Database Administrators
Database administrators create and maintain computer database systems.
Database administrators use database management systems software. This software allows them to organize, store, and retrieve data.
Database Administrators are in the Information Technology career cluster and the Network Systems pathway.
Quick Facts
Wages: |
Well above the statewide median
$37.87 / hour Read more about wages |
Outlook: |
Percent Growth
21.7% Well above statewide average Read more about outlook |
Education & Training: |
Bachelor's degree is common. |
On the Job: |
Work Activities
Assess your skills |
Job Title Examples: |
Database Administration Manager,
Database Coordinator,
Information Systems Manager
See more job title examples |
Source: Minnesota Department of Education, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, and CareerOneStop.
Wages & Outlook
Wages
Wages vary by the administrator's education and experience. The size and location of the work place also affect wages.
Database administrators usually receive benefits. Typical benefits include sick leave, paid vacation, and health insurance. Many companies also offer a retirement plan.
View the Regional Wage Comparison Chart for:
Employment
In Minnesota, about 2,870 database administrators work in this small occupation.
Major employers:
- Computer systems design companies
- Finance and insurance agencies
- Information services companies
Outlook
Business growth will continue to increase the demand for people who can work with databases. For example, the growth of the Internet will increase the demand for database administrators. Many businesses sell products through the Internet. They use databases to gather and store customer and product information. Database administrators will also be needed to create databases for use within organizations. This is especially true for the healthcare industry as the use of electronic medical records increases.
Database administrators with experience in computer security will be in great demand. Job opportunities should be excellent for workers in this industry.
| Employment | Employment Change | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| Minnesota | 2,069 | 2,518 | 449 | 21.7% |
| 2010 | 2020 | Number | Percent | |
| Central Minnesota | 53 | 70 | 17 | 32.1% |
| Northeast Minnesota | 44 | 52 | 8 | 18.2% |
| Northwest Minnesota | 34 | 39 | 5 | 14.7% |
| Southeast Minnesota | 105 | 132 | 27 | 25.7% |
| Southwest Minnesota | 35 | 37 | 2 | 5.7% |
| Seven County Mpls-St Paul, MN | 1,811 | 2,192 | 381 | 21% |
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
On the Job
Overview
Database administrators create and maintain computer database systems.
Databases are software systems that contain complex records of information. For example, companies that sell items on the Internet or through catalogs often keep databases with information about their customers. One table might contain the address of each customer. Another table might contain a list of the items each customer bought. A third table might contain information about which customers have paid their bills. The tables are all related to one another so users can run a "search" to find the information they want. For example, users could search the database to find out how many customers they have from a particular state.Database administrators use database management systems software. This software allows them to organize, store, and retrieve data. Administrators sometimes develop new databases for clients. They begin these projects by talking to clients to learn about their database needs. Based on these conversations or written project requests, administrators estimate the time and cost required to finish the project. If the project is approved, administrators develop a data model. This model lists the data elements and how they are used.
Some database administrators do not write the code for databases. Instead, they supervise the computer programmers who write the code and monitor their progress. They test how well the databases work and make suggestions for changes. Once databases are finished, administrators teach people how to use them.
Database administrators also make changes to existing databases. They read documentation about the databases to learn or remember why they are set up as they are. Then they make the changes or direct programmers to make them. Many administrators plan and set up computer security systems. They write procedures and technical manuals.
Database administrators must be familiar with many types of computers and operating systems. These include mainframes, Windows, and UNIX systems. They may work with databases such as Oracle, Ingres, and Access. Because database technology changes quickly, administrators must keep their skills and knowledge up to date. They attend classes and read magazines to learn more.
Work Activities
The following list of occupational tasks is specific to this career.
- Talk to users to learn what they need from databases.
- Develop guidelines for software use, purchase, and protection.
- Plan and supervise the installation and testing of database systems.
- Monitor database performance.
- Train users and answer questions.
- Develop data models and review workflow charts.
- Organize data into groups so it can be analyzed or managed.
- Write technical descriptions and instructions for use of databases.
- Research and set up computer security procedures.
- Find ways to make different database products work together and fit specific needs.
- Coordinate maintenance of databases.
- Direct and review procedures for updating and making changes to databases.
- Estimate the time and costs needed to carry out projects.
- Work as part of a database development team.
- Advise management on industry database trends.
People in this career perform the following list of tasks, but the tasks are common to many occupations.
- Use computers.
- Process information.
- Analyze data or information.
- Get information needed to do the job.
- Document and record information.
- Make decisions and solve problems.
- Organize, plan, and prioritize work.
- Communicate with supervisors, peers, or subordinates.
- Update and use job-related knowledge.
- Provide advice and consultation to others.
- Evaluate information against standards.
- Monitor events, materials, and surroundings.
- Think creatively.
- Explain the meaning of information to others.
- Teach others.
- Establish and maintain relationships.
- Identify objects, actions, and events.
- Coach others.
