Structured Query Language (SQL) is a high-demand skill across industries and professions, used to access and work with data in databases. Whether you're aspiring for a career in data science, analytics, or simply need to analyze data, understanding SQL can be a game-changer, with several online platforms offering in-depth SQL classes.
Key Insights
- SQL is a query-based programming language extensively utilized in database management systems by large corporations like Oracle and Microsoft, as well as smaller businesses. It’s characterized by its open-source nature, power, flexibility, and speed.
- The Udacity ‘Learn SQL’ program provides a comprehensive introduction to SQL, which involves working with basic SQL commands for data manipulation and selection, and later advances to complex tasks involving partitions, several window functions, or subqueries.
- Udemy's 'Build MySQL Databases Bootcamp' teaches students how to interact with and create their own databases. It provides instruction on writing complex SQL JOIN queries that can be used across multiple tables.
- Treehouse's 'SQL Basics' is a learning track designed for those interested in pursuing a career in data science or analytics. It focuses on the basics of SQL such as reading information, generating reports, and performing update or delete operations.
- DataCamp’s 'Introduction to SQL' is a brief course covering basic SQL practices and theory. It includes interactive exercises and short videos to help reinforce concepts.
- The 'Introduction to SQL Bootcamp' by Skillsoft aids students in creating a foundation of skills for effectively using SQL for data manipulation. It is intended for learners who work with data using Microsoft Excel.
A database is used to save information such as a Facebook user’s profile or personal information. SQL is a language that allows programmers to access and work with this data.
The American National Standards Institute classifies SQL as the standard language in database management systems in the US. Many companies such as Oracle, Ingres, and Microsoft, use SQL to power their databases. This language has applications beyond just those in big business; SQL is also popular among small businesses because it’s open-source software that provides users with a secure and convenient way to store, delete, or update information. Although SQL’s main applications are for database storage and retrieval, its capabilities extend far beyond these uses. SQL’s power, flexibility, and speed allow users to perform nearly any database task they need to. This is why those who have SQL training are in-demand across industries and professions.
The following sections will explore some on-demand SQL coursework to help you learn the skills needed to launch a career using this language.
#1: Udacity—Learn SQL
Those enrolled in Udacity’s introductory-level program Learn SQL become familiar with how to work with basic SQL commands for defining, manipulating, selecting, controlling, joining, aggregating, and accessing data and tables. Instruction is provided on how and when to use partitions, several window functions, or subqueries for complex tasks. Students also learn how to clean data and write advanced JOINs for better analysis. After becoming familiar with SQL basics, participants in this class move on to more advanced SQL concepts and skills, like using SQL’s Database Manipulation Language to transfer data from a denormalized schema into one that’s normalized. By course completion, those enrolled will know the differences between relational databases and non-relational databases and decide which one is most appropriate for a given task. Students work with Redis and MongoDB to better understand the variations in requirements and behaviors in non-relational databases.
Key Information
This class takes approximately two months for most learners to complete. Tuition is available for $399/month upfront for access to Udemy classes. Learners can also opt to pay $678 for two months of access, which is a 15% discount. Monthly payment plans are available as well. As a prerequisite to study, students are expected to have a basic understanding of data types such as integers and strings.
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Although this class is taught in the on-demand environment, the projects you complete will be reviewed in a timely manner by experienced reviewers. Those enrolled have access to real-time classroom support and access to career services included with tuition.
Graduates of this program have shared their reviews. One learner wrote, “This program is giving me many valuable skills that are immediately useful at my job. This has certainly unlocked a new career path for me.” Another student noted that “Overall, this program was excellent. I came away with a much better grasp of the subject matter and tangible skills and experience than I had expected going in. A third participant said, “Everything I learned about SQL was taught in a very structured and well-developed way.”
