Top Python Certifications (Plus How To Get One in 5 Steps)

Updated 30 September 2022

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Python is a popular programming language used in various domains like machine learning, data science, software engineering, web development and automation. Professional certification in Python can help demonstrate your skills and secure suitable roles. Understanding the different Python professional certifications can help you choose the right one that helps in career advancement. In this article, we discuss what python certification is and its advantages, list the top credentials for developers and explain how to get certified in Python.

What Is Python Certification?

A Python certification is an official document that validates your professional competence as a Python developer. It proves that you have taken the appropriate professional examinations in the language and passed them. It acts as proof of your credentials in Python programming, demonstrating to potential employers that you are aware of both the theoretical and practical aspects of the language and know how to write code in it. While having the certification helps, employers also expect candidates to have demonstrable skills, relevant work experience and an online portfolio.

What Are The Benefits Of Getting Certified In Python?

Here are some of the benefits of getting certified in Python:

Helps acquire and develop new skills: By taking a certification, you can learn and develop new skills that help you expand your technical expertise, making you a valuable and knowledgeable Python programmer in the workplace.
Gives a competitive edge: Earning a professional certification in Python helps to differentiate your profile from other candidates, helping you gain a competitive advantage during recruitment.
Increases job opportunities: Some employers prefer certified candidates. Earning these qualifications might help make you eligible for these positions and increase available opportunities.
Gives confidence: Completing a professional certification increases your confidence, which helps you enhance productivity and work performance. This can act as internal motivation, helping you focus on expanding your skills further.
Enhance your resume: You can include the certification name, year of completion and other relevant details on your resume to enhance your credibility and increase your chances of securing an interview.
Helps negotiate a higher pay package: A Python credential is documentary proof of your coding skills and technical knowledge. You might be able to leverage this to your advantage while negotiating a pay increase.
Updates your skill set: Earning a professional certification in Python can help you expand and update your skills. You can learn new tools, strategies, techniques and methods that you can use in your workflow, helping you improve productivity.
Improves your chances of securing a promotion: Earning a new certification demonstrates your commitment to lifelong learning, helping you increase your chances of getting promoted at work.

5 Python Certifications To Enhance Your Career

Here are some of the popular Python professional certifications that can help you advance your programming career:

1. Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer (PCEP)

This is a beginner-level certificate from the Python institute that measures the candidate's knowledge of universal computer programming concepts like loops, conditions, functions, containers and data types. It also tests an individual's knowledge of the syntax and semantics of the Python programming language and their skills in resolving implementation challenges in the Python runtime environment. On successful completion of the exam, candidates receive a certificate and digital badge they can share on their social media pages and website. Here are a few necessary details about this certification:

Duration: 45 minutes
Number of questions: 30
Test language: English and Spanish
Question types: single and multiple select questions fill in the blanks, drag and drop, sort, code insertion
Passing score: 70%
Validity: Lifetime
Prerequisites: None
Ideal for: aspiring programmers and software development freshers

Certified Associate in Python Programming (PCAP)

If you already have experience working as a Python developer and are looking to progress to the next stages of your career, you can consider applying for the PCAP certification. This certification tests the candidate's skills in the fundamentals of object-oriented programming and other related concepts like Python class, abstraction, inheritance, encapsulation and polymorphism. It is not mandatory to complete the PCEP certification before attempting this one. Here are a few key details about this certification:

Duration: 65 minutes
Number of questions: 40
Test language: English
Question types: single and multiple select questions
Passing score: 70%
Validity: Lifetime
Prerequisites: None
Ideal for: aspiring programmers and career changers

3. Certified Professional in Python Programming (PCPP)

It is an advanced programming certification offered for Python professionals looking to obtain an industry credential that demonstrates their expertise and skills in the more advanced concepts of the programming language. This certification tests candidates in design practices, coding conventions, tool kits, event-driven programming, client-server communications, file processing and other advanced modules. Here are some of the key details about this certification:

Duration: 65 minutes
Number of questions: 45
Test language: English
Question types: single and multiple select questions
Passing score: 70%
Validity: lifetime
Prerequisites: completed and passed PCAP
Ideal for: entry-level and mid-level programmers and software developers, team leaders, product managers and project managers

4. Certified Associate in Testing with Python (PCAT)

It is a testing specialisation certificate from the Python institute that demonstrates the credentials of a professional in automated testing. The exam covers various topics like software testing principles, unit testing, behaviour-driven development (BDD) and test-driven development (TDD). The certification demonstrates that the candidate is fully acquainted with various Python testing frameworks and tools and can write high-quality code to perform automated testing. Here is a quick overview of the PCAT certification:

Duration: 65 minutes
Number of questions: 40
Test language: English
Question types: single and multiple select questions
Passing score: 70%
Validity: Lifetime
Prerequisites: none
Ideal for: software testing beginners, test engineers and quality-assurance engineers

5. Google IT Automation with Python Professional Certificate

This is a six-course certification offered on Coursera in collaboration with Google. Candidates can practise their coding skills with hands-on projects and test their knowledge by taking an exam at the end of each module. Besides learning Python, this course teaches candidates how to use Git and GitHub, apply automation and troubleshoot complex debugging problems. Here are a few necessary details about this certification:

Duration: approximately six months
Validity: lifetime
Prerequisites: none
Ideal for: entry-level programmers, IT support specialists and system administrators

How To Get Certified In Python In 5 Easy Steps

You can follow these steps to get certified in Python:

1. Choose a relevant certification

There are several types and levels of Python professional certificates that cater to the needs of varying professionals. Analyse the requirements and objectives of each certification to choose the right one that best fits your professional requirements and current skill sets. For example, if you are new to Python programming, you can consider an entry-level certification that helps you learn the basics of the language. Once you acquire the basics, you can choose a more advanced certification.

2. Enrol in an online Python class

While classes are not mandatory to become Python certified, they provide a formal learning path that helps you learn the language quickly. If you are a beginner at Python, these classes can help you familiarise yourself with the basics of coding and introduce you to the Python framework and library. Here are some of the popular online Python courses to prepare for the certification test:

The Python Bible™| Everything You Need to Program in Python by Udemy
Complete Python Bootcamp From Zero to Hero in Python by Udemy
Introduction to Predictive Analysis using Python by EdX
Python for Everybody by the University of Michigan on Coursera
Learn Python Programming Masterclass by Udemy

3. Read Python textbooks

Another great way to familiarise yourself with the theory behind Python programming is by reading books on the subject. Here are a few books that help you understand the language thoroughly:

Starting Out with Python by Tony Gaddis: This beginner-friendly book teaches you how to code using variable loops in Python. It also covers advanced topics like functions, classes and object-oriented programming techniques.
Learn Python The Hard Way by Zed A Shaw: This book helps readers learn how Python programming works using real-life coding exercises.
Python for Everybody, Exploring Data in Python 3 by Charles Severance: This book introduces readers to Python programming with a particular focus on data analysis. It is an excellent choice for professionals interested in a data science career.

4. Take practice tests

Certification tests usually have time limits. Taking multiple practice tests before the exam helps you develop the speed and accuracy to pass the certification exam. It also helps to acquaint yourself with the examination pattern and build confidence to attend the test. You can take practice tests online on various Python training sites.

5. Pass the examination

Once you have completed the courses or feel that you have become proficient in Python, you can register for the certification exam. Visit the official website of your preferred certification, follow the instructions, apply for the exam and choose your preferred time slot and day. Some certifications require you to take multiple tests. Once you clear the exam successfully, you can download the certificate and share it with potential or current employers, as needed.

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