses and tutorials has been created, so that no matter your budget or learning style, you can find the help that you need.
- Coursera — Python for Everybody Specialization by the University of Michigan — Our Top Pick
- Udemy — Introduction to Python Programming — Ideal for Beginners
- Udemy — Learn Python 3.6 for Total Beginners — Best Instructor
- Udemy — Python From Beginner to Intermediate in 30 min — Fastest Course
- Udemy — Deep Learning Prerequisites: The Numpy Stack in Python (V2+) — Most Advanced
- Udacity — Introduction to Python Programming — Most Engaging
- Codecademy — Analyze Data with Python — Perfect for Data Nerds
- Codecademy — Learn Python 3 — Best for Building Your Portfolio
- DataCamp — Introduction to Python — Most Enjoyable
- edX — Introduction to Python Programming by the Georgia Institute of Technology — Most Scholarly
Factors We Take into Account When Ranking
We’ve gone over close to 20 courses to discover the best free options available, according to multiple criteria. On this list, you will find a course suited for you – whether you don’t know anything about programming or wish to build on the skills you already have. These top-notch free online Python courses offer a good balance between theoretical knowledge and practical abilities.
The Criteria for Evaluating Rankings
Before enrolling in a program, We do your homework to determine if it is the best option for you. Considerations such as the duration of the course, if there are any requirements that must be met and if you will receive a certificate of completion upon finishing should all be taken into account. Here, we have narrowed down the list based on these four criteria.
The duration of completion: Courses in our roster span from less than two hours to around eight months. A concise tutorial may not be able to provide the same amount of learning as a full-length course, but if you’re just starting out or don’t have adequate time, then it can be a feasible option.
Should be familiar with certain concepts: Most of the courses don’t ask for any special qualifications, but it’s not safe to assume that they’re all suitable for beginners. A few may presume a basic understanding of programming topics or some background with Python.
The principal motivation for people to enroll in web-based Python instruction is the opportunity to learn at their own speed and on their own timetable. To meet these needs, we have made sure to offer courses that do not mandate attendance at live lessons or meeting any due dates, allowing for the greatest possible degree of flexibility.
Achievement recognition: For those looking to gain employment in programming, having a proof of accomplishment may help their chances. This article concentrates on free courses; nonetheless, certain courses may require a fee for a formal certificate at the conclusion to show off on LinkedIn or a professional website.
Criteria For More Advanced Evaluations
When it came to evaluating various online Python courses, we decided to focus on factors that are especially pertinent to this type of educational offering. Some general criteria, like a flexible schedule, were taken into account, but here are additional, more advanced criteria we used when compiling our list.
- The syllabus of the course is comprehensive, presenting either a comprehensive overview of Python or focusing on a particular field, such as data analysis.
- It is led by either university lecturers or industry professionals with abundant knowledge of Python.
- Interactive exercises and lessons are included, allowing learners to get hands-on experience right away.
- It has a rating of at least four stars.
- The platform is user-friendly with dependable customer service.
- To ensure the content is up-to-date with current practices and trends, the course is newly created in the last five years.
- It serves both existing employees needing training and those just entering the industry.
- Transcripts and subtitles are available to facilitate study.
Rather than the traditional approach to learning, a new method has emerged where students can learn through interactive activities. This modern approach to education allows learners to become more engaged with the material, and it can result in improved knowledge retention.
10 Best Free Online Python Courses and Tutorials
Coursera and the University of Michigan present the Python for Everybody Specialization
Acclaimed Selection: Outstanding Choice
The University of Michigan provides this eight-month course. It consists of five components, which explore areas such as Python data structures and Structured Query Language (SQL). You can audit the course without cost, but if you wish to receive a completion certificate, you need to pay a fee. This course is included with Coursera Plus or can be purchased for $49 per month. You are able to access the content with any device and progress at your own speed, but you must complete a hands-on project to receive the certification. It is distinct from the other courses on the list since the same instructor will guide you through the material, from the introductory to more advanced topics.