#2: Udemy—Build MySQL Databases Bootcamp: Go from SQL Beginner to Expert
Udemy’s Build MySQL Databases Bootcamp teaches students how to interact with databases as well as how to create their own databases. Those enrolled in this rigorous, on-demand course receive instruction on writing complex SQL JOIN queries that can be used across multiple tables. Students work with MySQL 8 Windows functions such as RANK, LEAD, and LAG. Instruction is offered on how to create reports in SQL and model real-world data. By the end of this class, students will be able to use data to answer questions pertaining to sales or company performance. They will also be familiar with MySQL 8.X syntax.
Key Information
The cost of study is $25. Participants can also purchase a personal plan that provides them with access to more than 8,000 Udemy courses, which is available for a monthly fee.
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This course provides learners with more than 36 hours of on-demand video content, as well as access to 278 articles and 7 downloadable resources. All graduates of this program are given a certificate of completion. Most learners can complete this program in approximately 40 hours.
Graduates of this class noted that “This course was great. Colt gives a lot of detailed information and breaks it down into small chunks with many exercises. I was very satisfied with what I got.” Another learner wrote, “Colt is a fantastic teacher. The way he structured the course made learning fluid. It was so natural that even MySQL seemed to be easy.” A third participant noted, “I loved the course. It has helped me learn many hard topics that would be hard to learn independently.”
#3: Treehouse—SQL Basics
Treehouse Tracks are guided curricula that include workshops, coursework, a learning library, and a Compass tool that helps students design a custom SQL curriculum. Treehouses’s 10-hour track SQL Basics is designed for those interested in pursuing a career in data science or analytics. Participants begin by studying the basics of SQL such as how it can be used to read information, generate reports, and update or delete operations. Instruction is provided on working with complex queries to join the data contained across multiple tables. By the completion of this class, students will be able to average values, count records, and execute a range of mathematical calculations on data.
Key Information
This learning Track takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Two payment plans are available for study. Learners can select the “Courses” package, which costs $25/month and provides access to Learning Tracks, the Treehouse library, the student forum, and quizzes. For $49/month, learners can access “Courses Plus, ” which offers additional conference sessions, career talks, and supplementary content on coding. “Techdegree” subscriptions are also available for $99/month; it offers additional curricula and project/peer reviews. An “Enterprise” subscription plan is also offered, with customized pricing options. A free trial is also available for those who wish to explore Treehouse courses before committing to a payment plan.
#4: DataCamp—Introduction to SQL
If you’re looking for a brief overview of SQL, DataCamp’s Introduction to SQL is available. This course covers basic SQL practices and theory and provides learners with interactive exercises and short videos to help reinforce concepts. This class begins with instruction on working with tables and organizing data. Students also learn best practices for constructing databases. The second half of this class progresses into more intermediate concepts such as how to create SQL queries to retrieve the data you need from a database. All learners have the opportunity to practice querying skills before they move on to customizing or saving results. The final lesson in this class covers the differences between two popular flavors of SQL, PostgreSQL and SQL Server. Students study the benefits and applications of each, as well as the main differences.
Key Information
Learners can start this class for free by enrolling on DataCamp’s website. For those interested in a full course of study, monthly subscription plans are available from DataCamp for $12/month for individuals and teams. No prerequisites are required for this beginner-level class. It takes approximately two hours to complete all lessons.
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Those who successfully completed this class left their reviews online. One learner wrote that this was “A very good course.” Another said, “Concepts were introduced and explored to just the right degree for someone to get a basic understanding of SQL.” A third participant wrote, “It was easy to pick up, and the course was not loaded with too much content.”
#5: Skillsoft—Introduction to SQL Bootcamp
Skillsoft’s Introduction to SQL Bootcamp helps students create a foundation of skills for effectively using SQL to manipulate data. Instruction is provided on how to combine and import multiple types of data, how to describe various data structures, and how to perform data manipulation to uncover new insights in the information. This program is geared toward learners who work with data using Microsoft Excel. Learners also learn how to establish database connections, explain entity-relationship schemas and diagrams, work with DDL commands, and use a range of SQL commands for data manipulation.
