Technology has been on the forefront of most of the innovations we see nowadays. Gaming in virtual reality, apps for almost anything at our fingertips and new discoveries and inventions to improve our lives appearing every day.
Programmers, coders and techies form an important part of creating the frameworks and mechanics for these technologies and innovations.
A career in technology can offer continued employment, personal growth and numerous career possibilities.
Whether you are still at school, already studying computer science or a qualified professional, learning to code could open-up new doors for you in the world of technology. This article will give you the low-down on coding as a career, learning Python and where you can start your studies.
Career Opportunities Using Python
More prospects for careers in technology are being discovered daily. With hundreds of existing job descriptions, each so different, a newcomer to the industry might wonder where to start.
Let’s start at the beginning; learning to code.
Coding forms part of the foundation for most qualifications in computer science, computer engineering or Information Technology. Computer code is a set of instructions, written in a specific programming language, that gives a program or application the ability to action tasks. Some of these are automated and even though you won’t see them, you’ll experience the benefits as a user.
Code is thus required for software programs, websites and applications, and all technology we use. Your ability to code will be useful in whichever technical direction you choose to specialise.
Here are examples of the jobs available to coders who continue to learn and develop their skills:
- Web Developer
- Front-End, Back-End or Full-stack Developer
- Computer Programmer
- Software Application Developer
- System Engineer
- Database Administrator
- Computer Systems Analyst
Whether you plan to work with complex data structures to help companies, become a coding teacher, develop online security systems, software, applications or websites, you’ll have to master one or a number of programming languages to do so and there’s no better time to start than now.
Why Does Python Remain Popular?
Some developers will tell you there’s almost nothing that Python cannot do.
It is certainly the most popular language in the area of data science and machine learning, but it has also gained popularity in the last couple of years due to the following:
- Python reads like a traditional language with simplified, high-level, clean and systematic syntax. This makes it easy to read, quick to write and a simpler language for beginner coders.
- It is a generic programming language and its versatility allows it to be used across systems and platforms.
- A massive and mature community of Python developers already exists to provide support or tutoring.
- Third-party Python libraries allow you to explore tested code and instead of re-doing the code, an advanced coder or programmer can focus on improving it or customising it to their specific needs.
Python can also be used to develop:
- Websites
- Games
- Software Programs
- In System Automation
- Fintech and Technological Financial Instruments
- Scientific Computing and Artificial Intelligence
A List of Beginner Programming Languages
So which programming language is the best to learn first?
Well, it depends on who you ask, what functionality is required and how you plan to use it.
Many will agree that there are some easy-to-use, high-level programming languages to get students started, and Python is most certainly at the top of the list that’s recommended by programmers and developers.
Did you know that there are over 250 existing coding languages?
Beyond Python, beginner coders can also look at other general purpose, high-level or open-source programming languages that are object orientated.
Here are some of the most popular programming languages:
- Javascript is a popular front- and back-end development language that is used in the development of websites, mobile apps and games. Even some famous international names Facebook and Google makes use of Javascript for their platforms.
- Java is known for its write once and run anywhere functionality, across different platforms. Java is used in big data, application, website and framework development and could be a bit more complex than Python to learn
- C and C++ form part of a root programming language C#. C is one of the oldest programming languages out there and you’ll have to learn C to have a proper foundation before you can master C++. C is quite popular high-performance languages in commercial products and frequently used in computer sciences and programming.
- PHP is used to build around 80% of sites on the web and is used by developers to write desktop applications, command-line scripts and server-side scripts. It is also considered a relatively easy language to learn.
Some other popular programming languages include HTML, Kotlin and Go.
The Path of Study That Suits You
There are so many different study options that you haveth luxury of choosing to study Python in a way that suits you best. A search for Python classes near me will bring up a wide array of courses and classes.
You might prefer committing all your time to your studies, or work while studying part-time. Here are some questions and considerations to help you choose the type of tuition that will suit you best:
- Do you want to get started on a single programming language or are you ready to study towards becoming a professional by following a full curriculum?
- Will a degree or the level of your qualification be important to realise your future ambitions?
- Can and do you want to teach yourself over a few years with the help of online resources and tutors?
- What is your budget?
Whether you choose to study a certificate, diploma, or degree, be sure that the qualification will respond to your needs once completed. If you want to work internationally, an accredited programme from an international institution could be better. Ensure you choose a good quality course by reading reviews from students, analysing the curriculum, researching the insitution's accreditation and understanding the hours of study required.
Did you know that you can get an international degree in computer science or engineering at a university through online studies?
Programming, like most careers today, is about the work you produce and most programmers continue to learn while they work. Getting a foot in the door is a great first objective and the best way to do that is by completing a coding course in a high-level code like Python.
Prospective students who are completely set on a career in technology would be better candidates for a degree in Computer Science, Engineering or Information Technology, while those who like to manage their own time would likely prefer online programmes and private tutors more.
Degrees are excellent for providing an overall view of how technology is built and its various functions, and will set you up for a variety of jobs.
Public and Private Institutions Across South Africa
Most of the 26 public universities in South Africa have recognised the need for programs in Information Technology and Computer Sciences. In each of the major cities you’ll also find colleges and private schools who offer certificates and shorter or part-time programmes to help you learn the basics of Python. Ready to start taking python lessons?
Click on any of the below links to read an article with a list of the top places across South Africa to learn python for beginners:
- Python programming courses and tutoring in Johannesburg
- Learning options for a python beginner in Pretoria
- Learn to code Python in Cape Town
- Python programming tutorials in Port Elizabeth
- Learning Python in Durban
Online Studies
If you are still on the fence when it comes to a career in coding or programming, most institutions offer a module or a beginner’s course to provide new students with the foundations in Python coding.
Whatever your choice, online and remote programmes allow you to study what you want, at your own pace. If you work full-time, already hold a university degree, or simply prefer to study from home, there are numerous online learning options to help you boost your Python skills.
Online classes tend to be less expensive than full-time campus qualifications, however, it all depends on whether you choose a single professional certificate to boost your professional skills for better jobs, or whether you are working towards an international degree in computing science or engineering.
A Private Tutor: Your Partner in Code
Finding a tutor online or in your area could be one of the best ways to supplement your studies. They will structure lessons around your level of experience, teaching you the computing skills you need to fulfil your dreams.
On Superprof we have a range of professional tutors that students can choose from and most of them offer their first session for free.
Would you prefer to be tutored by a recent engineering graduate or a teacher who has years of teaching experience?
On Superprof you can view numerous tutor profiles, learn about their specialities, read reviews written by their other students, compare their lesson rates per hour, and book your first tutorial, all online.
Whether you plan to complete a degree at university or simply want to get your hands dirty by learning Python, you can can book your first lesson today on Superprof and become part of the new technological revolution.
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