- Cost: No charge to audit, with a fee of $49 for enrollment
- Length: Approx. 8 months
- Prior experience needed: Not necessary
- Flexible timing: Yes, available
This course is an ideal choice for those looking for an online, university-level Python course that can be audited at no cost, even if they have no prior knowledge of programming.
| Things we appreciate | What we don’t appreciate |
|---|---|
| Instructors with university experience. | Not receiving university credit. |
| Captions in various languages. | Needing eight months to finish. |
| Financial aid options exist. |
Udemy Course: Introduction to Python Programming
A look at this Udemy offering can be beneficial for those wanting to learn Python programming.
Udemy’s Course on Python Programming: An Introduction
The Most Suitable Option for Beginners
For those looking for a free, straightforward introduction to Python programming, this tutorial is ideal. It will take under two hours to complete without providing any certificates. Content includes 15 video lectures, lasting from five to 10 minutes each, by U.C. Berkeley student Avinash Jain, who established TheCodex educational platform. With this course, even those without any programming experience can learn how to write scripts and functions.
- Cost: No charge
- Duration: Approximately one hour and 39 minutes
- Previous experience needed: None
- Adaptable timing: Available
This course is ideal for those starting out and looking to have a good grasp of the fundamentals of Python, without delving too far into more intricate concepts.
| Points of Interest | Not of Interest |
|---|---|
| Great for newbies. | No quizzes or certifications. |
| Instructions easy to follow. |
You can discover more by taking a look at the Python for Beginners Introduction course on Udemy.
Udemy: The Total Beginner’s Guide to Python 3.6
The Most Intelligent Teacher Earns the Best Instructor Award
The course is built on Python 3.6, featuring 39 video lectures that can be finished in seven hours. You will be taught how to install Jupyter Notebook, and then proceed to data structures, loops, functions and more. Additionally, there are seven interactive exercises to check your comprehension. Rated 4.4 stars from more than 4,000 reviews, the course is instructed by an instructor with a master’s degree in financial mathematics. No prior knowledge is needed, only a computer and internet access, making it a perfect choice for those with no prior coding experience.
- No cost: Absolutely free
- Duration: 6 hours and 42 minutes
- Necessary conditions: Not required
- Adaptable schedule: Indeed
Which group of people is this course for? This course has been designed to introduce those who are unfamiliar with Python, but it is also suitable for those who have a background in another programming language.
| Our Favourites | What We Could Do Without |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable teacher. | A couple of coding and transcription issues. |
| Appropriate for newbies. | Certain sections go too fast. |
| Captions included. |
Check out this course to find out more.
Udemy: A Course Offering Python From Beginner to Intermediate in 30 Minutes
Achieving Intermediate Python Knowledge in 30 Minutes on Udemy
An Award for the Most Efficient Course
Once you’ve gone through a Python program for beginners, you may not be prepared for a more advanced class. Udemy’s “Python from Beginner to Intermediate in 30 min” can bridge those knowledge gaps. This course consists of 30 video lessons which cover topics including modules and functions, sequences and slicing, conditional statements, loop statements, object-oriented programming, and file handling.
- Cost: No charge
- Duration: 1 hour and 32 minutes
- Prior knowledge needed: None
- Adaptable timetable: Yes
What kind of student is this course designed for? This course is tailored for those who have knowledge of the basics of Python programming but lack further understanding of the subject.
| The Aspects We Appreciate | The Aspects We Don’t Care For |
|---|---|
| The way it assists Python learners to get ready for more advanced courses. | Not having someone to interact with. |
To gain further knowledge, check out this Python course from beginner to expert starter!
Udemy Course: Deep Learning Prerequisites: The Numpy Stack in Python Version 2 and Above
Udemy is offering a course on Deep Learning Prerequisites The Numpy Stack in Python (V2+).
The title of “Intelligent Award: Most Advanced” has been given out.
This course is not designed for individuals who have no experience with Python programming, but is instead meant to ready learners to dive into deep learning and data science. It focuses on the Numpy Stack, which must be understood before more advanced courses can be taken. Additionally, Pandas, Scipy, and Matplotlib are included in the course material. Before enrolling, participants should have a working knowledge of matrix arithmetic and basic Python coding. If unsure, the “Machine Learning and AI Prerequisite Roadmap” can provide guidance regarding which courses to take in what order. Notably, Udemy for Business allows companies like Lyft and Adidas to include this course in their employee training programs.
