As a well-known programming language, Python dominates the data science field. Its prominence in the industry represents the main reason why so many job offers include Python skills as a hard requirement.

Of course, all of the hype around Python has practical ramifications. This programming language is suitable for people without a programming background. If you have a sufficient grasp of technology, chances are you’ll get how Python works in a few weeks.

Besides being beginner-friendly, Python is practically built for math and statistical analysis. Plus, data visualization becomes nearly effortless when you use specific Python libraries dedicated to the task.

The point is that Python makes numerous data science tasks and operations easier. If you’re interested in data science, learning this versatile programming language will take your professional development to a new level.

Fortunately, you can find plenty of courses teaching everything from the basics to advanced functions in Python. Let’s look at the best Python data science tutorial and course options.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Python Data Science Course

Before you start a particular course, it would be best to consider the specifics. The criteria that should guide your decision include:

  • The content of the course: Some courses will be introductory, while others will offer advanced lessons. You should start with a course that aligns with your proficiency level.
  • Instructor’s expertise: Ideally, you’ll want an industry expert to teach you about Python. Experienced lecturers or proven professionals will know all of the ins and outs, and they’ll be able to transfer that knowledge to you.
  • Course duration and flexibility: If you’re looking for a course, you don’t want an experience that will last an entire year. On the other hand, you shouldn’t expect too much from an hour-long course. Additionally, the course structure should be flexible enough to allow you to complete it at your own pace.
  • Practical projects and applications: Python is a living programming language that sees plenty of use in the real world. On that note, the course you take should offer a hands-on experience and show you how to apply your new knowledge in practice.
  • Course reviews and ratings: Although this shouldn’t be your primary clue when making a decision, taking a look at what others say about the course certainly won’t hurt. You’ll want to stay away from courses with mostly negative reviews, especially if the reviewers make unsubstantiated claims.
  • Pricing and value: Course pricing may vary from ludicrously expensive to free. While our list doesn’t include any outrageously overpriced courses, you’ll find a quality free one in there. The bottom line here is straightforward: Does the course fit in with your budget and what do you get for the price?

Top Python Data Science Courses and Tutorials

ILX Group – Python E-Learning

This Python data science course deals with the basic functionality of the programming language and teaches you how to apply it in practice. It contains in-depth information about command running, dictionaries, methods, and shell scripting. No final exam is necessary to complete the course.

Key Topics

  • The basics of Python programming
  • File and data operations
  • Logging and test infrastructure
  • Conditional statements
  • Networking
  • Shell scripting
  • Django web framework

Instructor’s Background

Information about the instructor for this course isn’t available on ILX Group.

Course Duration and Format

The course is in e-learning format and is delivered entirely online. It will take you about eight hours to complete. Instead of a final exam, you’ll complete the course by submitting the required project that must meet specific set criteria.

Pricing and Enrollment

Enrolling in this course will cost €450 +VAT. You won’t need to fulfill any additional requirements to make a start. Paying the one-time fee will grant you a full year of access to the course resources.

Pros

  • Provides a solid foundation for Python programming
  • No limitations on enrollment or availability
  • Offers practical knowledge and projects

Cons

  • E-learning tools used throughout the course aren’t defined
  • No information about the instructor or their credentials

Python Institute – Data Analysis Essentials With Python

The Python Institute is a group devoted to Python education. The Data Analysis Essentials with Python is only one of the courses this institution provides. It’s an intermediate-level program focused on data analysis using the tools within the Python programming language.

Key Topics

  • Data analysis
  • Algorithmic and analytical thinking
  • Data visualization
  • Statistics
  • Data mining and modeling
  • Programming
  • Data-based decision-making

Instructor’s Background

No instructor information can be found on the Python Institute site regarding this particular course. However, it’s worth mentioning that the institute is run by industry experts with substantial experience in the IT sector. These experts are also responsible for the institute courses.

Course Duration and Format

The Data Analysis Essentials with Python course will last for up to six weeks, provided you devote about eight hours weekly to studying the material. The course is delivered online.

Pricing and Enrollment

One of the greatest advantages of this course is its pricing: Data Analysis Essentials with Python is completely free. However, this course isn’t for beginners. You’ll need previous knowledge of the key concepts in Python programming. The Python Institute recommends completing their beginner courses or coming into this program with some experience.