Key Information
This class takes approximately 10 hours to complete. Price plans for individuals are $19/month. Team subscriptions are also available for $45/month. No prerequisites are required for this bootcamp, but all participants must have a functioning MySQL setup. A free trial is also available for those interested in learning more before committing to a subscription.
#6: LinkedIn Learning—SQL Essential Training (2019)
If you’re interested in learning essential SQL concepts and skills, LinkedIn Learning’s SQL Essential Training (2019) provides instruction on this widely used programming language. The lessons taught in this on-demand class were recorded using SQLiteStudio, which is an easy-to-install, user-friendly database manager. The instructor provides training in major SQL skills such as how to define relationships, create tables, work with strings, numbers, and dates, and apply triggers to automate actions. Participants also learn how to efficiently retrieve and manage data using SQL. The last chapter of this class provides learners with a real-world example of how to use SQL to create a basic application.
Key Information
This class takes approximately three hours to complete. Two price packages are available for those interested in taking this class. Learners who wish to have access to LinkedIn Learning’s classes for an entire year can do so for $19/month. Those who wish only to purchase a month of access will pay $39. A free trial is also available from LinkedIn Learning. Those who subscribe to LinkedIn Learning have access to over 20,000 courses in SQL and other topics.
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Those who graduate from this course are given a certificate of completion that can be included on their LinkedIn profile under “Licenses and Certificates, ” as well as a PDF version for their own records.
Students who already took SQL Essential Training (2019) wrote that it was “a good refresher of SQL basics” and that it was taught at “a good pace for beginners.” Another learner noted, “Bill Weinman’s SQL Essential course is my go-to place for an SQL refresher.”
#7: Udemy—The Complete SQL Bootcamp: Go from Zero to Hero
The Complete SQL Bootcamp is available from Udemy for those interested in taking their SQL skills to the next level. Coursework comprises 83 short lectures spread out over 12 lessons. Through on-demand video content, examples, and quizzes, those enrolled in this class learn how to read and create complex queries with PostgreSQL. These skills can be applied to other SQL databases such as Amazon Redshift, MySQL, and Microsoft SQL Server. Instruction is provided on using PgAdmin and using aggregate functions with GROUP BY commands to analyze data. Students also become familiar with how to run advanced queries with comparison operations and string operations. Coursework covers working with common SQL JOIN commands, creating databases with constraints on data entries, and using Python to continue to advance SQL skills. Learners set up and restore databases themselves in this class rather than watch someone else write code. This program is intended for anyone interested in learning about basic data analysis, as well as how to work with SQL and PostgreSQL.
Key Information
This class takes approximately 9 hours to complete for most learners. The cost of study is $189. No prerequisites are required for study.
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Tuition includes 9 hours of on-demand video content, access to 14 articles, and 13 resources that learners can download to continue with their SQL studies. All participants receive a certificate of completion for finishing this class.
Those who already graduated shared their reviews online. One student noted, “This course is really good and well explained, especially for beginners. I definitely recommend it to anyone who needs to learn SQL from scratch.” Another wrote, “This class was designed in a way that kept me engaged. The instructor clearly explained the concepts and provided examples that made it easy to understand.” A third graduate said, “All concepts were explained in an easy-to-understand manner for people across any domain.”
#8: Datacamp—Introduction to SQL Server
Those interested in learning SQL basics can do so in Datacamp’s Introduction to SQL Server. This course teaches participants SQL basics, like using SELECT statements to retrieve data and using SQL Server’s aggregate functions. Students also learn to retrieve data from multiple sources and manipulate text fields. Instruction is offered on how to use HAVING and GROUP BY to execute more meaningful aggregation. The final chapter of this class prepares students to create and insert data into existing tables. Those enrolled work with a digital mediate database to review trends and sales rates, as well as to explore various data scenarios and types.
Key Information
This four-hour on-demand class provides participants with 13 videos and 46 exercises. Students can purchase a premium individual subscription for a full year of access to Datacamp for $149. This provides access to more than 400 courses.
