Database Development Certificates
There are a handful of schools that offer certificate programs in database development. You can even complete some of these programs over the Internet. Read on to learn about education programs and the career outlook in the field.
Can I Earn A Certificate in Database Development?
There are several schools that offer database development certificate programs. These programs are designed to train you to build databases, implement data security and manage a database server. Many of these programs provide you with a general overview of structured query language (SQL) database architecture and administration; however there are also certificate programs in other types of database systems and programming, such as C++ and Oracle. You'll be able to complete most of these programs within a year.
| Program Fields | Database development, C++, Oracle |
| Course Topics | Flat-file databases, web server administration, technical writing, server analysis |
| Program Format | In person or online |
| Job Outlook (2016-2026) | 11% growth (for database administrators)* |
| Median Salary (2018) | $90,070 (for database administrators)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
What Type of Courses Will I Take?
Courses in a certificate program cover database creation, administration and query methods for multiple operating systems, including Unix and Microsoft Windows. Topics provide an overview of distributed client/server systems, relational and flat-file databases, web server administration, data security and programming fundamentals. Some schools also offer related courses in technical writing, server analysis and end user support skills.
Can I Complete This Certificate Program Online?
Some schools allow you to complete a database development certificate program entirely online. Online curricula are similar to their campus-based counterparts, and you'll study subjects in database architecture, administration, programming and security. In order to take online courses, you'll usually need a broadband Internet connection and an updated Web browser. If you are taking a certificate program in a specific type of database language, such as Oracle, many schools allow you to download tools and applications free for use in your coursework.
What's the Job Outlook in This Field?
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projected that employment opportunities for database developers and administrators would increase by 11% between 2016-2026. The BLS attributed the growth to heightened requirements for data storage and analysis, as well as protection for information and databases available through the Internet. According to salary figures available through the BLS, database administrators earned median wages of $90,070 per year in 2018.