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How to Become a Database Administrator

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Recently, we explored what you can do with a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics and what jobs you can get after completing your degree. Here, we’ll review one of the most popular positions for data analytics alumni, explaining how to become a database administrator.

As part of our discussion, we’ll explore this growing field, review whether or not it’s a good career, explain what database administrators actually do each day, talk about the academic requirements for landing a position in the industry, then explain why you should consider pursuing your online Master’s Degree in Data Analytics at CSU Global

If you’re a highly organized, detail-oriented person interested in the organizational principles that guide the management of large amounts of data, then you may be a perfect candidate for becoming a database administrator, and you’ll find this post incredibly useful for learning just how to go about getting your foot into the industry.

Once you’ve finished learning about how to get a job as a database administrator, fill out our information request form to receive details about our 100% online Master of Science in Data Analytics program. If you’re ready to get started, submit your application today.

Is Database Administrator a Good Career?

Yes, becoming a database administrator is a great career option if you’re interested in the management of vast datasets and the process of designing data management solutions.

This is also a great career because of its growth potential and anticipated job outlook. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of database administrators is expected to grow 8% between 2020 and 2030. 

The BLS explains that this growth will be driven by the increasing data needs of organizations across all sectors of the economy. From tech to agriculture, healthcare to supply chain management, data is quickly becoming an essential aspect of every industry, and the increased reliance on data will create a stable and growing demand for skilled professionals capable of managing and utilizing that data.

When you earn an accredited and widely respected data analytics degree, such as CSU Global’s 100% online M.S. in Data Analytics, you’ll signal to potential employers that you have not only the knowledge and skills but also the dedication and commitment needed to be successful as a database administrator, making it easier to land that essential first job in the industry.

What Do Database Administrators Actually Do?

Database Administrators use specialized software to store, manage, and organize data. Because of the wide use of data in the modern world, database administrators can work across many different industries, from education to insurance. They also often work in data management or data analysis firms that provide related services to different client organizations.

A database administrator’s day-to-day responsibilities may vary depending on the size of the organization they work for, or the industry in which they work. However, there are a few similarities across all related roles, which typically include:

  • Maintaining a database and updating permissions.
  • Making and testing updates to the database structure.
  • Creating and administering databases according to user needs and challenges.
  • Backing up and restoring data to prevent data loss.

Given the importance of database management for achieving organizational success in the modern economy, anyone looking to start a career as a database administrator would be wise to consider earning a relevant degree before attempting to break into the industry.

Completing the right degree program will help ensure you’ve developed the technical expertise needed to succeed in the competitive database administration niche.

Do I Need a Degree to Get a Job as a Database Administrator?

While you may be able to launch a career in this competitive field without a degree, many professional database administrators have earned at least a bachelor’s degree, and some employers state that they prefer candidates with a master’s-level credential.

This especially comes into play if you’re interested in working for a database management firm or larger corporation, as these employers will generally favor applicants with more advanced degrees. 

However, there is another reason you should consider earning your degree before you start applying for jobs: skills building. 

Database administration requires in-depth knowledge of sophisticated computer systems and computing technology, and earning your degree in this field is one of the best ways to ensure you have the technical know-how to hit the ground running from day one.

The degree program you choose should depend on your current educational levels and career aspirations. If you want to reach the top of the field, serving in a management or leadership capacity, then an advanced degree such as CSU Global’s Masters in Data Analytics will give you the skill set required to reach your goals.

Which Degree Should I Get?

You should select the degree that best fits your current educational needs and career goals.

That comes down to a choice between a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. You can make this decision by reviewing your current educational credentials, knowledge, skills, prior experience in this field, and professional goals.

If you’re brand new to the field or don’t yet have a bachelor’s degree, then you may want to start with a degree such as CSU Global’s Bachelor’s Degree in Management Information Systems and Business Analytics. This degree program will set you up for success in entry-level roles, and put you on the path to a future career as a database administrator.

But if you already have experience working in database administration, or if you have a relevant bachelor’s degree and would like to advance your career to pursue leadership or management roles in the industry, then a master’s degree, such as CSU Global’s Master of Science in Data Analytics would be a better option for your specific goals.

If you’re still struggling with choosing between a bachelor’s or master’s degree, consider contacting an Enrollment Counselor by calling 800-462-7845, or by emailing enroll [at] csuglobal.edutarget=”_blank”.

What Can I Do With a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics?

Earning your Master’s Degree in Data Analytics can open the door to many different career fields pertaining to the use and analysis of data. This is a great field with many growth opportunities depending on where your interests lie.

Four specific roles with BLS-reported positive growth potential include:

This is only a small sample of some of the more popular job titles for professionals with Master’s Degrees in Data Analytics. In fact, your degree will qualify you for a much wider range of exciting jobs.

Is A Degree in Data Analytics Really Worth It?

Yes, earning your Master’s in Data Analytics is an excellent way to invest in yourself and your career goals.

Completing a degree program like the Master’s in Data Analytics offered at CSU Global is one of the best ways to gain the skills and technical expertise you need to drive success in organizations of all sizes, either as a database administrator or in some other related position. 

While it may feel like a big commitment, the dedication you put toward your degree program will allow you to develop the skills you need to become an effective database administrator, allowing you to pursue advanced industry roles and to achieve long-term success in your career.

Completing your Data Analytics degree will prepare you to contribute meaningfully to your workplace from the get-go, and the academic credentials that a master’s degree provides may make you more attractive to potential employers when you enter the workforce.

Can I Get My Master’s Degree in Data Analytics Online?

Yes, you can earn a Master’s Degree in Data Analytics online from a regionally accredited and widely respected institution like CSU Global.

Our accelerated online degree programs provide greater flexibility and freedom than a more traditional in-person degree program simply because our programs are designed entirely for online students.

We’ve designed our degree programs to fit around your life so that you can more easily juggle family and work commitments while you pursue your degree. To this end, we’ve built the following benefits directly into our program structure:

  • No set class times or locations.
  • Monthly class starts.
  • Accelerated, eight-week courses.

If you’re looking for a degree program that will help you succeed without completely disrupting your schedule, there is no better option than CSU Global.

What Makes CSU Global the Best School for Data Analytics?

CSU Global’s Master’s Degree in Data Analytics is an excellent option for anyone looking to develop the skills, abilities, and foundational knowledge needed to pursue a successful career as a database administrator.

Our Data Analytics Master’s program is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, and all of our instructors have direct, recent industry experience.

Our Master’s in Data Analytics program is so well-regarded that it was recently ranked the #3 Best Online Master’s Degree in Data Analytics by Best Masters Programs, and CSU Global itself also recently received a #3 ranking for Best Colleges in Colorado from Best Value Schools.

Should you choose to study Data Analytics with us, you’ll also have the option of earning up to four industry-leading SAS academic badges that are useful as stackable credentials which you can use to demonstrate your expertise in analytics.

Finally, CSU Global offers competitive tuition rates and a Tuition Guarantee to ensure your rate won’t increase as long as you remain enrolled and in good academic standing.

To get additional details about our fully-accredited, 100% online Master’s Degree program in Data Analytics, please give us a call at 800-462-7845, or fill out our Information Request Form.

Ready to get started today? Apply now!