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All learners are given a certificate of completion for successfully finishing this class. Those who already graduated left online reviews and noted that this class provided a “good introduction to content” and that “concepts were well explained for quick understanding.”
#9: Pluralsight—Introduction to SQL
Pluralsight Introduction to SQL offers beginner-friendly, on-demand content for those interested in learning how to work with this querying language. Participants in this program begin by learning SQL basics such as how to perform data querying and shape results. Instruction is provided on how to create and modify the data contained in tables, as well as how to modify the entire table. Course content covers how to use SELECT statements to query data, as well as how to use WHERE clauses to filter results. Students learn to shape results using GROUP BY and ORDER BY, as well as how to match various data tables using JOINs. By course completion, all students will have a working knowledge of core SQL concepts, as well as how to create or use a relational database. Introduction to SQL is intended for anyone interested in pursuing a career in data science or seeking the skills to manipulate data.
Key Information
This program takes approximately three hours for most learners to complete. Following a free trial window, the cost of study in this course is $14/month. Although there are no formal prerequisites, it is helpful for students to have a basic understanding of computer programming before they begin this class.
#10: LinkedIn Learning—SQL for Non-Programmers
SQL for Non-Programmers is available from LinkedIn Learning. This class is intended for those who’d like to learn more about SQL but aren’t certain where to start. This introductory-level course teaches participants core SQL concepts such as how relational databases are designed. Students also learn to create basic SELECT statements using proper filtering and joins. Instruction is provided on what SQL Server is and what it’s primarily used for. Participants study how relational database tables relate to one another via primary, surrogate, and foreign keys. By course completion, students will understand how AND and OR logic can be applied to filtering queries on multiple data points, as well as how to work with INNER and OUTER joins subqueries.
Key Information
SQL for Non-Programmers takes about 1.5 hours to complete. This course is available for $24.
More Details
In addition to 18 course videos, all learners have access to four chapter quizzes included with tuition. Those who successfully graduate from this course are given a certificate of competition, which they can add to their LinkedIn profile under the “Licenses and Certificates” section. This certificate can also be downloaded and printed to showcase the skills learned in this course. This class comes with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Graduates of this class have shared their reviews online. One learner wrote that this is a “great course for beginners or as a supplement to an SQL college course.” Another noted that they would “highly recommend this class for all database users, especially highly visual learners. The data used was relevant.” A third participant noted that the program was “very good for beginners because it was easy to follow and very clear examples were provided.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an On-demand SQL Class Worth It?
Although learning SQL is an in-demand skill across industries and professions, the training format you choose to study this querying language will play an integral role in the quality of instruction you receive. Some learners thrive in the live study environment, either in the in-person classroom or in a virtual room with access to an instructor in real time. However, live training requires committing to attending classes that meet at a regularly scheduled time, which may be prohibitive for some learners such as those who need to balance SQL study with full-time work and family commitments. For self-motivated learners who wish to have the flexibility of completing SQL study on their own time, at their own pace, and from any location, on-demand coursework provides a great alternative.
One important consideration when selecting a training format is your ultimate goals for learning SQL. If you hope to acquire this programming language to perform basic tasks, you may not require as rigorous a training format as an in-person certificate program. However, if you need to learn SQL to complete a project at work or for career advancement, you may require a more structured learning format than on-demand study can provide. Since self-paced materials are pre-recorded, they don’t provide learners with access to a live instructor. This can make it challenging to master advanced SQL concepts since there will be no instructor available to answer questions. This is why on-demand SQL coursework is a good starting point for those seeking an overview of this language or a basic understanding of querying concepts. However, for more comprehensive SQL training, you may need to invest in a more structured learning path such as that which is offered through live coursework.
What Will I Need for an On-demand SQL Class?
