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Database Administration Degree - Online and Campus Programs

Database administration is one of the key components of modern information technology. The database administrator (DBA) is responsible for organizing and managing information that is critical to the success of most large enterprises. The database administrator creates and maintains databases and database software, ensures database security, analyzes and establishes database parameters, and provides users with training in standard query language (SQL).

How to Prepare for a Career in Database Administration

A Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT) or a bachelor's or master's degree in another computer-related field is the minimum requirement for most jobs in this field, although a combination of an associate's degree and work experience, combined with database administration certification may also be acceptable. Database administration programs can include coursework in:

Systems analysis and design
Programming
Database design
Network architecture and administration
Web technology

The DBA graduate is prepared to accomplish the installation, development, and administration of database systems in a business environment. Additional vendor-specific database administration certification programs can give the graduate an extra dimension that is valuable to employers.

Database Administration Career Projections and Salaries

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) anticipates a 20% growth in employment in the decade ending in 2018. The demand for database administrators increases as the amount of data necessary for businesses to store, organize, and maintain increases. With more databases now connecting to the Internet, database security is also an increasing concern. In 2008, DBAs earned a median annual wage of $69,740 according to the BLS. DBAs in company and enterprise management earned $74,730, and those in the computer design field earned $78,510.