Introduction to FastAPI and Backend Development Fundamentals

Packt via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Overview

Coursera Flash Sale

40% Off Coursera Plus for 3 Months!

Grab it

This course features Coursera Coach! A smarter way to learn with interactive, real-time conversations that help you test your knowledge, challenge assumptions, and deepen your understanding as you progress through the course. In this course, you will gain a solid foundation in backend development with FastAPI, a powerful Python framework. You will start by understanding the fundamentals of REST APIs, dive into FastAPI's core features, and discover why it is the framework of choice for modern backend development. By the end of this course, you'll be ready to build efficient, scalable APIs and backend systems using Python and FastAPI. The journey starts with a deep dive into REST APIs and FastAPI, followed by practical modules on setting up and using FastAPI in a real development environment. You’ll learn how to create API endpoints, handle parameters, and manage error responses effectively. The course then progresses into database management with SQL and SQLModel, covering everything from basic CRUD operations to advanced concepts like async programming with PostgreSQL. This course is designed for aspiring backend developers, those looking to advance their skills with FastAPI, or anyone wanting to get hands-on experience with Python backend frameworks. There are no strict prerequisites, but some familiarity with Python programming and web development concepts would be beneficial. By the end of the course, you will be able to build and manage dynamic REST APIs using FastAPI, implement various HTTP methods, integrate databases with FastAPI, and apply advanced techniques like asynchronous programming with PostgreSQL.

Syllabus

Introduction

In this module, we will lay the foundation for backend development with FastAPI. You’ll explore what REST APIs are, why FastAPI is a powerful choice for modern applications, and how this course is structured. This introduction ensures you understand the big picture before diving into hands-on development.

Getting Started

In this module, we will walk you through setting up your development environment and getting your first FastAPI project up and running. You’ll learn how to install FastAPI, create a basic API endpoint, and interact with the built-in interactive documentation. By the end, you’ll have your development tools ready to build real applications.

Path Parameter

In this module, we will dive deeper into route handling using path parameters and decorators. You'll learn how to create dynamic routes, use type hints, and understand route ordering in FastAPI. You'll also take your first steps into backend data storage by connecting a simple database.

Query Parameter

In this module, we will expand your API capabilities by introducing query parameters. You'll learn how to filter data, manage HTTP exceptions, and receive data through POST requests and request bodies. This section teaches you how to build more flexible and powerful endpoints in FastAPI.

CRUD Operations

In this module, we will implement full backend functionality using CRUD operations. You'll explore how to update resources using PUT and PATCH, and safely delete records using the DELETE method. These operations are the backbone of any RESTful API.

Pydantic Model

In this module, we will harness the full potential of Pydantic models in FastAPI. You’ll define input and output models, enforce validation rules, and explore advanced features like Enums and response schemas. By the end, your APIs will be more reliable, secure, and developer-friendly.

SQL Database

In this module, we will connect FastAPI with a SQL database, starting with SQLite. You'll learn how to insert, retrieve, and update data, while understanding key database concepts like primary keys and query parameters. This forms the backbone for building data-driven applications.

SQLModel

In this module, we will explore SQLModel, a hybrid ORM and data modeling tool designed for FastAPI. You’ll learn how to define models, manage connections, and structure your application with dependency injection. SQLModel helps bridge the gap between your database and your API.

AsyncIO

In this module, we will introduce asynchronous programming with Python’s asyncio and its application in FastAPI. You'll learn to write async functions, handle multiple tasks concurrently, and improve API responsiveness. This section is key to building scalable and high-performance backends.

PostgreSQL

In this module, we will transition from SQLite to PostgreSQL for production-ready database handling. You’ll learn how to manage configurations, implement asynchronous sessions, and structure your application for maintainability. This section prepares you for real-world backend deployment.