Get Matched With Database Administration Programs

What is Database Administration?


Database administrators (DBAs) use specialized software to store and organize data. They are responsible for the performance, security, and availability of data. DBAs typically have a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field, such as information assurance or IT.

There are many colleges and universities that offer database administration programs. Some schools offer certificate programs, while others offer associate's, bachelor's, or master's degrees. The type of program you choose will depend on your educational goals and professional aspirations.

If you're interested in becoming a DBA, you should consider pursuing a degree in computer science or a related field. In addition to taking courses in database management, you'll also learn about programming languages, operating systems, and networking technologies. By earning a degree, you'll be better prepared to enter the workforce and compete for jobs.

Compare Popular Online Database Administration Programs

Online Database Administration Education in West Virginia


A database administration professional (DBA) is responsible for the smooth operation of databases. This can include tasks such as installing and configuring databases, setting up user accounts and permissions, importing data, backing up data, and recovering data in the event of a failure. DBAs typically have a strong understanding of both database theory and practice.

Find Your Online Database Administration Program

Database administration is a growing field as more and more businesses rely on databases to store their critical data. With the right training, DBAs can find jobs in a variety of industries. Database administration colleges offer programs that can give students the skills they need to start a career in this exciting field.

Online Associate Degree in Database Administration (AS)

An associate degree in database administration can lead to a career as a database administrator, working with organizations to store and organize their data. Individuals with an associate degree in database administration may work in a variety of industries including healthcare, finance, and manufacturing.

Database administrators typically have strong problem-solving skills and are able to work independently. They must be able to effectively communicate with non-technical staff and understand the organization's goals in order to create an effective database system. In addition, they must be able to manage changes to the system and ensure that it is running smoothly.

Individuals interested in pursuing an associate degree in database administration can find programs at community colleges and technical schools. Many of these programs are offered online, making them convenient for working adults. These programs also only take around two years to complete, making them half as long as the next higher tier of education, a bachelor’s degree. Additionally, if you decide that you need to earn a higher degree in the future, you can transfer at least some of the credits you earn in your associate degree as long as you make sure to attend a fully accredited institution.

Online Bachelors Degree in Database Administration (BS)

A bachelor's degree in database administration typically includes coursework in computer science, information technology, and management. Students learn to design and manage relational databases, as well as how to troubleshoot and optimize database performance. They also gain skills in project management, data mining, and business intelligence. In addition to classroom learning, students often complete internships or practicums as part of their degree program.

A bachelor’s degree program usually takes around four years to complete, though, if you completed an accredited associate degree, you might be able to finish your bachelor’s in another two to three years. Both associate and bachelor’s degrees in database administration require that students complete some general education at the beginning of their degree, but a bachelor’s will provide much more in-depth learning in the final two years of the program.

Online Masters Degree in Database Administration (MS)

A master's degree in database administration can lead to a career in many different fields. A database administrator is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of databases and they may work in a variety of industries.

Database administrators must have a strong understanding of database management systems, as well as computer science and programming. They must be able to effectively communicate with staff who use the databases. In addition to their technical skills, DBAs must also have strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.

A graduate program in database administration can provide the necessary training to not only pursue a career in this field, but to move into higher-level management positions and to gain a deeper understanding of various software programs that companies commonly use. Coursework typically includes topics such as database management principles, data mining, and software engineering. Students may also complete internships or research projects in order to gain practical experience, though this is not required for those who are still working full-time while pursuing higher education.

Online PhD Degree in Database Administration (PhD)

A PhD in database administration may be for you if you are interested in becoming a leading expert in the field of database management. With a PhD, you will be able to conduct advanced research in the area of database administration and contribute new knowledge to the field. A PhD will also prepare you for a career in academia, where you can teach at the collegiate level and conduct your own research.

If you are interested in pursuing a PhD in database administration, you should first obtain a bachelor's or master’s degree in computer science, information assurance, or a related field. Once you have completed your undergraduate studies, a doctoral program typically takes four to five years to complete. During your doctoral program, you will take advanced coursework in database administration and complete a dissertation on an original research topic.

Online Database Administration Certifications

Database administrators are responsible for the performance, availability, and security of databases. They use specialized software to store and organize data, and they ensure that the data is available to users when they need it. Database administrators typically have bachelor’s degrees in computer science or a related field, but there are also several certification programs that can help you become a database administration professional.

The Certified Database Administrator (CDA) program from the International Association of Computer Science is one option. To earn the CDA credential, you must have at least three years of experience as a database administrator and pass an exam. The Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) program is another option. To earn the OCP credential, you must complete an Oracle training course and pass an exam.

Find Online Database Administration Schools

Become a Database Administrator in West Virginia


In order to become a database administration professional in West Virginia, there are a few steps that you might want to follow.

  • Step 1: Obtain a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field

    In order to pursue a career in database administration, one must first obtain a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field. This is because database administration requires both strong technical and analytical skills. A bachelor's degree in computer science will provide students with the necessary technical skills to design, implement, and manage databases. In addition, students will learn how to use various programming languages to query data and create applications and they will gain an understanding of algorithms and data structures which are essential for optimizing database performance.

