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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY CAREER GUIDES

Database Administrator Career

OVERVIEW

What Is a Database Administrator?


 

Database administrators help companies manage their data, no matter what form it takes. In the process, you’ll often help organizations install relevant data management platforms, configure programs to securely store information, migrate this data to different servers and employee devices, and troubleshoot issues when clients experience difficulty accessing required data.

One of the top available careers for individuals with a data management or data analytics degree, the role of a database administrator typically requires at least an undergraduate degree. In addition, you might need a few years of relevant database management experience to qualify for hire by some employers.

RESPONSIBILITIES

What Does a Database Administrator Do?

On a day-to-day basis, a database administrator fulfills a wide range of responsibilities. Whether you’re inputting data, updating firewalls, or configuring their data platforms, you’ll be constantly involved in helping clients manage their own information.

The exact responsibilities of a database administrator can include:

  • Installing database servers.
  • Maintaining databases for clients or employers.
  • Managing database access, to ensure that employees receive access only to the information they need.
  • Updating database access parameters and available data according to client or employer preferences.
  • Protecting databases from data loss or cybersecurity breaches.
  • Troubleshooting issues with database performance or access.
  • Communicating with clients and fellow database administrators.
  • Updating database platforms to reflect current database management best practices.
  • Researching the latest database protection and management methods for potential integration.

These and other responsibilities keep database administrators busy as they work to simultaneously keep a client’s data safe and readily available upon request.

EDUCATION & BEST DEGREES

What Education Does a Database Administrator Need?

If you're interested in securing a stable, high-paying IT career like that of a database administrator, you’ll first need to obtain a bachelor’s degree. A strong option is to earn a bachelor’s degree in information technology, through which you can gain a foundation in modern computing and IT principles.

Many aspiring database administrators consider a bachelor’s degree program in cloud computing, where they develop proficiency in IT applications, network security, and cloud applications. Each field of study with this degree will immediately benefit your skill set once you begin a career as a database administrator.

Alternatively, other students prefer to obtain a bachelor’s degree in data analytics. This program teaches skills like data analysis, machine learning, data visualization, and data systems administration to fully inform your understanding of a database administrator’s role.

Along with a bachelor’s degree, top industry certifications can help you stand out from the competition as you work to find database administration jobs. Certifications from AWS, CompTIA, ITIL, and Linux are all great options for those who want to demonstrate their proficiency in database systems and network security.

Best Degrees for a Database Administrator

Cloud Computing – B.S.

A three-track program designed to arm you with the certifications and...

A three-track program designed to arm you with the certifications and credentials you need for a career like systems administrator, computer systems analyst, cloud support specialist, AWS support administrator, and more.

  • Time: 70% of graduates finish within 35 months.
  • Tuition: $3,985 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 37 total courses in this program.
  • 3 Tracks: Choose between a multi-cloud, AWS, or Azure focused track to learn specific software specialties.

Certifications at no extra cost, including:

  • Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • Amazon AWS SysOps Administration–Associate
  • Azure Fundamentals
  • Developing Solutions for Microsoft Azure
  • LPI Linux Essentials
  • CompTIA A+
  • CompTIA Cloud+
  • CompTIA Security+
  • CompTIA Project+

Earning certs on the path to your degree gives you credentials that will boost your résumé right away, even before you complete your online degree program.

Transfer: Your previous college coursework and existing certifications may waive course requirements, helping you finish even faster.

Back End Web Development Certificate – College of IT

The Back End Web Development Certificate helps students gain a critical...

The Back End Web Development Certificate helps students gain a critical foundation in databases, Java, SQL, and other areas that are crucial for success in the field.

  • Time: 6 months from start to finish.
  • Cost: $3,950 for the certificate.
  • Courses: 5 courses total in this program.

This certificate is designed to help individuals who want to pursue web development gain important skills and experience, boosting their résumé right away. In this program you will take courses that move directly into a College of IT bachelor's degree at WGU, where you are guaranteed admission after completing your certificate. This program is an important step for your career.

Build your foundational skills in back end web development with a focus on SQL queries, user interface, database management, Java fundamentals and frameworks, and more.

Information Technology – B.S.

Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online...

Award-winning coursework and value-add certifications make this online program a top choice.

  • Time: 70% of graduates finish within 48 months.
  • Tuition: $3,625 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 36 total courses in this program.

