What is Python?

Python is a general-purpose coding language that's used across many web development and information technology jobs to complete a variety of programming tasks.

“In addition to supporting a wide range of uses, it is considered a beginner-friendly language," said Adam Goldstein, an adjunct instructor for STEM programs at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU). "Notably, it was designed for readability in formatting and its attempt to mirror English as much as possible.”

This ease of use and flexibility has helped Python steadily rise the ranks as an in-demand coding language. Goldstein, who has 25 years of experience in security operations, said he's seen Python become a dominant scripting language over the past decade.

If you want to pursue a career in computer programming, data science or cybersecurity, understanding what Python is and what you can do with it may be key to your success.

What is Python Used For?

Because Python is a general-purpose programming language, it can be used for web development, back-end development, software development, data science and more.

It's often used with other programming tools as a scripting language for web applications, allowing developers to automate tasks and boost efficiency.

According to Goldstein, Python can be used for everything from designing desktop and mobile apps to developing web server applications and analyzing data. It's also used in artificial intelligence and machine learning, he said, as well as cloud automation and development, security and operations (DevSecOps).

“With the rising popularity of Python, almost all information technology jobs may use Python,” he said. “System administration, network engineering, cybersecurity and digital forensics all utilize the scripting elements of Python to automate common tasks.”

Some careers that use Python as a vital component of their toolkit include:

• Database Administrator: As a database administrator, you could use specialized software and programming knowledge to store, organize and protect an organization’s data, such as financial records or customer information, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Database administrators earned a median annual salary of $104,620 in 2024, BLS reported, and employment in this role is projected to grow 8% from 2023 to 2033.*
  
  
• Information Security Analyst: With a job in information security, you could plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks, systems and data, BLS said. Information security analysts earned a median annual wage of $124,910 in 2024, BLS reported.* Demand for information security analysts continues to rise with the rate of cyberattacks, BLS said, and jobs in the field are projected to grow 33% by 2033.*
  
  
• Network and Computer Systems Administrator: As a network and computer systems administrator, you could be responsible for the day-to-day operations of an organization’s computer networks, BLS said. And the median annual salary for network and computer systems administrators was $96,800 in 2024, according to BLS.*

According to Goldstein, learning Python is an important part of preparing for these and other roles in the world of computer science.

“There are dedicated jobs for Python programmers, but in many cases, Python is used to support other roles,” he said. “Learning Python as part of a professional degree program is a great opportunity to incorporate the programming skills needed in the workplace.”

How to Learn Python

If you’re interested in a career in computer science or information technology, then learning Python can help prepare you for the job you want.

When Dr. Gary Savard, a senior associate dean of STEM programs at SNHU, learns a new programming language, he typically starts by:

• Searching blogs on associated websites
• Reviewing documentation
• Reading a book on the language
• Taking a course

But at the end of the day, learning by doing is critical. "I could memorize a book, and I still can't write (the) code," said Savard, whose software engineer and architect career spans three decades. "I always am going to make a lot of mistakes when I first start... but that's the best way to learn how to program."

While there are plenty of online training programs, books and tutorials that could help you learn Python on your own, the coding language is most valuable when learned as part of a computer science degree, according to Goldstein.

“It is really helpful to incorporate Python into a particular discipline so that students have context for how Python can be used to solve specific problems,” he said.

Because Python is so versatile, there are a variety of programs at varying education levels that can help you practice the programming language. At SNHU, these include:

• Computer Programing Certificate
• Computer Science Associate, Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
• Data Analytics Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
• Information Technology Associate Degree
• Mathematics Bachelor's Degree

While aspiring programmers may wonder if they should learn a specific coding language over another, such as Java or Python, many computer science degree programs allow you to explore a variety of programming languages, including Python.

Learn more about whether a computer science degree is worth it.

A strong understanding of Python and what you can do with it in your chosen field can go a long way toward helping you get started in a technology career.

“In my experience with cybersecurity and digital forensics, employers are specifically looking for Python as the programming language of choice for new hires,” Goldstein said.

With so many evolving roles across the computer science and information technology fields, adding a skill like Python could be the first step toward a new or advanced career.

*Cited job growth projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth. Actual salaries and/or earning potential may be the result of a combination of factors including, but not limited to: years of experience, industry of employment, geographic location, and worker skill.

Danielle Gagnon is a freelance writer focused on higher education. She started her career working as an education reporter for a daily newspaper in New Hampshire, where she reported on local schools and education policy. Gagnon served as the communications manager for a private school in Boston, MA before later starting her freelance writing career. Today, she continues to share her passion for education as a writer for Southern New Hampshire University. Connect with her on LinkedIn.