The growing popularity of the Python programming language has given rise to the need for a global standard when it comes to measuring Python programming skills in professional software developers. As a result, OpenEDG Python Institute partnered with Pearson VUE to create a Python certification program containing multiple levels of tutorials and classes.
This certification allows beginners to learn Python fundamentals or gives more experienced Python developers the ability to achieve fluency in advanced programming concepts. Upon completion of a Python certification course, those data science professionals looking for careers in software development have a verifiable credential that can help them navigate the job market.
This article will focus on Python programming certification, how to tell one Python course from another, and the benefits of earning this type of credential for any software engineer.
What is a Python certification?
A Python certification is the achievement of a professional certificate in Python code. This credential can then be used to help the recipient gain access to a wide variety of programming jobs where certification is necessary or preferred. Having such a qualification gives a potential hire a competitive edge while allowing ease for clients or employers to sift through applications for highly qualified candidates.
With its object-oriented programming and unique way of grouping data structures, Python has become one of the most popular programming languages in computer science today. A Python certificate showcases a software developer’s agility and knowledge regarding Python libraries. As there are several Python certifications available, though, it’s important to know which Python course may best serve your needs.
Python certifications explained
The Python programming language represents a huge variety of skills and knowledge. Likewise, software engineers may come with varying degrees of preexisting knowledge of Python libraries and frameworks. So, to make certification useful for all, the Python Institute offers five-tiered certification levels aimed at differing levels of Python fluidity. There is one entry-level course, one associate-level course, two professional-level courses, and one expert-level Python certification.
1. PCEP – Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer
The PCEP – Certified Entry-Level Python Programmer entails a 45-minute test (plus five minutes for the nondisclosure agreement/tutorial) composed of 30 multiple-choice, single-choice, drag-and-drop, and fill-in-the-blank questions along with Python 3. x.
The purpose of this certification is to show that the programmer is familiar with areas of importance such as Python programming language semantics, runtime environment, and syntax, as well as universal computer programming concepts—like conditions, containers, loops, and data types.
The fundamentals of this course include:
- Computer programming fundamentals
- Understanding and converting between basic data types
- Interpreted languages versus compiled languages
- Logical and bitwise operations
- Formatting and output methods
- Looping and control statements
- List slicing and multi-dimensional arrays
- Tuples and dictionaries
- Boolean values
- Name scope issues
- Variables and variable naming conventions
- Assignment operator
- Guideposts for the building of expressions
This certification exam costs $59 and is structured around the basics of Python and the core concepts of the programming language. As such, there are no prerequisites mandated for any data scientist or other interested person to complete the Python course. However, having a working knowledge of algorithms and flowcharts will be beneficial to any candidate. A passing score of 70% is required to achieve PCEP certification.
2. PCAP – Certified Associate in Python Programming
For those data scientists who may have some previous experience with Python language syntax, semantics, and runtime environment, the PCAP – Certified Associate in Python Programming certification represents an intermediate option. Slightly more in-depth than the beginner-level PCEP, this certification exam lasts 65 minutes in duration (plus 10 minutes for the nondisclosure agreement/tutorial) and costs $295.
This certification is to show that the programmer is familiar with general computer programming concepts, such as conditional execution and object-oriented programming and coding techniques.
Major areas of interest covered in this certification include:
- Object-oriented programming basics
- Modulation
- Manipulation of data structures, including strings and lists
- Looping and control statements
- Python modules
- Name scope issues
- Logical versus bitwise operations
- Debugging
- Fundamentals and usage of OOP
- Inheritance in Python
- List slicing and multi-dimensional arrays
- Primary data types and numerical operators
- Data aggregates: tuples and dictionaries
- Generators and closures
- Guideposts for the building of expressions
This certification test contains 40 mostly multiple-choice questions based on Python 3. x. There are no prerequisites required, and a score of 70% is necessary to pass.
3. PCPP-32-1 – Certified Professional in Python Programming 1
For software engineers looking for a more advanced certification level to measure their Python coding skills, the PCPP 1 course is the way to go. The PCPP 1 certification represents the first of two professional-level Python certifications. The test costs $195 and features 40 questions ranging in format, including single-choice, multiple-choice, drag-and-drop, and gap-fill.
This certification is to show that the programmer has experience with areas like advanced OOP, PEP conventions, GUI programming, and text file processing. It’s a way to show the test-taker’s commitment to their career development.
Fundamentals covered in this course include:
- Network programming and utilization of RESTful APIs
- Programming graphical user interface
- Interaction with SQLite databases
- Creation and processing of XML files
- Reading, writing, and processing CSV files
- Creating and processing log messages from Python programs
- Managing configuration files
- Standardization, coding conventions, and best practices of Python Language
A PCAP certification is a mandatory prerequisite, and a score of 70% or above is needed to pass. The PCPP 1 test has a time allotment of 65 minutes (plus 10 minutes for the nondisclosure agreement/tutorial).
