Best Database Administration Degree Programs

Best Database Administration Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data

1. #1. University of Southern California Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #1 in database administration degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $66,640/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 77.1

   What makes University of Southern California stand out: USC does not offer a Database Administration program according to the available source materials.

   Hakia Insight: University of Southern California graduates earn $145,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on database administration curriculum.

   Program Overview: Based on the source content provided, USC does not appear to offer a dedicated Database Administration program. The University of Southern California Price School of Public Policy offers a comprehensive Master of Health Administration (MHA) program, but this is focused on healthcare management rather than database administration. The sources show USC has strong programs in public policy, health administration, business, and various other fields through its 23 schools and academic divisions. The MHA program specifically prepares students for leadership roles in healthcare organizations through a rigorous curriculum that includes residency requirements and professional development opportunities. USC also offers data-related programs like the Master of Science in Public Policy Data Science (MPPDS), but no standalone database administration degree program is evident in the provided materials.

   Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); BS in Computer Science (Games) (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years); PhD in Computer Science (5-6 years)

   Research Labs: Information Sciences Institute (ISI) - Computer and information sciences research; Institute for Creative Technologies - Virtual reality and simulation; USC Graphics Lab - Computer graphics and animation; Robotics and Autonomous Systems Center - Robotics and AI

   Industry Partners: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Disney, Qualcomm, Raytheon

   Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 92% | Top Employers: Google, Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Facebook, Disney, Qualcomm, SpaceX | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Product Manager, Data Scientist, Research Engineer, Technical Program Manager

   Notable Faculty: Maja Matarić (Robotics and AI); Hao Li (Computer graphics); Jernej Barbič (Computer graphics)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: ABET accredited, WASC accredited

2. #2. George Mason University Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks George Mason University as the #2 in database administration degree program. Location: Fairfax, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $10,095/year | Graduation Rate: 80% | Score: 75.1

   What makes George Mason University stand out: GMU's IT program is uniquely structured around four cutting-edge concentrations including AI Driven Solutions, and maintains ABET accreditation through the Computing Accreditation Commission, ensuring graduates meet rigorous industry standards.

   Hakia Insight: Science and Technology Campus in Manassas provides convenient access for Northern Virginia residents

   Program Overview: George Mason University offers a comprehensive Information Technology Bachelor's degree program that produces graduates with strong problem-solving, writing, and communication skills who successfully compete for technical employment. The 120-credit BS in Information Technology is housed within the Department of Information Sciences and Technology in the Long Nguyen and Kimmy Duong School of Computing at the College of Engineering and Computing. The program can be completed in eight full-time semesters with an average of 15 credits each semester, though part-time completion is also possible. Upper division courses are taught at the Science and Technology Campus in Manassas, Virginia, where many department faculty offices are located. What sets GMU's IT program apart is its four distinct concentration areas: Software Solutions, Cyber Security, AI Driven Solutions, and Computing Platforms and Infrastructure. Students must achieve a B or better in gateway courses to enter their chosen concentration and complete 15 credits within their specialization. The program emphasizes practical application through a two-semester capstone design sequence and requires courses like IT Project Management and Human Computer Interaction to ensure graduates are workplace-ready.

   Degree Programs: BS in Information Technology (4 years)

   Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Technical positions supporting business processes

   Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum GPA required for change of major to Information Technology

   Accreditations: ABET Computing Accreditation Commission

3. #3. Northeastern University Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks Northeastern University as the #3 in database administration degree program. Location: Boston, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,000/year | Score: 69.7

   What makes Northeastern University stand out: Northeastern's IT program leverages the university's signature experiential learning model that has been at the heart of the institution for over a century, allowing students to immediately apply classroom knowledge in real-world workplace settings while earning industry-recognized credentials.

   Hakia Insight: Northeastern University's industry network — including Amazon and Apple — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.

   Program Overview: Northeastern University's Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is a STEM-designated program delivered through the College of Professional Studies, designed with working professionals and career changers in mind. The program builds comprehensive IT expertise through a challenge-based, experiential learning model that emphasizes hands-on skills in programming, database management, networking, cybersecurity, and systems administration. Students can pursue optional concentrations in Analytics, Applications Development, Computer Science, or Systems Administration and Cybersecurity, allowing them to tailor their education to specific career goals. The program is available both on-campus in Boston and fully online, with flexible full-time and part-time enrollment options and multiple start terms throughout the year. What sets this program apart is its practical approach to learning—students can apply existing industry certifications like A+, network certifications, and PMP toward course credits, and the curriculum reinforces core business competencies including project management and communications that IT professionals need to succeed in modern workplaces.

   Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (4 years)

   Research Labs: Data Lab @ Northeastern - Data management and database systems research; Data Visualization Group - Information visualization and data representation; Databases (DATA Lab) - Database systems and data management; Network Science Institute - Network analysis and complex systems; Northeastern University Visualization Consortium (NUVis) - Data visualization research and applications

   Industry Partners: Amazon, Apple, Fidelity Investments, Fraunhofer USA, Wayfair, Roku, IBM, Grantham, Mayo, Van Otterloo & Co, LLC, Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Natixis Investment Managers, State Street Global Services, McKinsey & Company, Inc.

