Is a Google IT Automation With Python Cert. Worth It?
Google offers Python certifications through Coursera that can help people begin careers or earn college credit. Many prospective students wonder if these courses are worth the cost.
For beginners looking to build their programming skillset or more advanced learners looking to expand their knowledge, Google offers a series of certificate programs called Google Career Certificates (hosted through Coursera).
One of the certificate courses they offer is about the Python programming language and how to use it to automate IT processes. Whether you're a new IT professional or have prior experience, it's easy to question if these online courses are worth the cost.
Due to the advanced skill set, hands-on experience, and the widely recognized nature of a certificate credential from Coursera's Google courses, this certification is worth it for most learners.
What Is the Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate?
The Google IT Automation with Python Professional certificate is a program for people looking to learn about automating real-world tasks using the Python programming language. The certificate program is designed to be completed over six months with about 10 hours a week of coursework, including various projects, modules, quizzes, and assessments.
This is a follow-up to the Google IT Support Professional Certificate, and it's recommended that that course be completed first, but it isn't required.
The program starts with a crash course on Python fundamentals and covers multiple applications of the language.
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Skills Gained From Completing the Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate
There are a variety of in-demand skills that people should expect to gain from completing the course content, such as:
- how to manage physical information technology resources and cloud computing
- Version Control using Git and GitHub
- troubleshooting and debugging techniques
- configuration management
Are Google Certificates Recognized by Employers?
If you're looking to use this certification to get a job, then you're in luck. Because the course is designed by Google professionals, it is well respected by employers.
When you sign up for Python courses, or other courses, offered by Google, you gain access to some of their career and professional services like resume review and network of partner companies.
Career Paths With a Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate
Once you have your certification, you can begin applying for entry-level positions in a variety of computer science-based roles. Although you might benefit more from having a degree in addition to your certification, it is a great place to start.
Many of the careers in computer science aren't entry-level and will need a combination of a higher degree or years of experience to earn, but you can often find jobs in technology that can lead to more advanced careers.
Software Engineer
A software engineer works in software development, design, and testing. Software engineers work with all kinds of software and can find jobs in industries like video game design and website creation.
Web Developer
A web developer works to design websites for either a single company or multiple clients through a digital marketing agency. A web developer is responsible for UX design and often has to have an understanding of cybersecurity to protect their websites from hackers and malware.
Data Analyst
Monitoring performance for websites is quite important for a business's success, meaning data analysts will remain in high demand. People who understand data science and can help break down the numbers to tell a company's story are often in high demand.
Machine Learning Engineer
As the use of artificial intelligence increases, machine learning engineers are essential. Working in this field requires the use of data analytics to create algorithms that enable machine learning. Although the term is commonly used regarding generative AI programs, there are many other applications, such as facial recognition software.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers use various programming languages to aid in scripting and maintaining code for various programs and operating systems. In addition to writing the code, programmers are often responsible for testing and debugging their code.
Systems Administrator
Systems administrators maintain a variety of computer systems, such as servers. Most systems administrators need knowledge of Microsoft, Apple, and Linux programs. Although these professionals don't work directly with coding, having advanced knowledge of how the servers and computer systems they maintain are used can be a beneficial skill.
FAQs About Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate
There are many common questions that people have before pursuing any further education, and that's okay. Getting answers to common questions is often the best first step to expanding your knowledge base.
How Long Does It Take To Complete the Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate?
Coursera's Google-backed programs have different requirements, but the Python Professional certificate is designed to be completed in six months with 10 hours of coursework per week. Part of what makes this program so well respected is that the length and time required to complete is on par with many college-level courses.
Are There Any Prerequisites for Enrolling in the Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate?
Although this certification program is a follow-up to the Google IT Support Professional Certificate program, there are no formal prerequisites to this program, and you can start it with no previous knowledge or experience.
These courses are designed to provide a complete education about the topics they cover, ranging from fundamental to application of principles. If you're entirely new to programming languages, you might want to take some of Google's other courses first.
Is Learning Python Important?
Yes, learning Python is important, especially for beginners. Python as a programming language is a fairly basic language and can help you establish the skills needed to advance your career with more complicated tasks and programming languages. If you're looking to work in IT, you'll want to have the base knowledge that comes with learning Python.
Can I Get College Credit for Completing the Google IT Automation With Python Professional Certificate?
At certain colleges, you will be able to substitute credit hours with earned certifications. Most colleges that accept certifications in place of credit have requirements about where the certifications are earned and must be reviewed before acceptance. If you're planning to use this certification to replace credits in a degree program, make sure that your preferred school accepts certifications as direct credits.
