10 Best Python Courses For Beginners (Free & Paid)

Python is one of the most popular and versatile programming languages. It can be used to create everything from AI and machine learning algorithms to automated web applications. As demand for Python programmers increases, Python courses can offer professionals a crucial edge in the market.

The question is, which Python training solution is best suited to you? We’ve evaluated a number of online courses to find the best python courses for beginners.

10 Top Python Courses Online

1. Python for Everybody Specialization by Coursera
2. Google IT Automation with Python by Google
3. Complete Python Bootcamp by Udemy
4. Python Fundamentals by Pluralsight
5. Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming by edX
6. Python for Beginners by Skillshare
7. Python Quick Start LinkedIn Learning
8. Complete Python Developer in 2023: Zero to Mastery by ZTM Academy
9. Scientific Computing with Python by FreeCodeCamp
10. Learn Python 3 by Codecademy

1. Python for Everybody Specialization by Coursera

Designed to help anyone navigate the complexities of the Python programming language, the “Python for Everybody” specialization is a comprehensive entryway for beginners.

If you want to become a Python programmer, but don’t have a lot of background in coding, this is the course for you. The first two courses are suitable for people with no prior knowledge at all.

The “specialization” course builds on the success of the initial “Python for Everybody” course to introduce new learning outcomes, like creating your own applications for data processing.

What you’ll learn?

In this Coursera specialization course, you get all the tools you need to go from ground zero in Python programming, to designing your own applications.

There’s a hands-on project, which asks you to leverage the skills you’ve learned through a series of 5 courses to build apps for data processing, visualization, and retrieval.

The courses cover the basics, like how to install Python and explore the capabilities of the Python language, as well as more advanced concepts, like how to use variables to store, calculate, and retrieve data.

As you progress through the courses, you’ll learn how to:

• Install Python and build a simple program with a series of basic instructions.
• Explore and use the core data structures of Python.
• Scrape, parse and read web data, as well as using web APIs.
• Leverage Structured Query Language (SQL) as part of a multi-step analysis process.

Cost and duration

The cost of the Python for Everybody course is $472 and on average it takes students eight months to complete all courses and get certified. It is offered through a Coursera Plus subscription that costs $49/month (8 x $59 = $472).

Upon completion of the course, you’ll be awarded a Python certification.

Coursera offers a 7-day unconditional trial to try out the courses before committing to the Coursera Plus subscription ( a credit card is required to register for the trial period).

2. Google IT Automation with Python by Google

Covering not just Python programming tips, but also insights into IT automation, and Git, the Google IT Automation with Python, is a convenient way to kickstart your technology career.

This beginner-level course doesn’t require any previous programming knowledge. Basic knowledge of IT concepts like data management and operating systems is all you need to get started.

The course aims to provide digital enthusiasts with the tools they need to advance their IT careers and comes with a Google professional certification to enhance your resume.

What you’ll learn?

The IT automation with Python Google career certificate teaches users how to write code to solve common technical problems. You’ll learn how to use Git and GitHub, troubleshoot, solve complex problems, and apply automation methods at scale through the cloud.

Designed to prepare innovators for a variety of roles in IT, the learning experience begins with a “crash course” on Python, where you’ll learn how to write simple programs using common structures.

Next, you’ll learn how to use Python to interact with the operating system and explore new avenues for programming resources.

To achieve this certificate, you’ll have to complete all six courses.

Cost and duration

This Python certification takes around 4 months to complete and the cost is $156. It is offered through a Coursera Plus subscription which costs $39 per month.

3. Complete Python Bootcamp by Udemy

Every programmer needs to start somewhere. If you’re looking for the best Python course for beginners, the Complete Python Bootcamp offers a fantastic introduction to this powerful programming language.

Covering everything you need to know to use Python professionally, the Bootcamp requires no prior knowledge, just an internet connection, and a computer.

The comprehensive, yet straightforward course includes more than 100 lectures and 21 hours of video to take you from the absolute ground floor in programming, to coding excellence.

What you’ll learn?

The Complete Python Bootcamp is an all-in-one intensive course for anyone looking to generate excellent Python skills in minimal time. You start with the basics, like how to install and use Python, then move on to discovering the differences between Python 2 and Python 3, as well as how to use the modules and work with time stamps.

Delivered in an easy-to-follow format, the Bootcamp makes complex topics like creating GUIs feel manageable and straightforward.

During the course, you’ll learn how to:

• Setup, install and run Python code, as well as use Git and GitHub.
• Understand all types of Python data types and comparison operators.
• Leverage Python functions to create automated applications.
• Use various Python functions, Booleans, and object-oriented programming.
• Handle errors and exceptions within your Python programs.

Cost and duration

You’ll need at least 22 hours to cover all the video and optional recorded content. However, there are various additional resources you can download and access too. The course will cost you around $94.

4. Python Fundamentals by Pluralsight

Great for people with no prior knowledge of Python programming, the “Fundamentals”, course introduces you to everything you need to know about coding with Python.

Robert Smallshire, and Austin Bingham of Sixty North provide a simple and easy-to-follow introduction into what Python can do, and how programmers can leverage the language.

