What Skills Will I Learn in a SQL Training Course?
Structured query language (SQL) is a programming language that is used to access and manipulate databases. Read on to learn more about this computer programming language and the skills needed to use it.
SQL Training Overview
Students looking for instruction in SQL can find plenty of courses offered by a number of universities, colleges and institutions. Training may count as continuing education for professionals looking to meet certification requirements, and courses may be taken as standalone classes for those seeking to bolster their resume and improve their chances of finding employment.
<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutSQLTraining">Important Facts About SQL Training</h3><p></p><table border="1"><tr><td>Degree/Certificate Levels </td><td> Certificate, Associate's degree</td></tr>
<tr><td>Degree/Certificate Fields of Study </td><td> Database management, SQL server development</td></tr>
<tr><td>Programs</td><td> In addition to traditional programs, non-credit SQL courses and free online training programs are also available</td></tr>
<tr><td>Online Availability </td><td> Fully online courses and programs in SQL are offered</td></tr>
<tr><td>Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $101,000 (<i>for database administrators</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 9% (<i>for database administrators</i>)</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
</p><h3 id="section---SkillsLearnedInSQLTraining">Skills Learned in SQL Training</h3><p>SQL allows the user to access and control databases, retrieve and update records and create new databases. Although SQL is an American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standard, different versions of the SQL language exist. Training courses in SQL are readily available from websites, community colleges, books and manuals. An SQL training course may be comprehensive and cover all the skills listed below or may focus on just one skill.
</p><h4 id="section---QueryingAnSQLServerWithSQL">Querying an SQL Server with SQL</h4><p>Students learn about the MS Transact-SQL query language and how to write SELECT queries. Students learn to construct sub-queries, how to work with time, date and string character data formats and how to construct a standard table using SQL. Skills in sub-queries, which are used to break down more complex queries, may be taught. Skills needed to troubleshoot and rewrite SELECT query commands are essential and may be covered in-depth.
</p><h4 id="section---MaintainingAnSQLServer">Maintaining an SQL Server</h4><p>Information technology (IT) professionals seeking to increase their knowledge in the technologies needed to maintain the latest Microsoft SQL Server will benefit from a course that focuses on maintaining SQL servers. Students learn to backup and restore databases, configure and install the server and manage security. Anyone wishing to acquire these skills will need a good working knowledge of Microsoft Windows and relational databases and should be proficient in Transact-SQL.
</p><h4 id="section---ImplementingAndMaintainingMicrosoftSQLServerIntegrationServices">Implementing and Maintaining Microsoft SQL Server Integration Services</h4><p>IT professionals must have the knowledge to implement integration services. Students should seek training in how to implement error-handling procedures in SSIS packages. Before studying SSIS packages, IT professionals need experience working in Windows Server environments and must know the basics of query language.
</p><h4 id="section---AdvancingSQLServers">Advancing SQL Servers</h4><p>To be on top of technological advances, IT professionals need to know how to advance from one SQL server to another. SQL training programs should discuss the core settings of SQL servers and any new enhancements, including analysis services, reporting services and data warehousing. Students can also learn about the performance and capabilities of SQL server engines. Knowledge of prior SQL server and SQL query language is helpful.</p>