Online Distance Learning Database Management Degrees

Online database management degree programs prepare students for employment in creating, integrating, maintaining and troubleshooting databases for business organizations. Graduates of online programs, which usually lead to a bachelor's degree, are equipped to gain employment in the industry immediately.

Online Distance-Learning Database Management Bachelor's Degree Program Overview

These programs train students to analyze, organize, store, use and present data with specialized database software. Programs also teach students how to set up new databases and integrate old ones, maintain databases, troubleshoot issues and perform all other tasks required of database administrators. Concentration is also typically placed on topics of organizational behavior and management, Web and software development, technical writing and liberal arts.
Some programs offer year-round classes, while others follow a schedule of terms. All programs usually suggest or require basic proficiency in computer, Internet and word processing software.

Program Information and Requirements

Graduates of these programs typically earn a Bachelor of Science (B.S.). Credit hour requirements in an online program mirror a traditional on-campus program and usually consist of approximately 120 credit hours and four years of study. Prerequisites typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, a formal application and a minimum grade point average (GPA) on any previous college coursework, as well as throughout the program. Some schools waive some degree requirements for previous technology certifications or college experience.

List of Typical Online Courses

Students in an online B.S. program access the majority of their course materials over the Internet, including resources such as Web tutorials on common database management procedures. Some courses may require the purchase of a textbook for home reference. Both core computer classes and general education classes are required for a 4-year database management program.

Database Management Course

This course covers database terms, concepts, languages, ethics, privacy, security, strategies, duties, dictionaries, designs and systems. Structured Query Language (SQL) fundamentals and applications are also learned. Students are also prepared to compare relational and object-oriented databases, analyze data, use data warehouses and manage data.

Introductory Programming Course

Basic programming concepts of creativity, problem-solving, compilation, execution, structure and code are learned in this course. Other typical studies include software testing and troubleshooting, Java programs and concepts, algorithms, top-down design, and Unified Modeling Language (UML) diagrams.

Organizational Leadership and Behavior Course

Students learn the difference between leadership and management; then, they study how to use specific tools, theories and methods appropriate to lead in specific situations. Influences on individual behavior and how to control them effectively are examined. Additional areas covered include organizational culture, communication, effectiveness and evaluation.

Career Information

Employment of database administrators from 2008-2018 is expected to grow by 20%, which is much faster than average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). This is largely due to an increase in the amount of data organizations need to store and Web data security issues. Median wages in May 2009 for database administrators were $71,550.

Continuing Education Information

Certification is available in specific software, such as Microsoft or Oracle, for those who wish to further their education. For instance, the Microsoft Certified Technology Specialist (MCTS) series is offered in 30 specific Microsoft technology areas. Most online database management degree programs prepare students to take the required examinations; however, some specialties also require industry experience for certification. Oracle also offers additional education through its online university.
Students who wish to pursue a more advanced degree might consider a Master of Science in Computer Science or a Master of Science in Computer Information Systems. These programs may also be completed online, and they frequently offer concentrations in areas such as database administration, database systems or database technology.