Free Matplotlib and Seaborn Data Visualisation Course

Learn how to turn data into clear charts with Oxford Home Study Centre. This free Level 3 course introduces Python data visualisation through Matplotlib, basic chart types, subplots, customisation and the wider role of Seaborn.

The programme has an estimated duration of 200 hours and is designed for flexible, self-paced online study. You can browse our complete online course catalogue, explore the wider artificial intelligence and data course collection or compare other free AI courses.

Data visualisation helps people explore patterns, compare values and communicate findings clearly. Python libraries such as Matplotlib and Seaborn are widely used for this purpose, with Matplotlib providing flexible plotting control and Seaborn offering a higher-level interface for statistical graphics.

This free course concentrates on the foundation stage of that learning journey. You will begin with the purpose of visualisation before creating basic charts with Matplotlib and progressing into subplots, customisation and styling.

The course introduces Seaborn as part of the wider Python visualisation ecosystem, but its three-module structure remains primarily focused on Matplotlib. If you want dedicated Seaborn statistical plotting, complex datasets and a final project, the longer paid programme is the more appropriate route.

Who Should Take This Course?

The course may suit beginners, students, researchers, business learners and people exploring data analysis or data science. It can also provide useful background if you know some Python but have not yet developed confidence in plotting data.

Progressing Beyond the Free Course

If you want to continue beyond introductory plotting, compare our advanced Matplotlib and Seaborn data visualisation course. It extends into dedicated Seaborn study, statistical plots, complex datasets, styling and a final project.

For a practical supporting read, see our guide to using visualisation tools in Google Colab.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this Matplotlib and Seaborn course free?

Yes. You can study the course online without an enrolment fee. Certificates are optional paid products after successful completion.

What is Matplotlib used for?

Matplotlib is a Python visualisation library used to create charts such as line plots, bar charts and scatter plots.

Does the course teach Seaborn in depth?

No. The free course introduces Matplotlib and Seaborn as part of the Python visualisation ecosystem, but its three-module syllabus is primarily focused on Matplotlib.

Do I need previous Python experience?

No formal entry requirements apply. Some familiarity with basic Python concepts can make practical plotting terminology easier to follow.

What charts are covered?

The syllabus includes line, bar and scatter plots, followed by subplots, customisation and styling.

Can I use this course as an introduction to data science?

It can provide useful visualisation foundations for later data-analysis or data-science study, but it is not a complete data-science programme.

Will I receive a free certificate?

No. Study access is free, while certification is optional and purchased separately after successful completion.

How long is the course?

The estimated study duration is 200 hours.

What You Will Learn

Why visualisation matters when exploring, explaining and presenting data.
How Matplotlib and Seaborn fit into the Python visualisation ecosystem.
How to create line charts, bar charts and scatter plots with Matplotlib.
How to work with subplots, labels, legends and other presentation choices.
How styling and chart selection affect readability and interpretation.

Free Study and Optional Certification

You can enrol on Data Visualization with Matplotlib and Seaborn, access all online learning materials and complete the course without paying a course fee. Certification is optional, separate from free study and available after successful completion.

You may choose to purchase:

QLS-endorsed Certificate of Achievement
CPD-accredited certificate issued by the CPD Standards Office as a record of continuing professional development

You can order either certificate individually or purchase both for the same completed course. Buying one does not require you to buy the other.

Each certificate has its own price, and the total payable may vary according to the certificates selected, course level, format and delivery option. View our current certificate options and prices.

Certification is entirely optional and is not required to access the materials or complete the course.

Course Content

Topics Covered in the Course

Course Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to Data Visualisation with Matplotlib and Seaborn

Understand the purpose of data visualisation and the roles of Matplotlib and Seaborn. You will consider how charts can reveal patterns, comparisons and relationships that may be difficult to see in raw tables.

Module 2: Creating Basic Visualisations with Matplotlib

Learn the foundations of plotting with Matplotlib, including common line, bar and scatter charts. The module introduces the practical decisions involved in labelling and presenting a plot clearly.

Module 3: Advanced Plotting Techniques in Matplotlib

Build on the basics with subplots, customisation and styling. The emphasis is on improving structure and readability rather than adding decorative elements that make a chart harder to interpret.

How It Works

Build your knowledge through clear and accessible online learning.

Complete the assignments and achieve the required marks.

Choose an optional certificate after completing the course.

Why Choose a Certificate?

An optional certificate provides a clear record of successful course completion. Add it to your learning portfolio and share it where relevant.

Completing the course and its assessments shows your commitment to developing subject knowledge through focused, independent learning.

Use your new knowledge to support further study, workplace development or personal goals. A certificate records completion but does not guarantee employment or professional status.