- Develop goals and strategies.
- Develop and build teams.
Working Conditions
In a typical work setting, people in this career:
- Have a high level of social contact. They talk to coworkers and clients throughout the day.
- Work as part of a team. This is important when developing databases.
- Communicate with coworkers daily by telephone, e-mail, and in person.
- Write letters and memos daily.
- Are somewhat responsible for the work done by other administrators and computer support employees.
- Always work indoors.
- Are sometimes exposed to sounds and noise levels that are distracting and uncomfortable.
- Must be exact in their work and be sure all details are done. Serious results may occur if database administrators and their staff make mistakes. Deadlines may be missed and projects may cost a company more money to finish.
- Repeat the same physical and mental activities. This is very important when working at the computer.
- Must meet weekly and monthly deadlines.
- Can make most decisions and set most tasks without talking to a supervisor.
- Make decisions monthly that affect the financial resources of the company.
- Work a regular schedule.
- Usually work more than 40 hours per week.
Interpersonal Relationships
Physical Work Conditions
Work Performance
Hours/Travel
Physical Demands
In a typical work setting, people in this career:
- Sit for long periods of time.
- Repeat the same movements.
- Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.
- See details of objects that are less than a few feet away.
- Speak clearly so listeners can understand.
- Understand the speech of another person.
- See details of objects that are more than a few feet away.
- See differences between colors, shades, and brightness.
- Use fingers to grasp, move, or assemble very small objects.
People in this career frequently:
It is important for people in this career to be able to:
It is not as important, but still necessary, for people in this career to be able to:
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
Education & Training
Preparation
To work as a database administrator, you typically need to:
- have a high school diploma or GED;
- have a bachelor's degree; and
- have one to five years of related work experience.
Education after high school
A bachelor's degree is the preferred level of education for this occupation. Many database administrators have their degree in computer science, information science, or management information systems (MIS). A master's in business administration (MBA) paired with computer courses is also a good way to prepare.
Work experience
Most database administrators have one to five years of work experience. You can gain experience through computer jobs, learning new skills at each one. Eventually, you have enough knowledge to move into a database administration position.
You should consider participating in an internship while in college. An internship is usually part of a four-year degree program. It offers you a chance to apply what you have learned in the classroom to a work situation. It also allows you to build skills and make contacts with people in the field.
On-the-job training
Some new administrators receive on-the-job training. The length of training varies by employer. In general, administrators receive up to one year of training. During this period you work under the guidance of experienced database administrators. In large companies, you may also get formal classroom training. You receive greater independence and increased responsibility as you gain knowledge and experience.
Because of the fast changing nature of this field, employers often offer training in the newest computer technologies and applications.
Military training
Some branches of the military train people to be computer systems specialists. Training lasts from seven to 13 weeks, depending on your specialty. Additional training occurs on the job.
Related Programs (Current training programs available)
- Computer and Information Sciences, General
- Data Modeling/Warehousing and Database Administration.
- Computer and Information Systems Security
Fields of Study (What to study to prepare for this career)
Click on any of the Fields of Study listed below to find out more about preparing for this career.
- Bioinformatics
- Computer Programming
- Computer Science
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Computer Systems Networking and Administration
- Database Administration
- Digital Communication and Media
- Electronic Commerce
- Information Science
- Logistics and Materials Management
- Management Information Systems
- Medical Informatics
Level of Education
The table below lists the level of education attained by a subset of workers in this occupation. The workers surveyed were between age 25 and 44.
| Education level attained | Percentage of workers in this occupation* |
|---|---|
| Less than high school diploma | 0 |
| High school diploma or equivalent | 5 |
| Some college, no degree | 17 |
| Associate degree | 10 |
| Bachelor's degree | 46 |
| Master's degree | 20 |
| Doctoral (Ph.D.) or professional degree | 2 |
* National data for database administrators (SOC 15-1141).
Helpful High School Courses
You should take a general high school curriculum that meets the state's graduation requirements. You will be required to take both math and science classes to graduate.
Helpful electives to take in high school that prepare you for this occupation include:
- Computer Applications
- Computer Programming
- Computer Science
- Keyboarding
- Network Technology
The courses listed above are meant to help you create your high school plan. If you have not already done so, talk to a school counselor or parent about the courses you are considering taking.
You should also check with a teacher or counselor to see if work-based learning opportunities are available in your school and community. These might include field trips, job shadowing, internships, and actual work experience. The goal of these activities is to help you connect your school experiences with real-life work.
Join some groups, try some hobbies, or volunteer with an organization that interests you. By participating in activities you can have fun, make new friends, and learn about yourself. Maybe one of them will help direct you to a future career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
Skills
People in this career need to:
- Listen to others, understand, and ask questions.
- Express ideas clearly when speaking or writing.
- Read and understand written information.
- Combine several pieces of information and draw conclusions.
- Use reasoning to discover answers to problems.
- Analyze ideas and use logic to determine their strengths and weaknesses.
