Learn the basics of programming and how to use Python to construct a short programme to fulfil a specific task.

  • Learn how to deal with common programming errors.
  • Explore how Python manages different data types, data structures, and basic operations.
  • Discover how to design, code, and debug simple functions.

Designed to support learners who are new to Python, this Python for Data Analysis: Writing functions course combines presentation of real-life examples, discussion activities, and hands-on exercises, to help participants write basic programmes and work with inbuilt Python functions.

You’ll learn about programming basics and be introduced to working in Python, including learning how to install and import modules and how to define variables.

By the end of this course, you’ll be able to:

  • Identify an example of a class in Python
  • List common data types and structures in Python
  • Use operators to manipulate data and create new variables
  • Use logic to construct loops and branching code
  • Call on common built in procedures
  • Construct a short programme to fulfil a specific task.

Overview

This course takes place online.

This course will take place in Spring 2026. Please fill out our expression of interest form to be the first to hear about the new dates.

This course costs £235. If you also book onto Python for Data Analysis: Dataframes, you’ll be offered a discount which should be automatically applied at checkout. If you have any queries, please contact shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk .

You must have a personal computer with an internet connection, Python 3 installed and administrator rights for installing additional modules if required.

Meet the team

This training is designed and delivered by The Data Place in partnership with Bath Spa University's Short Course Unit. The Data Place is a social enterprise made up of data scientists, designers, community builders and strategists helping people and places thrive.

The Data Place has worked with Bath Spa University for over two years, providing guest lectures, interview and project feedback and interviews for short course learners, as well as designing industry-led CPD courses that provide real-world experience.

Lucy Knight is an experienced trainer and data scientist with nearly three decades’ experience in industry, government and the non-profit sector. She is an Open Data Institute Associate and Registered Trainer, and Associate Lecturer with Bath Spa University.

Martin Howitt is a data technologist with extensive experience in a wide range of organisations as an IT architect and architecture team leader, product manager and data engineer.

The words

Terms and conditions

Read the terms and conditions for taking part in this short course.

Contact us

For more information about the course please email your enquiries to shortcourses@bathspa.ac.uk .