SQL is considered the language of databases because it helps data professionals retrieve necessary information from a database that can then be analyzed. SQL is also useful for managing a vast amount of data, particularly in instances in which a significant amount of data is being written simultaneously and many data transactions are occurring. This coding language is used by a range of data professionals such as Data Scientists and Data Analysts, to perform daily tasks like updating, inserting, or deleting database records, retrieving information from databases, and executing queries against a database. It also can delete the records contained in a database, set permissions on views, procedures, and tables, and create stored views or procedures. SQL also can be used to create an entirely new database or to add a table to an already existing one. Those with SQL training are in high demand across industries and professions and are generally well-paid for their programming expertise.
Enroll in In-Person SQL Classes
An excellent way to learn SQL is to enroll in in-person study. If you’re the kind of learner who thrives in the traditional classroom setup, in-person study affords you the opportunity to connect with other students on the same SQL learning path. Not only is this a great opportunity for professional networking, but it also can make learning feel more collaborative and engaging. In addition to providing a way to connect with other learners, in-person SQL coursework also provides all students with access to an expert instructor. The instructor shares their industry experience working with this programming language and provides instruction on current best practices using real-world examples and datasets. Because the instructor is readily available and leads class lessons, students can ask questions at any point and receive clarification on complicated programming skills. This training format is one of the most effective ways to learn SQL and commit these skills to memory.
In-person SQL courses are available for learners at all levels. If you’re new to working with programming languages, you can select from introductory-level classes that provide basic SQL instruction. Intermediate-level coursework is offered for those who already have SQL basics under their belt but need to take their skill set further. Advanced coursework is also offered in the in-person learning environment; for those looking to learn SQL for professional advancement, bootcamps and certificates are a great option. All learners who opt for in-person study have access to a computer with the most up-to-date SQL learning tools and database software already installed.
In-person SQL study requires that students attend courses that meet at regularly scheduled intervals at a physical location. Most in-person SQL study occurs in a computer lab in or near a major city or a university. This means that those who’d like to learn in this format must commit to attending these sessions. This may mean needing to take off work to budget time for study. It also means that learners likely will need to live near an educational provider and have reliable transportation. In-person study is often the most expensive form of SQL training, partly because it also requires that students pay the cost of commuting, which can involve parking fees and gas.Â
Attend Live Online SQL Classes
In addition to in-person study options, those seeking an interactive educational experience can study SQL in the live online training format. Students in live online classes typically meet with their instructor using a teleconferencing platform like Zoom. This real-time connection provides many of the same learning benefits as in-person study. Participants can ask any questions they have in real time and receive an immediate answer. They also can interact with other learners in their class, either through in-class discussions or through chat features on the platform. For those who require additional help mastering SQL concepts, the instructor can even share their screen if given permission.
One of the main perks of live online study is that there’s no need to commute to and from class for every meeting. Instead, students can complete SQL studies from the comfort of their home or office space or from any location with a secure internet connection. This makes live online training a good option for those who may not live near an education facility or a big city or who don’t have reliable transportation options to attend meetings.
Just like in-person study, a range of coursework is available in the live online format. Students can select from basic, introductory-level SQL courses, as well as intermediate and advanced classes. Some study options take only one day to complete, whereas others are more rigorous and may require weeks of participation. Bootcamps and certificate programs are often available in the live online format as well. Some in-person courses are also available in the live online format, and learners can opt for the learning experience most suited to their learning needs.
If you’re interested in learning SQL through live online coursework, it’s important to remember that these classes still require participants to meet for class at regularly scheduled times. This may require taking off work or rearranging professional commitments to accommodate study. In addition, since all learning occurs remotely, students must have their own computer available with the appropriate database software installed.
Sign up for On-Demand Online SQL Classes
If you’re seeking online learning options for SQL study, another option is on-demand coursework. Whereas live online training meets at regularly scheduled intervals and connects students with an instructor in real-time, self-paced material is pre-recorded. This means that content like YouTube videos, online tutorials and blogs, and quizzes were uploaded at an earlier time, and those completing the class can access them. On-demand study is the most flexible way to learn SQL. Unlike in-person training, it requires no commute to class. In addition, learners don’t have to rearrange their work or personal schedules to learn SQL. They can complete lessons at any time of the day, any day of the week, and from any location with a stable internet connection.