Certifications included in this program at no additional cost:

  • CompTIA A+ 
  • CompTIA Network+ 
  • CompTIA Security+ 
  • CompTIA Project+ 
  • CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
  • CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist 
  • Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
  • LPI Linux Essentials

Job titles this degree may prepare you for include:

  • Application developer
  • Business systems analyst
  • IT manager
  • Database administrator

Data Analytics – B.S.

Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:...

Lean into data, and walk away with a cutting-edge online degree:

  • Time: 70% of graduates finish within 37 months.
  • Tuition and fees: $3,735 per 6-month term.
  • Courses: 39 total courses in this program.

Certifications in this program at no additional cost include:

  • AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • CompTIA Data+
  • CompTIA Project+
  • Udacity Nanodegree—a unique, highly recognized credential designed to prepare you for a career in data science
  • MSI Change Management (Optional Certification)
  • Certiprof Design Thinking Professional Certificate (Optional Certification)

There are many job titles a degree in data management and data analytics will prepare you for, including:

  • Data Scientist
  • Automation Architect
  • Business Analyst
  • R Programmer
  • AI Trainer
  • Tableau Report Developer
  • QA Analyst
  • Python Programmer
  • Analytics Manager
  • Data Analyst
  • Database Administrator
  • Statistician

Accelerated Information Technology Bachelor's and Master's Degree

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster...

Earn both your bachelor’s in IT and master’s in IT management at a faster pace with fewer courses.

  • Time: Approximately 5 years.
  • Tuition: $3,735 per 6-month term for the bachelor's degree; $3,940 per term for the master's portion.
  • Courses: 42 total courses in this program.

Certifications included in this program at no additional cost:

  • CompTIA A+ 
  • CompTIA Network+ 
  • CompTIA Security+ 
  • CompTIA IT Operations Specialist
  • CompTIA Secure Infrastructure Specialist 
  • Amazon AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • ITIL®*^ Foundation Certification
  • PMI CAPM
  • LPI Linux Essentials

This program allows students to earn their bachelor's degree in IT and move directly into a master's degree in IT management, cutting down on the total number of courses to complete.

MBA Information Technology Management

Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper...

Earn the online college degree that can move your career into IT upper management:

  • Time: Graduates can finish in 12 months
  • Tuition: $4,755 per 6-month term
  • Courses: 11 total courses in this program

Sample careers and jobs this business degree will prepare you for:

  • Chief technology officer
  • Director of IT services
  • Senior systems administrator
  • Management information systems director
  • Computer and information systems manager

Learn to navigate emergencies, execute strategies, and optimize systems with the competencies within this specialty MBA.

How Much Does a Database Administrator Make?

$77,865

The exact income of a database administrator can vary based on a number of different factors. These can commonly include your employer, employer’s location, years of experience, and education.

In general, the salary of a database administrator can average $77,865, with a range of roughly $50,000 to $116,000 earned each year.

What Is the Projected Job Growth?

10%

Employment for database administrators is expected to grow by 10% from 2019 to 2029. This forecasted growth rate is much higher than the average across all occupations and indicates a favorable outlook for the position in years to come.

Projected employment growth for database administrators is largely tied to the rising popularity of database use. Large and small companies alike are turning to databases to secure their information, prevent data breaches, and ensure data is used correctly.

SKILLS

What Skills Does a Database Administrator Need?

Database administrators put developed skill sets to work each day, whether they’re communicating with clients or troubleshooting data collection programs. Ultimately, each skill that you use as a database administrator will help clients keep data safe and accessible whenever necessary.

The skills a database administrator needs can include:

  • Database operations: The ability to manage all aspects of a database, including data installation and protection, user permissions, data analysis, and platform updates.
  • Technological proficiency: The ability to fully use all devices required for the position, including any computers, tablets, phones, online platforms, and any of the most popular operating systems.
  • Problem-solving: The ability to troubleshoot and overcome any issues that might be affecting database performance.
  • Interpersonal communication: The ability to correspond with clients, company representatives, and fellow IT staff members.
  • Cybersecurity: The ability to protect databases and all devices from data breaches and other technology-related risks.
  • Organization: The ability to prioritize database tasks and upkeep in order to ensure that a client’s data is appropriately managed, secured, and available upon request.

Our Online University Degree Programs Start on the First of Every Month, All Year Long

No need to wait for spring or fall semester. It's back-to-school time at WGU year-round. Get started by talking to an Enrollment Counselor today, and you'll be on your way to realizing your dream of a bachelor's or master's degree—sooner than you might think!

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Interested in Becoming a Database Administrator?

Learn more about degree programs that can prepare you for this meaningful career.