Online course in IT & Computer Science

Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)

Master the basics of Python programming, and learn how to use programming tools and variables with the University of Michigan.

Programming for Everybody (Getting Started with Python)

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Overview
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  • Duration 6 weeks
  • Weekly study 4 hours
  • Learn Free
  • Extra benefits From $74 Find out more

Learn Python from scratch and prepare yourself for a future in programming

On this programming course, you’ll go from a complete beginner with no prior programming experience to having a solid understanding of the Python programming language.

You’ll begin by completing basic exercises that focus on the core concepts of programming. As you progress, you’ll learn how to use variables to store, retrieve and calculate information. You’ll then install Python, write your first program, and get to grips with utilize core programming tools like functions and loops.

Upon completion of this course, you’ll have the computer programming skills to further your learning alone.

What topics will you cover?

  • Understanding a program
  • Using variables in programs
  • Conditional execution (if statements)
  • Repeated execution / looping (for statements)
  • Functions and code reuse

When would you like to start?

Most FutureLearn courses run multiple times. Every run of a course has a set start date but you can join it and work through it after it starts. Find out more

  • Available now
    This course started 20 Jan 2020

What will you achieve?

By the end of the course, you'll be able to...

  • Describe the basics of the Python programming language
  • Use variables to store, retrieve and calculate information
  • Install Python and write your first program
  • Utilize core programming tools such as functions and loops

Who is the course for?

This course is designed for anyone who wants to learn the basics of programming computers using Python. This course has no prerequisites and avoids all but the simplest maths.

What software or tools do you need?

Please note that JavaScript is required for full access to course content.

Who will you learn with?

Charles Severance

Charles Severance

Charles is a Clinical Professor and teaches in the School of Information at the University of Michigan. He is the Chair of the Sakai Project Management Committee (PMC).

Who developed the course?

University of Michigan

As one of the top public universities in the United States, U-M has been a leader in research, learning, and teaching for more than 200 years.

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  • Access to this course for 8 weeks

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  • Access to this course for as long as it’s on FutureLearn
  • Access to this course’s tests as well as a print and digital Certificate of Achievement once you’re eligible
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  • Access to this course, and hundreds of other FutureLearn short courses and tests for a year
  • A printable digital Certificate of Achievement on all short courses once you’re eligible
  • The freedom to keep access to any course you've achieved a digital Certificate of Achievement on, for as long as the course exists on FutureLearn
  • The flexibility to complete your choice of short courses in your own time within the year
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