How to Become a Database Administrator

How to become a Database Administrator

The Basics of Becoming a Database Administrator

Are you investigating how to become a Database Administrator? The main job of a Database Administrator is to design and change computer databases. They test databases and correct errors and implement security measures to keep data safe. They ensure information infrastructures work efficiently and that data is available to users. They also write and code database descriptions, back up data, and perform database mergers and migrations. Database Admins may manage other IT personnel, such as programmers.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most database administrators have a bachelor’s degree in management information systems (MIS) or a computer-related field. Firms with large databases may prefer applicants who have a master’s degree focusing on data or database management, typically either in computer science, information systems, or information technology.

A Database Administrator's Salary Potential

  • Lowest 10th%
    $51,800
  • Median
    $93,750
  • Highest 90th%
    $148,060

 

States with the Highest Employment Levels

STATES2019 ANNUAL MEAN WAGENUMBER OF JOBS
California$106,72013,530
Texas$101,45011,620
New York$103,1707,730
Florida$90,3407,510
Virginia$102,3206,520
 
 

How Do Your Skills Stack Up?

Day to day life of a Database Administrator

As reported by O*NET, these traits are ranked as either extremely or very important to the day to day life of a Database Administrator.

What Will You Learn with a BS in Computer Information Systems Degree?

A bachelor of science in computer information systems degree may cover course work such as:

  • IT Infrastructure
  • Systems Analysis
  • Systems Design
  • Database Management Systems
  • Internet Computing

The goal of BS in computer information systems degrees is to provide students with business and technical skills to pursue careers in the field of information technology. In addition to general education requirements, students will likely take a mix of business, IT and computer courses that may cover topics including statistical methods and application; IT project management; object-oriented programming concepts; and accounting. In some programs, students may also complete a capstone project—such as analyzing, managing, and implementing a computer-based information system.

FAQs About How to Become a Database Administrator

What general knowledge should a database administrator have?i

Database administrators should have knowledge in computers, electronics, telecommunications, and mathematics. More specifically, they should know about circuit boards, processors, chips, electronic equipment, and computer hardware and software (including applications and programming). They should understand how to control and operate telecommunications systems and how such systems transmit and broadcast. Having mathematics knowledge and practical application skills is also key. To handle administrative and clerical responsibilities, database administrators should understand clerical procedures and systems and have a strong command of the English language. 

How many database administrators are employed in the U.S.?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 125,460 database administrators were employed in the U.S. in May 2019. They earned a median annual salary of $93,750. The majority of database administrators were employed in California, Texas, Florida, New York, and Virginia across five predominant BLS-designated industries: computer systems design and related services; management of companies and enterprises; colleges, universities, and professional schools; management, scientific, and technical consulting firms; and credit intermediation and related activities. The BLS predicts that employment will grow for database administrators by 9 percent between 2018 and 2028. This is faster than average for all industries.

What certificates might database administrators pursue?

Database administrators might pursue certification in particular areas directly from software vendors or from vendor-neutral organizations. In many cases, they do so to learn about particular operating systems, software programs, and other technical assets. Database administrators might need to pursue certification in programs and systems their employers use and apply their knowledge on the job. Some examples of certificates that database administrators may pursue include: the MySQL Database Administration certification from Oracle, the Oracle Certified Associate certification (OCA), the Oracle Certified Professional certification (OCP), the Oracle Certified Master certification (OCM), and the Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA). Certification in areas like these are designed to help professionals gain more in-depth knowledge of particular systems and learn how to manage distinct components of database administration (large-scale data networks, java, and database security and performance levels, for example). The types of certificates you might pursue as a database administrator ultimately depend on your specialization, professional goals, and job requirements.

What are common types of software I would have to learn as a Database Administrator?

Database Administrators use a variety of backup, database management system, and object oriented development software, including Oracle Data Guard, Quest Central, and C++.

What types of personalities are a good fit for becoming a Database Administrator?

For purposes of this answer, we are going to reference Carl Jung's 16 personality types as described by PersonalityMax.com. It is very likely that many Database Administrators would fall into the ISTJ (Introverted, Sensing, Thinking, Judging) personality type. ISTJs are hard-working, decisive, and dependable. They take their responsibilities very seriously. ISTJs are very precise and organized. They always have a plan and are prepared.

Job information sourced from O*NET

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