Method
Online Self-paced
Term
WINTER
Units
1.5 QUARTER UNITS
Cost
$580

Skills you will gain

  • Python Fundamentals – Master variables, operators, and flow control for structured programming.
  • Coding & Problem-Solving – Develop real-world applications using Python’s core features.
  • Functions & Code Reusability – Write efficient, reusable code with well-structured functions.
  • File Handling & Libraries – Work with files and leverage Python’s standard library.
  • AI-Assisted Programming – Explore Generative AI tools to enhance coding efficiency.

Course Description

Perfect for first-time programmers, this hands-on course uses Python's clear, forgiving syntax to teach the fundamentals every programming language shares: control flow, functions, file I/O, and basic object-oriented concepts. You'll build small-to-medium programs and gain the confidence to keep growing as a developer.

Syllabus Library
You may enroll in this offering at any time.
Sara Saatchi is an instructor for UCSC Extension Technology Courses.
Sara Saatchi
Jan. 5 - Apr. 6, Tue, 12:01am - 11:59pm
  • Online Self-Paced Work online at your own pace.
CMPR.X415.(840)
Schedule
Date Start Time End Time Meeting Type Location
Tue, 01-05-2027 12:01am 12:02am Online Self-Paced ONLINE
Tue, 04-06-2027 11:58pm 11:59pm Online Self-Paced ONLINE
 

Online Self-Paced courses have a structured learning environment where students are allowed to complete the work at their own pace. Students may complete the coursework early or use the entire duration of the course. This course is largely self-study with instructor guidance and includes online learning modules, assignments, and/or quizzes. All course materials and assignments will be available at the beginning of the course on Canvas, our learning management system.

For this section, student access begins on January 5, but you may still enroll until February 9. All course work must be completed by 11:59 pm on April 6, 2027.

You will be granted access in Canvas to your course site and course materials approximately 24 hours prior to the published start date of the course.

Required Tools & Materials: Access to a computer with Python version 3.6 or higher and Jupyter Notebook is required. The recommended software to obtain the required tools for this course is Anaconda, free Individual Edition: https://www.anaconda.com/products/individual

Recommended Tools & Materials: 
Learn to Program with Python 3: A Step-by-Step Guide to Programming, 2nd edition, Irv Kalb, Apress, 2018, ISBN: 9781484238783.

Murach's Python Programming (2nd Edition), Joel Murach, Michael Urban , Mike Murach and Associates, 2021, ISBN: 9781943872749.

Think Python, Allen B. Downey, O'Reilly Media, Inc., 2015, ISBN: 9781491939413.

This course applies to these programs:

Demo