Python vs C++ for college credit: which course to take

If nothing in your degree decides it, start with Programming in Python: it carries both ACE and NCCRS recommendations and lists no prerequisite. Take Programming in C++ if your program names it; it lists no prerequisite either, and you can watch free C++ lessons first.

Arrays and vectors, structs, pointers and dynamic memory, including how to find and fix memory leaks. Python instead covers lists, tuples and dictionaries, modules, and data analysis and visualization. Both teach decisions, loops, functions, recursion, files, object-oriented programming, inheritance and polymorphism.

Programming in Python (Computer Science 230): ACE recommends 3 semester hours, ACE ID UPIS-0011, and NCCRS recommends 3 as well. Programming in C++ (Computer Science 242) carries an NCCRS recommendation for 3 semester hours in Computer Science, Electrical, or Computer Engineering.

Programming in Python: NCCRS recommends 3 semester hours, lower division, in Information Science among other subjects; ACE recommends 3 (ACE ID UPIS-0011). Programming in C++: NCCRS recommends 3 semester hours, lower division, in Computer Science among other subjects.

Programming in Python: Information Science, Data Science, Computer Science, Information Technology, or Engineering. Programming in C++: Computer Science, Electrical, or Computer Engineering. Your college decides which requirement each one fills.

Programming in Python is longer by its syllabus. Programming in Python: 17 chapters and 73 instructional hours. Programming in C++: 11 chapters and 51.5 instructional hours. Both are self-paced, so you finish as fast or as slow as you want.

Neither syllabus lists a prerequisite, so you can start with any of them.

The format is the same in both: a final of 100 multiple-choice questions.

Introduction to Java. In the “Start programming” order on the Computer Science courses page, it follows Programming in C++. Your program may set its own order.

Yes, online: under light proctoring (no camera) if you already have 70% before it, otherwise under full proctoring. The quizzes and the assignment are open-book; the Programming in Python final is not.

You never forward it yourself. When Programming in Python reaches 100%, pay the $20 transcript on your Student Dashboard (www.upistudy.com/enrollments); after you pay, the dashboard takes you to the transcript request, you type in your college's transcript address, and UPI Study's registrar emails it there; a confirmation email follows. As an ACE course, it is also issued as a Credly badge.

ACE and NCCRS have over 2,100 cooperating colleges that will consider accepting credits; the final decision is with the universities. Search your school in Find My College and ask your registrar which courses these would count as. For the registrar: Programming in Python's NCCRS recommendation lists Information Science and Programming in C++'s NCCRS recommendation lists Computer Science.