Database Administrator

Credential:: certificate
Program length:: 40 weeks
Location:: Blended (Main Campus and Online)
International applicants:: Accepted PGWP eligible
Faculty:: School for Advanced Digital Technology

Credit credentials

A credit credential includes courses with post-secondary credit applied.

These credits will be used towards your specific program and may be accepted towards a credential at SAIT or a different post-secondary institution.

The credit credentials include a bachelor's degree, applied degree, diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate.

Bachelor Degree

SAIT has bachelor's degree programs in business, construction, and hospitality and tourism management.

Bachelor's degrees are generally four-year programs, but you have up to 10 academic years to complete your courses.

Applied Degree

SAIT's full-time applied degree programs involve one year of study through classes and lab work followed by one year of directed studies in a workplace setting. This builds on the completion of a recognized two-year diploma, which you must have to be admitted to an applied degree program.

You then have seven academic years to finish your applied degree, starting from the day you begin the first course in that program.

Diploma

At SAIT, over 40 full-time diploma programs cover a broad range of areas, from aircraft maintenance to travel and tourism.

Most diploma programs are completed in two years, though you can take up to seven academic years to complete the requirements.

Certificate

SAIT has several certificate programs in the sciences, health and trades.

These programs provide the essential skills to start a career but are shorter in length than SAIT's diploma programs - usually a year or less. However, you have up to five years to complete your program.

Post-Diploma Certificate

These programs build on skills developed through a diploma or degree program and combine classroom instruction with a workplace practicum.

They are often completed in a year or less.

Journeyperson

A certified journeyperson is recognized as a qualified and skilled person in a trade and is entitled to the wages and benefits associated with that trade. You must complete all apprenticeship periods and pass the exams to earn a journeyperson designation.

Non-credit credentials

A non-credit credential comprises courses and programs designed for professional or personal development.

Because these do not have post-secondary credits attached, they cannot be used towards any of the credentials above. We also cannot guarantee an external institute will accept these courses or credentials for transfer credit.

SAIT's non-credit certificates of achievement and completion are offered through Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

Certificate of Achievement

Certificates of achievement recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 144 (required and elective) course hours.

Certificates of achievement typically develop broader, complex skill sets. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began these programs before July 1, 2022, you still have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Certificate of Completion

Certificates of completion recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 30 to a maximum of 143 course hours.

These certificates are shorter in duration than certificates of achievement and offer a focused education program. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began before July 1, 2022, you will have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Professional Certificate

Program certificates recognize completion of a program that includes the formal evaluation of performance, and that is a minimum of one year in length.

These certificates have program-specific admission requirements.

Micro-credential

A micro-credential recognizes the completion of a non-credit course that includes a formal performance evaluation and verifies you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Micro-credentials focus on the mastery of specific skills. You receive a digital, shareable badge upon completing a SAIT micro-credential (SAITMicro).

Overview

A database administrator plays a crucial role in managing and maintaining databases within an organization. You ensure the availability, security, integrity and performance of the databases that store critical data.

This program may be for you if you have existing relational database knowledge and an interest in computers and information technology.

In this program, you will learn:

how to use database administration tools from industry leaders like Oracle and Microsoft and gain proficiency in managing databases on Windows and Linux platforms, commonly used in enterprise environments
how data is organized, structured and related within these databases
to design efficient and scalable database systems, master data modelling, and normalization techniques while creating database schemas that meet business requirements
how to create, design and optimize database systems for speed, responsiveness and scalability
to be proficient at ongoing database maintenance tasks
to implement robust backup and recovery plans to safeguard data integrity
to implement security measures to safeguard data from unauthorized access and security threats, a top priority for organizations to protect sensitive information.

Apply your knowledge and skills as a database system administrator to real-world computer science scenarios. Hands-on experience in a practicum placement will prepare you to tackle the challenges and complexities of database administration in actual work settings.

Database technology is continuously evolving. As a graduate, you will be well-prepared for a career in a dynamic field as an asset to organizations relying on data-driven decision-making.

Potential roles include Oracle database administrator, database developer, data analyst or database architect.

Those working in the database administration field tend to be innovative, methodical and directive.

You need:

to learn quickly, think logically and study information
to build abstract structures that represent complex relationships
to focus on details without losing sight of the whole
an awareness of legal, policy and privacy restrictions
speaking, listening and writing skills
to work on a team
an active interest in keeping up with changes in technology.

This program is designed for learners with existing IT literacy. We strongly recommend you have prior experience with relational databases (like Microsoft Access) and operating systems (like Linux/Unix, Windows.)

