Pthon programming

Best Python Certification for programmers jobs today

ByDailyTech

The heart of computer science and Information Technology invariably revolves around programming. Each year, a multitude of graduates armed with programming degrees embark on a quest for job opportunities. The demand for proficient programmers is on an unceasing rise, and there is no indication that this trend will abate anytime soon.

Python, which was introduced by the Python Software Foundation in 1991, has remarkably ascended to become the preeminent and extensively adopted programming language across diverse domains.

Within the confines of this article, we are poised to unveil the most commendable Python certifications for the year 2023. Whether your aspiration is to secure a position as a Python developer or to elevate your professional journey by augmenting your Python portfolio, we have meticulously curated Python certifications that cater to both novices and seasoned experts.

Python maintains its position as one of the top three languages suitable for neophyte programmers and seasoned professionals engaged in fields such as data science, web development, and beyond. The pursuit of one of the finest Python certifications stands as an effective strategy to distinguish oneself.

These certifications, while often challenging to attain, serve as a testament to your Python prowess and send a resounding message to prospective employers that you possess the attributes sought after when addressing Python-related interview queries.

Considering the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ revelation of a median annual salary exceeding $100,000 for programmers, the acquisition of a top-tier Python certification emerges as a potentially lucrative endeavor.

Why should you learn Python programming language and get certifications?

Python stands as an interpreted, versatile, and high-level programming language, brought into being by the visionary Guido Van Rossum. In the present landscape, Python finds extensive utility across a myriad of applications including graphical user interface (GUI) and command-line interface (CLI) software development, server-side web development, data science, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, drone systems, the creation of cybersecurity tools, mathematical computations, and system scripting, among others.

Notably, Python commands a prominent position in the realm of programming languages, securing the second spot according to the esteemed TIOBE index. For those seeking to deepen their proficiency in Python, KnowledgeHut offers an array of captivating advanced-level courses. These encompass offerings like “Machine Learning using Python” and “Artificial Intelligence using Python.”

As one progresses in mastering Python programming, a world of opportunities unfolds with the exploration of advanced Python libraries and modules, which include but are not limited to Pandas, SciPy, NumPy, Matplotlib, and more. Beyond the realm of Python mastery, diverse avenues beckon, including data analysis, machine learning, cybersecurity, automation, web scraping, and many others.

Top 5 rated Python Certifications of 2023

1. [Python Institute] PCEP: Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer

Who is it best for? Entry-level Python programmers or software developers

As a stepping stone to the PCAP (associate level), this entry-level Python certification verifies your ability to accomplish essential tasks with the Python language, which is ideal for any of the various Python applications you might consider in 2023.

To pass the PCEP exam, you’ll need a solid understanding of Python programming skills, syntax & semantics, the difference between compilation & interpretation, control flow (conditionals & loops), data collections, variables & data types, operators, I/O operations, functions, and exception handling. One of the best ways to cement these skills is to build Python projects for your portfolio.

  • Prerequisites: None
  • Price:
    • Exam only: $59 single shot (PCEP-30-02)
    • Exam + 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 Location: Online
  • Passing Score: 70%

2. [Python Institute] PCAP: Certified Associate in Python Programming

Who is it best for? Junior Python developers, or software devs looking to switch to Python

If you’ve gained your PCEP, or you’re familiar with more advanced Python programming skills, the PCAP is a strong certification choice to demonstrate your ability to design, write, debug, and re-factor complex Python programs, including multi-module applications.

To pass the PCAP exam, you’ll need to understand the Python language Standard Library, PIP, object-oriented programming (OOP), modules and packages, exception handling, and advanced usage of strings, lambda functions, generators, list comprehensions, and file handling.

  • Prerequisites: None
  • Price:
    • Exam only: $295 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
  • Exam Duration: 65 minutes
  • Exam Location: Online (or authorized test center)
  • Passing Score: 70%

3. [Python Institute] PCPP1: Certified Professional in Python Programming 1

Who is it best for? Junior and mid-level developers looking to advance their career or team leads who want to demonstrate an advanced knowledge of Python

Designed for a professional in Python programming who’s passed the PCAP, the PCPP1 is the first stage in a 2 professional certification track from the Python Institute.

This advanced Python certification demonstrates to prospective employers your advanced Python skills in various areas, including the Python Standard Library, function syntax (extended argument, decorators, etc.), and coding standardization (PEP8, PEP 257, code layout, etc.).

To pass the exam, you’ll also need to have advanced knowledge of OOP (inheritance, polymorphism, etc.), GUIs, event-driven programming, network programming (HTTP methods, data formats), and simple REST clients.

You should also be able to demonstrate extended knowledge of file processing in various formats (XML, CSV, etc.) and exception handling, building upon the skills needed to pass the PCAP.

  • Prerequisites: PCAP
  • Price: $195 exam only, single shot (PCPP-32-101)
  • Validity Period: Lifetime
  • Total Exam Questions: 45
  • Content: Single & multiple-choice
  • Exam Duration: 65 minutes
  • Exam Location: Online (or authorized test center)
  • Passing Score: 70%

4. [Python Institute] PCPP2: Certified Professional in Python Programming 2

Who is it best for? Experienced developers, engineers, system architects, and team leads

The second stage of the Python Institute’s professional certification track, PCPP2 completes your general Python programming certification journey by demonstrating your advanced knowledge of the Python language.

To pass the exam, you’ll need a firm grasp of Python design patterns (OOP, Singleton, Factory, etc.), networking & communication, multithreading & process management, advanced standard & non-standard library modules, creating and working with SQL & NoSQL databases, unit & functional testing frameworks, and the principles of clean code.

This Python certification will show prospective employers an advanced level of Python expertise, an understanding of the entire software design lifecycle, analytical & design skills, and the ability to work on small to large multi-module projects across various industries.

  • Prerequisites: PCPP1 (and PCAP)
  • Validity Period: Lifetime
  • Price: $195 exam only, single shot (PCPP-32-201)
  • Total Exam Questions: 45
  • Content: Single & multiple-choice
  • Exam Duration: 65 minutes
  • Exam Location: Online (or authorized test center)
  • Passing Score: 70%

5. [Python Institute] PCAT: Certified Associate in Testing with Python

Who is it best for? Junior Python developers or test engineers with on-the-job experience

One of the newest Python Institute certifications, the PCAT is a specialization for software testing with Python at the associate level. This cert shows employers you understand the importance of software testing & automation, different testing approaches, and how testing reinforces software development via refactoring. 

To pass the exam, you’ll need to understand software testing principles and best practices, unit testing fundamentals, software decomposition, D.R.Y (Don’t Repeat Yourself) software engineering, and F.I.R.S.T (Fast, Independent, Repeatable, Self-Validating, and Timely) testing. 

You’ll also need to be well-versed in the popular software development approaches of Test-Driven Development (TDD) and Behavior-Driven Development (BDD).

The PCAT also makes you eligible for professional-level certifications offered by the Python Institute in unit testing (PCPT1), test automation (PCPT2), and security (PCPT3) in late 2023.

  • Prerequisites: None
  • Validity Period: 5 years
  • Price:
    • Exam only: $295 single shot (PCAT-31-0x)
    • Exam + Practice test:  $319 single shot (PCAT-31-0x)
  • Total Exam Questions: 40
  • Content: Single & multiple-choice
  • Exam Duration: 65 minutes
  • Exam Location: Online (or authorized test center)
  • Passing Score: 70%