These are the best Python courses and bootcamps for wannabe programmers

Sitting around with "a lot of time on my hand," Dutch computer scientist Guido van Rossum decided to take on a fun little side project over Christmas break in 1989: building a new programming language. The one he used in projects at work was overcomplicated and clunky, but he thought he could use some of its better features to create something more forgiving, flexible, and easier to read. Van Rossen developed his language mostly in his free time over the course of the next year (with the help of some colleagues' feedback), eventually deciding to name it "Python" after the British comedy series Monty Python's Flying Circus, whose published scripts he was reading at the time of its implementation. In the years since, it's basically become the Holy Grail of general-purpose programming languages. Read more...More about Tech, Coding, Programming, Python, and Online Learning IMAGE: Mashable BEST FOR TOTAL BEGINNERS 2021 Complete Python Bootcamp: From Zero to Hero in Python With more than 1.2 million students enrolled (and counting) and hundreds of thousands of great reviews, this fast-paced course is a clear favorite for Python rookies who want to learn how to code in their free time. Platform: Udemy Price: $139.99 Instructor(s): Jose Portilla, head of data science at Pierian Data Inc. Prerequisites: None Class duration: 22 hours, 3 minutes (self-paced) Certificate of completion: Yes IMAGE: Mashable BEST FREE COURSE Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python) A free-to-audit option makes this acclaimed Python course one of the best deals in online learning, and the fantastic Dr. Chuck is a student favorite. Platform: Coursera Price: Free to audit (otherwise $49/month) Instructor(s): Dr. Charles Russell Severance, clinical professor at the University of Michigan School of Information Prerequisites: Basic math knowledge, moderate computer experience Class duration: Approx. 19 hours divided up over 7 weeks (set start date with flexible deadlines) Certificate of completion: No IMAGE: Mashable BEST PROJECT-BASED COURSE The Python Bible | Everything You Need to Program in Python It doesn't go beyond the very, very basics, but this video-based class is excellent at showing students the clear potential for Python's use in the real world. Platform: Udemy Price: $94.99 Instructor(s): Ziyad Yehia, CEO and core instructor at Internet of Things Academy Prerequisites: None Class duration: 9 hours, 8 minutes (self-paced) Certificate of completion: Yes IMAGE: Mashable BEST FOR PRACTICAL SKILLS Automate the Boring Stuff with Python Programming Suitable for beginners but filled with useful tips for intermediate-level coders, this quick-hit course will show you how Python can take the tedium out of business tasks. Platform: Udemy Price: $49.99 Instructor(s): Al Sweigart, software developer, UI designer, and tech book author Prerequisites: Basic computer skillls Class duration: 9 hours, 30 minutes (self-paced) Certificate of completion: Yes IMAGE: Mashable BEST FOR FEEDBACK Python Development TechDegree This online bootcamp places a high value on peer-to-peer feedback and staff support, so you're building a network along with a portfolio. Platform: Treehouse Price: $199/month Instructor(s): Kenneth Love, Python engineer; Treasure Porth, web developer; Craig Dennis, backend developer; Jay McGavren, developer and author; Ashley Boucher, software developer; and Megan Amendola, UX designer and software developer Prerequisites: None Class duration: 2 to 5 months (self-paced) Certificate of completion: Yes IMAGE: Mashable BIGGEST RéSUMé FLEX Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python Surprisingly substantial for being totally free (save for an optional paid certificate), this in-depth MIT offering presents a good challenge if you already have a grasp on Python basics. Platform: edX Price: Free Instructor(s): John Guttag, professor of computer science and electrical engineering at MIT; Eric Grimson, professor of medical engineering and computer science at MIT; and Ana Bell, lecturer on computer science and electrical engineering at MIT Prerequisites: High school algebra and a "reasonable aptitude" for math; students with no programming background will experience a higher learning curve Class duration: 9 weeks (recommended: 14 to 16 hours/week) with set learning schedule Certificate of completion: Yes, for $75 IMAGE: Mashable BEST FOR MID-CAREER DEVELOPMENT Python for Managers This Columbia Business School bootcamp is geared toward serious learners who want to better understand the technology that powers our digital world — think of it as an investment in your career. Platform: Columbia Business School Price: $2,250 Instructor(s): Mattan Griffel, adjunct assistant professor of business decision, risk, and operations at Columbia Business School; and Daniel Guetta, associate professor of professional practice in the disciple of decision, risk, and operations at Columbia Business School and director of the Center for Pricing Revenue Management and Business Analytics Initiative Prerequisites: None Class duration: 2 months (6 to 8 hours/week) with set learning schedule Certificate of completion: Yes