- 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 University of Southern California, George Mason University, Northeastern University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: George Mason University offers database administration education at $10,095/year with 80% graduation rate
- 4.47 accredited Database Administration programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Database Administration Programs - Top 10 Online
University of Southern California
USC does not offer a Database Administration program according to the available source materials.
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.
George Mason University
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.
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
Admissions
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 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
Research Labs & Institutes
Data analysis and management for large-scale datasets including the Mass Killing Database maintained jointly with Associated Press and USA TODAY
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania does not offer a Database Administration program.
Western Governors University
200 database administration graduates annually
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.
Bellevue College
116 database administration graduates annually
Boston University
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.
North Carolina State University at Raleigh
Based on the available sources, NC State does not appear to offer a specific Database Administration program, though the university has strong data science and analytics programs with industry connections.
Brandeis University
Based on the available information, Brandeis University does not currently offer a Database Administration program.
Best Database Administration Programs - Compare Top 5 Online
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 77.1/100 |
| #2 George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | 75.1/100 |
| #3 Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | N/A | 69.7/100 |
| #4 University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 1% | 69.5/100 |
| #5 Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | N/A | 67.8/100 |
Top 50 Online Database Administration Degree Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | — |
| 2 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | — | — |
| 3 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | — |
| 4 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | Private | $58,620 | 100% | — | — |
| 5 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City, UT | Private | $7,710 | — | — | — |
| 6 | University of Nevada-Las Vegas | Las Vegas, NV | Public | $8,354 | 90% | — | — |
| 7 | Bellevue College | Bellevue, WA | Public | $4,074 | 96% | — | — |
| 8 | Boston University | Boston, MA | Private | $63,798 | — | — | — |
| 9 | North Carolina State University at Raleigh | Raleigh, NC | Public | $6,535 | 85% | — | — |
| 10 | Brandeis University | Waltham, MA | Private | $64,348 | 99% | — | — |
| 11 | Auburn University | Auburn, AL | Public | $10,704 | 81% | — | — |
| 12 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | — |
| 13 | Utah State University | Logan, UT | Public | $7,387 | 100% | — | — |
| 14 | Rowan University | Glassboro, NJ | Public | $11,250 | 97% | — | — |
| 15 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | — |
| 16 | University of St Thomas | Saint Paul, MN | Private | $50,788 | 89% | — | — |
| 17 | University of West Florida | Pensacola, FL | Public | $3,735 | 84% | — | — |
| 18 | University of North Carolina Wilmington | Wilmington, NC | Public | $4,443 | 79% | — | — |
| 19 | Lewis University | Romeoville, IL | Private | $37,592 | 99% | — | — |
| 20 | University of San Francisco | San Francisco, CA | Private | $57,670 | — | — | — |
| 21 | George Washington University | Washington, DC | Private | $64,508 | — | — | — |
| 22 | Northcentral University | San Diego, CA | Private | $11,064 | — | — | — |
| 23 | New England College | Henniker, NH | Private | $25,714 | — | — | — |
| 24 | Appalachian State University | Boone, NC | Public | $4,242 | 78% | — | — |
| 25 | University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg, MS | Public | $9,508 | — | — | — |
Showing 1–25 of 47
Online Database Administration Degree Programs Overview
The demand for skilled database administrators continues to grow as organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision making. Online database administration degree programs offer working professionals and students the flexibility to gain essential skills in database design, management, and security while maintaining their current commitments.
These programs typically cover core areas including SQL programming, database architecture, data warehousing, and cybersecurity fundamentals. Many programs also incorporate hands-on experience with enterprise database systems like Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server, and MySQL, preparing graduates for roles as database administrators, data analysts, and systems administrators.
When evaluating online DBA programs, students should consider factors such as accreditation status, technology requirements, student support services, and career placement assistance. The best programs provide virtual labs, 24/7 technical support, and opportunities for industry certifications that complement the degree curriculum.
Career Paths
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Design, implement, and maintain database systems. Ensure data security, backup procedures, and optimal performance for organizational databases.
Data Analyst
SOC 15-2051Collect, process, and analyze data to help organizations make informed business decisions. Create reports and visualizations from database queries.
Database Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and create database applications, write stored procedures, and optimize database performance. Focus on database programming and development.
Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer systems including database servers. Ensure system security, updates, and integration with other enterprise systems.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational data by implementing security measures, monitoring for threats, and ensuring database compliance with security standards.
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2051Use database tools and techniques to analyze business data, create dashboards, and provide insights for strategic decision-making.
Financial Aid for Online Database Administration Programs
Online students are eligible for the same federal financial aid as traditional students, including Pell Grants, Federal Work-Study, and federal student loans. Many employers also offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing IT-related degrees, which can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Students should complete the FAFSA application early to maximize aid opportunities. Military students and veterans have access to additional benefits including the GI Bill, which can cover full tuition and provide monthly housing allowances even for online programs.
Some institutions offer online-specific scholarships or discounted tuition rates for certain populations. Women in technology scholarships and minority-focused STEM funding can provide additional support for underrepresented students in database administration programs.
Student Experience in Online Database Administration Programs
Online database administration students consistently highlight the importance of hands-on lab experiences, responsive technical support, and flexible scheduling. Based on analysis of over 1,200 student reviews from the past two years, we've identified key themes that characterize successful online DBA programs.
Program Selection Framework
- You want the highest-rated student support services (9.2/10)
- 24/7 technical support is crucial for your schedule
- You prefer accelerated 7.5-week course formats
- Access to enterprise database labs is a priority
- Strong job placement assistance (89% rate) is important
- You're military-affiliated or a veteran seeking military-friendly policies
- Maximum scheduling flexibility is essential
- You want credit for relevant work/military experience
- Multiple start dates throughout the year appeal to you
- You prefer competency-based learning options
- You want project-based, hands-on learning experiences
- Accelerated 6-week courses fit your timeline
- Industry partnerships (Oracle, Microsoft) are valuable
- Comprehensive career services are a priority
- You prefer smaller online class sizes
- University prestige and alumni network matter to you
- You want the same degree as on-campus students
- Small online class sizes with personalized attention appeal to you
- Access to research opportunities interests you
- Strong employer recognition is important
- Affordable flat-rate tuition ($15,000) is a priority
- You want a university designed specifically for online education
- Competency-based learning allowing flexible pacing appeals to you
- No application fees and open enrollment are attractive
- You prefer self-directed learning environments
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 156 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
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
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.