Python

Module code: PA3246

The Physics Skills Electives are designed to help you improve your skills and enhance your career options in industry, education, research and/or business. This skills elective explore the basics of programming in Python, with a particular view toward scientific applications, such as data analysis and numerical methods.

Python is one of the most popular programming languages in use today, with a wide range of applications across industry and academia (and amongst hobbyists). Its uncluttered and readable syntax (computer language grammar) and ability to support different styles of programming make it a relatively easy programming language to learn. In particular, Python has emerged as a popular open source language for scientific computing, with powerful libraries such as Numpy, SciPy, Matplotlib and Pandas facilitating computational modelling, data analysis and visualisation. This module will provide the basics of scientific Python, although you are also encouraged to search the library and many online resources to develop your familiarity with the language.

Topics covered

Basic Python
Scientific Python packages
Data analysis
Image processing
Numerical methods
Signal processing
Object-oriented programming
Simulations and game design
Oral and written communication
Professional development