This course aims to make even the most complex aspects of Python fun and engaging, guiding you through all kinds of components, from strings and collections to objects and modularity.

What you’ll learn?

One of the more comprehensive courses for those who want to learn Python from scratch, the Python Fundamentals lessons start from the very beginning, with how to install Python 3 on your chosen operating system and import from the Python Standard Library.

The instructors also look at the administrative side of Python, like documenting your code using Docstrings, and how to manage your files and resources. Some of the topics covered include:

• Objects and how to use Python’s type system.
• A complete guide to collections, and collection protocols in Python.
• Handling exceptions, dealing with error codes and using clean-up actions
• Defining classes, and documentation
• Creating virtual environments and distributing programs

Cost and duration

There’s a little over 5 hours of content to consume in this course in total, but you may want to set some extra time aside so you can practice your skills as you go from one module to the next. The full selection of learning resources will cost $39.

5. Computing in Python I: Fundamentals and Procedural Programming by edX

Starting from the beginning and covering all the basics of coding, how to write programs, and evaluate their output, Computing in Python is a comprehensive learning experience.

The course, split into a series of easy-to-understand modules, combines an introduction to Python with a comprehensive view of the fundamentals of computing and programming.

David Joyner from the Georgia Institute of Technology makes complex topics easy to digest with straightforward explanations, so you don’t need any in-depth coding knowledge. Basic knowledge of algebra will come in handy, however.

What you’ll learn?

Ideal if you’re looking for the best online Python course for beginners, this training experience starts with the very basics, looking at how computers process programming code, and how to manage the write-run-debug cycle of running code and revising it.

The syllabus starts with an overview of the fundamentals of computing and programming, followed by insights into debugging, procedural programming, and variables in the Python language. You’ll also learn how to:

• Use logical operators and relational operators to make coding decisions.
• How to write sequences in code to minimize errors.
• How to add, subtract, multiply, and use other mathematical operators in code.
• What it means to run a successful development cycle.

Cost and duration

The estimated time required for this course is around 5 weeks if you’re learning at a rate of around 9-10 hours per week. However, you’re free to learn at your own pace. The course costs around $149, but prices can vary based on when you choose to enroll.

6. Python for Beginners by Skillshare

Great for hands-on learners, the Python for Beginners course allows students to dive straight into the Python landscape, experimenting with building new tools using variables, data types, and expressions. You’ll access guided exercises to help you discover how to use various functions and collections in an easy-to-follow format.

This course experience, distributed over a series of 8 projects, is ideal if you don’t want to wait weeks before diving into programming. You learn just enough to start using code yourself, then develop your knowledge through experience.

What you’ll learn?

The Python for beginner’s course ensures you have everything you need to finish your learning with a fantastic set of tools built using Python. You’ll also know exactly what you need to do to build applications from scratch and examine the potential errors in those tools.

Throughout the course, you’ll get step-by-step guidance on how to build everything from temperature reports to email list reformatters, and password strength checkers, so you have plenty of applications to add to your portfolio. Throughout this learning experience, you’ll discover how to:

• Build a variety of tools with guided exercises and step-by-step instruction.
• Understand the basics of data types, expressions, and variables.
• Use functions, objects, and control logic to your advantage in Python.
• Understand what kind of common errors lead to issues with code.

Cost and duration

This course is completely free, making it an excellent choice for beginners who don’t want to spend a fortune on their initial education. You can complete all of the lessons within 2 hours or take your time and spread the modules out.

7. Python Quick Start LinkedIn Learning

Python Quick Start is a beginner-focused course designed to give users a quick introduction to Python and the nature of this dynamic programming language.

You don’t need any existing knowledge to get started, and you’ll even get an official LinkedIn learning Python certificate at the end of the course to add to your resume and make yourself stand out.

This training option is likely to be one of the best Python courses if you want a quick introduction to the language, rather than a comprehensive bootcamp.

What you’ll learn?

The Python Quick Start course offers an introduction to all the ways you can advance your career with Python. You’ll learn what the language can do, how it compares to alternatives like Java, and how you can set up your own Python environment.

The course is segmented into simple bite-sized chunks, intended to ensure the process of learning a new programming language is as convenient as possible. Topics covered include:

• How to store data in Python using variables.
• What functions are in Python, and how to use modules.
• What sequences, lists, and tuples are in Python.
• How to use statements and conditional statements for programming in Python.
• How to use iteration and define recursive functions.

Cost and duration

This course is completely free, so you can jump in instantly without having to invest anything into your education. It only takes around an hour and a half to complete too, although you are free to take your time and complete the modules at your own pace.

8. Complete Python Developer in 2023: Zero to Mastery by ZTM Academy

Packed with useful content for the would-be Python developer, the “Complete Python Developer” course offers a comprehensive guide to using Python and getting hired in your first coding job.

The easy-to-follow course is fantastic for anyone in search of a new career path. You don’t necessarily need any prior knowledge in the industry either, as you’ll start from ground zero.

Andrei Neagoie walks you through the basics of programming and Python language management, with relevant insights updated for 2022.

What you’ll learn?

