10 Online Python Courses for Middle School Students
Learning Python is an incredible opportunity for motivated middle school students to jumpstart their journey into coding and problem-solving. Python is a versatile, beginner-friendly programming language widely used in industries such as web development, data science, artificial intelligence (AI), and game design. By mastering Python, students will improve their computational thinking, spark creativity, and build a strong coding foundation that will benefit them throughout high school and beyond.
Online Python courses are particularly accessible, offering flexible schedules that fit seamlessly into a student’s routine. These courses feature interactive lessons and project-based learning, making complex concepts easier to grasp and more engaging. In this blog, we’ll highlight 10 online Python courses specifically designed for middle school students eager to dive into programming!
1. Veritas AI - AI Trailblazers
The AI Trailblazers program by Veritas AI is perfect for middle school students curious about Python, AI, machine learning (ML), and data science. The course begins by building a strong foundation in AI and ML, with students learning the basics of data analysis in the first two weeks. Over the next few weeks, they explore essential AI concepts like exploratory data analysis, regression, and classification. As the program progresses, participants dive deeper into topics like image classification and neural networks, all while discussing the ethics of AI. With interactive lessons and hands-on projects, students not only gain technical skills but also apply them in real-world scenarios. By the end of the course, students will have a solid understanding of Python programming and a foundational grasp of AI and ML principles.
Cost: The cost of the course is $1490, with some financial aid available.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit 25 hours over 10 weeks.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: There are multiple sessions year-round.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
2. Coursera - Python for Everybody by the University of Michigan
The Python for Everybody Specialization on Coursera, taught by renowned instructor Charles Russell Severance, is a highly-rated program designed to teach the basics of Python and data analysis. This five-course series covers everything from programming fundamentals to more advanced topics like data collection, cleaning, analysis, and visualization. With a flexible schedule, learners can go at their own pace, making it easy to fit into their routine. Students will complete this course with the ability to write basic Python programs, understand data structures, and manipulate data.
Cost: Students can pay for the entire Specialization upfront, or pay individually for each course as they progress. Financial aid is available for learners who qualify.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit 3-4 hours per week for 8 months.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
3. Udemy - Python for Kids and Beginners: Learn Python Programming
The Python for Kids and Beginners course on Udemy is an engaging and fun introduction to coding, ideal for young learners. Tailored for beginners, this course covers foundational Python concepts, such as data types, variables, loops, and conditional statements. Students will enjoy interactive activities like Turtle drawings and pattern programming, making the learning process both practical and enjoyable. With 3 hours of on-demand video, project-based learning, and lifetime access, this course provides a well-rounded introduction to coding, including an introduction to Generative AI techniques. Upon completion, students will earn a certificate.
Cost: The cost of the course is $19.99.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit three hours.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
4. CodeWizardsHQ - Intro to Programming with Python
CodeWizardsHQ offers an exciting program tailored for middle schoolers eager to learn coding. The course starts with Python, known for its simple and readable syntax, allowing students to quickly grasp fundamental coding concepts. As students advance, they’ll explore how to build interactive websites and apps, working with databases and APIs to create user-friendly projects. Structured as live online classes, this course emphasizes interactive learning and hands-on projects. Whether students are new to programming or have prior experience, CodeWizardsHQ ensures a personalized learning experience, allowing each student to develop at their own pace. By the end of the course, participants will have a solid understanding of Python, including loops, conditionals, and functions.
Cost: The cost of the course is $447, which is spread out in three payments of $149.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit to one class per week for 12 weeks.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
Program Dates: The program has multiple start dates. Check here for regular updates.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
5. Codecademy - Learn Python 3
Codecademy's Learn Python 3 course offers a comprehensive introduction to Python 3.12, a powerful and versatile programming language widely used today. Perfect for beginners, this course covers essential programming concepts such as syntax, control flow, loops, lists, functions, and strings. With no prior experience required, it's ideal for anyone looking to start coding, whether for web development, data science, or software development. The course includes 14 lessons, 13 hands-on projects, and 13 quizzes, allowing learners to apply their new skills and test their understanding as they progress. AI-powered assistance offers guided help, enhancing the interactive learning experience.
Cost: The course is free for basic access, and $19.99 per month for the Pro access.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit 25 hours.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
6. MIT OpenCourseWare - Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python
MIT OpenCourseWare's 6.0001 Introduction to Computer Science and Programming Using Python is a rigorous course designed for students with little to no prior programming experience. This foundational course teaches Python 3.5 and emphasizes the role of computation in problem-solving across a range of fields. Students develop practical skills by writing small programs that solve real-world problems. Taught by MIT's distinguished faculty—Dr. Ana Bell, Prof. Eric Grimson, and Prof. John Guttag—the course covers essential topics like algorithms, data structures, and programming principles. Through a combination of lecture videos, problem sets, and programming assignments, students receive an immersive and hands-on introduction to computer science using Python.
Cost: The course is free of cost.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit 3-4 hours per week for 9 weeks.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
7. FutureLearn - An Introduction to Programming Using Python
This Introduction to Programming Using Python course from the University of Leeds, offered through FutureLearn, is great for anyone new to programming or looking to refresh their skills. In this two-week course, students will gain the skills to create Python applications and solve real-world problems. The course also explores practical applications of programming and touches on ethical considerations such as privacy, security, and societal impacts. With a focus on hands-on coding tasks, this course ensures students not only learn to code but also understand the broader implications of software development.
Cost: The course is free, but the certificate is available for a fee.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit 3 hours per week for 2 weeks.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
8. Khan Academy - Intro to Computer Science Python
Intro to Computer Science - Python provides a foundational introduction to Python programming. Students should start with a brief introductory video before diving into several structured units covering topics like computational thinking, variables, arithmetic expressions, and templating web pages. The course includes recent updates with new instructional videos, a program gallery, and lessons on lists and dictionaries. Students will learn to design algorithms using conditionals, Boolean logic, and nested conditionals, all while exploring how Python can be used to create dynamic animations and drawings.
Cost: The course is free of cost.
Time Commitment: This is a self-paced course.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students with an interest in programming are eligible to apply.
9. EdX - Introduction to Python Programming by Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech’s Introduction to Python Programming course on EdX offers a practical approach to learning computer science through Python. Students will explore the programming design cycle, which includes writing code, executing it, interpreting results, and debugging. The course covers core programming concepts like variables, loops, functions, and conditionals, while also introducing key data structures such as lists, dictionaries, and strings. Students also get a preview of advanced topics like object-oriented programming and algorithms, providing a well-rounded foundation for further study.
Cost: The cost of the course ranges between $685.70 to $761.89.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit 9-10 hours per week for 5 months.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students with an interest in programming are eligible to apply.
Codingal Python for Kids offers personalized, one-on-one online Python programming classes designed specifically for young learners. The course includes 7 modules, 44 lessons, over 100 activities and projects, and 44 quizzes. With expert Computer Science instructors, students are guided through the basics of Python by building fun, practical projects like games and graphical user interfaces. Students benefit from lifetime access to materials, ongoing support, and a certificate of completion. By the end, they will have created multiple projects and gained confidence in Python programming.
Cost: The cost of the course is $249.
Time Commitment: Students are expected to commit over 30 hours.
Application Deadline: There is no application deadline.
Program Dates: The course is self-paced. Students can enroll here to get started.
Eligibility: Middle school students are eligible to apply.
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