Why Learning How to Use a Database is Good for Your Career

When you walk into an office and you ask the employees who knows how to use word processing software pretty much all of the employees will raise their hands. If you then ask who knows how to use spreadsheet software, again, nearly all will raise their hands. If you then ask who knows how to use database software, you will probably get a response like this, “Oh no, we have an expensive contractor to take care of our database.”

People who know how to use word processing and spreadsheet software are a dime a dozen. Employees who know how to use databases are highly paid. Database administrators who work as independent contractors can make upwards of $75 an hour or more.

I have taught database management courses at the junior college level for over seven years. My students are often afraid to learn about databases because they know it will not be easy. They trust me and know that I explain things really well. I always relate what I am teaching to the real-world. In class they work on three databases which they add to as they progress through the chapters in the book.

The first database they create from detailed instructions in our textbook. I do each step with them in class and I answer their questions as we go. The second database they do on their own from instructions in their book. I run around the room and help them. The third database they create on their own. I have them pretend they own a business and they create the database to use in that business. I give them a list of requirements that the database must have.