The ZTM academy course aims to give students the resources they need to go from coding newbie to hired professional. You’ll develop a total of 12 Python projects during the learning track, to ensure you have plenty of examples to showcase in your portfolio. You’ll also get an insight into some of the most useful features of Python, like the ability to build machine learning tools.

The Complete Python developer course takes you on a journey through all the versatile abilities of this programming language, as well as giving an insight into additional coding knowledge, like CSS in JS with styled components. During the course, you’ll learn how to:

• Write clean and highly-performing code, remove bugs and track errors.
• Set up various authentication and user accounts, web applications, and tools.
• Learn machine learning and data science capabilities with Python.
• Get hired as a professional Python developer
• Use Selenium and Python in combination for automation projects

Cost and duration

For a fee of only $39, you get more than 30.5 hours of content, as well as a host of 75+ bonus articles and resources you can use to develop your skills. You can learn at your own pace or consume all of the content over just a couple of days.

9. Scientific Computing with Python by FreeCodeCamp

There’s a lot to cover on the scientific side of Python if you want to become a python expert. One of the best Python courses for expanding your knowledge in this area is the Scientific Computing with Python class.

This course starts simple with an introduction to Python 3 and continues to cover a host of important topics, like how to build your own arithmetic formatter.

What you’ll learn?

This is one of the more comprehensive free courses for learning Python on the market, with hundreds of hours of information to get through. This training aims to make Python accessible for everyone, starting with an introduction to Python as a language and the benefits of programming.

As you progress through the course, you’ll gain behind-the-scenes knowledge of critical concepts like variables, expressions, and statements, loops and iterations, and how to build your own Python functions. Some of the topics covered include:

• Working with strings and lists in Python
• Python dictionaries, common applications, and the Tuples collection
• Networking with Python and how to write a web browser
• How to use web services alongside your Python coding strategy
• Data visualization with Python

Cost and duration

Free and available to access whenever you like, this course is perfect for Python developers who want to continue expanding their skills over time. You can even pick and choose which modules you want to explore at any given moment.

10. Learn Python 3 by Codecademy

Learning the latest version of Python is crucial for any developer looking to stay ahead of the curve. The Codeacademy course “Learn Python 3” offers an excellent introduction to Python programming language essentials, and fundamental programming concepts in one easy-to-follow kit.

Covering the most up-to-date insights from the latest version of the language, this course can even help existing Python professionals to hone their skills.

What you’ll learn?

With no prior Python knowledge required to get started, anyone can enhance their coding skills or start from scratch with this Python course. The comprehensive Syllabus starts with an insight into Python Syntax, which you can use to create your own Point of Sale System for a furniture store.

As you progress through the 25 hours of content, you’ll learn how to use things like control flow and lists in your Python projects, as well as what kind of code challenges you might face. Topics covered include:

• How to deal with errors and debug code in Python
• Working with lists in Python and using Python Tuples.
• How to use Modules in Python
• How to build and use various Python dictionaries

Cost and duration

With a cost of $19 per month, the full price of this course will depend on how long it takes for you to complete the lessons. There are around 25 hours of resources to cover in total, so you can easily complete this course in a month if you have enough spare time.

Are Python Courses Worth It?

Python courses are definitely worthwhile if you’re interested in coding as a professional. With the best Python courses, you’ll discover how to use one of the most versatile languages in the programming world. Python is responsible for everything from Netflix-style recommendation algorithms to the comprehensive software behind self-driving cars.

As companies continue to rely on Python to build more intelligent tools with access to efficient automation, demand for Python skills will only increase. A Python course gives you the behind-the-scenes knowledge you need to leverage all of the most essential features of the language. With the right Python training, you can:

• Develop your portfolio as an expert in the programming world, with apps and functions built using Python to help highlight your skills.
• Learn how to use the latest version of Python (Python 3) and ensure your skills are up-to-date.
• Build deep knowledge of the programming industry and learn how to set yourself apart from other coders in your space.
• Differentiate yourself from other coding professionals with certifications from reputable learning institutions.
• Increase your confidence in the coding landscape and learn how to use Python alongside other computing skills.
• Improve your chances of getting a job in the age of digital transformation, with insights into web development, automation, scripting, and more.

How Much Does it Cost to Learn Python?

Depending on the level of skill you need to develop, it can cost between zero and $472 to earn your Python certification. Most courses mentioned above are less than $100, making this a very affordable skill.

The table compares the cost of the most popular python courses.

Methodology

To help you find the best python course, we’ve looked at the most popular online programming training providers. The chosen courses were selected based on course content quality, vendor reputation, and cost. All courses are perfectly suited for beginners to computer programming with Python. We added in the list free and paid courses so that you can easily find the course you’re looking for.

Related Courses and Certifications

If computer programming is not the right career path for you, you can consider the following alternatives:

• Web Design Courses – become a web designer – no coding skills needed.
• Web Development Certifications – become a web developer – need some form of coding skills but not at the level of python programmers.
• Graphic Design Courses – become a graphic designer – no coding skills are needed but you need a creative mind.
• Data Analytics Certifications – a list of certifications that make use of Python for data analysis.
• Digital Marketing Courses – start a career as a digital marketing professional – one of the best career choices for beginners.