Database Administration

Overview

Database administration programs prepare people to create and manage databases.

Database administration programs include topics such as:

Database theory
Logics and semantics
Operational and warehouse modeling
Attributes and hierarchies
Access and security design
Networking issues
Planning and budgeting

Schools

Several community colleges and two-year schools offer associate degree programs in database administration. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study.

Several colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in database administration. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

A few universities offer graduate degrees in database administration. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

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Program Admission

You can prepare for this program by taking courses in high school that prepare you for college. This typically includes four years of English, three years of math, three years of social studies, and two years of science. Some colleges also require two years of a second language.

For this program, schools recommend that you know how to use a computer and the Internet.

Below is a list of high school courses that will help prepare you for this program of study:

Advanced Algebra courses
Calculus
Computer Science and Programming
Network Technology
Probability and Statistics

Typical Course Work

Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

Client/Server Systems
Data Communication and Networks
Data Structures and File Processing
Database Administration
Database Management Systems
Database Design
Database Development
Human/Computer Interaction
Information Storage and Retrieval
Relational Databases
SQL – Structured Query Language

Things to Know

Many employers prefer applicants who are certified to work with certain proprietary database systems. Many programs allow you to do this while earning your degree or certificate.

Most programs require you to complete a hands-on project or case study. Often, you develop a database for a company or client.