- Identify problems and review information. Develop, review, and apply solutions.
- Notice when something is wrong or is likely to go wrong.
- Develop rules or follow guidelines for arranging items.
- Judge the costs and benefits of a possible action.
- Determine how a system should work. Identify ways to measure and improve performance.
- Identify ways to measure and improve system performance.
- Think of new ideas or original and creative ways to solve problems.
- Choose a mathematical method or formula to solve problems.
- Check how well one is learning or doing something.
- Manage the time of self and others.
- Be aware of others' reactions and change behavior in relation to them.
- Use several methods to learn or teach new things.
- Write computer programs.
- Identify a pattern (a figure, object, word, or sound) that is hidden in distracting material.
Communicate
Reason and Problem Solve
Use Math and Science
Manage Oneself, People, Time and Things
Work with People
Work with Things
Perceive and Visualize
Knowledge
People in this career need knowledge in the following areas:
- Computers and Electronics: Knowledge of computer hardware and software.
- Customer and Personal Service: Knowledge of providing special services to customers based on their needs.
- English Language: Knowledge of the meaning, spelling, and use of the English language.
- Mathematics: Knowledge of the rules and uses of numbers. Areas of knowledge include arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and statistics.
- Clerical: Knowledge of general office work such as filing and recording information.
Interests
People in this career are people who tend to:
- Consider good working conditions important. They like jobs offering steady employment and good pay. They want employment that fits their individual work style. They may prefer doing a variety of tasks, working alone, or being busy all the time.
- Consider support from their employer important. They like to be treated fairly and have supervisors who will back them up. They prefer jobs where they are trained well.
- Consider achievement important. They like to see the results of their work and to use their strongest abilities. They like to get a feeling of accomplishment from their work.
- Consider recognition important. They like to work in jobs which have opportunities for them to advance, be recognized for their work, and direct and instruct others. They usually prefer jobs in which they are looked up to by others.
- Have conventional interests. They like work activities that follow set procedures, routines, and standards. They like to work with data and detail. They prefer working where there is a clear line of authority to follow.
- Have investigative interests. They like work activities that have to do with ideas and thinking. They like to search for facts and figure out solutions to problems mentally.
Source: Minnesota Department of Education.
Tools & Technology for Database Administrators
Tools
Desktop computers
| Notebook computers
|
Technology
Access software
| Enterprise application integration software
|
Licensing / Certification
Certification is optional for database administrators. It is sometimes required for employment and can be helpful for advancement.
Many computer hardware and software manufacturers offer certification courses for their products. Several organizations offer certification in business information systems, data management, or programming languages.
Certification Details
Certifications are examinations that test or enhance your knowledge, experience or skills in an occupation or profession.
There are 145 certifications related to this career.
Licensing Details
No State of Minnesota license requirements are found for this career.
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and CareerOneStop.
Jobs
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Hiring Practices
Employers prefer applicants who have knowledge of and experience with computer systems. Many employers look for applicants who have a bachelor's degree in computer science or information science. Employers also look for business experience and good communication skills.
Some companies look for people who can use new technologies. In addition to programming or business skills, employers want people who are creative. Some employers look for applicants who can use specific types of hardware and software.
A growing number of database administrators work on a contract or temporary basis. Many work independently or are self-employed as consultants. Companies may hire people with the exact skills they need to carry out a specific project. These projects may last from several months to several years.
Advancement Opportunities
Entry-level database administrators start with small projects. As they gain experience they work on more difficult projects and have more responsibility. Some database administrators become consultants. Others may move into marketing and sales jobs or management positions.
Certification can help administrators move ahead. Taking classes and keeping skills current are also very important in this occupation. Database administrators need to be aware of changes in technology. Some organizations pay for employees to attend workshops and conferences. They may also provide in-house training sessions.
Job Title Examples
Database Administration Manager, Database Coordinator, Information Systems Manager, Management Information Systems Director (MIS Director), Systems Manager, Database Analyst, Database Programmer, Programmer Analyst
Similar Careers
Below are careers similar to Database Administrators you may be interested in reading about.
If you are looking to broaden your job search,
these careers require similar skills. Click on the names to link to their career profile.
Computer Operators
Computer Programmers
Computer Security Specialists
Computer Support Specialists
Computer Systems Administrators
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Related Industries
Below are industries related to Database Administrators you may be interested in reading about. Employers in these industries typically hire
Database Administrators. Click on the names to link to their industry profile.
Banking And Finance
Business Management And Support Services
Computers And Electronic Products
Education
Engineering, Accounting, And Architecture
Health Care Services
Hospitals
Information And Internet Services
Insurance
Investments
Legal Services
Machinery Manufacturing
Mining And Quarrying
Motion Pictures And Sound Recording
Paper Products
Professional And Consulting Services
Research And Development
Software And Computer Services
Telecommunications
Wholesale Trade
Source: Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development and Minnesota Department of Education.
