Database Administration School and Training Programs

<p>A wide variety of educational paths can help prepare you for work as a database administrator. You might prefer an educational program that leads to certification through an organization like the Oracle Corporation or Microsoft in order to meet industry standards. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> <b>Degrees</b> </td><td> Associate, bachelor's and master's degrees in computer science and information systems</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Diplomas/Certificates</b> </td><td> Diploma in information systems, certificate in database administration</td></tr> <tr><td> <b>Courses</b> </td><td> Net Web programming, Unix operating system, database development, SQL, Web authoring, Web application programming, designing database solutions</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatDatabaseAdministratorProgramsAreAvailable">What Database Administrator Programs Are Available?</h3> <p>Programs from the diploma and certificate level to the master's degree level are available in either computer science or information systems. Both of these subjects can lead to a career as a database administrator. Undergraduate programs may prepare you for entry-level positions while graduate programs could lead to advanced positions with higher pay, research careers or academic work. </p> <p>Some schools and programs that offer database administration training include: </p> <ul><li>Atlanta Technical College </li><li>Seattle Central College </li><li>New York University School of Professional Studies </li><li>Central Carolina Community College </li><li>California University of Pennsylvania </li></ul><h3 id="section---WhatWillIStudy">What Will I Study?</h3> <p>Certificate and diploma programs can typically be completed in two years or less and offer concentrated curricula, focusing on subjects like information technology, programming, system analysis and customer relations. If you already hold an undergraduate degree in a subject like computer science, you may complete a certificate program in database administration that leads directly to qualification for voluntary certification. </p> <p>Associate and bachelor's degree programs commonly include studies in general education, like English, psychology and mathematics. Beyond basic computer science courses like security and programming, you may focus on areas like: </p> <ul><li>Information management </li><li>Networking and data communications </li><li>Accounting </li><li>Public speaking </li><li>Finance </li></ul><p>Master's programs in either computer science or information systems commonly include specialization areas, such as security and database management. Coursework in a master's degree program can include classes in electronic commerce, data mining and organization management, and can culminate in a thesis or final project. </p> <h3 id="section---HowCanISelectASchool">How Can I Select a School?</h3> <p>Distance education programs may be available at all levels through online courses and lectures. You may prefer such an option if you are continuing your education through a certificate or master's degree program, or if you have a restrictive schedule. </p> <p>If you plan to physically attend a program, the school should provide an up-to-date computer laboratory for hands-on training with the latest hardware and software technology. The availability of a specialization option in information or database management, at any level of education, could be helpful in leading towards employment as a database administrator. </p> <p>Internship opportunities could allow you to gain hands-on experience working with trained professionals in developing and maintaining database systems. Academic freedom through a wide variety of elective coursework and specialized projects could also help you focus your education.</p>