Python Coding: Advanced Development

Price: Starting at $399
Age: 13 - 17
Skill Level: Intermediate–Advanced

About This Course

Level up your knowledge of Python by developing games and exploring more advanced coding concepts and algorithms. You may find that designing and coding puzzles can be even more fun than playing them! As you go, you’ll figure out the answers to your own questions, implementing algorithms that beat your own games for you. Are you faster than a computer, or can you teach your program to surpass even your own abilities?

Tools: Python

Topics Covered

Explore advanced Python coding concepts and algorithms
Create games with the PyGame library
Design algorithms that play games
Program puzzles for humans and computers alike

Sample Schedule

Here’s a sample of what a week in the course could look like. Please keep in mind that students will progress at varying paces; this is a general outline of the key material and overall student experience.

Monday

Students will navigate the PyCharm interface and learn how to create a basic arcade game. To start, they’ll add a character and level elements to their game.

Tuesday

Next, students will implement a responsive player camera and optimize player movement. They’ll implement 2D physics functions, such as gravity and collisions.

Wednesday

Building off their skills, students will integrate AI into their games, using raycasting to create a jumping AI. They'll also begin to explore pathfinding in games.

Thursday

Students will add sound effects to their games and continue to discuss pathfinding. Then, they’ll implement timekeeping functionality and add a timer to their game.

Friday

To wrap up the week, students will implement a replay function. Then, they’ll finish up their game projects by adding obstacles and enemies.

Course Formats

Virtual Camp

Ideal for kids and teens who thrive in a high-energy, team-oriented environment! Meeting Monday through Friday, campers spend 2 hours together with their peers and instructors and 2 hours working independently on their project. Not your average online learning, our virtual camps include the games and challenges that make iD Tech camps core memory makers.

Private Lessons

Ideal for kids and teens who thrive in a focused, 1-on-1 setting, need flexible scheduling, or both! Your child will unlock new skills at their own pace, led by an experienced mentor who is dedicated to their success. These 8, one-hour lessons feature customized curriculum and are available to be scheduled 24/7.

Portfolio-Boosting Transcript

At the conclusion of your child's course, they will receive an official iD Tech transcript outlining the skills they learned over the course of the week.

Learn from the best.

Passion for tech. Unmatched expertise. Personality that brings out the absolute best in your child. With 23 years of experience, we know there's no replacement for the best teacher. It's no surprise that iconic companies like Google, EA, Microsoft, and Disney hire the same talent we do. Our iD Certified instructors possess the whole package of skills that top employers seek.

100% USA-based, adult instructors
Recruited from top universities like Stanford, Caltech, and NYU
Rigorous background and reference checks
Robust training programs and certification
Adherence to American Camp Association accredited guidelines

Instructor Highlights

Chris M.

Software Engineer
at Google

Instructor Highlights

Chris M.

Software Engineer
at Google

“My time as an iD instructor was really formative. I stayed with STEM in college as a Computer Science and Electrical Engineering major, and now I’m working at Google in Chicago. If you find yourself thinking about STEM-related things outside of school, follow that passion. Major in it. Keep pursuing it.”

Instructor Highlights

Aspen C.

Associate Designer
at Bethesda Softworks

Instructor Highlights

Aspen C.

Associate Designer
at Bethesda Softworks

“The spirit of innovation and creativity I felt around my students while teaching Unity led me toward my career as a professional game designer. My time at iD Tech taught me that no dream is too big, and that brilliant ideas can come from anywhere.”

Instructor Highlights

Brian M.

Software Engineer
at Disney

Instructor Highlights

Brian M.

Software Engineer
at Disney

“The opportunity to create an environment of collaboration, inclusion, and creativity was a truly special experience. The skills I honed while teaching at iD Tech led me to my software engineering roles at ESPN and the Walt Disney Company.”

Select your online format

Virtual Camp

Meets daily for 2 hours Monday-Friday

Private Lessons $449

8 lessons on your schedule

Get started

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Python used in game design?

Far from being limited to software and AI development, Python is a great programming language for game design. So, as teens’ coding abilities grow, this is an excellent language to have in their repertoire. Creative types enjoy using Python for its beautiful game graphics, rapid prototyping, and ability to add enhancements to video games. Read more about the top benefits of building advanced Python skills.

How do Python algorithms relate to games?

Ever wonder how a computer can defeat chess grandmasters? Algorithms are essentially electronic problem-solvers: the more teens grow their Python programming skills, the more complex the problems and solutions become! Game design is an ideal context for advanced Python algorithms like computer–generated gameplay: it’s as motivating as it is challenging for teens!

Why should my child learn Python?

Python has many sophisticated applications, but its straightforward syntax makes it approachable to learn. If your child is looking expand their coding repertoire and refine their skills, Python is an excellent choice. Plus, by combining coding with creating arcade games, kids can combine the creativity of a game designer with the logic of programming for a unique, well-rounded learning experience.

What college and career opportunities does this course lead to?

Python programming skills are fundamental to college majors like computer science, game design engineering, and more. From there, fast-growing, lucrative careers in data science, software engineering, and many more await those with strong Python skills! Learn more with 10 Reasons to Learn Python.

Is this course suitable for all skill levels?

This course is intended for students who have completed a related course or have equivalent experience. With our small class sizes, each student will continue to receive individual attention and learn at their own pace.

What is the online camp experience like?

While we are proud to offer world-class experiences on many of the world’s most prestigious university campuses, we also recognize that many families need the flexibility of quality virtual learning! It’s with these families in mind that we’ve adapted the core elements of our flagship camps to an online format with our Virtual Tech Camps.

Like our on-campus programs, Virtual Tech Camps feature structured small-group sessions led by expert instructors. Each week includes live teaching of our signature, cutting-edge curriculum, plus peer collaboration, social time, and independent project work. To complete the experience, our Virtual Tech Camps incorporate all the magic of summer camp including games, challenges, and legendary iD traditions!

What are the technical requirements for this online course?

To run an online course with iD Tech, students will need a Mac or Windows computer (no Chromebooks, unless otherwise specified), a webcam, and a stable internet connection with access to Zoom video conferencing. Any course-specific installation requirements will be communicated after registration.