- The cost: $19.99 (included in Udemy for Business)
- Length of course: 6 hours on-demand video
- Necessary prerequisites: Yes
- Possibility of a flexible schedule: Yes
Who is this course suitable for? This course is intended for professionals who have some familiarity with Python but would like to further their knowledge on the Numpy Stack in order to progress to more complex machine learning and data science courses.
| We appreciate | What we’re not so thrilled about |
|---|---|
| The helpful FAQ section. | It may be too complex for some. |
| The bonus exercises. |
Gaining knowledge about Deep Learning Prerequisites: The Numpy Stack in Python can be done through Udemy.
Udacity: A Course in Introduction to Python Programming
Udacity offers an Introduction to Python Programming course, that provides a comprehensive overview of the language.
The Smartest Accolade is awarded for being the most interactive.
This course, which is ideal for hands-on problem-solvers, offers an introduction to the Python Standard Library and other libraries containing third-party modules. It covers topics such as data storage, conditionals, and loops and can be completed in about five weeks, working through it at your own pace. There are also interactive quizzes to keep you engaged. Although there are no formal prerequisites, some programming knowledge or completing Udacity’s Learn to Code program first is recommended. This course is perfect for those who want to learn how to use Python to resolve practical issues, and it will prepare you for follow-up courses, such as the Data Analyst Nanodegree program. You can begin working on Python scripts immediately, making it the most interactive course available.
- Cost: No charge
- Duration: About 5 weeks
- Prior knowledge needed: Yes
- Adaptable timeline: Yes
For whom is this course intended? It is designed for learners who have prior programming knowledge but are just starting to learn Python.
| What we appreciate | What we don’t appreciate |
|---|---|
| Knowledgeable teachers. | Not having any prior programming knowledge. |
| Interesting classes and activities. |
Gain extra knowledge by taking a look at this course!
Codecademy: Analyze Data with Python
Codecademy provides the opportunity to use Python to explore data!
With the platform, one can gain the skills to analyze data through Python.
Award for Data-Savvy Individuals: Best Choice for Data Enthusiasts
Codecademy is well-known for its approach of making the process of learning to code more engaging, much like Duolingo does with language learning. Rather than just watching video lectures, you’ll progress through interactive exercises and projects. This course focuses on data analysis and will help you to make use of Python programming to visualize and understand various data sets, such as stats. Additionally, you’ll discover how to run A/B tests on real-world business examples, for example, a food startup and a shoe store. Further topics covered include Python libraries like NumPy and Pandas, and data visualization with Matplotlib. You are able to try out Codecademy for free, but you’ll need a Pro account to access some of the materials and get a certification of completion. This course is ideal for data enthusiasts who want to learn how to apply Python scripts to tackle mathematical issues.
- Cost: Free for the basic version (without a Certificate), $15.99 a month for the Pro version
- Length: 12 hours
- Experience level necessary: Intermediate
- Flexible timeline: Yes
Skills you’ll gain
- Describe datasets statistically
- Communicate insights visually
- Test hypotheses for significance
- Run A/B tests from start to finish
This course is meant for those looking to go beyond the limits of Excel and write more intricate Python codes for data analysis and statistical testing.
| Things we find favorable | Aspects we don’t find favorable |
|---|---|
| Interactive drills. | Some parts of the content need a subscription. |
| Uses of real-world cases. | Does not follow a traditional course model. |
| Interface is user-friendly. |
Gaining further knowledge can be done here.
Codecademy: Gaining knowledge of Python 3 can be done through Codecademy’s course
Gaining knowledge of Python 3 with Codecademy is a great way to get started.
