Learn to Code with Purdue Engineering#
Important Dates#
- Fall Registration Begins
August 10, 2026
- Fall Late Registration Deadline
August 31, 2026
- Fall End Date
December 19, 2026
Course Overview#
Purdue University College of Engineering is offering Entry-Level Programming in Python to help you build your skills and your resume. The course is open to anyone with a Purdue account, and no previous coding experience is required.
This course uses Python to introduce fundamental procedural and object-oriented programming concepts. Amongst the many topics covered are such diverse elements as variables, data structures (lists, tuples, dictionaries, and sets), file handling, decision structures, loops, functions and modules, as well as classes and objects, data attributes, and methods.[1]
The course content is split over 13 units, numbered 0 through 12, with each containing reading assignments, recorded lectures, programming exercises and a quiz. The last unit focuses on a comprehensive multi-week final project. Passing typically requires about 6 hours of work per unit. We cover one unit per week in spring and fall semesters, and 2 units per week in the summer semesters. Help is provided through multiple virtual office hours and multiple in-person sessions every week. Learners who successfully complete the course requirements will earn a certificate issued by the College of Engineering.
Familiarity with intermediate algebra and a personal computer on which you can install software are required.
Course Offerings#
During fall and spring semesters, this course is offered as a free non-credit course to all Purdue students, faculty and staff. This is a low pressure, no stress version of the course. It will not appear on your transcript or affect your GPA, but learners who successfully complete the course requirements will earn a certificate issued by the College of Engineering.
The summer offering is open to everyone as a one-credit hour course at the regular tuition rate per credit hour. Current Purdue students can register for the summer semester through the Scheduling Assistant. Others may take this course in the summer by first applying to Purdue as non-degree student, and then registering through the Scheduling Assistant. Non-degree seeking students can also fill out an application.
Minimum Technology Requirements#
You will need:
Access to Brightspace.
A personal computer on which you can install software. Some course requirements may be impossible on a mobile device or tablet.
A reliable internet connection (with the ability to stream video).
An updated browser (e.g., Firefox and Chrome or Safari for Mac).
A Campuswire account. Invitations will be sent by email. Please add team@campuswire.com to your email safe list to make sure important notifications are not sent to spam.
Tips for Success#
Schedule time each week to work on this course outside of class.
Work through the contend sequentially, and at the same pace as the rest of the class.
When you need help, reach out as early as possible.
I am looking forward to an exciting semester that helps you not only learn the basics of programming in Python, but will also provide you with valuable skills that will enable you to go further in whatever endeavors you pursue.