Pros

  • Course designed by industry professionals
  • Free for all users
  • May serve as a preparatory course for Python Certified Associate in Data Analytics (PCAD) certification

Cons

  • No information about the lecturer
  • Exact delivery methods aren’t specified

Python-Course – Fundamental Python Course

The Fundamental Python Course is designed as a comprehensive introduction to programming methods in Python. The course will take you through the fundamentals of the programming language and include practical solutions in the Python environment.

Key Topics

  • Python introductory lessons
  • Script editing and execution
  • Working in the Python shell
  • Expressions, operators, assignments, and variables
  • Dictionaries, stacks, loops, and lists
  • Handling files and exceptions
  • Conditional statements
  • Packages and modules

Instructor’s Background

The instructor for live courses is Bernd Klein. A Python expert with a Saarland University diploma in Computer Science, specializing in computer languages, Klein has taught at the Saarland University, EWH, Koblenz, and the University of Freiburg, where he still holds a teaching position.

Klein is also the founder of the programming language teaching platform, Bodenseo.

Course Duration and Format

The course lasts for five days and includes a live class format. While Klein usually holds classes in person, courses are currently provided online. To participate on this course, you’ll need a network-ready computer with a microphone. No additional software is needed.

Pricing and Enrollment

The on-site variant of the course costs €1,450 per day, while open classes start from €349 daily. There are no other requirements for the course.

Pros

  • Taught by an experienced lecturer
  • Offers a complete coverage of Python-related subjects
  • Advanced optional topics

Cons

  • Very pricey compared to the competitors
  • Doesn’t provide a certificate

Additional Resources for Mastering Python Data Science

If you want an alternative to an actual Python data science course, you may wish to turn to other resources that will help you master the subject. In particular, these would be books and digital resources like forums, eBooks, podcasts, YouTube channels, websites, and blogs.

For some of the best Python forums and online communities, check out the following:

Great books on Python include:

  • Head-First Python, by Paul Barry
  • Think Python, by Allen B. Downey
  • Learn Python 3 the Hard Way, by Zed A. Shaw
  • Python Crash Course, by Eric Matthes

If printed media isn’t your style, you can find an excellent list of free Python eBooks on Codeburst.io.

On the other hand, you might not want to read too much while learning Python. In that case, you’ll be glad to learn that there are numerous podcasts on the subject that you can tune in to right now:

Unsurprisingly, YouTube also has plenty of Python data science course and tutorial channels. Here are our top picks:

  • The New Boston
  • Sentdex
  • Real Python
  • PyCon – This isn’t a particular YouTube channel, but rather a search query. Browse the search results on YouTube, and you’ll find videos for Python-dedicated conferences from around the world.
  • Michael Kennedy

Finally, there’s an abundance of blogs and websites dedicated to Python resources and knowledge:

Learn to Program in Python Like a Pro

The internet is full of quality Python data science tutorial and course pages. You can find free and premium resources to hone your skills in the programming language or get familiar with the fundamental concepts.

Whichever resource type you choose, rest assured that learning practical Python skills will be a valuable addition to your resume. After all, data science is a constantly developing field in which expanding your knowledge base and skillset can only be a huge plus. If you’ve found a program you like in this article, don’t hesitate to jump right into it and expand your horizons.

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Il Sole 24 Ore: Integrating Artificial Intelligence into the Enterprise – Challenges and Opportunities for CEOs and Management
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
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Apr 14, 2025 6 min read

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Expert Pierluigi Casale analyzes the adoption of AI by companies, the ethical and regulatory challenges and the differentiated approach between large companies and SMEs

By Gianni Rusconi

Easier said than done: to paraphrase the well-known proverb, and to place it in the increasingly large collection of critical issues and opportunities related to artificial intelligence, the task that CEOs and management have to adequately integrate this technology into the company is indeed difficult. Pierluigi Casale, professor at OPIT (Open Institute of Technology, an academic institution founded two years ago and specialized in the field of Computer Science) and technical consultant to the European Parliament for the implementation and regulation of AI, is among those who contributed to the definition of the AI ​​Act, providing advice on aspects of safety and civil liability. His task, in short, is to ensure that the adoption of artificial intelligence (primarily within the parliamentary committees operating in Brussels) is not only efficient, but also ethical and compliant with regulations. And, obviously, his is not an easy task.

The experience gained over the last 15 years in the field of machine learning and the role played in organizations such as Europol and in leading technology companies are the requirements that Casale brings to the table to balance the needs of EU bodies with the pressure exerted by American Big Tech and to preserve an independent approach to the regulation of artificial intelligence. A technology, it is worth remembering, that implies broad and diversified knowledge, ranging from the regulatory/application spectrum to geopolitical issues, from computational limitations (common to European companies and public institutions) to the challenges related to training large-format language models.

CEOs and AI

When we specifically asked how CEOs and C-suites are “digesting” AI in terms of ethics, safety and responsibility, Casale did not shy away, framing the topic based on his own professional career. “I have noticed two trends in particular: the first concerns companies that started using artificial intelligence before the AI ​​Act and that today have the need, as well as the obligation, to adapt to the new ethical framework to be compliant and avoid sanctions; the second concerns companies, like the Italian ones, that are only now approaching this topic, often in terms of experimental and incomplete projects (the expression used literally is “proof of concept”, ed.) and without these having produced value. In this case, the ethical and regulatory component is integrated into the adoption process.”

In general, according to Casale, there is still a lot to do even from a purely regulatory perspective, due to the fact that there is not a total coherence of vision among the different countries and there is not the same speed in implementing the indications. Spain, in this regard, is setting an example, having established (with a royal decree of 8 November 2023) a dedicated “sandbox”, i.e. a regulatory experimentation space for artificial intelligence through the creation of a controlled test environment in the development and pre-marketing phase of some artificial intelligence systems, in order to verify compliance with the requirements and obligations set out in the AI ​​Act and to guide companies towards a path of regulated adoption of the technology.

Read the full article below (in Italian):

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The Lucky Future: How AI Aims to Change Everything
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
OPIT - Open Institute of Technology
Apr 10, 2025 7 min read

There is no question that the spread of artificial intelligence (AI) is having a profound impact on nearly every aspect of our lives.

But is an AI-powered future one to be feared, or does AI offer the promise of a “lucky future.”

That “lucky future” prediction comes from Zorina Alliata, principal AI Strategist at Amazon and AI faculty member at Georgetown University and the Open Institute of Technology (OPIT), in her recent webinar “The Lucky Future: How AI Aims to Change Everything” (February 18, 2025).

However, according to Alliata, such a future depends on how the technology develops and whether strategies can be implemented to mitigate the risks.

How AI Aims to Change Everything

For many people, AI is already changing the way they work. However, more broadly, AI has profoundly impacted how we consume information.

From the curation of a social media feed and the summary answer to a search query from Gemini at the top of your Google results page to the AI-powered chatbot that resolves your customer service issues, AI has quickly and quietly infiltrated nearly every aspect of our lives in the past few years.

While there have been significant concerns recently about the possibly negative impact of AI, Alliata’s “lucky future” prediction takes these fears into account. As she detailed in her webinar, a future with AI will have to take into consideration:

  • Where we are currently with AI and future trajectories
  • The impact AI is having on the job landscape
  • Sustainability concerns and ethical dilemmas
  • The fundamental risks associated with current AI technology

According to Alliata, by addressing these risks, we can craft a future in which AI helps individuals better align their needs with potential opportunities and limitations of the new technology.

Industry Applications of AI

While AI has been in development for decades, Alliata describes a period known as the “AI winter” during which educators like herself studied AI technology, but hadn’t arrived at a point of practical applications. Contributing to this period of uncertainty were concerns over how to make AI profitable as well.

That all changed about 10-15 years ago when machine learning (ML) improved significantly. This development led to a surge in the creation of business applications for AI. Beginning with automation and robotics for repetitive tasks, the technology progressed to data analysis – taking a deep dive into data and finding not only new information but new opportunities as well.

This further developed into generative AI capable of completing creative tasks. Generative AI now produces around one billion words per day, compared to the one trillion produced by humans.