4. PCPP-32-2 – Certified Professional in Python Programming 2
Attempting to become PCPP 2 certified means that a software developer is now advanced enough in Python-related tools to fully understand its automation processes. PCPP 2 certification grants further professional Python validation by covering the following modules:
- Creation and distribution of packages
- Testing principles and techniques
- Fundamentals of design patterns and interprocess communication
- Python network programming basics
- Python-MySQL database access
- GUI programming
- NumPy
Test-takers must have PCPP 1 certification to take the PCPP 2 test. The exam consists of 40 questions in single-choice, multiple-choice, gap-fill, and drag-and-drop formats throughout a 65-minute time frame (plus 10 minutes for the nondisclosure agreement/tutorial). Like the PCPP 1 test, the PCPP 2 test costs $195, and successful examinees must score a minimum of 70%.
5. CEPP – Certified Expert in Python Programming
The CEPP certification represents the most highly advanced level of certified Python knowledge available at present. The CEPP status is awarded to those individuals who complete the OpenEDG Python Institute General Programming certification program in its entirety. To achieve expert status in Python coding, candidates must have passed:
- PC
- PCPP 1
- PCPP 2
CEPP holders have attained the ability to address and correct implementation challenges on any of Python’s verticals. CEPP certification means a software engineer is recognized for demonstrated mastery of all current Python-related technologies.
Benefits of having a Python certification
The tech industry is ever-evolving and famously fast-moving. As computer programming continues to evolve, so must successful software developers. According to the most current TIOBE index, Python is now the most popular programming language in the world.
Python is also one of the most versatile coding languages in the industry today and can be utilized to great advantage by most organizations looking to hire software professionals. Python certification frequently represents one of the first screening tools utilized by recruiters looking to hire gifted programmers and likewise showcases a job seeker’s emphasis on self-development.
Python is a hugely versatile programming language and opens the door to a vast community, as well as resources. A few of the major benefits of Python certification include:
- Access to better employment opportunities
- A competitive edge in the fast-paced world of programming jobs
- The leverage to legitimately ask for higher pay
- Proven skills in an ever-escalating field of critical need
- Visible achievement and a launchpad to further career growth
The following sections provide a deeper understanding of each unique benefit associated with Python certification.
It can provide better job opportunities
Becoming certified in Python practices can enhance the job search prospects of qualified coding candidates by widening the available job pool. Python certification holders may find jobs in cybersecurity, app development, data science, artificial intelligence, web scraping, robotics, or drone systems—to name just a few industries.
As more and more companies are utilizing data science in a way that makes Python-literate programmers increasingly necessary, those already certified in Python language and familiar with Python libraries will continue to have the best access to top jobs in web development.
It can be a competitive edge when applying for a job
The requirements in many data scientist job descriptions list Python proficiency. Python certification helps candidates stay relevant in the swiftly changing world of web development.
For many recruiters, the existence of a candidate with a qualification, as opposed to one without, will be an automatic and preliminary employment screen. Having the ability to offer proof of Python programming expertise where others can’t provide a viable competitive advantage.
You can opt for a better salary
Programmers who can prove Python certification have the opportunity to command higher-paying jobs. While there are certainly plenty of uncertified computer programmers out there with excellent Python skills, the dedication necessary to achieve Python certification allows credentialed applicants to stand apart from those without proven qualifications. Python certification holders then have the leverage to request and justify higher pay than those candidates who might be hired with the condition that they prove their skills on the job.
It’s of increasing value and demand
The ability to structure data analysis and visualization is becoming more and more important in web development jobs. As algorithms and machine learning continue to dominate and deepen the field of data science, having hands-on knowledge of Python and open-source databases will only grow in importance when hunting for a software engineering job. Python already plays home to a colossal number of standard libraries, knowledge—of which will only grow in importance as usages expand. As new resources and apps are developed around the Python libraries, more companies than ever will require coders who can elevate and enhance their businesses’ internal systems using the Python language.
It provides a benchmark of your skills and knowledge of the subject
Being able to hand a potential client or employer verifiable proof of programming skills is always better than trying to convince a future manager that you do know pandas and Javascript. Python certification allows your coding knowledge and relevant programming experience to speak for themselves. It also immediately reflects the time and dedication you have shown to achieve that level of professional improvement.
Offers a sense of achievement to the certificate
Never underestimate having something to show for learning achievement. Enjoying the satisfaction of professional accomplishment is a priceless feeling. It not only can boost a candidate’s morale but also tends to motivate many workers to want to achieve more.
As Python and its applications are constantly evolving, having preliminary certifications and keeping current on new developments allows candidates the excitement of continual learning within the programming field.
Which certification is right for you?
The web is full of different ways to obtain every level of certification in the Python language. Professional platforms offer online courses, such as Microsoft, Coursera, and Udemy, while many colleges now provide hands-on access to some form of coding Bootcamp.
Deciding which certification is right for you is a personal decision based on your career plans, time frames, and previous Python experience. Once you have the necessary certifications, though, you might be interested in landing work as a Python developer.
If you’re interested in finding all the best Python jobs, Upwork is here to help. Whether you’re still working on your certification or already have become a certified expert in Python programming, Upwork is a one-stop talent marketplace that can help you find your next programming job.