Award of Brilliance: Perfect for Your Collection of Investments
This Codecademy tutorial provides the fundamentals of Python 3, from syntax and control flow to boolean variables and logical operations. You can opt to take two coding tests to measure your learning progress. With a Pro account, you can showcase your skills with portfolio projects, including Magic 8-Ball and ASCII art. It requires roughly 30 hours to finish the course and has been used by staff from IBM and NASA. Pro subscribers can get a certificate of completion they can attach to their CV or LinkedIn profile, making this ideal for self-promotion and constructing a portfolio.
- Cost: Free for the basic version (no certificate), and $15.99 per month for the Pro version
- Estimated time needed: 25 hours
- Previous knowledge needed: Beginner
- A schedule can be customized: Yes
Skills you’ll gain
- Write Python 3 programs
- Simplify the code you write
- Take your skills off-platform
This course is a great fit for those new to the subject who prefer to gain knowledge through practice and are looking to add applicable skills to their CV.
| Our Favourites | Our Unfavourites |
|---|---|
| Incorporates code challenges and portfolio assignments. | Free users can’t get a certificate. |
| Interface is easy to use. | No instructor to communicate with. |
Gaining further knowledge can be achieved by studying Python 3.
DataCamp: A Tutorial on Python for Data Science
Master the basics of data analysis with Python in just four hours. This online course will introduce the Python interface and explore popular packages.
The Most Enjoyable Award of Intelligence
This course covers data analysis and consists of four parts comprising 11 videos and 57 lessons. The initial part, Python Basics, is available for free, while the rest that follow require a DataCamp subscription. You’ll explore datasets from Major League Baseball and FIFA football to make the material more fascinating. You’ll also get to know how to use the NumPy Python library for sophisticated data analysis. It should take approximately four hours to complete the course which is instructed by a professional data scientist who also does stand-up comedy and is the host of the DataCamp podcast. Consequently, this is the most delightful online Python course on the list that still provides an excellent introduction to the material.
- Cost: No charge
- Time frame: Four hours
- Necessary qualifications: None
- Adaptable timetable: Yes
Which individuals would benefit from this course? This course provides an entertaining and interactive experience for those who wish to gain knowledge of Python, rather than the traditional lecture style of learning.
| What we are pleased with | What we don’t favor |
|---|---|
| Wide array of courses. | Only the initial module is complimentary. |
| Fun learning format. | Not difficult enough. |
| Access to Slack group. |
For additional information, visit DataCamp to find an introductory Python course for data science.
edX and the Georgia Institute of Technology
A Professional Certificate for Introduction to Python Programming
The Georgia Institute of Technology is providing an Introduction to Python Programming course via edX platform.
Prize for Academic Excellence
The Georgia Institute of Technology offers this course, making it a highly academic choice. It is composed of four courses that focus on Python fundamentals, control and data structures, algorithms, and more. Professional instructors will teach these lessons and exercises through video instruction. There are no required prerequisites, however, basic math and high school algebra are encouraged. The duration of the course is five months and one must choose a session start date to enroll. It is free to take the class, but if you would like a certificate of completion, which can be added to your resume or LinkedIn profile, a fee must be paid.
- Cost: No charge to audit ($536 to sign up)
- Completion time: Approximately 5 months (9 – 10 hours per week)
- Prior knowledge necessary: None
- Adaptable timeline: Absolutely Yes
This course is ideal for: New learners who are looking for an educational experience that is comparable to university standards and is taught by expert instructors.
| Things We Appreciate | What We’re Not Fans Of |
|---|---|
| Having the Georgia Tech backing. | Having to pay for a certificate. |
| The detailed course material. | The limited enrollment periods. |
Gain insight into Python programming with this professional certificate.
