Python is a computer language that’s easy to learn and has a lot of useful tools and a big community. Many people use Python, especially professional software developers. If you want to show that you’re good at using Python, you can get certified.
This article will tell you about six different certification programs for Python in 2023. Some are for beginners, and some are for experts. We’ll explain what you need to do to pass the exam, how much it costs, and more. Let’s get started!
What is a Python Certification
This article is talking about Python certifications, which are different from certificates you might get just for completing a Python course. A certification is a way to prove that you’re really good at using Python.
To get a certification, you have to meet certain requirements and then pass an exam that tests your Python skills. There are different kinds of certifications, some for general programming and others for specific things like testing or data analysis.
It is important to be aware of simpler certificates that can be obtained from completing a Python course. However, this article focuses solely on the more official certifications.
In 2023, the main organization offering Python certifications is the Python Institute. Microsoft used to offer a certification for beginners, but they don’t anymore.
Choosing the Best Python Certification
If you’re not sure which Python science certification to choose, consider the following before making a decision:
Required Skills: Do you have the technical and theoretical skills needed for the certification?
Cost: Can you afford the exam and any practice tests?
Renewal Period: How long is the certification valid?
Top 6 Python Certifications in 2023
PCEP: Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer [Python Institute]
This certification is a good starting point for those who want to become an associate level Python programmer. It confirms that you can complete essential tasks using the Python language.
To pass the exam, you need a good understanding of Python programming. This includes:
- Syntax and semantics
- Data collections
- Control flow
- Variables and data types
- Operators
- Input/output operations
- Functions
- Exception handling.
Prerequisites: None
Price:
- Exam Fee: $59 single shot (PCEP-30-02)
- Exam Fee + Practice test: $71 single shot (PCEP-30-02)
Validity Period: Lifetime
Total Exam Questions: 30
Content: Single & multiple choice, gap-fill, code-fill, code insertion
Exam Duration: 40 minutes
Exam Method: Online
Passing Score: 70%
Who is it best for? Entry-level Python programmers or software developers
PCAP: Certified Associate in Python Programming [Python Institute]
If you have basic Python programming knowledge or have completed the PCEP certification, you can aim for the PCAP certification. It is more advanced than the PCEP. This certification shows that you can create complex Python programs and improve them.
To pass the PCAP exam, you need to understand the following concepts:
- Python language Standard Library
- PIP
- Object oriented programming
- Modules and packages
- Exception handling
- Advanced usage of strings
- Lambda functions
- Generators
- List comprehensions
- File handling.
Prerequisites: None
Price:
- Exam Fee: $259 single shot (PCAP-31-03)
- Exam + Practice test: $319 single shot (PCAP-31-03)
Validity Period: Lifetime
Total Exam Questions: 40
Content: Single & multiple choice
Duration: 65 minutes
Exam Method: Online (or authorized test center)
Passing Score: 70%
Who is it best for? Junior Python developers or software devs looking to switch to Python
PCPP1: Certified Professional in Python Programming 1 [Python Institute]
The PCPP1 certification is for professional Python programmers who have already passed the PCAP. This certification demonstrates your expertise in many aspects of Python. These include utilizing the Python Standard Library, employing advanced function syntax, and following coding standards.
To pass the PCPP1 exam, you need to be knowledgeable in several areas.
These include object oriented programming, creating graphical user interfaces, programming for networks, and working with different file formats. You will also need to have a good understanding of how to handle errors and exceptions in your code.
This certification expands upon the skills acquired from the PCAP. It demonstrates you are prepared to handle more intricate Python programming assignments.
Prerequisites: PCAP
Exam Fee: $195 exam only, single shot (PCPP-32-101)
Validity Period: Lifetime
Total Exam Questions: 45
Content: Single & multiple choice
Duration: 65 minutes
Exam Location: Online (or authorized test center)
Passing Score: 70%
Who is it best for? Junior and mid-level developers may want to advance their careers. Team leads may wish to demonstrate an advanced knowledge of Python.
PCPP2: Certified Professional in Python Programming 2 [Python Institute]
The PCPP2 is the second part of the Python Institute’s professional certification track. It’s a certification that shows you have advanced knowledge of the Python language.
To pass this exam, you need to be familiar with a number of topics. These include Python design patterns, networking, multithreading, working with databases, testing frameworks, and clean code principles. Having this certification will prove to employers that you have advanced Python skills and can work on projects in different industries.
It’s important to note that this exam won’t be available until the second half of 2023.
Prerequisites: PCPP1 (and PCAP)
Validity Period: Lifetime
Exam Fee: $195 exam only, single shot (PCPP-32-201)
Total Exam Questions: 45
Content: Single & multiple choice
Duration: 65 minutes
Exam Method: Online (or authorized test center)
Passing Score: 70%
Who is it best for? Experienced developers, engineers, system architects, and team leads
PCAT: Certified Associate in Testing with Python [Python Institute]
The PCAT certification is a new certification from the Python Institute for software testing using Python at the beginner level. This certification shows employers that you understand the importance of software testing and how it helps with software development through refactoring.
