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WGU INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Python Programming Language

Python Programming Language

As one of the most common programming languages, Python can be applied in a variety of programming implementations to support a wide range of tasks. Learning the fundamentals of Python programming and their applications at WGU can help prepare you for a career in the IT industry.

What Is Python?

Python is a versatile, object-oriented programming language used for web development, data analysis, machine learning, and more. It uses a relatively simple, clean syntax so that developers can quickly learn and use it effectively. Python coding remains popular in software development due to its numerous libraries, its open-source availability, and its cross-platform compatibility between different operating systems.

How Does Python Work?

Python can be used in different coding styles, including functional, imperative, object-oriented, and procedural styles. No matter the style, Python interprets code via a unique syntactical structure. This structure includes indentations, operators, sequences (called “tuples”), and differing lines of compiled code, which together alter the code’s meaning as commands are executed.

Python programming also offers a large library of code modules that help make common programming tasks more streamlined and efficient. Examples of these modules include NumPy for mathematical computing, pandas for data manipulation, and Django for quick web application development.

Why Is Python Important?

Many large and well-known companies like Google, Microsoft, and Netflix use Python because of its straightforward readability and near-universal applications. Whether an organization needs to write website code or engage in high-level data analysis, Python serves as a reliable tool for the job.

Python programming is used in numerous industries, including:

  • Finance and banking. Python enables efficient data mining and data evaluation.
  • Business. Many firms, especially startups, use Python for its simplicity and scalability.
  • Streaming. Python is great for machine learning and deep learning, helping viewers find preferred shows and movies.
  • Social media. Developers use Python for its reliability in handling heavy user traffic.

Some of the benefits of using Python include the following:

  • Beginner friendly
  • Highly versatile
  • Easy to read and interpret
  • Efficient
  • Dependable across platforms

Where Can You Use Python?

The Python programming language is built for adaptability. Some of the primary domains in which Python is used include:

  • Web development
  • Data analysis
  • Machine learning
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Scientific computing

While it’s mainly used for web development and data analysis, Python can also sync to small and large database systems, perform basic and complex mathematics, and build entire software programs. It can even be used to help create video games and mobile apps, though it’s not as optimized as other languages for these tasks.

Why Choose WGU to Learn Python?

WGU offers more than a dozen online, accredited bachelor’s and master’s programs in information technology. Each of our IT programs is designed with input from industry experts to ensure that you learn what you need to thrive in your career. These programs also include many in-demand IT certifications at no extra cost.

In addition, WGU’s education model allows you to progress as quickly as you master the material, potentially saving time and money.

WGU teaches Python in the following programs:

Technology
COMPARE

Computer Science – B.S.

Problem solvers and math lovers needed! Your task:...

Problem solvers and math lovers needed! Your task:

Lay the groundwork for the computing breakthroughs that will enable tomorrow's technologies. Utilize your previous college courses or IT experience to help you complete your degree faster.

  • Time: 60% of graduates in similar programs finish within 24 months.
  • Tuition: $4,085 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 37 total courses in this program.

You'll have the opportunity to earn these certifications:

  • Linux Essentials
  • Axelos ITIL Foundation

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Artifical Intelligence (AI)
  • Machine Learning
  • Logic
  • Architecture and systems
  • Data structures
  • Computer theory
  • Version Control
  • Linux
Technology
COMPARE

Network Engineering and Security – B.S.

Launch your career in designing, securing, and optimizing complex networks....

Launch your career in designing, securing, and optimizing complex networks.

  • Time: 61% of graduates finish similar programs within 36 months.
  • Tuition: $3,835 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 34 or 37 courses in this program depending on focus area
  • Two focus areas: Students can choose between a Cisco or general program, allowing them to learn and gain experience in their chosen specialty.

Certifications:

  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Project+
  • CompTIA Cloud+
  • ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
  • LPI Linux Foundations

The Cisco program also includes: 

  • Cisco CCNA
  • Cisco DevNet
  • Cisco CyberOps

The general program  also includes: 

  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Network+
  • CompTIA IT Operations Specialist (Stacked)
  • CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist (Stacked)
  • CompTIA Cloud Admin Professional (Stacked)
  • CompTIA Secure Cloud Professional (Stacked)

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Network engineering
  • Network operations
  • Security management skills

This program will help you develop strong skills in network design, network operations, and security management.

Technology
COMPARE

Cybersecurity and Information Assurance – B.S.

Protect your career and earning potential with this degree....

Protect your career and earning potential with this degree.

  • Time: 60% of graduates finish within 29 months.
  • Tuition: $4,365 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 34 total courses in this program.

Certifications included in this program at no extra cost include:

  • Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
  • Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) - Associate of (ISC)2 designation
  • ITIL® Foundation Certification
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst Certification (CySA+)
  • CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
  • CompTIA Network+
  • CompTIA Network Vulnerability Assessment Professional
  • CompTIA Network Security Professional
  • CompTIA PenTest+
  • CompTIA Project+
  • CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Security Analytics Professional

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Secure Systems Analysis & Design
  • Data Management
  • Web and Cloud Security
  • Hacking Countermeasures and Techniques
  • Digital Forensics and Incident Response
Technology
COMPARE

Data Analytics – B.S.

Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:...

Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:

  • Time: 62% of graduates finish within 36 months.
  • Tuition and fees: $3,835 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 39 total courses in this program.

Certifications in this program at no additional cost include:

  • AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • CompTIA Data+
  • CompTIA Project+
  • Udacity Nanodegree—a unique, highly recognized credential designed to prepare you for a career in data science
  • MSI Change Management (Optional Certification)
  • Certiprof Design Thinking Professional Certificate (Optional Certification)

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Data management
  • Data wrangling
  • Statistical analysis
  • Visualization
  • Leadership and management 
  • Model deployment & storytelling
Technology
COMPARE

Cloud Computing – B.S.

A three-track program designed to arm you with the certifications and...

A three-track program designed to arm you with the certifications and credentials you need for a career like systems administrator, computer systems analyst, cloud support specialist, AWS support administrator, and more.

  • Time: 63% of graduates finish within 37 months.
  • Transfer: Your previous college coursework and existing certifications may waive course requirements, helping you finish even faster.
  • Tuition: $4,085 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 37 total courses in this program.
  • 3 Tracks: Choose between a multi-cloud, AWS, or Azure focused track to learn specific software specialties.

Certifications at no extra cost, including:

  • Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • Amazon AWS SysOps Administration–Associate
  • Azure Fundamentals
  • Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure
  • LPI Linux Essentials
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Cloud+
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Project+

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Scripting and Automation
  • Managing Cloud Security
  • Development
  • Applications
  • Ongoing maintenance and security
Technology
COMPARE

Software Engineering – B.S.

You're a creative and tech genius who wants the bigger opportunities....

You're a creative and tech genius who wants the bigger opportunities.

  • Time: 60% of graduates finish similar programs within 35 months.
  • Tuition: $4,085 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 36 or 38 total courses in this program depending on your track.

Certifications included in this program at no additional cost are:

  • CompTIA Project +
  • AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner 
  • ITIL®1 Foundation Certification

Skills for your résumé that you will learn in this program:

  • Scripting and programming
  • Web development
  • Mobile application development 
  • User experience design
  • Software quality assurance

Find Your Degree

WGU offers a flexible, competency-based learning model that empowers you to progress through courses as quickly as you master the material, potentially graduating faster and saving money.

Still not sure what degree course to pursue? Take our degree quiz and get a degree course that aligns with your passions.