  • Step 2: Complete an internship with a company that specializes in database administration

    An internship is a great way to get started in the field of database administration. There are many companies that specialize in this area or have strong IT departments where you can gain experience in database administration, and they are always looking for talented interns. By completing an internship with one of these companies, you will gain valuable experience and knowledge that will help you in your career. Database administration is a complex and challenging field, but it can also be very rewarding.

  • Step 3: Stay up to date on the latest trends and technologies in the database administration

    A database administrator is responsible for the effective use of databases in an organization. As new technologies and trends emerge, it’s important that they stay up to date on the latest developments. There are a number of ways to stay informed about new trends and technologies in database administration. One way is to join professional organizations such as the International Association of Database Administrators (IADBA) or the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM). These organizations offer members access to publications, conferences, and other resources that can help keep them abreast of new developments in the field. Another way to keep up with current technologies is to read trade journals and attend conferences and workshops focused on database administration. Some popular trade journals include Database Trends and Applications, DBTA, and Information Management.

What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Database Administration?


A bachelor's degree in database administration can lead to many different job opportunities. Some of these positions may include working as a database administrator for a small business or corporation, developing databases for software applications, or providing support to end users. However, it’s important to realize that, even with a bachelor’s in the field, it may take a few years to move into a management position. Until then, you are likely to work entry-level jobs in an IT department, as a support specialist, or even as an assistant to an administrator or information assurance specialist.

Potential Careers for Database Administration Graduates


  • Payroll Administrator:

    A payroll administrator will be responsible for processing payroll for all employees. This includes calculating hours worked, withholding taxes and other deductions, and issuing payments. This administrator will also maintain records of employee compensation, vacation, and sick leave.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Experience with payroll processing
    • Strong mathematical skills
    • Excellent attention to detail
    • Ability to maintain confidentiality

    Estimated Salary

    • The mean annual wage for payroll and timekeeping clerks in the US in 2021 was $49,560. However, human resource managers earned $136,590
    • The mean annual wage for payroll and timekeeping clerks in West Virginia is $38,460. However, human resource managers earn $110,660
  • Information Technology (IT) Manager:

    An information technology (IT) manager is responsible for overseeing the organization's information technology needs. They ensure that the necessary hardware and software is in place and functioning properly. They also work with other departments to ensure that the company's IT needs are being met.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field
    • Previous experience working in an IT role
    • Strong leadership and communication skills

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers in the US in 2021 was $159,010
    • The mean annual wage for computer and information systems managers in West Virginia is $127,770
  • Database Administrator:

    A database administrator is responsible for the performance, availability, and security of the databases. They are also responsible for troubleshooting any issues that may arise.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Strong technical skills
    • Problem solving skills
    • Good communication skills

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for database administrators and architects in the US in 2021 was $101,000
    • The mean annual wage for database administrators in West Virginia is $70,110

    Search Programs Offering Database Administration Majors

  • Quality Manager:

    A quality manager is responsible for ensuring that products and services meet customer expectations and requirements. They develop and implement quality control policies, procedures, and programs. They also work with other departments to resolve quality issues.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Bachelor's degree in Quality Management, Engineering, or a related field
    • 5+ years of experience in Quality Management
    • Knowledge of quality control tools and methods
    • Ability to lead and motivate teams

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for software quality assurance analysts and testers in the US in 2021 was $97,710. However, quality managers could work in other fields, as well
    • The mean annual wage for software quality assurance analysts and testers in West Virginia is $87,560. However, quality managers could work in other fields, as well
  • Marketing Manager:

    A marketing manager is responsible for planning, developing, and executing marketing campaigns that promote the products and services of the company. They work closely with the sales team to ensure that the campaigns are aligned with the sales goals and objectives and are also responsible for managing the budget for the marketing department.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or a related field
    • 3-5 years of experience in marketing or a related field
    • Strong communication and organizational skills
    • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines

    Estimated Salary

    • The mean annual wage for marketing managers in the US in 2021 was $153,440
    • The mean annual wage for marketing managers in West Virginia is $102,920
  • Web Developer:

    A web developer is responsible for creating and maintaining websites. This includes ensuring that the site is functioning correctly and making any necessary changes or updates. They may also be responsible for creating new features or redesigning existing ones.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • A bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field
    • Experience with web development and programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
    • Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for web developers in the US in 2021 was $78,300
    • The mean annual wage for web developers in West Virginia is $60,670
  • Computer Network Architects:

    A computer network architect is responsible for designing, planning, and oversee the construction and maintenance of computer networks. They work with other IT professionals to ensure that the network meets the needs of the users.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
    • Knowledge of network security and performance issues
    • Experience with network design and implementation

    Estimated Salary

    • The median annual wage for computer network architects in the US in 2021 was $120,520
    • The mean annual wage for computer network architects in West Virginia is $91,510
  • Chief Information Security Officer (CISO):

    A CISO is responsible for developing and implementing the organizational security strategy and roadmap. They work with executive leadership to ensure that the organization's information assets are adequately protected and align with business objectives. The CISO is also responsible for establishing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders to ensure that security risks are effectively managed.

    Necessary Requirements:

    • Proven experience as a CISO or similar role
    • In-depth knowledge of security risk management processes
    • Experience with developing and implementing security policies and procedures
    • Strong understanding of security technologies and architecture
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

    Estimated Salary

    • The mean annual wage for chief executives in the US in 2021 was $213,020
    • The mean annual wage for chief executives in West Virginia is $180,700

Search All Programs