One of the main benefits of asynchronous SQL study materials is that they can be paused, rewound, and watched as often as necessary. This helps learners retain the information they are taught. It also provides the time needed to practice any skills that are being shared. In addition, students can decide their own learning pace for study. Those with a busy week at work may only have an hour on Monday night to complete SQL training, whereas others may have a full day to devote to their studies. No formal deadlines are required in this learning format, which grants students the freedom to dictate their own learning schedule. Since self-paced study does not provide learners with a live environment where other students are completing coursework at the same time, it can be difficult for some learners to motivate themselves in this format. For this reason, on-demand content is most suited for self-motivated individuals who are able to complete training without the support of other learners.
A range of self-paced content is available online. Students can select short videos that cover just one SQL skill such as how to work with inner JOINs, and learn how to perform this task in minutes. On the other hand, they can opt for courses that take days, weeks, or even months to complete and offer a more robust overview of this language and its many capabilities. Generally, on-demand SQL coursework is a more affordable learning option than in-person or live online classwork. Some content is even available for free from reputable educators like Coursera and Udemy. It is, therefore, an appealing option to those who want to study SQL but aren’t ready to invest thousands of dollars in coursework. It also provides an option to study the exact SQL skills you need without having to waste time on other topics that you may already know.
Because so much online content is available on programming languages like SQL, it can be challenging to select that which reflects the most current best practices. This is why when you choose an on-demand class, it’s essential to research the provider to ensure content is up-to-date. This may require an internet search, reading student reviews from those who have already completed study, and looking for sample lessons and syllabi on the providers’ websites.Â
Another important factor to consider with self-paced material is that no instructor is available. This means that students will have to find the answers to their SQL questions on their own rather than asking for guidance. This may mean having to reach out to colleagues, friends, or others who have a background in SQL. In addition, online communities are available that provide a range of answers to SQL-related questions. However, having no access to an instructor can make it challenging for some students to master advanced SQL skills. This is why self-paced material is generally a good starting point for learning SQL. For those interested in extending their studies beyond a basic overview of databases and this querying language, more structured coursework may be a better option. In particular, individuals who are interested in acquiring specific SQL knowledge for professional reasons or career advancement may benefit more from learning this language in the live format.
Watch Free SQL TutorialsÂ
Free SQL tutorials provide an additional learning option for those interested in studying SQL. Because SQL is such a widely popular programming language for those who work with databases, there is a plethora of free online content devoted exclusively to this language, as well as how it can be used alongside other tools like Tableau and Excel for data analytics. Free online tutorials provide a low-stakes way to explore SQL and learn about this language’s range of capabilities. Since they require no financial investment, free online content allows those at all experience levels to explore SQL and gain practice with it. Since free SQL tutorials contain only pre-recorded material, you can study programming from any location and devote as little or as much time to learning SQL as your schedule permits. You will never have to take off work or cancel travel plans to fit in free SQL tutorials.
If you choose to study SQL with free content like tutorials, YouTube videos, or other online content, it’s imperative to research the materials you select. Often, this involves looking up the source of the material to confirm it’s been posted by a reputable provider. You may also wish to read about others’ experiences with the material through their online reviews. Free online SQL material can become dated, so it’s important to look at when it was posted.Â
Additionally, you’ll need to select free SQL content at the appropriate skill level. If you’re just getting started learning SQL, for example, and have no prior experience working with databases of any kind, you will need to find training materials that correspond to your knowledge level rather than advanced tutorials. Additionally, if you’re a seasoned data professional with years of programming experience and are interested in acquiring a more detailed understanding of SQL’s advanced functions and features, beginner-friendly content isn’t likely to be much help. It may take several tries to find the most applicable content. It also may require reading multiple tutorials and watching different videos to grasp a particular SQL-related concept fully.
Because no instructor is available in online tutorials, some people may find it challenging to truly master SQL in this learning format. This is why learners sometimes get started with free content from a provider before they commit to a more intensive course of study. If you complete a short tutorial on conditional formatting and find the content useful and applicable, you could then choose to continue with this educator and enroll in a live online course or even in-person study. If you’re learning SQL for work-related reasons such as to complete a pressing project, to explore new career options, or to bring more value to your current role, you may need to eventually transition to coursework with more structure. Learning in the live environment often leads to better retention than can be acquired simply by reading online tutorials.
Another benefit of starting your SQL studies with free tutorials is that if you find you aren’t that interested in the subject, you can discontinue your coursework without losing money. You could also change to another programming language entirely such as Python or C++, without hassle.
