A SlashData report on programming languages determined that in 2019 there were over 8.2 million developers using the Python programming language. The same report noted that over two million of those users were gained in 2018.

The growth of Python users is reflective of its usability.

Python is an object-oriented, high-level programming language with integrated dynamic semantics that is primarily used for app and web development, including mobile. It is known for being simpler than other programming languages – its syntax focuses on readability – which means developers can read and translate code in Python much more easily than other languages.

Python is one in a group of languages that are known as ‘general-purpose programming languages’. Other popular coding languages in this category are C, Ruby, Java and BASIC.

Why learn Python

Python is not only one of the easier programming languages but is also incredibly powerful. Although it was initially developed as a ‘scripting language’ – meant for trivial projects rather than commercial use – it has since grown in popularity, largely because of the advent of the internet. Python now powers some of the most popular sites on the web, including Youtube and Google- it’s even used at NASA!

Python supports modules and packages, enabling the developer to design programs in modules and reuse, scale, and export these modules for different projects.

It is also widely used by programmers developing new software in artificial intelligence, automation and data science.

Learn how to write programs in Python

Our online Python courses will take you from complete beginner level to writing your own Python programs.

Alongside leading coding experts from leading institutions like Raspberry Pi and the University of Michigan, you can get to grips with the basic programming concepts and Python syntax, before moving on to saving and structuring data.

Working with Python

With the average salary of a Python programmer coming in at £60,000 per year in 2019, learning Python is a worthwhile investment for your career.

The demand for certain professionals to have a working knowledge of Python is also growing.

IT and product managers with a deep technical understanding of the product are able to have more meaningful communications with the developers building their product. As a result, professionals who have a working knowledge of the code language the product is built with are extremely valuable to employers.

Whether you’d like to learn how to write code in Python and become a Python developer, or you’d simply like to add a new programming language to your CV and skill set, get started for free today on FutureLearn.

Earn a python certificate

Earn personalised python certificates when you complete an online course on FutureLearn, complete with lead educator signatures, organisation logos and course details. Share your achievements with employers, on Linkedin, on your CV and more.

Python FAQs

What is Python?

Python is a programming language that was first launched back in the 1990s. It’s what’s known as an interpreted, high-level language, with an emphasis on writing clear and logical code. It can be used on a wide range of small and large-scale projects.

What is Python used for?

Because it’s a general-purpose programming language, Python is a diverse tool. As well as for things such as web, software and game development, it also has applications in data science, machine learning, and image processing.

How do you learn Python?

Python is a popular programming language as it takes a logical and relatively straightforward approach. You’ll find that our vast and diverse range of online Python courses present the ideal opportunity to learn python. Whether it’s the basics or more advanced applications of Python, you can find a course here.

How long does it take to learn Python?

The answer to this really depends on the way you learn and what you want to use Python for. Our introductory courses take around six weeks to complete, requiring around four hours’ of study per week. A more advanced grasp of Python can take several months.

Why learn Python?

Learning any computer programming language can be rewarding. With Python, it’s one of the easier languages out there to get started with. What’s more, it’s a versatile and in-demand skill, which could lead to many opportunities.

Is it hard to learn Python?

Although the answer to this is somewhat subjective, many professionals agree that Python is a relatively easy programming language to learn. If you approach it with the right mindset, and spend time understanding the key principles, you should start picking it up.

What is the best way to learn Python?

There are several ways you can go about learning Python. A free Python course is a great way to start, as many of these give you the structure needed to succeed, as well as the opportunities to practise. Making regular and steady progress while gaining practical experience certainly helps.