A Chart for Contrasting Different Online Courses
| Course | Cost | Advantages |
|---|---|---|
| Coursera — Python for Everybody Specialization by the University of Michigan — Special Selection | Audit at no cost (subscription of $49/month to enroll) | ✓ No prior knowledge required ✓ Flexible schedule ✓Authenticated documentation |
| Udemy’s Introduction to Python Programming is a great choice for those just starting out with the language. It’s free and doesn’t need any prior programming experience. | Free | ✓ Doesn’t need any prior programming experience ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| Python 3.6 for Total Beginners on Udemy, the Best Instructor teaching the course. | Absolutely Free | ✓ No prior experience or knowledge needed ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| Udemy presents an accelerated course on Python — Python From Beginner to Intermediate within 30 minutes, one of the shortest courses available. This course is free and does not require any prerequisites. | Free | ✓ Doesn’t need any prior programming experience ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| Deep Learning Prerequisites: The Numpy Stack in Python (V2+) from Udemy — Most Advanced Course | Price of $19.99 (Included with Udemy for Business) | X No prerequisites required ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| Udacity — Introduction to Python Programming — Most Interactive | Absolutely Free | ✓ Prerequisites: No experience required ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| Analyze Data with Python from Codecademy is ideal for data enthusiasts and requires no prior knowledge. | It offers a free basic version and Pro can be accessed for a fee of $15.99 per month. | ✓ No prerequisites required ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| Codecademy — Python 3 Learning — Ideal for your Profile | Free Basic (No Credential) Pro: $15.99 each month | ✓ No prerequisites required ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| DataCamp’s Introduction to Python for Data Science — Most Entertaining | Free to Use, but with Limited Accessibility The monthly rate for the standard package is $12.42, whereas the premium package is priced at $33.25. | ✓ No prerequisites required ✓ Flexible schedule X Verified certificate |
| The Georgia Institute of Technology offers Introduction to Python Programming through the edX platform. | It is primarily academic but free to audit. No prerequisites are needed and enrolling requires $536. | ✓ No prerequisites required ✓ Flexible schedule ✓ Verified certificate |
Tips to Succeed in an Online Python Course Program
1. Consider the Course cost
What is the price of an online Python course?
When it comes to our Python courses, most are open to access at no cost. However, if you’d like to receive a certificate of completion, you may need to pay either a one-time fee or a monthly subscription. The priciest certification is $536, while the most economical membership is $12.42 every month. An in-person class for Python can easily run into thousands of dollars, thereby making an online course a much more cost-effective choice. It’ll be up to you to decide if it is essential to get a certificate or if you just need access to the material on the online course.
Is my employer going to cover the cost of the class I’m taking?
Employers frequently finance professional development courses, and many firms are seeking workers with Python knowledge. A few of the lessons on offer are part of Udemy for Business, which is adopted by prominent companies to give continuing employee training. Make sure to consult your supervisor or HR department before to see if they will pay for your course or certificate.
2. Ensure your technology is in order
Before beginning the course, ensure that you possess all the necessary equipment to take part. Most classes are transmitted through streaming video, so a computer with a dependable Internet connection that can stream video online is a requirement. If you are aiming to write and run scripts on your own, then you will also need an Integrated Developed Environment (Try Our Onlne Python IDE).
3. Utilize resources that are right for learning
If your course does not provide a textbook or a reading list, or if you wish to include other resources, two books you may want to consider are Head First Python: A Brain-Friendly Guide and Automate the Boring Stuff with Python: Practical Programming for Total Beginners. Both of these are accessible and provide an easy-to-grasp introduction to Python.
Common Queries Selecting Python Course
What kinds of employment opportunities exist upon the completion of a Python training program?
Once a Python course is done, the most obvious option for a career is to be a Python programmer or product manager. These roles may include creating web applications or doing data analysis. Python knowledge is also very helpful in other sectors, such as finance, where coding knowledge is increasingly essential. On average, a Python salary is greater than $100,000, but simply taking a course does not ensure a job. Other abilities or qualifications may be necessary.
Is it possible to find free Python courses online?
A multitude of free Python courses are available online, though a fee may have to be paid in order to gain a certification of completion.
On average, how long does an online Python course last?
Beginners can finish introductory guides in a short amount of time, while more comprehensive classes can require anywhere from five weeks to half a year.
What is the expense of obtaining a Python certification?
The cost of a certificate can range from a few hundred dollars depending on the provider. If the course does not offer a certificate or if you are already familiar with Python, you can take the Python Institute’s certification exam for a fee ranging from $59 to $295.
Is it possible to download a Python course without having to pay for it?
It is possible to download and use Python for free, as it is open-source. It is available to download from Python.org and can be used on any major operating system.
