If you love working with data and want to learn how to apply data management concepts to all aspects of enterprises, then an online database degree may be an ideal fit for you. Online database management programs teach you the tools and know-how to design, program, administer, and secure databases. This academic path can lead to careers in database administration, information security analysis, and information systems management, among others.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), this field is projected to grow 11% from 2014 to 2024, driven largely by the need for companies and organizations to store, organize, and secure data. An online database management degree will provide you with the flexibility to master the tools and techniques of this field at your convenience.If you are interested in pursuing a career in database management, read on. We've provided a comprehensive guide detailing the various opportunities available to students earning their database programming degrees at the undergraduate and graduate level, including additional certifications you can earn to maximize your career potential.
Online Database Management Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $9,979 | 11.5% | 2 years | Not reported | Not reported | 8.3% |
| Bachelor's | $17,026 | 16.6% | 4 years | $48,000 | $85,000 | 4.3% |
| Master's | $20,549 | 6.3% | 2 years | $79,000 | $104,000 | 2.9% |
While an associate degree in database management provides you with the foundation necessary to get started in this exciting career, most database administrators and IT workers are required by employers to have a bachelor's degree. Prior professional experience in the field may help a candidate who does not have the requisite baccalaureate degree. However, larger companies will insist on at least a bachelor's degree, and some require a master's in addition to work experience. An online bachelor's in database programming or an online bachelor's in database management will help you meet that threshold.
Online Database Management Degrees
Online Database Management Find Accredited Degrees
Online Database Management Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Database Administrator | $81,710 | 11% | 120000 |
| Database Programmer | $79,530 | -8% | 328600 |
| Network Administrator | $77,810 | 8% | 382600 |
| Information Security Analyst | $90,120 | 18% | 82900 |
| Information Systems Manager | $131,600 | 15% | 53700 |
Online Database Management Professional Requirements
IBM Info Management
IBM has numerous information management and database technology certifications, including LINUX, UNIX, Data Warehousing, and DB2 for z/OS. They certify that you are effectively trained in the use of the company's software, often necessary for the effective implementation of a company's data management initiatives. Once earned, the user has the right to display the information management professional certification mark.
ICCP Certified Business Intelligence Professional
Writer: ICCP certified business, data and computer professionals. The main certifications are Associate Business Data Management Professional, Business Data Management Professional, Certified Business Intelligence Professional, and Certified Data Professional – Data Management, each with its own requirements.
ICCP Certified Data Professional
ICCP has developed a comprehensive set of certification programs for data scientists, certifying their proficiency in meeting the needs of clients to address an organization's regulatory compliance obligations. ICCP has a number of certifications: Certified Data Professional; Certified Business Professional; Certified Data Governance Professional; Certified Big Data Professional; and Certified Data Scientist.
Microsoft Technology Associate Certification
Those considering a career in technology may want to pursue Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) credentialing, an introductory Microsoft certification. It addresses fundamental technical concepts, validates your core technical knowledge, and enhances your technical skills. You must pass one of three tracks — IT Infrastructure, Database, or Developer — depending on your interests and career goals.
MCSA: SQL Server
The MCSA: SQL Server certification will validate your skills in building and implementing databases and signifies that the designee is a database developer. There are three SQL Server certifications: MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Development certification; MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration certification; and MCSA: SQL 2016 Business Intelligence Development certification.
MCSE: Business Intelligence
The MCSE Business Intelligence certification shows you have the skills necessary for designing, building, and deploying SQL Server business intelligence (BI) solutions within organizations. It will qualify the holder of the certification for a position as a BI and reporting engineer. There are five required exams: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014; Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases; Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014; Implementing Data Models and Reports with Microsoft SQL Server; and Designing Business Intelligence Solutions with Microsoft SQL Server.
MCSE: Data Platform
The MCSE: Data Platforms certification certifies your skills in SQL Server administration and in building enterprise-scale data solutions. It qualifies you for careers such as database analyst and database designer. There are five exams: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014; Administering Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014 Databases; Implementing a Data Warehouse with Microsoft SQL Server 2012/2014; Developing Microsoft SQL Server Databases; and Designing Database Solutions for SQL Server.
MongoDB/NoSQL
MongoDB certifies Database Administrators (DBAs) and Application Developers. It is a trending occupation and a person with these skills is highly compensated. Those with the certification are versed in building and maintaining MongoDB applications. There are two exams: MongoDB Certified DBA Associate and MongoDB Certified Developer Associate.
Oracle 11g
The Oracle 11g certification process teaches you "how to perform complex, hands-on activities through labs, study and practice," according to Oracle University. To earn the certification you must follow two steps. Step 1: pass one of these exams: Oracle Database 12c SQL 1Z0-071; Oracle Database 12c: SQL Fundamentals 1Z0-061; Oracle Database 11g: SQL Fundamentals I 1Z0-051; or Oracle Database SQL Expert 1Z0-047. Step 2: You must take the Oracle Database 11g: Administration I 1Z0-052 exam.
Oracle 12c
There are two steps to earn this certification. Step 1 is to pass one of four exams: Oracle Database 12c SQL 1Z0-071; Oracle Database 12c: SQL Fundamentals 1Z0-061; Oracle Database 11g: SQL Fundamentals I 1Z0-051; or Oracle Database SQL Expert 1Z0-047. Step 2 is to take the Oracle Database 12c: Installation and Administration 1Z0-062 exam.