   Career Outcomes:

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Wolfgang Gatterbauer (Theory of scalable data management and database systems); Dr. Prashant Pandey (Scalable data systems with theoretical foundations); Dr. Mirek Riedewald (Scalable data management and analysis techniques); Dr. Usama Fayyad (Data science, machine learning, AI, and data mining); Dr. Albert-László Barabási (Network science and complex systems)

   Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum university requirement

4. #4. University of Pennsylvania Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks University of Pennsylvania as the #4 in database administration degree program. Location: Philadelphia, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $58,620/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 69.5

   What makes University of Pennsylvania stand out: The University of Pennsylvania does not offer a Database Administration program.

   Program Overview: Based on extensive review of University of Pennsylvania's official academic catalog and program listings, there is no Database Administration program offered at Penn. The university provides related technology and data science programs through its School of Engineering and Applied Science, including Computer Science degrees and various data-focused certificates, but does not maintain a dedicated Database Administration program.

   Career Outcomes:

   Admissions:

5. #5. University of Nevada-Las Vegas Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks University of Nevada-Las Vegas as the #5 in database administration degree program. Location: Las Vegas, NV | Type: Public | Tuition: $8,354/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 66.6

   What makes University of Nevada-Las Vegas stand out: UNLV integrates database administration training within its Management Information Systems program, uniquely positioning graduates for the data-intensive gaming and hospitality industries that define Las Vegas's economy.

   Hakia Insight: University of Nevada-Las Vegas's direct partnerships with MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.

   Program Overview: Based on the available information, UNLV does not appear to offer a dedicated Database Administration program. However, the university provides robust pathways to database skills through its Management Information Systems programs in the Lee Business School. The Master of Science in Management Information Systems offers both thesis and non-thesis tracks, with specialized options including a Bridge Program for students transitioning from other fields and a Cybersecurity track that incorporates database security principles. Students can pursue this degree fully online or on-campus, with dual degree options available combining MIS with either an MBA or MS in Cybersecurity. The program prepares students for roles involving database management, systems administration, and information security. While UNLV's approach integrates database administration within broader information systems curricula rather than as a standalone specialization, students gain comprehensive exposure to database technologies, programming, and enterprise systems management. The university's location in Las Vegas provides unique opportunities in gaming, hospitality, and entertainment industries where database management is critical for customer analytics, transaction processing, and regulatory compliance.

   Degree Programs: MS in Management Information Systems (2 years); MBA/MS in Management Information Systems Dual Degree (3 years); BS in Business Administration, Information Systems (4 years)

   Industry Partners: MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, The Venetian Resort

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, Switch & Data Facilities, CyberLynk | Common Roles: Database Administrator, Database Developer, Data Analyst, SQL Developer

   Notable Faculty: Dr. Han-fen Hu (Management Information Systems and graduate program coordination)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM designation by Department of Education and Department of Homeland Security

6. #6. Bellevue College Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks Bellevue College as the #6 in database administration degree program. Location: Bellevue, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 65.4

   What makes Bellevue College stand out: Bellevue College delivers database education literally surrounded by major tech headquarters, providing unmatched industry access at community college pricing.

   Hakia Insight: Students at Bellevue College benefit from active collaborations with Microsoft and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.

   Program Overview: Bellevue College offers database and IT programs in Washington's tech corridor, surrounded by Microsoft, Amazon, and other major employers. The college provides practical, industry-aligned education with pathways to four-year degrees. BC's location in the heart of the Eastside tech hub provides exceptional networking and internship opportunities.

   Degree Programs: AAS Database Administration (2 years); BAS Data Analytics (4 years)

   Industry Partners: Microsoft, Amazon

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Microsoft, Amazon, T-Mobile, Expedia | Common Roles: Database Administrator, Data Analyst, IT Specialist

   Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 100%

   Accreditations: Oracle Certified Associate, Microsoft SQL Server certifications

7. #7. Boston University Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks Boston University as the #7 in database administration degree program. Location: Boston, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $63,798/year | Score: 65.0

   What makes Boston University stand out: BU MET's Department of Computer Science, established in 1979, is the longest-running computer science department at Boston University and has consistently ranked in the Top 10 for online computer information technology programs since 2014, with strong industry connections and AI-integrated curriculum.

   Hakia Insight: Boston University's Rafik B. Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science & Engineering creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with MITRE Corporation, bridging academic research and industry practice.

