Free: No hidden charges
Skills you'll gain
Algorithms Computer Programming Critical Thinking Data Analysis Data Structures Problem Solving Python
What our experts say
- Don’t watch the course like a movie
- Avoid getting lost halfway & losing the interest
- Don’t enroll to many courses at a time
- Decide your learning path and enroll one course at a time
- Make the smart combo of Courses & Books
- Pause the lectures for hands-on practice
- Refer to Terms when necessary
- Watch Talks & Podcasts for motivation, during the breaks
*Disclaimer: Our experts work continuously on shortlisting the best free courses for you. However, you need to ensure the latest pricing structure of each course provider. If they make it paid, we will try to bring you the best free alternative soon.
Is Python for Everybody really free?
Yes, the course is completely free on the PY4E website. You get access to all video lectures, course materials, a full textbook, autograded assignments, discussion forums, and a grade book without paying anything. While the official site is entirely free, you can also access the course through platforms like Coursera or edX, which may charge for certificates. University of Michigan students and staff can even get free certificates through their institutional access.
Do I need any programming experience to start this course?
No programming experience is required whatsoever. The course is specifically designed for absolute beginners who have never written a line of code before. Dr. Severance starts from the very beginning, explaining why people program and walking you through installing Python on your computer. The curriculum builds gradually from simple concepts like variables to more complex topics, ensuring you develop a solid foundation before moving forward.
What will I actually learn in this course?
You’ll learn core Python programming skills starting with variables, conditionals, and loops, then progressing to data structures like lists, dictionaries, and tuples. The course covers practical skills including file handling, text processing with regular expressions, network programming, working with web services, databases using SQL, and creating data visualizations. You’ll also get an introduction to object-oriented programming. By the end, you’ll be able to write programs that collect, store, analyze, and visualize data from various sources.
How long does it take to complete the course?
The course is self-paced, so completion time varies based on your schedule and learning speed. The curriculum contains 17 chapters covering different topics, with each requiring several hours to complete including watching lectures, reading materials, and completing assignments. Most students can finish the entire course in a few months if they dedicate 5-10 hours per week, though you’re free to go faster or slower based on your needs and availability.
Will I get a certificate after completing the course?
If you complete the course through the official PY4E website, you’ll receive badges and have your progress tracked in a grade book, but there isn’t a formal certificate. However, you can earn recognized certificates by taking the same course content through Coursera’s Python for Everybody Specialization or edX. University of Michigan students and staff also have access to free certificates through their institutional portal. The choice depends on whether you need formal credentials for your resume or just want to learn.
What makes this course different from other Python courses?
Dr. Chuck’s teaching style is exceptionally clear and encouraging, making complex concepts accessible to everyone. The course focuses on practical applications rather than just syntax, showing you how to solve real problems with code. You get hands-on practice with autograded assignments that provide immediate feedback, and there’s an active community for support. Additionally, all course materials are open educational resources available on GitHub, meaning the content is constantly improved and can even be translated into different languages by the community.
What do I need to get started with the course?
You just need a computer with internet access and the willingness to learn. The first lesson walks you through installing Python and a text editor on your computer, whether you’re using Windows, Mac, or Linux. There’s no need to purchase any software since Python is free and open source. You can use any basic text editor, though the course recommends options that make coding easier. Once you have Python installed, you’re ready to start writing your first programs.
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