Database Administration has exploded in the recent years as reliance on Information Technology rises. With virtually every sector relying on database technologies to store and organize data, there is a need for talented administrators to keep these systems functioning and up-to-date. The DBA career is ranked number 7 by CNN Money on the Top 100 list of the Best Jobs in the Country, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted based on the trends that employment within the field will grow by 31 percent by 2020. If these figures are appealing to you, you may be wondering how you can become a DBA and fill in the gap between supply and demand.
What Type of Formal Training is Required to Become a DBA?
The first thing that you must develop is knowledge in the field of Database Administration. To gain knowledge about database tools and software utilities, you will need to start by completing formal training courses. These instructor-led courses will help you develop your knowledge of computer science as a whole and also a more concentrated knowledge on database systems. Typically, individuals who really want to become DBAs will pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Systems Management, or a computer-related field.
When you are entering a degree program, it is important speak with your counselor so that you can take elective courses that are related to DBA close to graduation. By doing this, you can ensure that you will understand the material that you are learning so that you can use the knowledge you gain through courses like Intro Oracle or Intro SQL when you enter a related occupation. You can take either a traditional training program or a computer-based program if you are a self-starter.
Experience Required to Become a DBA
Generally, you will need between 1 and 5 years of experience doing database activities before you will be hired or promoted to Database Administrator even with a B.S. degree. You may be able to find a position as a developer or an analyst, where you can get real-life experience you simply cannot gain in school. If you have already managed the development of a database, you can also consider looking for a position where you will work closely with more experience DBA’s or where a mistake will not lead to a loss of millions. It’s best to get hands-on experience in a lower level position while you are in school or as a new graduate so that you improve your chances of finding a good position.
Do you Need to Be Certified?
Certification is not always a required, but it can help you secure a higher paying position. You can get certified for a variety of different systems, and you should choose the system you would like to work with the most first. Oracle, SQL Server, and Microsoft are all popular options. The credential is not mandatory but it can help you land your first DBA job.
The key to entering this occupation is completing formal training and then getting real practical experience. Make sure to choose a specialty focusing in DBA, research the program, and then network with companies in school to find your first job. As you become familiar with the duties, you can take on added responsibility.
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