Best Online Python Courses

Codecademy Pro offers an interactive learning experience with a focus on hands-on coding exercises. The Python 3 course covers a wide range of topics from basic syntax to more advanced concepts like data structures and algorithms. The platform provides immediate feedback on your code, helping you learn by doing. With a supportive community and career-focused learning paths, Codecademy Pro is a good choice for beginners and those looking to enhance their skills. However, the structured approach may not suit all learning styles. The cost is subscription-based which may be a barrier for some.

This Coursera specialization, offered by the University of Michigan, is designed for absolute beginners. It starts with the fundamentals of programming and gradually introduces more complex Python concepts. The course includes video lectures, readings, and programming assignments. The instructor, Dr. Chuck Severance, is known for his engaging teaching style. This specialization provides a strong foundation in Python and is suitable for learners with no prior programming experience. However, the pace may be slow for those with some programming background. Requires paid subscription for graded assignments and certificate.

This Udemy course aims to take you from zero programming knowledge to a proficient Python programmer. It covers a wide range of topics, from basic syntax to advanced concepts like web scraping and data visualization. The course includes video lectures, coding exercises, and projects. The instructor, Jose Portilla, is a data science expert. This course is a good option for learners who want a comprehensive overview of Python. However, the course may be overwhelming for absolute beginners. Video quality can vary.

DataCamp focuses on data science and offers a comprehensive track for becoming a data scientist using Python. This track covers topics like data manipulation, visualization, machine learning, and deep learning. The platform offers interactive coding exercises and real-world projects. DataCamp is a good choice for learners interested in data science. However, the focus on data science may not be suitable for those interested in other areas of Python development. Subscription required.

This edX course, offered by MIT, is a rigorous introduction to computer science and programming using Python. It covers fundamental concepts like algorithms, data structures, and object-oriented programming. The course includes lectures, problem sets, and exams. This course is a good choice for learners who want a deep understanding of computer science principles. However, the course is challenging and requires a significant time commitment. May require paid certificate for some features.

Google's Python Class is a free and comprehensive course designed for people with little to no programming experience. It features lecture videos, text exercises, and lots of code to write. The class includes topics such as strings and lists, sorting, dictionaries, and file access. It also provides practical exercises like setting up a basic Google App Engine application. While free and comprehensive, it may lack the community support and structured learning paths of paid courses, and the content might not be as up-to-date as other options.