- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best database administration associate's degree programs reveals that associate's degree in database administration costs 60-70% less than bachelor's programs—average $2,506/year at community colleges vs $12,000 at 4-year universities.
- 2.Our top-ranked associate's programs are Northern Virginia Community College, Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale, Pierce College District—selected for transfer agreements and job placement rates.
- 3.33% of associate's graduates transfer to bachelor's programs, often with guaranteed admission to state universities.
- 4.Entry-level database administration technician positions start at $38,500 median salary (BLS, 2024).
- 5.Complete in 2 years full-time, or 3-4 years part-time while working—many programs offer evening and weekend classes.
Source: An associate's degree in database administration is worth it for students seeking affordable entry into tech careers. At ~$3,500/year (vs $40,000+ for bachelor's), you can enter the workforce in 2 years or transfer to a 4-year university with completed prerequisites. Entry-level technician roles start at $45,500.
Why Choose an Associate's Degree in Database Administration?
An associate's degree in database administration offers a cost-effective pathway into technology careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Database Administrators earn a median salary of $104,620 annually, with entry-level positions starting around $56,820.
Key Benefits of the 2-Year Path
- Lower cost: Average $3,500-4,000/year at community colleges vs $11,000+ at 4-year schools (AACC)
- Strong job outlook: 4% projected growth from 2024-2034 (BLS)
- Large job market: 78,000 positions nationwide in this field
- Transfer-friendly: Credits typically transfer to bachelor's programs at state universities
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and online options for working adults
- Hands-on focus: Practical skills emphasized over theoretical coursework
Salary potential: Entry-level database administration positions start at $56,820, with experienced professionals earning up to $160,890 (BLS OEWS, 2024).
Who succeeds with an associate's: Students seeking quick entry to tech careers, working adults balancing jobs and education, career changers looking for an affordable credential, and those planning to transfer to bachelor's programs.
Best Database Administration Associate's Programs - Top 10
Northern Virginia Community College
NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in database administration degree program.
Northern Virginia Community College's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $5,550 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Close to Washington DC tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Close to Washington DC tech corridor
- •Access to federal contractors and tech companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Admissions
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
Keiser is a private university with multiple Florida campuses offering accelerated associate degrees with flexible scheduling options.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #2 associate's in database administration degree program.
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $22,936 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. South Florida tech hub
Hakia Insight: Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale leverages partnerships with Ryder System and Tech Data to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •South Florida tech hub
- •Multiple campus locations
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Florida tech companies
Admissions
Pierce College District
Pierce College District is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Pierce College District Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Pierce College District as the #3 associate's in database administration degree program.
Pierce College District's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $4,074 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Lakewood, WA location
Hakia Insight: Lakewood, WA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Lakewood, WA location
Career Outcomes
Pierce County government, Hospitals and healthcare networks, Local manufacturing, Regional financial institutions
Admissions
Antelope Valley Community College District
Antelope Valley Community College District is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Antelope Valley Community College District Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Antelope Valley Community College District as the #4 associate's in database administration degree program.
Antelope Valley Community College District's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Lancaster, CA location
Hakia Insight: Lancaster, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Lancaster, CA location
Career Outcomes
Antelope Valley Hospital, Northrop Grumman, Edwards Air Force Base contractors, Local government agencies
Admissions
Rio Hondo College
Rio Hondo College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Rio Hondo College Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Rio Hondo College as the #5 associate's in database administration degree program.
Rio Hondo College's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,306 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Whittier, CA location
Hakia Insight: Whittier, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Whittier, CA location
Career Outcomes
PIH Health, Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital, Local government agencies, Manufacturing companies
Admissions
Fullerton College
Fullerton College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Fullerton College Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Fullerton College as the #6 associate's in database administration degree program.
Fullerton College's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Fullerton, CA location
Hakia Insight: Fullerton, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Fullerton, CA location
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Victor Valley College
Victor Valley College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Victor Valley College Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Victor Valley College as the #7 associate's in database administration degree program.
Victor Valley College's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,402 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Victorville, CA location
Hakia Insight: Victorville, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Victorville, CA location
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Mission College
Mission College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Mission College Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Mission College as the #8 associate's in database administration degree program.
Mission College's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,380 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Santa Clara, CA location
Hakia Insight: Santa Clara, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Santa Clara, CA location
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Mt San Jacinto Community College District
Mt San Jacinto Community College District is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Mt San Jacinto Community College District Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Mt San Jacinto Community College District as the #9 associate's in database administration degree program.
Mt San Jacinto Community College District's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,380 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. San Jacinto, CA location
Hakia Insight: San Jacinto, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •San Jacinto, CA location
Career Outcomes
Riverside University Health System, Amazon Fulfillment Centers, Stater Bros. Markets, Loma Linda University Health, County of Riverside
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Chaffey College
Chaffey College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Chaffey College Associate's Database Administration Program Overview
Hakia ranks Chaffey College as the #10 associate's in database administration degree program.
Chaffey College's associate's Database Administration program offers an affordable entry into the field at just $1,104 per year. This two-year program can serve as a stepping stone to a bachelor's degree or direct entry into the workforce. Rancho Cucamonga, CA location
Hakia Insight: Rancho Cucamonga, CA location
Program Pathway
Complete your associate's degree and transfer credits toward a bachelor's program, or enter the workforce directly with foundational skills.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Rancho Cucamonga, CA location
Career Outcomes
Local manufacturing and logistics companies, Inland Empire healthcare systems, Regional financial institutions
Admissions
Best Database Administration Associate's Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Northern Virginia Community College Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Northern Virginia Community College as the #1 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Annandale, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,550/year | Score: 100.0
What makes Northern Virginia Community College stand out: NOVA is Virginia's largest community college with a direct transfer pathway to George Mason University through the ADVANCE program, which guarantees admission for qualifying students.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Northern Virginia Community College bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) offers an Associate of Science in database administration designed primarily for students who wish to transfer to a four-year college or university. The program prepares students for success in bachelor's degree programs or entry-level programmer positions. NOVA's ADVANCE transfer partnership with George Mason University provides a guaranteed pathway for Database Administration students to complete their bachelor's degree, with students saving money at NOVA before seamlessly transferring to Mason.
Degree Programs: Associate of Science in Database Administration (2 years)
Industry Partners: George Mason University, Virginia Tech
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Federal contractors, DC area tech companies
Admissions: GPA: 2.5 minimum for ADVANCE program
#2. Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale as the #2 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL | Type: Private | Tuition: $22,936/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 99.3
What makes Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale stand out: Keiser is a private university with multiple Florida campuses offering accelerated associate degrees with flexible scheduling options.
Hakia Insight: Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale leverages partnerships with Ryder System and Tech Data to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: Keiser University offers an Associate of Science degree in Information Technology and Programming that requires 72 credit hours completed over approximately 24 months. The program develops skills in software, hardware, and system integration while exposing students to essential computer networking and programming concepts. Students learn current networking practices and computer policies critical to real-world applications.
Degree Programs: Associate of Science in Information Technology and Programming (24 months)
Industry Partners: Ryder System, Tech Data
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Florida tech companies
Admissions:
#3. Pierce College District Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Pierce College District as the #3 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Lakewood, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 98.6
What makes Pierce College District stand out: Pierce College District is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Lakewood, WA location
Program Overview: Pierce College District offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Lakewood, WA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Pierce County government, Hospitals and healthcare networks, Local manufacturing, Regional financial institutions | Common Roles: Database Support Technician, Junior DBA, Database Analyst
Admissions:
#4. Antelope Valley Community College District Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Antelope Valley Community College District as the #4 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Lancaster, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Graduation Rate: 82% | Score: 94.2
What makes Antelope Valley Community College District stand out: Antelope Valley Community College District is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Lancaster, CA location
Program Overview: Antelope Valley Community College District offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Lancaster, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Antelope Valley Hospital, Northrop Grumman, Edwards Air Force Base contractors, Local government agencies | Common Roles: Database Assistant, IT Help Desk Technician, Data Entry Clerk
Admissions:
#5. Rio Hondo College Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Rio Hondo College as the #5 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Whittier, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,306/year | Graduation Rate: 65% | Score: 89.6
What makes Rio Hondo College stand out: Rio Hondo College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Whittier, CA location
Program Overview: Rio Hondo College offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Whittier, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: PIH Health, Presbyterian Intercommunity Hospital, Local government agencies, Manufacturing companies | Common Roles: Database Clerk, IT Support Technician, Data Entry Specialist
Admissions:
#6. Fullerton College Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Fullerton College as the #6 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Fullerton, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Score: 87.9
What makes Fullerton College stand out: Fullerton College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Fullerton, CA location
Program Overview: Fullerton College offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Fullerton, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#7. Victor Valley College Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Victor Valley College as the #7 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Victorville, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,402/year | Score: 87.8
What makes Victor Valley College stand out: Victor Valley College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Victorville, CA location
Program Overview: Victor Valley College offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Victorville, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#8. Mission College Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Mission College as the #8 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Santa Clara, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,380/year | Score: 87.7
What makes Mission College stand out: Mission College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Santa Clara, CA location
Program Overview: Mission College offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Santa Clara, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#9. Mt San Jacinto Community College District Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Mt San Jacinto Community College District as the #9 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: San Jacinto, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,380/year | Score: 87.4
What makes Mt San Jacinto Community College District stand out: Mt San Jacinto Community College District is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: San Jacinto, CA location
Program Overview: Mt San Jacinto Community College District offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in San Jacinto, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: AS in Computer Information Systems (2 years); Certificate in Database Administration (1 year)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Riverside University Health System, Amazon Fulfillment Centers, Stater Bros. Markets, Loma Linda University Health, County of Riverside | Common Roles: Database Technician, IT Support Specialist, Junior Database Administrator
Admissions:
Accreditations: CompTIA A+, Microsoft Database Fundamentals, Oracle Database Associate
#10. Chaffey College Associate's Database Administration Program
Hakia ranks Chaffey College as the #10 associate's in database administration degree program. Location: Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $1,104/year | Score: 86.9
What makes Chaffey College stand out: Chaffey College is a public institution known for database administration education with strong transfer pathways.
Hakia Insight: Rancho Cucamonga, CA location
Program Overview: Chaffey College offers an associate degree program in database administration designed for students seeking entry into the database administration field or transfer to a four-year university. Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA, the program provides foundational skills in database administration with opportunities for hands-on learning and industry connections.
Degree Programs: Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Local manufacturing and logistics companies, Inland Empire healthcare systems, Regional financial institutions | Common Roles: Help Desk Technician, Database Support Technician, Junior System Administrator
Admissions:
Full Database Administration Associate's Rankings 2026
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northern Virginia Community College | Annandale, VA | Public | $5,550 | — | 100 |
| 2 | Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale | Fort Lauderdale, FL | Private | $22,936 | 84% | 99.3 |
| 3 | Pierce College District | Lakewood, WA | Public | $4,074 | 93% | 98.6 |
| 4 | Antelope Valley Community College District | Lancaster, CA | Public | $1,104 | 82% | 94.2 |
| 5 | Rio Hondo College | Whittier, CA | Public | $1,306 | 65% | 89.6 |
| 6 | Fullerton College | Fullerton, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 87.9 |
| 7 | Victor Valley College | Victorville, CA | Public | $1,402 | — | 87.8 |
| 8 | Mission College | Santa Clara, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 87.7 |
| 9 | Mt San Jacinto Community College District | San Jacinto, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 87.4 |
| 10 | Chaffey College | Rancho Cucamonga, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 86.9 |
| 11 | El Camino Community College District | Torrance, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 86.6 |
| 12 | Mt San Antonio College | Walnut, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 86.5 |
| 13 | Fresno City College | Fresno, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 86.5 |
| 14 | Chabot College | Hayward, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 86.5 |
| 15 | San Joaquin Delta College | Stockton, CA | Public | $1,288 | — | 86.3 |
| 16 | Cerro Coso Community College | Ridgecrest, CA | Public | $1,380 | — | 86.3 |
| 17 | San Diego Miramar College | San Diego, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 86.1 |
| 18 | San Diego Mesa College | San Diego, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 86.1 |
| 19 | East Los Angeles College | Monterey Park, CA | Public | $1,196 | — | 86 |
| 20 | Wake Technical Community College | Raleigh, NC | Public | $2,076 | — | 85.8 |
| 21 | Merritt College | Oakland, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 85.8 |
| 22 | Los Angeles Trade Technical College | Los Angeles, CA | Public | $1,196 | — | 85.8 |
| 23 | Barstow Community College | Barstow, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 85.6 |
| 24 | San Bernardino Valley College | San Bernardino, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 85.3 |
| 25 | Merced College | Merced, CA | Public | $1,104 | — | 85.3 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Transfer Pathways to Bachelor's Programs
Transfer pathways are critical for associate's degree students. According to NCES, about 34% of first-time community college students transfer to another institution within 150% of normal completion time.
Preparation is Key: Success in transfer requires strong foundations and careful planning. Students should complete prerequisite courses at their community college and verify course equivalencies through official articulation agreements before transferring.
State Transfer Systems
- California: The Associate Degree for Transfer (ADT) guarantees CSU admission. Use ASSIST.org to verify course-by-course transfer equivalencies.
- Washington: Direct Transfer Agreement (DTA) programs provide guaranteed pathways to state universities.
- North Carolina: The Comprehensive Articulation Agreement ensures seamless credit transfer to UNC System schools.
- Texas: The Texas Common Course Numbering System facilitates transfer between community colleges and state universities.
Key to Success: Research from PPIC shows successful transfer students share common traits: they start planning early, attend colleges with strong transfer partnerships, and choose universities with robust support services for transfer students.
Community College Advantages
Community colleges are experiencing a significant resurgence. According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, community college enrollment increased 5.4% between Fall 2023 and Fall 2024 (+288,000 students)—the largest growth among all institutional sectors.
As Dr. Walter Bumphus, president of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), noted: "Community colleges have always been gateways to opportunity, but in 2025, they are increasingly engines of innovation in workforce development."
Why Community Colleges Excel for Technology Programs
- Smaller class sizes: Community college classes average 25-35 students, compared to 100+ in university introductory courses (Community College Review)
- Industry-connected instructors: Many instructors work in tech and teach part-time, bringing current industry practices to the classroom
- Lower cost: Average public community college tuition is $3,990/year vs $11,260 at public 4-year schools (AACC Fast Facts 2024)
- Open access: No SAT/ACT requirements—community colleges serve all students regardless of prior academic performance
- Flexible scheduling: Evening, weekend, and hybrid options designed for working adults
- Transfer pathways: State articulation agreements provide guaranteed transfer to 4-year universities
2-Year Curriculum Overview
Database Administration associate's programs typically require 60-65 credit hours completed over 2 years full-time. The curriculum balances technical skills with general education requirements, preparing students for both employment and transfer to bachelor's programs.
Core Database Administration Courses
- Database Fundamentals
- SQL Programming
- Data Modeling
- Database Security
- Performance Tuning
- Backup/Recovery
Typical Course Sequence
- Year 1: Programming fundamentals, math requirements (algebra/statistics), English composition, introductory technical courses
- Year 2: Advanced technical courses, electives in specialization area, capstone project or internship
Transfer Requirements: Most courses will transfer to 4-year universities through articulation agreements. A grade of C or better is typically required for technical courses. Check your state's transfer agreements (e.g., ASSIST.org for California, Direct Transfer Agreement for Washington).
Accelerated & Online Options
Online learning has become mainstream in higher education. According to NCES, 53% of U.S. students were enrolled in at least one online course in 2022-23. BestColleges research found that 60% of institutions reported online classes filling first in 2024—indicating strong student preference for flexible formats.
Enrollment Trends: The National Student Clearinghouse reports associate degree enrollment grew 6.3% in Spring 2025. Notably, older first-year students are driving growth—enrollment among those aged 25+ increased 19.7% compared to the prior year.
Flexible Format Options
- Fully online: Complete your degree from anywhere with asynchronous courses—many community colleges now offer 100% online associate's degrees
- Hybrid programs: Mix of online coursework and in-person labs—ideal for hands-on technical practice
- Accelerated tracks: Complete in 18 months with year-round enrollment at schools offering quarterly or trimester calendars
- Evening/weekend programs: Designed for working adults; many community colleges offer courses starting at 6pm or on Saturdays
Tip: Look for programs with asynchronous course delivery if your work schedule is unpredictable. Synchronous (live) classes require logging in at specific times.
Associate's vs Bootcamp vs Certificate
Choosing between an associate's degree, bootcamp, or certificate depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path has trade-offs.
Coding Bootcamp Outcomes: According to the Council on Integrity in Results Reporting (CIRR), 71% of coding bootcamp graduates find a job within 6 months of completion. Course Report's 2025 survey found 79% of alumni land programming jobs within six months, with a 51% average salary increase over pre-bootcamp income.
Comparison
- Associate's degree (2 years, $7-15K total): Regionally accredited credential, transfers to bachelor's programs, qualifies for federal financial aid, recognized by employers across industries
- Coding bootcamp (3-6 months, $10-20K): 71% job placement within 6 months (CIRR), fastest path to specific dev roles, but limited to certain job titles and employers
- Industry certificate (6-12 months, $2-5K): CompTIA, AWS, or vendor-specific certifications focus on specific skills; best for career changers with some tech background
Key difference: Only associate's degrees are regionally accredited and qualify for federal student aid. Bootcamps typically require full upfront payment or income share agreements. As The Century Foundation notes, always read the fine print on any education program's outcomes claims.
Our recommendation: Choose an associate's degree if you want maximum flexibility—transfer options, employer recognition, and financial aid eligibility. Choose a bootcamp if you're confident about a specific developer role and can afford the upfront cost.
Financial Aid & Employer Tuition Assistance
Community college programs qualify for federal financial aid, state grants, and employer tuition assistance. With average tuition under $4,000/year, many students graduate debt-free.
Federal Pell Grants: The maximum Federal Pell Grant for 2024-25 is $7,395 (minimum $740). Since this exceeds typical community college tuition, eligible students may have funds left for books and fees. Lifetime eligibility is limited to 12 semesters.
Free Community College Programs: Over 300 promise programs now operate at state and local levels, including:
- California: California College Promise provides free tuition for first-time students at participating community colleges
- Maryland: Community College Promise Scholarship covers up to $5,000/year in tuition
- Oregon: Oregon Promise Grant covers tuition for recent high school graduates
- Maine: Free College Scholarship covers tuition at all 7 Maine community colleges for classes 2020-2025
Employer Tuition Assistance: In 2023, 80% of large U.S. employers offered tuition reimbursement, spending $28 billion annually (Learn & Work Ecosystem Library). Key programs:
- Amazon Career Choice: Pre-pays 100% of tuition, books, and fees for associates and bachelor's degrees at participating schools. Available to hourly employees after 90 days.
- Target Dream to Be: 100% tuition coverage for 250+ programs at 40 partner schools, or up to $5,250/year for other programs
- Starbucks College Achievement Plan: 100% tuition coverage for Arizona State University online bachelor's programs after 3 months of 20+ hours/week
Tax benefits: The American Opportunity Tax Credit provides up to $2,500/year in tax credits for the first four years of higher education.
Top States for Database Administration Associate's Programs
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Database Administration Associate's Programs in California | 1 | $57,700 | University of San Francisco |
| Best Database Administration Associate's Programs in Pennsylvania | 1 | $19,700 | Pennsylvania State University |
| Best Database Administration Associate's Programs in Illinois | 3 | $37,600 | DePaul University |
| Best Database Administration Associate's Programs in Massachusetts | 2 | $62,000 | Northeastern University |
| Best Database Administration Associate's Programs in Washington | 1 | $4,100 | Bellevue College |
Data Analytics Career Track
+$17K avg salary increase·6 months
- Microsoft partnership with industry-recognized tools
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
Affiliate link · We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Data Sources
Federal database of U.S. postsecondary institutions
May 2024 salary data by occupation and location
Department of Education outcomes data
Related Database Administration Resources
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.