What is Python?
Python is a simple, flexible programming language. Along with Javascript, it’s become one of the dominant programming languages, used by coders, companies and governments – for both small and large-scale applications.
So what can you do with Python? Almost anything, really. Python’s source code is available under the GNU Public Licence (GPL) and can be customised in all sorts of interesting ways. Google uses Python to crawl webpages. You can build Android apps with Python. Pixar has even used it to power CGI films.
Python is also one of the languages driving cutting-edge AI development (in 2015, an Oxford student built a simple neural network using just nine lines of Python code). It’s this simplicity, combined with robust potential, that makes Python such a useful language. It’s great for beginners and coding experts alike.
What is Python used for?
Python’s real strength is flexibility. There aren’t many industries that can’t benefit from Python experience. The language is used in everything from Android app development to Data Science and Cybersecurity. Here are some fields where your Python skills might come in handy:
- Web testing
- Scripting for web apps
- Game development
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Mathematical computing
- 3D animation modelling
- Cybersecurity
- Data extraction and research
These are just a few of the things Python can do, with the language being used by organisations like NASA, Wikipedia, CERN, YouTube and Instagram.
Why learn Python?
Despite being around since the early 1990s, Python is more relevant now than ever. Google searches for Python have tripled since 2010. In 2019, TechRepublic named Python Developers one of the “10 Most In-Demand Tech Jobs”, and job site Indeed has ranked coding as the number one skill to learn in 2020. The average salary for a Python developer in the United States is AUD $187,879, with healthy year-on-year growth (driven largely by tech booms in AI and Data Science). Python is also considered one of the easiest programming languages to learn, and there are Python short courses for beginners available through RMIT Online.
Careers with Python
Whether you’re an experienced programmer, or coding for the first time, learning Python opens up all sorts of career prospects. Going by user trends, and given its simple but powerful syntax, Python will probably become the most dominant programming language over the next twenty years. Here are a few career pathways for an experienced Python programmer:
How to learn Python for beginners
Learning Python is a lot like learning a spoken language. No-one’s expecting you to start building complicated programs straight away. Instead, we begin with the basic syntax, the building blocks of Python, and gradually increase the complexity over time.
Our learning content is purpose built for online study and our curriculum is divided into easy-to-follow units. Each unit combines interactive webinars, 1-on-1 tutorials, group work and practical coding tasks. The ultimate goal is to give you the skills you need for a career in Python programming.
Here’s a taste of what you’ll need.
- Commitment. Our course content is divided into bite sized chunks, and designed to fit in around your schedule. We recommend studying a few hours every day to stay committed and on track.
- Notes. Your RMIT Online mentors will encourage you to take notes along the way. It’s a good way to flag any potential problems or questions.
- Collaboration. As part of your course, you’ll be working with other Python developers, including industry experts. You’ll also have access to an online peer community.
- Knowledge. Like any language, Python is always changing over time. We’ll help you stay up-to-date with current iterations and Python best practice.
- Resources. RMIT Online will provide you with cutting-edge online Python resources. These tools and forums can be used during the course, or even after completion.
There’s plenty more to learning Python for beginners, of course, but this should give you an idea of what’s involved. All RMIT Online programs are designed alongside industry experts, so you know you’re getting practical, job-ready experience.
Learn about Python programming
Want to learn Python? This is the best place to start. Read as much as you can. Ask questions. Contact the RMIT Online team to talk about your options. You can find all of our Python-related news and coverage below.
Python blogs
To read more about Python and to stay up to date with how RMIT Online is working with industry to help fill skills gaps in Australia check out the blogs below
Is Python the future of AI programming?
Python is more popular than ever
Python: Where to learn it and why you should do it now
RMIT Online Python courses
RMIT Online is one of Australia’s top Python training providers. We offer a range of Python courses and certificates, depending on your career goals and experience. You can learn Python online, at your own pace, with plenty of support from expert mentors.
Topics and courses similar to Python
Python is just one of several programming languages, and it relates to dozens of emerging tech fields: Data Science, Cybersecurity, AI and Machine Learning (to name just a few). If you’re interested in learning Python programming, check out RMIT Online’s other courses below.