If you’re interested in studying SQL in the in-demand format, you may wonder what tools you’ll need to work with this language. Because on-demand training content is pre-recorded and available online, those who choose to learn in this environment must have a computing device with a reliable internet connection. You’ll also need to download database software before you can work with SQL. This involves selecting which SQL Server you’d like to work with. Some learners may wish to download Microsoft SQL Server. Interested learners can also purchase Amazon Azure or another server. Both on-premise and cloud-based options are available. In addition, those interested in learning SQL basics can practice this language online without downloading database software.
Can I Learn SQL On-demand for Free?
Free on-demand SQL training materials are available from many educators and online resources. Some free material is available through YouTube videos or channels; other is posted online in the form of tutorials. Content is available that’s relatively short in duration and focuses on one specific SQL skill such as working with filters. These training materials take only several minutes to complete. Other free online SQL content is more comprehensive and may include an overview of this programming language, which can span hours. If you’re looking to study SQL, you may wonder if this sort of content will suffice to teach you the skills you need.
Free, on-demand SQL material is a good starting point for learners who are interested in studying SQL basics such as learning what this language’s primary uses are. It can also provide learners with an understanding of relational databases, which is helpful for SQL study. Since there is no cost associated with study, it provides a low-stakes way to begin working with SQL. However, a more structured educational course may be needed if you need to learn SQL for professional reasons such as to advance in your current job or to pursue a new career path. Since no instructor is available for on-demand material, learners aren’t able to ask questions. This can make it challenging for some students to acquire advanced SQL knowledge simply from pre-recorded material. Live, instructor-led courses also ensure that the material you are learning is up-to-date, so you’re sure to get relevant SQL training.
Is It Better to Learn SQL in a Live or Self-paced Class?
Once you decide to learn SQL, you may wonder whether it’s more effective to study this querying language through live coursework or self-paced study. Live SQL instruction is available in two formats: in-person and online. Both live training options allow participants to communicate directly with an expert instructor who is teaching the class in real-time. Live coursework allows students to ask questions as necessary, receive clarification or guidance on complex coding concepts, and connect with other learners who are attending the class. This training format is an excellent option for extroverted learners who seek to study SQL in an engaging, interactive format. Live SQL classes are available for learners who are just starting to work with SQL, as well as intermediate learners and advanced students interested in mastering complex programming skills.
Although live study options sometimes cost more than on-demand coursework, some provide additional benefits such as the option of a free course retake, one-on-one mentoring, supplementary training materials, or professional development instruction. Both in-person and live online SQL classes require that participants be able to attend regularly scheduled class meetings. This may make them prohibitive for those who have a busy work schedule and cannot commit to attending recurring class meetings. In addition, in-person SQL study also requires committing to and from class, which means that participants must live near a learning facility. These are often located in major cities. This may make in-person study challenging for those who live in rural areas or don’t have access to reliable transportation. In-person study also has the added cost associated with commuting and parking.
Some students opt to learn SQL in the self-paced format rather than studying it through live training. On-demand SQL content is pre-recorded. This means that learners can access it from any location at any time of the day. Learners can select from long classes that provide hours of video content and tutorials on the basics of SQL and relational databases. They can also opt for shorter training options such as YouTube videos that only take five minutes to watch and teach a specific SQL skill such as printing a report. Students can complete lessons at their own pace, revisit tricky concepts, and pause and rewind material as often as necessary. Entire lessons can even be rewatched for maximum comprehension. On-demand study is the most flexible learning option because it doesn’t require students to attend class at a specific time. Learners can complete lessons while at the airport, coffee shop, or between work meetings. There is no need to waste time and money traveling to class since the material is all available online.
Often, self-paced SQL study is the most affordable way to learn this language; some educators even provide free training materials. Because so much on-demand content is available online, it’s essential to select the most current materials for your study and to ensure that they are at your skill level. If you choose to learn in the asynchronous environment, it’s important to consider that you will not have access to a live instructor. For self-motivated learners, this may be fine. However, if you’re interested in learning SQL for professional reasons, you may need to learn this language in a more structured environment in which you have access to an instructor and can ask questions. This is why on-demand coursework is generally a good starting place for learning SQL, but to really master this language, live training may be more effective.