The 6 Best Python Certificates

You want to learn Python but don’t know how to evidence your knowledge? Take a look at our list of the 6 best Python certification programs.

The IT industry is still in need of new employees. This is why we encourage anyone who feels like trying their hand at it to learn.

Some time ago, I created a list of the best SQL certificates. Now, it’s time to do the same for Python!

Python is one of the most popular programming languages today. It is also believed to be perfect for programming beginners, because it is relatively easy. It gives you strong basics, teaches you good coding practices, and can be used in many contexts.

Did you know it is widely used in data science as well? To get a broad perspective on any subject, it is good to learn in practice. So, if you have not yet started learning Python, do not put it off!

Once you feel more confident with your programming skills, you should think about evidencing it more formally. A Python certification usually requires passing an exam. It can be a motivation for you to learn and a proof of your skill level when completed. Your future boss may want to see the certificate. You can also share it on social media to let people know about your new qualifications.

Without further ado, let's move on to the list of Python certification programs.

1.  PCEP: Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer

The Python Institute is an open education and development group. The name says everything: this is a place dedicated to the Python programming language. If you are interested in getting certified in Python, you’ve come to the right place.

If you are a beginner, I recommend starting with the Entry-Level certification. But to get it, you need to pass a Python exam. It is not very easy but still achievable; the first thing you need to do is to learn programming to be able to demonstrate the appropriate level of knowledge.

To become certified, you need to know how to write, debug, and maintain well-formed, syntactically correct Python code. You should know what data types are supported by Python, and you should be able to solve problems logically by writing appropriate Python code.

This certification proves that its recipient knows basic programming concepts like data types, containers, functions, conditions, and loops, and of course the Python syntax, semantics, and the runtime environment. The exam takes around 45 minutes and consists of 30 questions of different types (single-choice, multiple-choice, gap fill, and drag & drop).

When you pass the exam, you will get a digital badge. You can pin it on your website or share it on social media, so that everyone knows what your new skills are.

2.  PCAP: Certified Associate in Python Programming

If you already have some experience and need more advanced steps in your career, take a closer look at this Python certification. It can open the door to your dream job as a developer.

This is another step in the Python Institute path. However, you do not need to pass the Entry-Level exam to get the Associate certification.

To start, you need strong basics of computer programming. Moreover, you have to understand the fundamentals of OOP (object-oriented programming) and the way it is adopted in Python. Inheritance, abstraction, encapsulation, polymorphism – these are only a few of the many terms you should be familiar with if you want to take the exam.

The exam takes 65 minutes and contains 40 questions. To pass, you need to achieve a score of 70% or better. You can find more details and the syllabus on the Python Institute website.

As with the Entry-Level certification, you receive a paper certificate or a digital badge upon completion.

3.  PCPP: Certified Professional in Python Programming

And now something for more advanced programmers. If you are not there yet, don’t worry! Start with the option that best suits you; you will have the opportunity of becoming a Certified Professional once you have the experience. Check what skills you need to reach that point in your learning path.

As a Certified Professional in Python, you have the proven ability to accomplish coding tasks with advanced programming in the Python language and related technologies. It shows you understand advanced ideas and techniques used in object-oriented programming and selected Python Standard and non-standard library modules. Certified Professionals also know GUI (graphical user interface) programming, network programming, creating tools, frameworks, and complete systems.

This certification consists of two parts: Certified Professional in Python Programming 1 and Certified Professional in Python Programming 2. Part 1 requires you to be a Certified Associate in Python first. You need to pass the exam for Programming 1 first before you can take Programming 2.

Each exam consists of 45 questions and takes approximately 65 minutes. You have to score a minimum of 70% to pass.

On the Python Institute website, you can check out the detailed syllabus. When you earn the certification, you can share the great news with the digital badge posted on social media, including LinkedIn and Twitter.

4.  Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate

Google also boasts a certification path for beginners who want to learn programming in Python. This IT Automation with Python Certificate was created in cooperation with Coursera. You can find it on the Coursera platform here.

The certification path consists of six courses, each of which concludes with an exam. The path takes up to 6 months to complete. It is designed as a preparation for a variety of roles in IT – for example, as an advanced IT support specialist or as a junior systems administrator.

You don’t need to have any previous experience with coding. Google and Coursera promise you will learn basic Python syntax, basic data structures, fundamental programming concepts, automation, debugging, and more.

As with other certifications, it is good to share your accomplishments on social media. Google and Coursera are well-known learning platforms. Showing that you made the effort and spent half a year learning programming with Python is always great. There are many companies where you might be able to start your new career.

5.  Microsoft Certification: Introduction to Programming Using Python

Microsoft is one of the most recognizable brands, so getting certified with them is definitely a good idea. But you need to pass the Python exam to get the certification. Remember, these exams are not easy! First, you need to learn Python to be able to demonstrate the appropriate level of knowledge.

If you want to get the MTA (Microsoft Technology Associate) Introduction to Programming certification, you should have around 100 hours of experience in the Python language and be generally familiar with its features and capabilities.

Unfortunately, this exam is being retired in June 2022. It is no longer available for purchase.

6.  LearnPython.com

Last but not least, check out LearnPython.com. While it's not as recognizable as Google or Microsoft, you will see the Python courses offered here are some of the best.

The Python courses here are interactive. You will not only learn Python but also check your knowledge in action immediately. You write real code in an online console and see the results right away. This is a great solution for those who care about practical knowledge and skills in Python.

If you are not sure how to start, check out the Python tracks. There are 3 mini tracks: Python Basics, Python for Data Science, and Data Processing with Python. Or you can go full steam and choose the flagship Python track, Learn Programming with Python.

Each track contains several online courses, each on a specific topic. For example, Python for Data Science has 5 interactive online courses, starting from the foundations of programming in data science: variables, invoking functions, and writing your own functions. With this learning track, you can discover the basics of Python libraries for data science: pandas and matplotlib.

Each course in this path ends with a certification. Don’t forget to complete your learning! Download the certificate which validates your experience, knowledge, and practice.

Develop a Routine and Get Certified!

Learning systematically is one of the best ways to learn. Online education allows you to develop a daily or weekly routine that helps you achieve your goal. With a learning track, you can see your progress from the beginner level to more advanced levels. Most importantly, you can provide evidence of your skills with a certificate. Sky's the limit, so we encourage you to check out other useful certifications in machine learning that might enhance your career development.

Whichever certification you choose, don't forget to celebrate your success, and share it with the world. Place the badge on your social media profile and take the first step toward new professional opportunities.

If you have any experience with Python certifications, let us know and share your story in the comment section.