We are now at the stage where AI can complete complex tasks involving multiple steps. In her webinar, Alliata gave the example of a team creating storyboards and user pathways for a new app they wanted to develop. Using photos and rough images, they were able to use AI to generate the code for the app, saving hundreds of hours of manpower.

The next step in AI evolution is Artificial General Intelligence (AGI), an extremely autonomous level of AI that can replicate or in some cases exceed human intelligence. While the benefits of such technology may readily be obvious to some, the industry itself is divided as to not only whether this form of AI is close at hand or simply unachievable with current tools and technology, but also whether it should be developed at all.

This unpredictability, according to Alliata, represents both the excitement and the concerns about AI.

The AI Revolution and the Job Market

According to Alliata, the job market is the next area where the AI revolution can profoundly impact our lives.

To date, the AI revolution has not resulted in widespread layoffs as initially feared. Instead of making employees redundant, many jobs have evolved to allow them to work alongside AI. In fact, AI has also created new jobs such as AI prompt writer.

However, the prediction is that as AI becomes more sophisticated, it will need less human support, resulting in a greater job churn. Alliata shared statistics from various studies predicting as many as 27% of all jobs being at high risk of becoming redundant from AI and 40% of working hours being impacted by language learning models (LLMs) like Chat GPT.

Furthermore, AI may impact some roles and industries more than others. For example, one study suggests that in high-income countries, 8.5% of jobs held by women were likely to be impacted by potential automation, compared to just 3.9% of jobs held by men.

Is AI Sustainable?

While Alliata shared the many ways in which AI can potentially save businesses time and money, she also highlighted that it is an expensive technology in terms of sustainability.

Conducting AI training and processing puts a heavy strain on central processing units (CPUs), requiring a great deal of energy. According to estimates, Chat GPT 3 alone uses as much electricity per day as 121 U.S. households in an entire year. Gartner predicts that by 2030, AI could consume 3.5% of the world’s electricity.

To reduce the energy requirements, Alliata highlighted potential paths forward in terms of hardware optimization, such as more energy-efficient chips, greater use of renewable energy sources, and algorithm optimization. For example, models that can be applied to a variety of uses based on prompt engineering and parameter-efficient tuning are more energy-efficient than training models from scratch.

Risks of Using Generative AI

While Alliata is clearly an advocate for the benefits of AI, she also highlighted the risks associated with using generative AI, particularly LLMs.

  • Uncertainty – While we rely on AI for answers, we aren’t always sure that the answers provided are accurate.
  • Hallucinations – Technology designed to answer questions can make up facts when it does not know the answer.
  • Copyright – The training of LLMs often uses copyrighted data for training without permission from the creator.
  • Bias – Biased data often trains LLMs, and that bias becomes part of the LLM’s programming and production.
  • Vulnerability – Users can bypass the original functionality of an LLM and use it for a different purpose.
  • Ethical Risks – AI applications pose significant ethical risks, including the creation of deepfakes, the erosion of human creativity, and the aforementioned risks of unemployment.

Mitigating these risks relies on pillars of responsibility for using AI, including value alignment of the application, accountability, transparency, and explainability.

The last one, according to Alliata, is vital on a human level. Imagine you work for a bank using AI to assess loan applications. If a loan is denied, the explanation you give to the customer can’t simply be “Because the AI said so.” There needs to be firm and explainable data behind the reasoning.

OPIT’s Masters in Responsible Artificial Intelligence explores the risks and responsibilities inherent in AI, as well as others.

A Lucky Future

Despite the potential risks, Alliata concludes that AI presents even more opportunities and solutions in the future.

Information overload and decision fatigue are major challenges today. Imagine you want to buy a new car. You have a dozen features you desire, alongside hundreds of options, as well as thousands of websites containing the relevant information. AI can help you cut through the noise and narrow the information down to what you need based on your specific requirements.

Alliata also shared how AI is changing healthcare, allowing patients to understand their health data, make informed choices, and find healthcare professionals who meet their needs.

It is this functionality that can lead to the “lucky future.” Personalized guidance based on an analysis of vast amounts of data means that each person is more likely to make the right decision with the right information at the right time.

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