Explore SQL Certificates & Certification
For those interested in mastering SQL, certificates and certifications are available in this programming language. Certification study typically requires that students obtain a certain amount of knowledge in a particular skill or subject such as how to work with PostgreSQL, and then pass an exam that illustrates their comprehension. The exams generally cost several hundred dollars. Various educators provide programs that prepare students to pass these exams. However, some learners opt to study on their own and sign up for the test independently of a program.
Certifications aren’t necessarily required to get a job using SQL, but often hiring managers seek out applicants who have certifications in this language or a related field. SQL certifications or database certifications may be asked for in roles that require the applicant to devote a significant amount of time to the technology used by other platforms or vendors. In positions where applicants will be working with Oracle databases, for example, the employer may wish for the applicant to have an Oracle certification to demonstrate their knowledge. Certifications in SQL or a related tool are a great way to prepare you for a range of data positions such as SQL Developer, Database Administrator, Data Analysts, or Database Engineer.
There are several popular SQL certifications currently available that are related to widely used relational database management systems. Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals is an entry-level certification offered to evaluate how much you know about a range of data concepts and skills needed to use Microsoft Azure data services. This certification tests students on both MySQL and PostgreSQL. Participants are expected to know more than just SQL; they also must demonstrate a firm grasp of non-relational and relational data workloads. In addition to Microsoft’s certification, IBM offers three Certified Database Associate Certifications that showcase students’ knowledge of Db2 or Informix relational database management systems. Each of these certifications requires students to pass an exam on topics like creating and securing databases and isolating transactions.
Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate Certification is another option for learners interested in showcasing their database skills. Those who earn this certification show they have a working knowledge of core SQL concepts and how to use them when working with the Oracle database server. This certification expects learners to pass an exam that tests them on SQL, data retrieval, data modeling, conditional expressions, and working with tables. Oracle also offers a MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator Certification. To achieve this certification, learners must pass an exam on MySQL, which was developed by Oracle. To pass this exam, students must be familiar with how to perform various MySQL tasks, like installing, configuring, and monitoring this relational database management system.
EDB PostgreSQL 12 Associate Certification is also available for those looking to demonstrate their ability to work with PostgreSQL Servers. To earn this certification, students must score at least 70% on an exam that tests them on how to maintain and manage a PostgreSQL Server, as well as any applications related to it.
In addition to certifications in SQL and related fields, certificate study is available in this programming language. Unlike certifications that generally require applicants to pass an exam to demonstrate their SQL expertise, certificate programs are generally courses of study that span weeks or months and teach students the skills needed to work with SQL in a professional capacity. Many top educational providers offer certificates in both the in-person and live online formats. Most certificates cost several thousand dollars to complete. Although they aren’t required by all employers to obtain a data-related job, certificates are an excellent way to show that you have obtained a certain level of expertise working with this programming language and can apply it in the workplace. Most certificate programs that offer SQL teach students a range of other data topics, tools, and languages as well such as Python, Tableau, Excel, and data analytics.
Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate is one such program. Those enrolled in this rigorous course can decide between studying in the in-person environment in New York City or learning about data science in the live online format. This course teaches a range of core data science skills such as performing data analysis with Python, creating interactive visualizations and machine learning models, and using SQL to query databases. These skills prepare participants to pursue a career as a Data Analyst or Data Scientist.
For those seeking instruction in SQL with applications in business, NYIM Training’s Business Analysts Certificate offers hands-on training in the skills and tools needed to become a Business Analyst. Participants in this certificate program learn how to work with tools like PowerPoint, Excel, Tableau, and SQL by completing real projects that apply these in-demand skills. This certificate also teaches students how to work with data in a range of formats, gather insights from data, automate workflow, create data visualizations, and present these findings to an audience.
Cornell University also offers two SQL certificates: Data Management in SQL and Data Science with Tableau and SQL. Data Management in SQL is a program in which learners begin by studying database design and rules, as well as the various ways to analyze and manipulate data to find insights. Learners then move on to study database design, as well as automation and scalability. The Data Science with Tableau and SQL certificate prepares participants to work with relational database data and understand how SQL relates to data visualization. Those enrolled in this course work with core database concepts to design a normalized database. They then manipulate the data contained in the database and learn how to perform data extraction. Learners also receive instruction on converting business questions into SQL queries that can find answers in the data. Once these database skills are covered, students then progress into working with Tableau to transform raw data into data visualizations like charts.