To pass the exam, you need to be familiar with several topics. These include software testing principles and best practices, unit testing basics, software corruption, and the D.R.Y principle. You will also need to be familiar with the TDD and BDD approaches to software development.
After obtaining the PCAT, you can pursue professional level certifications in unit testing, test automation, and security.The PCAT exam will be available from the beginning of 2023.
Prerequisites: None
Validity Period: 5 years
Price:
- Exam Fee: $295 single shot (PCAT-31-0x)
- Exam + Practice test: $319 single shot (PCAT-31-0x)
Total Questions: 40
Content: Single & multiple choice
Duration: 65 minutes
Exam Method: Online (or authorized test center)
Passing Score: 70%
Who is it best for? Junior Python developers or test engineers with on-the-job experience
PCAD: Certified Associate in Data Analytics with Python [Python Institute]
The Python Institute has a new certification called PCAD, which is an associate level certification in data analytics. This certification shows that you have good knowledge of data acquisition, cleaning, wrangling, modeling, analysis, and the purpose of using Python.
To pass the exam, you need to understand several concepts in data science and analytics. These include statistical analyses, predictive modeling and selection, and machine learning. Popular Python libraries such as NumPy, pandas, Matplotlib, SK-Learn, and Seaborn should also be known.
This certification is a good way to demonstrate your well-rounded skills and comprehensive knowledge of data analytics. The PCAD certification will be a requirement for the Python Institute’s professional level certification in data analytics (PCPD). This certification will be available in late 2023 or early 2024.
Note that the PCAD exam will be available to take from Q1 2023 onwards.
Prerequisites: None
Validity Period: 5 years
Price:
- Exam Fee: $295 single shot (PCAD-31-0x)
- Exam + Practice test: $319 single shot (PCAD-31-0x)
Total Exam Questions: 40
Content: Single & multiple choice
Duration: 65 minutes
Passing Score: 70%
Who is it best for? People currently in junior Python, data analysis, data science, or software development roles can benefit from this article.
How and where to learn?
There are various options available for learning Python, including face-to-face classes, live virtual sessions, and prerecorded online courses. Skillet offers comprehensive Python classes that can help you enhance your knowledge and skills at work.
If you’re interested in getting certified, you could begin with PCEP: Certified Entry Level Python Programmer and then move on to PCAP: Certified Associate in Python Programming. Both certifications are offered by the Python Institute.
Conclusion
In a recent survey of developers by Stack Overflow, Python has ranked among the top 4 most popular programming languages. This is because Python has an easy to understand syntax, many powerful libraries, and a supportive community of developers.
If you are a data scientist, certifications can be advantageous. This applies to those who are experienced in data science, engineering, development or Python learning.
They can serve as proof of your skills and abilities and prove your skills. This article has listed the six best Python certifications available in 2023, which cover all levels of experience.
Whether you’re just starting your career or you’re an experienced professional, there is a Python certification that’s right for you. If you want to improve your Python skills in 2023, you can check out the list provided.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the Best Python Certification?
Choosing the right Python certification depends on various factors. Consider your level of experience, skill set, and career goals. Do you need a general or specialized certification?
This article has presented certifications for general programming at various levels of proficiency. Additionally, certifications for data analytics and testing have been included.
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How Difficult Is Python Certification?
If you know the basics of Python, the entry-level PCEP certification should not be too difficult for you. However, the PCPP1 and PCPP2 expert certifications require advanced Python skills and are more challenging. These exams are designed to make sure you really know your stuff and can represent the certification well.
Researching the content can help you pass the exam. Taking practice tests is another way to prepare. Studying online resources and Python books can also be beneficial. Finally, consider taking Python courses to give you an edge.
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How much Is a Python certification Exam Fee?
The cost of Python certification varies. This depends on the level of certification and if you choose to pay for extra practice tests. The price of Python certifications varies.
It ranges from $59 to $295, depending on the level of certification.
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Can You Get Python Certified for Free?
In order to obtain a Python credential, an individual must fork out the cost of the assessment. Certificates from free courses in Python programming are not as hard to get as industry recognized certifications. This is different from certifications that require more effort to obtain.
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Is a Python CERT Worth It?
It’s up to you and what you want to achieve in your career. Gaining recognition from companies with certification can make your resume stand out. This shows employers that you possess the necessary skills in Python. This could give you an advantage over other applicants when you’re applying for jobs.
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Can I Get a Job After Obtaining Python Certification?
Getting a Python certification shows employers that you take your career seriously, but it doesn’t guarantee a job. You still need to meet other education or experience requirements for the job. You must perform well throughout the interview process. This includes pre-screening, coding tests, and interviews with team leaders and members.
