Become a Database Administrator
Learn how to start your career as a database administrator.
Without a powerful database, the constantly increasing amount of available data stored and saved on computers and the Internet threatens to become overwhelming; database administrators keep this data organized and well-managed.
Those who successfully complete a database administrator degree program create the systems that store and process information, and they strive to make this process run as efficiently as possible.
Database administrators—also called a dba—are also responsible for designing, organizing and maintaining the systems that users need to access the information.
Database administrators develop a logical plan for a database that fits the expected use of data. Next, they design and test storage solutions and configure the hardware and software to the database plan.
Once a database is set up, the database administrator grants access to new users of the system, and may be responsible for training new users.
Behind the scenes, a database administrator might also handle storage and data backup for the system, as system security is rapidly becoming an important part of database administration.
Database Administrator Career Path
| Entry Level | Mid Level | Senior Level | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Types of Roles | Database administrator | Senior database administrator | Chief technology officer |
| Experience | 0 – 4 years | 5 – 10 years | 10+ years |
| Getting There |
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| Salary* | $85,000 | $125,000 | $200,000 |
| Description |
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* Depends on company size, specific job, and location
Sources: Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA); Princeton Review; Salary.com, 2009; Bureau of Labor Statistics