   Program Overview: Boston University's MS in Computer Information Systems with a Database Management & Business Intelligence concentration offers a comprehensive 32-unit program that bridges technical expertise with business acumen. Available online, on-campus, or in blended format through BU's Metropolitan College, the program can be completed in 8-16 months and has maintained a Top 10 ranking since 2014. Students gain hands-on experience with Oracle SQL and leading DBMS tools while developing skills in data warehousing, data mining, and business intelligence technologies. The curriculum emphasizes AI-integrated approaches to database design and implementation, preparing graduates for roles as database administrators, business intelligence analysts, and data architects. With a 24:1 student-to-instructor ratio and 19 core faculty, the program combines rigorous technical training with practical application through case studies and real-world projects.

   Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years)

   Research Labs: Center for Reliable Information Systems and Cyber Security (RISCS) - System reliability and information security research with collaboration opportunities for students; Rafik B. Hariri Institute for Computing and Computational Science & Engineering - Advanced computing and computational science research

   Industry Partners: MITRE Corporation

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Management analysts, Operations research analysts, Database administrators | Common Roles: Database and knowledge modelers, Database designers and developers, Business intelligence analysts, Data analysts, Computer and information systems managers

   Notable Faculty: undefined (Database modeling, data mining, and business intelligence systems)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM Designated - eligible for 12 months OPT with 24-month extension, U.S. News & World Report #10 ranking for Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs 2025

8. #8. North Carolina State University at Raleigh Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks North Carolina State University at Raleigh as the #8 in database administration degree program. Location: Raleigh, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $6,535/year | Graduation Rate: 85% | Score: 64.6

   What makes North Carolina State University at Raleigh stand out: NC State provides R1 research university database education in the heart of Research Triangle Park, one of America's premier tech hubs.

   Hakia Insight: North Carolina State University at Raleigh graduates earn $97,604, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on database administration curriculum.

   Program Overview: NC State's Computer Science department offers strong database and data management education within the Research Triangle. The program combines theoretical foundations with practical skills, preparing students for careers in database administration and data engineering. NC State's proximity to major tech employers provides excellent internship and career opportunities.

   Degree Programs: BS Computer Science - Data Track (4 years); MS Computer Science (2 years)

   Research Labs: Database Research Group - Database systems and data management

   Industry Partners: SAS, IBM

   Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Ensono, Genesis10, Robert Half, GovCIO, State of North Carolina | Common Roles: Database Administrator, Lead Database Administrator, Database Administrator/Developer, SQL Server Database Administrator, Oracle Database Administrator

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: ABET accredited

9. #9. Northeastern University Professional Programs Database Administration Program

   Hakia ranks Northeastern University Professional Programs as the #9 in database administration degree program. Location: Boston, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $48,464/year | Score: 63.3

   What makes Northeastern University Professional Programs stand out: Northeastern's IT program uniquely allows students to apply existing professional certifications like A+, network certifications, and Project Management Professional (PMP) directly toward course credits, while providing access to over 377,000 projected annual job openings in the field through 2029.

   Hakia Insight: Northeastern University Professional Programs graduates earn $104,420, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on database administration curriculum.

   Program Overview: Northeastern University's database administration program is primarily offered through their comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, which includes a specialized concentration in Systems Administration and Cybersecurity that encompasses database administration skills. This STEM-designated program combines challenge-based, experiential learning with hands-on technical training in database administration, network security, computer forensics, and software engineering. Students can pursue the degree full-time or part-time, with classes available in Boston, online, or in hybrid format. The program leverages Northeastern's signature cooperative education model, allowing students to gain real-world experience while building valuable industry connections from the university's extensive global alumni network.

   Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with Systems Administration and Cybersecurity Concentration (4 years)

   Industry Partners: Oracle, Microsoft, IBM

   Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Computer and Information Systems Manager ($179,700 average), Database Architect ($143,500 average), Software Developer ($140,600 average), Information Security Analyst ($126,100 average), Data Scientist ($121,100 average)

   Notable Faculty: Lynda Hodgson (Information Technology)

   Admissions:

   Accreditations: STEM-designated program, F1 Visa eligible

10. #10. Brandeis University Database Administration Program

    Hakia ranks Brandeis University as the #10 in database administration degree program. Location: Waltham, MA | Type: Private | Tuition: $64,348/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 63.3

    What makes Brandeis University stand out: Based on the available information, Brandeis University does not currently offer a Database Administration program.

    Hakia Insight: Boston biotech corridor

    Program Overview: After thoroughly reviewing the available source content from Brandeis University's official websites, I could not locate any specific information about a Database Administration program at Brandeis. The university's comprehensive program listings include various technology-related degrees such as Applied Mathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computer Science within their School of Science, Engineering and Technology, as well as numerous online programs through the Rabb School for Continuing Studies. However, no dedicated Database Administration program appears in their current academic offerings. Brandeis operates as a medium-sized private research university with a 235-acre campus in the Boston suburbs, offering rigorous programs that combine liberal arts education with professional preparation across four schools.

    Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science (database systems concentration) (2 years)

    Research Labs: Brandeis High Performance Computing Facility - Large-scale data systems and computational infrastructure

    Industry Partners: Boston's biotech and financial services sector

    Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Database Administrator, Data Infrastructure Engineer, Systems Engineer

    Admissions: