- 1.Database Administrators earn a median salary of $101,000 with 8% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Database Administration programs include Northeastern University, University of Nevada-Las Vegas, Bellevue College based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of Nevada-Las Vegas offers database administration education at $8,354/year with 90% graduation rate
- 4.24 accredited Database Administration programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Database Administration Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's
Northeastern University
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.
Program Overview
Northeastern University's undergraduate Database Administration program produces 63 graduates annually, preparing students for successful careers in the field. Research opportunities include the Data Lab @ Northeastern and Data Visualization Group. Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon, Apple, Fidelity Investments. Access to Boston tech and finance hub
Hakia Insight: Northeastern University's partnerships with Amazon and Apple translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Data management and database systems research
Information visualization and data representation
Database systems and data management
Network analysis and complex systems
Data visualization research and applications
Location Advantages
- •Access to Boston tech and finance hub
- •Global campus locations in Seattle, Vancouver
- •Co-location with 60+ embedded industry partners in Vancouver
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Apple, Fidelity Investments, IBM, Wayfair
Admissions
University of Nevada-Las Vegas
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.
Program Overview
University of Nevada-Las Vegas's undergraduate Database Administration program graduates 55 students annually with an impressive 90% graduation rate. Industry connections include partnerships with MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, The Venetian Resort. Direct proximity to major casino, resort, and hospitality technology employers
Hakia Insight: University of Nevada-Las Vegas's partnerships with MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Direct proximity to major casino, resort, and hospitality technology employers
- •Access to large-scale database environments used by gaming operations
- •Growing tech hub with increasing cloud and data infrastructure investments
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, Switch & Data Facilities, CyberLynk
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Bellevue College
Bellevue College's stackable certificate-to-degree model and embedded industry certification preparation make it uniquely accessible for working adults entering database administration while maintaining employer credibility.
Program Overview
Bellevue College's undergraduate Database Administration program graduates 116 students annually with an impressive 96% graduation rate. Industry connections include partnerships with Oracle, Microsoft. Located in Bellevue's technology corridor with direct access to Eastside tech employers
Hakia Insight: Bellevue College's partnerships with Oracle and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Located in Bellevue's technology corridor with direct access to Eastside tech employers
- •Close proximity to major corporate campuses and tech contractors
- •Strong regional employer relationships in database administration roles
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Western Governors University
WGU's competency-based model and integrated DBA mentorship allow working professionals to advance into database administration roles at their own pace while immediately applying learning to current employment.
Program Overview
Western Governors University's undergraduate Database Administration program produces 200 graduates annually, preparing students for successful careers in the field. Industry connections include partnerships with Oracle, Microsoft. Fully online eliminates geographic constraints
Hakia Insight: Western Governors University's partnerships with Oracle and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Fully online eliminates geographic constraints
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Penn State's database and systems research is distinguished by its large-scale distributed systems focus and extensive partnerships with industry leaders in cloud computing and enterprise software.
Program Overview
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus's undergraduate Database Administration program graduates 15 students annually with an impressive 87% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Systems and Networking Laboratory and Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Laboratory. Industry connections include partnerships with IBM, Microsoft, Intel. Central Pennsylvania location with proximity to major tech corridors
Hakia Insight: Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus's partnerships with IBM and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Distributed systems, cloud computing, network optimization
Database security, access control, privacy-preserving systems
Location Advantages
- •Central Pennsylvania location with proximity to major tech corridors
- •Strong connections to Mid-Atlantic tech companies
- •Access to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia technology hubs
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Utah State University
Utah State distinguishes itself through a capstone-driven curriculum that requires students to architect, implement, and optimize production-scale databases for real client organizations.
Program Overview
Utah State University's undergraduate Database Administration program graduates 31 students annually with an impressive 100% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Utah Center for Hydrologic Information and Computing (UCHIC) and Utah Water Research Laboratory. Industry connections include partnerships with Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft. Proximity to Salt Lake City tech corridor
Hakia Insight: Utah State University's partnerships with Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Cyberinfrastructure development for data-intensive hydrologic research, database management, and water resources data systems
Water resources research with database applications for watershed information systems
Climate data management, database systems, and environmental monitoring data
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Salt Lake City tech corridor
- •Growing Cache Valley technology sector
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
DePaul University
10 database administration graduates annually
Program Overview
DePaul University's undergraduate Database Administration program graduates 10 students annually with an impressive 86% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab and Enterprise Computing Lab. Industry connections include partnerships with Accenture, IBM, CME Group.
Hakia Insight: DePaul University graduates earn $78,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on database administration curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Advanced analytics and data science
Database integration and enterprise systems
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Accenture, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Abbott
Certifications & Designations
University of St Thomas
21 database administration graduates annually
Program Overview
University of St Thomas offers a Bachelor's Database Administration degree, combining rigorous academics with practical experience to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Degree Programs
Program Strengths
- 89% graduation rate
- 21 database administration graduates annually
- Accredited institution
Lewis University
2 database administration graduates annually
Program Overview
Lewis University's Business Administration program offers a comprehensive foundation with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and practical, hands-on curriculum that develops leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The program features accelerated MBA options and specialized minors to increase marketability, with 300+ employers actively recruiting graduates.
Degree Programs
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of San Francisco
15 database administration graduates annually
Program Overview
University of San Francisco's undergraduate Database Administration program produces 15 graduates annually, preparing students for successful careers in the field. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Geospatial Analysis Lab (GsAL). Industry connections include partnerships with Meta, Reddit, Atlassian. Downtown San Francisco campus
Hakia Insight: University of San Francisco's partnerships with Meta and Reddit translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Geographic Information Science technologies, ArcGIS PRO, Google Earth Engine, LiDAR technologies, web mapping applications, remote sensing
Location Advantages
- •Downtown San Francisco campus
- •Access to Bay Area tech ecosystem
- •Proximity to Silicon Valley companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Best Database Administration Programs - Top 10 Bachelor's — Complete Program Data
#1. Northeastern University
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 partnerships with Amazon and Apple translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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: | Top Employers: Amazon, Apple, Fidelity Investments, IBM, Wayfair, McKinsey & Company | Common Roles: Data Analyst, Operations Research Analyst, Database Administrator, Data Scientist
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
#2. University of Nevada-Las Vegas
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 partnerships with MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
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
#3. Bellevue College
Location: Bellevue, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,074/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 65.4
What makes Bellevue College stand out: Bellevue College's stackable certificate-to-degree model and embedded industry certification preparation make it uniquely accessible for working adults entering database administration while maintaining employer credibility.
Hakia Insight: Bellevue College's partnerships with Oracle and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: Based on the provided sources, I was unable to locate specific information about a Database Administration program at Bellevue College. The faculty directory shows extensive expertise in computer science, information technology, and data analytics, with faculty like Cheng Cheng teaching in BAS Data Analytics and Fatma Cemile Serce specializing in Computer Science with a doctorate in Information Systems from Middle East Technical University. The college operates under strong leadership including Rodger Harrison as Vice President of Information Technology Services with a Master's in Information Technology Management from Western Governors University. However, without specific program curriculum, degree requirements, or dedicated database administration faculty details in the sources, I cannot provide comprehensive program information.
Degree Programs: Certificate in Database Administration (1 year); Associate Degree in Database Administration (2 years)
Industry Partners: Oracle, Microsoft
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: Oracle Certified Associate, Microsoft SQL Server certifications
#4. Western Governors University
Location: Salt Lake City, UT | Type: Private | Tuition: $7,710/year | Score: 62.8
What makes Western Governors University stand out: WGU's competency-based model and integrated DBA mentorship allow working professionals to advance into database administration roles at their own pace while immediately applying learning to current employment.
Hakia Insight: Western Governors University's partnerships with Oracle and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: WGU's database administration program thrives on competency-based learning, allowing self-paced progression through demonstrated mastery rather than seat time—a model particularly attractive to working professionals seeking credential advancement without disrupting careers. The curriculum covers both traditional RDBMS administration and emerging NoSQL technologies, with intentional scaffolding toward industry certifications like Oracle, SQL Server, and CompTIA Security+. What sets WGU apart is the integrated mentorship model: students work directly with practicing DBAs throughout their program, gaining real-time guidance on current industry challenges and best practices. The program's online-native design means students engage with current case studies and real data management scenarios rather than hypothetical exercises, and many students report that they're applying classroom concepts to their current jobs within weeks of enrollment. For those seeking accelerated pathways into DBA roles or career transitions, WGU's flexible structure removes traditional barriers.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Database Administration
Industry Partners: Oracle, Microsoft
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: Oracle Certified Associate Database Administrator, Microsoft SQL Server certifications, CompTIA Security+
#5. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
Location: University Park, PA | Type: Public | Tuition: $19,672/year | Graduation Rate: 87% | Score: 60.0
What makes Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus stand out: Penn State's database and systems research is distinguished by its large-scale distributed systems focus and extensive partnerships with industry leaders in cloud computing and enterprise software.
Hakia Insight: Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus's partnerships with IBM and Microsoft translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: Penn State's computer science and engineering programs rank among the largest in the United States, with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering serving over 2,000 undergraduate majors. Founded with roots in computing research dating back to the 1960s, Penn State has grown into a comprehensive research institution with $183 million in annual research expenditures across all colleges. The university operates multiple campuses but the University Park main campus houses the primary computer science facilities and research centers. Penn State is particularly recognized for strengths in systems, networking, cybersecurity, and high-performance computing. The institution emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with extensive industry partnerships and a commitment to undergraduate research opportunities. The College of Engineering consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally for engineering research.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years); PhD in Computer Science and Engineering (5-6 years)
Research Labs: Systems and Networking Laboratory - Distributed systems, cloud computing, network optimization; Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Laboratory - Database security, access control, privacy-preserving systems
Industry Partners: IBM, Microsoft, Intel
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Systems Engineer, Database Administrator, Solutions Architect, Research Scientist
Notable Faculty: Bhuvan Urgaonkar (Cloud computing, systems performance, resource management); Piotr Mardziel (Database security, information flow control)
Admissions:
Accreditations: ABET accredited (engineering programs)
#6. Utah State University
Location: Logan, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,387/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Score: 59.1
What makes Utah State University stand out: Utah State distinguishes itself through a capstone-driven curriculum that requires students to architect, implement, and optimize production-scale databases for real client organizations.
Hakia Insight: Utah State University's partnerships with Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: Utah State's database administration curriculum emphasizes practical systems design and enterprise data management through a hands-on capstone sequence where students architect and deploy real-world database solutions. The program's strength lies in its integration of modern cloud platforms—particularly AWS and Azure—alongside traditional relational and NoSQL technologies, preparing graduates for the hybrid infrastructure environments they'll encounter in practice. Faculty bring extensive industry experience in data warehousing and business intelligence, and the program maintains active partnerships with regional tech employers who provide guest lectures, mentorship, and direct recruitment pipelines. Students particularly benefit from the emphasis on performance tuning and query optimization, skills that directly translate to entry-level DBA roles. The program's location in Logan provides access to a growing tech corridor while maintaining close ties to the Mountain West's expanding data-driven enterprises.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Database Administration; BS in Computer Science (4 years); Master of Management Information Systems (MMIS); Master of Data Analytics (MDATA)
Research Labs: Utah Center for Hydrologic Information and Computing (UCHIC) - Cyberinfrastructure development for data-intensive hydrologic research, database management, and water resources data systems; Utah Water Research Laboratory - Water resources research with database applications for watershed information systems; Utah Climate Center - Climate data management, database systems, and environmental monitoring data
Industry Partners: Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Microsoft, IBM, Google, HP, Logan Software
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Dr. David Tarboton (Utah Water Research Laboratory, Civil & Environmental Engineering, database systems for water resources); Dr. Jeff Horsburgh (Database systems and hydrologic data management); Dr. Robert Gillies (Climate data systems and database management)
Admissions:
Accreditations: AACSB Accredited, STEM Designation
#7. DePaul University
Location: Chicago, IL | Type: Private | Tuition: $43,379/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 54.7
Hakia Insight: DePaul University graduates earn $78,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on database administration curriculum.
Program Overview: Offers a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with database technologies concentration in the College of Computing and Digital Media. The program emphasizes practical application of database concepts in enterprise environments.
Degree Programs: BS Information Technology - Database Technologies (4)
Research Labs: Data Mining and Machine Learning Lab - Advanced analytics and data science; Enterprise Computing Lab - Database integration and enterprise systems
Industry Partners: Accenture, IBM, CME Group
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Accenture, IBM, JPMorgan Chase, Abbott | Common Roles: Senior Database Developer, Data Architect, Business Intelligence Developer, Database Consultant
Admissions:
Accreditations: Microsoft Azure Database, Amazon RDS, MongoDB Certified Developer, Salesforce Database
#8. University of St Thomas
Location: Saint Paul, MN | Type: Private | Tuition: $50,788/year | Graduation Rate: 89% | Score: 54.4
#9. Lewis University
Location: Romeoville, IL | Type: Private | Tuition: $37,592/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 51.1
Program Overview: Lewis University's Business Administration program offers a comprehensive foundation with a 13:1 student-teacher ratio and practical, hands-on curriculum that develops leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills. The program features accelerated MBA options and specialized minors to increase marketability, with 300+ employers actively recruiting graduates.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Database Administration
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
Accreditations: ACBSP
#10. University of San Francisco
Location: San Francisco, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $57,670/year | Score: 50.7
Hakia Insight: University of San Francisco's partnerships with Meta and Reddit translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers.
Program Overview: The University of San Francisco's Master of Science in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MS-DSAI) is a rigorous 12-month, 35-unit program that integrates cutting-edge curriculum in analytics, machine learning, deep learning, cloud computing, large language models, and data engineering. Located at USF's downtown San Francisco campus, the program uniquely combines theoretical foundations with nine months of hands-on practical application through guaranteed practicum experiences with indust
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Database Administration
Research Labs: Geospatial Analysis Lab (GsAL) - Geographic Information Science technologies, ArcGIS PRO, Google Earth Engine, LiDAR technologies, web mapping applications, remote sensing
Industry Partners: Meta, Reddit, Atlassian, Block Inc., PG&E, UCSF, Stanford Medical, Upwork, BlackRock, Amazon Web Services
Career Outcomes:
Admissions: GPA: not specified | Acceptance Rate: not specified
Best Database Administration Programs - Compare Top 5 Bachelor's
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | N/A | 69.7/100 |
| #2 University of Nevada-Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV | Public | $8,354 | 90% | 66.6/100 |
| #3 Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | Public | $4,074 | 96% | 65.4/100 |
| #4 Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | N/A | 62.8/100 |
| #5 Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | 60/100 |
Complete Database Administration Bachelor's Programs Rankings
| Location | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | $62,000 | — | — | 69.7 |
| 2 | University of Nevada-Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV | $8,354 | 90% | — | 66.6 |
| 3 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | $4,074 | 96% | — | 65.4 |
| 4 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | $7,710 | — | — | 62.8 |
| 5 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | $19,672 | 87% | — | 60 |
| 6 | Utah State University | Logan, UT | $7,387 | 100% | — | 59.1 |
| 7 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | $43,379 | 86% | — | 54.7 |
| 8 | University of St Thomas | Saint Paul, MN | $50,788 | 89% | — | 54.4 |
| 9 | Lewis University | Romeoville, IL | $37,592 | 99% | — | 51.1 |
| 10 | University of San Francisco | San Francisco, CA | $57,670 | — | — | 50.7 |
| 11 | George Washington University | Washington, DC | $64,508 | — | — | 50 |
| 12 | University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg, MS | $9,508 | — | — | 45.9 |
| 13 | Northeastern University Professional Programs | Boston, MA | $48,464 | — | — | 45 |
| 14 | Dickinson State University | Dickinson, ND | $7,470 | 88% | — | 44.5 |
| 15 | University of Minnesota-Duluth | Duluth, MN | $12,766 | — | — | 42.8 |
| 16 | University of North Dakota | Grand Forks, ND | $9,237 | — | — | 40.1 |
| 17 | Roosevelt University | Chicago, IL | $20,000 | — | — | 38 |
| 18 | University of Northwestern-St Paul | Saint Paul, MN | $35,970 | — | — | 37.9 |
| 19 | Aquinas College | Grand Rapids, MI | $37,720 | — | — | 37.8 |
| 20 | Northwest Missouri State University | Maryville, MO | $6,442 | — | — | 36.3 |
| 21 | University of Dubuque | Dubuque, IA | $38,260 | — | — | 35 |
| 22 | Vermont State University | Randolph, VT | $9,984 | — | — | 31.6 |
| 23 | University of Phoenix-Arizona | Phoenix, AZ | $9,552 | — | — | 28.6 |
| 24 | Capella University | Minneapolis, MN | $14,436 | 13% | — | 27.7 |
Getting Started: No Prior Experience Needed
A Database Administration bachelor's degree requires no prior programming or technical experience. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, over 70% of students entering technical degree programs have no prior coding background. Programs are designed to take complete beginners to job-ready professionals over four years.
What to Expect Your First Year:
- Introduction to programming fundamentals (typically Python or Java)
- Mathematics foundations including calculus, discrete math, and linear algebra
- Computer systems basics and computational thinking
- Problem-solving methodologies and algorithmic thinking
Research from Computing Research Association shows that students who engage with tutoring services and study groups in their first year have 23% higher retention rates. Most universities offer dedicated support including office hours, peer tutoring, and programming labs. Success comes from consistent practice—not prior experience.
General Education Requirements
Bachelor's programs typically require 40-60 credit hours of general education courses alongside your Database Administration major. These requirements, mandated by regional accreditation bodies, ensure graduates develop well-rounded communication and critical thinking skills valued by employers.
Common General Education Requirements:
- English Composition (6 credits) — Technical writing skills are essential; 89% of developers write documentation weekly (Stack Overflow Survey 2024)
- Mathematics (6-12 credits) — Calculus I & II, plus statistics for data-focused roles
- Natural Sciences (6-8 credits) — Physics is particularly relevant for hardware-adjacent specializations
- Social Sciences/Humanities (6-12 credits) — Ethics courses increasingly important given AI regulation
- Communication (3 credits) — Presentation skills for technical demos and stakeholder meetings
Pro tip: Many schools allow AP/IB credits or CLEP exams to satisfy gen-ed requirements, potentially saving $3,000-$10,000 in tuition. Check your target school's transfer credit policies before enrolling.
Campus Resources for Students
Top Database Administration programs provide extensive support infrastructure to help students succeed. According to EDUCAUSE research, students who utilize campus resources are 34% more likely to graduate on time.
Essential Campus Resources:
- Computer Labs — 24/7 access to high-performance workstations, often with specialized software (MATLAB, AWS credits, GPU clusters)
- Career Services — Resume reviews, mock interviews, and direct recruiter connections; top programs host 50+ tech companies annually
- Tutoring Centers — Free peer tutoring for programming, math, and core courses; many offer drop-in hours
- Student Organizations — ACM chapters, hackathon teams, and Women in Computing groups provide networking and project experience
- Research Opportunities — Undergraduate research positions with faculty can lead to publications and graduate school recommendations
When evaluating programs, ask about student-to-advisor ratios. The NACADA recommends no more than 300:1 for effective academic advising, though top tech programs often achieve 150:1 or better.
Internships & Co-op Programs
Database Administration internships offer the highest compensation of any undergraduate major, with an average hourly wage of $24.76 according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) 2024 Report. Top-tier companies pay significantly more—often 3-5x the average rate.
Top Employers for Database Administration Interns:
- Google — $8,000-$10,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Amazon — $7,500-$9,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Microsoft — $7,000-$9,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Meta — $6,500-$8,500/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
- Apple — $6,000-$8,000/month plus housing stipends at major tech hubs
53% of interns receive full-time job offers from their internship employers (NACE 2024). For paid internships specifically, the conversion rate jumps to 70-75%. Most applications open August-October for the following summer—start preparing early.
For salary expectations after graduation, see our software developer salary guide.
Career Paths
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1141Design, implement, and maintain database systems for organizations. Ensure data security, backup procedures, and optimal performance.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Extract insights from large datasets using statistical analysis and machine learning techniques.
Database Developer
SOC 15-1132Design and create database applications, stored procedures, and data integration solutions.
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2041Analyze business data to identify trends, create reports, and support decision-making processes.
Software Engineer
SOC 15-1252Develop applications that interact with database systems and implement data-driven solutions.
Database Administration Programs by State
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in California | 12 | $15,800 | UC Berkeley |
| Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in Texas | 8 | $12,200 | UT Austin |
| Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in Florida | 6 | $11,500 | University of Florida |
| Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in New York | 9 | $18,600 | Columbia University |
| Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in Illinois | 5 | $14,200 | UIUC |
| Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania | 7 | $16,900 | Carnegie Mellon |
Bachelor's vs Associate's vs Bootcamp
Choosing between a bachelor's degree, associate's degree, or coding bootcamp depends on your career goals, timeline, and budget. Each path offers distinct advantages for entering the Database Administration field.
Bachelor's Degree (4 years, $40K-$160K)
- Comprehensive theoretical foundation plus hands-on skills
- Required for most senior/management positions and graduate school
- Median starting salary: $75,000 (NACE 2024)
- Best for: Students seeking long-term career growth and research opportunities
Associate's Degree (2 years, $10K-$30K)
- Faster entry into entry-level positions
- Many credits transfer to 4-year programs (2+2 pathway)
- Median starting salary: $50,000-$60,000
- Best for: Career changers or those testing interest before committing to 4 years
Coding Bootcamp (12-24 weeks, $10K-$20K)
- Intensive, job-focused training on current industry tools
- Many offer income share agreements (ISAs) or deferred tuition
- Median starting salary: $65,000-$80,000 for graduates with strong portfolios
- Best for: Career changers with self-discipline; see our Database Administration bootcamp rankings
For a detailed ROI comparison, read our analysis: Bootcamp vs Master's Degree: Which Has Better ROI?
Preparing for Graduate School
A bachelor's in Database Administration provides an excellent foundation for graduate study. According to the Computing Research Association, 25% of CS bachelor's graduates pursue advanced degrees within five years of graduation, with master's holders earning 20-30% more than bachelor's-only peers.
Preparing for Graduate School During Your Bachelor's:
- Maintain GPA above 3.5 — Most competitive programs require 3.3+ minimum; top-10 programs average 3.7+
- Secure research experience — 2+ semesters with faculty dramatically improves PhD admission chances
- Build faculty relationships — You will need 3 strong recommendation letters; start early
- Take graduate-level courses — Many programs allow undergrads to enroll; demonstrates readiness
- Prepare for GRE (if required) — Quantitative scores above 165 expected for top programs
Graduate Degree Options:
- Master's (1-2 years) — Career-focused; average salary boost of $15,000-$25,000; see our best Database Administration master's programs
- PhD (4-6 years) — Research-focused; typically fully funded with $30,000-$45,000 stipend; required for professorships and research scientist roles
- Professional Master's — Industry-sponsored programs (Google, Facebook) combine coursework with company projects
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 45 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Ranking Factors
Degree completions (sqrt normalized, capped at 500)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
State-specific salary data from BLS OES 2024
Admission rate (lower = more selective)
Institution type (R1/R2 research bonus)
CAE-CD designation, curator bonuses
Data completeness proxy
Reporting completeness
Data Sources and Methodology
Employment and salary data for database administrators
Graduation rates, employment outcomes, and earnings data
Institutional characteristics, enrollment, and financial data
Graduate employment and starting salary surveys
Technology trends and salary benchmarks
How to Choose the Right Database Administration Program
Selecting the right database administration program requires careful consideration of your career goals, learning style, and financial situation. Start by evaluating program curricula to ensure they cover current industry technologies. Look for programs that offer both theoretical foundations and practical experience with enterprise database systems.
Consider the program's industry connections and internship opportunities. Universities with strong relationships with technology companies provide valuable networking opportunities and often lead to job offers. Online programs offer flexibility but may lack hands-on laboratory experiences that are crucial for database administration skills.
Evaluate the total cost of education including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Public universities often provide excellent value with quality education at lower costs. However, private institutions may offer smaller class sizes, more individualized attention, and extensive alumni networks.
Research faculty backgrounds and current research projects. Professors with industry experience bring real-world perspectives to the classroom. Look for faculty who publish research in database technologies and collaborate with industry partners on cutting-edge projects.
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.