To do well in this field, you should enjoy working with a variety of people in a team setting and solving problems.

Due to the tight integration of the courses in the Database Administrator program, credit for prior learning is unavailable.

There may be opportunities to further your education once you graduate.

Learn more about program and institution transfer options.

During your final semester, you’ll participate in a practicum at a participating company, providing you with a realistic taste of the technology industry and the opportunity to network with a potential employer.

This program, offered in conjunction with the Oracle Workforce Development Program, includes core Oracle Education courses needed to challenge the Oracle Certified Professional Database Administrator designation.

With additional relevant work experience and exam preparation study, you will be prepared to successfully challenge and complete the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) Database Administration designation.

Upon successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a SAIT Database Administrator certificate.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Each year, SAIT conducts a survey between February and April to determine the employment rate, salary and satisfaction of our newest SAIT alumni.

people icon 100% graduate employment rate

Find out more about our graduate employment statistics >

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 21211, 21223.

Career counselling and support

Unsure which career path is for you? SAIT offers career planning services to help you decide your future.

You can also get started by taking our online career finder quiz, which can help you narrow down your search based on your current skills and interests.

Finally, you can also head to Alberta alis for various tools and resources, including additional quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a career path.

Services and workshops

Courses

The Database Administrator certificate requires 39 credits (18 courses) to complete.

The program spans 40 weeks, with three semesters.

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

Semester 1

Course code	Course name	Credit
CMPN-274	Oracle Architecture and Administration	3.0
CPLN-240	Career Planning and Management	1.5
CMPP-252	Oracle Fundamentals: SQL and PL/SQL	3.0
CMPP-267	Database Operating Systems Network Fundamentals	3.0
CMPP-273	Data Modelling and RDB Design	1.5
CMPP-278	Database Administration Project	6.0
PROJ-237	Project Management for DBA	1.5

Semester 2

Course code	Course name	Credit
CMPN-295	Oracle: Network Administration	1.5
CMPP-238	Scripting for Databases	1.5
CMPP-276	Data Warehousing and Mining	1.5
CMPP-277	Oracle: Backup and Recovery	3.0
CMPP-279	Oracle Performance and Tuning	1.5
CPRG-203	Microsoft SQL Server Database	1.5
CPRG-205	Linux Fundamentals	1.5
CPRG-206	Database Web Integration	1.5
CPRG-209	Database Skills in Unix/Linux	1.5
DBAD-205	Database Security Fundamentals	1.5

Semester 3

Course code	Course name	Credit
PRAC-249	Career Advancement Practicum	3.0
Program total		39.0

Course	Credits
This course is designed to give the Oracle Database Administrator a firm foundation in basic administrative tasks and provide the necessary knowledge and skills to set up, maintain and troubleshoot an Oracle database. This course uses Oracle-certified curriculum.	3
In this course, learners configure an Oracle database in a networked environment. Networking security risks and optional solutions are presented. In addition, learners are introduced to common errors and troubleshooting and debugging tools. This course uses Oracle-certified curriculum.	1.5
This course covers the basics of shell scripts for databases.	1.5
This course provides an extensive introduction to data server technology including relational databases and the SQL and PL/SQL programming languages. Learners are taught to create and maintain database objects and to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. In addition, learners create PL/SQL code. This course uses Oracle-certified curriculum.	3
This course introduces learners to network concepts, network designs, client/server configurations, system administration, networking and troubleshooting in Windows environments. Database concepts are explored using Microsoft Office Access.	3
This course covers Entity Relationship Modelling in detail through real-life examples, practical business problems and solutions. The second part of the course explores the design process and presents the considerations for creating a normalized, stable, maintainable and well-defined relational database.	1.5
Learners are introduced to the concepts and application of data warehousing and mining. Data warehousing and mining processes are explored. Various data mining techniques are examined, with a focus on business problem applications.	1.5
This course introduces learners to the critical task of planning and implementing database backup and recovery strategies. The course addresses backup and recovery techniques and examines various backup, failure, restore and recovery scenarios. This course uses Oracle-certified curriculum.	3
Learners conduct a system analysis, develop a project schedule, incorporate the components of a database and prepare a proposal.	6
Learners are introduced to the techniques used to improve the performance of the Oracle server. Learners use various tools to recognize, troubleshoot and resolve common performance-related problems in administering a database.	1.5
This course will include the skills required for career management, including resume and cover letter writing, job search strategies and interviewing skills.	1.5
This course provides learners the technical skills to program a database solution and write SQL queries. It also provides learners the knowledge and skills to install, configure, administer, and troubleshoot the client-server database management system of Microsoft® SQL Server™.	1.5
Learners are introduced to network concepts, designs, client/server configurations, system administration, networking and troubleshooting in Unix/Linux environments.	1.5
Learners will gain the knowledge and skills they need to create dynamic websites. After the course, learners will be able to explain and demonstrate the process of building a dynamic website and will also learn how to create a site that pulls content from a database. In addition, learners can create a web interface for the database involved, enabling data input without requiring any prior knowledge of Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) or database functionality. Equivalents: CMPP 281	1.5
Learners will receive an introduction to system administration and networking in a Unix environment. The emphasis is on aspects of the Unix operating system required for successful database administration, backup and security. Topics include customizing the login environment, standard Unix editors, Unix file system, device management, printers, backup and recovery tools, security, process control, Unix networking and shell programming. Equivalents: CMPP 275	1.5
This course offers learners an overall view of the importance of Database Security in the larger picture of IT.	1.5
This is a practicum conducted off campus at a participating corporation or business. It provides learners with a realistic taste of what it is like to work in the technology industry. Learners are involved in all steps of the practicum process.	3
Learners will be introduced to system analysis concepts and the project life cycle. Topics include planning and feasibility, project life cycle, cost-benefit analysis, requirements analysis and documentation, estimation and allocation of project resources and budgets.	1.5

Progression

Students must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better in each semester and pass the necessary prerequisite courses to progress through the program. To qualify for graduation, students must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and meet the following requirements or equivalents.

at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent OR
a minimum of two years of post-secondary education from a recognized university, institute or college.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English Language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find out what educational documents are accepted and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Available intakes

Fall 2024

Start dates:

Sep 03, 2024

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: June 28, 2024
International students: Closed: Application deadline: May 29, 2024

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5	$18,174	$1,840	$20,014
Total cost:				$20,014

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5	$29,718	$1,922.50	$31,640.50
Total cost:				$31,640.50

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a power-user hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.

Can’t find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they’re still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

2023/24 tuition and fees

The following costs are effective until June 30, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5	$17,823	$1,873	$19,696
Total cost:				$19,696

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5	$29,712.54	$1,873	$31,585.54
Total cost:				$31,585.54

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside the typical 15-week program.

2024/25 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

A breakdown of mandatory fees based on whether you are taking less than or more than nine credits per semester
SAIT fees	Less than 9 credits/semester	9 or more credits/semester
Campus athletic and recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.	$51.50	$103
Student support fee: supports services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including Career Advancement Services and Student Development and Counselling.	$53.75	$107.50
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance your experience.	$53.75	$107.50
UPass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Additional eligibility requirements apply to obtain a UPass.	n/a	$165
Saitsa fees
Saitsa fee: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of various student services, activities, and programming. Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.	$16.23/credit	$146 maximum
Health and dental plan: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits. In most cases, your fees are quoted based on paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt-out.	n/a	$91 for health $84 for dental

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

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Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the sadt.advising@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.

Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal.

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $150 for international applicants.

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Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

Database Administrator

On this page:

On this page:

Overview

Traits, skills and aptitudes

Academic path

Practicum, co-op and work integrated learning

Accreditations, designations and certifications

Credentials

Careers and opportunities

Career counselling and support

Courses

Required courses

CMPN 274 - Oracle Architecture and Administration Show details

CMPN 295 - Oracle: Network Administration Show details

CMPP 238 - Oracle Architecture and Administration Show details

CMPP 252 - Oracle Fundamentals: SQL and PL/SQL Show details

CMPP 267 - Database Operating Systems Network Fundamentals Show details

CMPP 273 - Data Modelling and RDB Design Show details

CMPP 276 - Data Warehousing and Mining Show details

CMPP 277 - Oracle: Backup and Recovery Show details

CMPP 278 - Database Administration Project Show details

CMPP 279 - Oracle Performance and Tuning Show details

CPLN 240 - Career Planning and Management Show details

CPRG 203 - Microsoft SQL Server Database Show details

CPRG 205 - Linux Fundamentals Show details

CPRG 206 - Database Web Integration Show details

Equivalents:

CPRG 209 - Database Skills in Unix/Linux Show details

Equivalents:

DBAD 205 - Database Security Fundamentals Show details

PRAC 249 - Career Advancement Practicum Show details

PROJ 237 - Project Management for DBA Show details

Progression

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants educated outside of Canada

Academic Upgrading

English language proficiency

Available intakes

Fall 2024

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

Domestic students

International students

Books and supplies

2023/24 tuition and fees

Domestic students

International students

Financial aid

Application process

Ready to apply?

Communication during admission

Begin your application

Information sessions

Subscribe for updates

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