Learning Path for Python Data Science

I was recently asked by a student with no prior programming experience what would be the best resources to learn how to code for academic stats research with the goal of landing a role in a university research lab. There are tremendous data science content online, but where should an absolute beginner with high school equivalent begin?

First, the choice of language to learn is not be obvious. In this specific instance, it was known that the lab in question was using Python. But which language should you begin to learn? As you can see in this chart, both Python and R are good choice with Python having the highest usage growth for data science and analytics in 2017 according to KDnuggets.

Accordingly, here's a learning path I put together that can be useful when learning Python from the ground up. These courses are available for free or with paid certificates from edX.

1. Logic and Computational Thinking (optional)
2. Introduction to Python: Absolute Beginner 
3. Introduction to Python: Fundamentals
4. Introduction to Python: Creating Scalable, Robust, Interactive Code
5. Using Python for Research 
6. Python for Data Science (or Data Science MicroMaster)

I would recommend paying for the 5th course as a Harvard certificate is a great investment for your resume/LinkedIn profile at us$100. As for number 6, ideally the full MicroMaster would give a solid base and understanding of data science.

What is a MicroMasters Program? Developed to advance a career and born from Master's programs of leading universities, MicroMasters programs are a series of higher-level courses recognized by companies for real job relevancy, and may accelerate a Master's degree. Learn More

What other resources would you recommend?

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