University campus in Maryland
Updated January 2026

Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland — 2026 Rankings

Explore 18 accredited database administration degree programs in Maryland. Compare schools by graduation rate, salary outcomes, and tuition—from Prince George's Community College to University of Maryland Global Campus.

#1 ProgramU of Maryland Global
Avg Salary$122,420
Tuition From$5,016/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Top 3 ranked: U of Maryland Global, U of Maryland-College Park, U of Maryland-Baltimore C...

Based on graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $4,933 to $62,840/year

Prince George's Community... offers the most affordable option at $5,016/yr

IPEDS 2023

Degree levels: 2 associate's, 9 master's, 2 doctoral programs available in Maryland

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

5 Maryland programs offer online or hybrid formats

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2023

Maryland community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL, Northrop Grumman

Tech hubs in Baltimore and Bethesda

Hakia Research 2026

Database Administration programs available near 43+ cities across Maryland

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$122,420
Is Database Administration in Maryland Worth It?
Yes. Database Administration degrees in Maryland deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $122,420 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $17,608/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

14 programs•$122,420 median salary•83% avg grad rate
14
Programs
$122,420
Median Salary
$16,921/yr
Avg Tuition
83%
Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

Maryland ranks among the nation's top destinations for database administration education, with 14 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 9 public and 4 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Maryland Global, U of Maryland-College Park, U of Maryland-Baltimore C..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Maryland database administration programs earn a median salary of $104,057—6% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $4,933 to $55,480 annually, with an average of $16,921/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 83%, with the highest reaching 97%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Maryland's leading technology employers. For students seeking database administration degrees in Maryland, these top-ranked database administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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University of Maryland Global Campus

Public
Adelphi, MD
$7,632
Tuition/yr
74%
Grad Rate
84.4
Score
Website
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University of Maryland-College Park

Public
College Park, MD
$9,889
Tuition/yr
84%
Grad Rate
72.4
Score
Website
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University of Maryland-Baltimore County

Public
Baltimore, MD
$9,238
Tuition/yr
90%
Grad Rate
59.0
Score
Website
#4

Salisbury University

Public
Salisbury, MD
$7,706
Tuition/yr
97%
Grad Rate
59.4
Score
Website
#5

Towson University

Public
Towson, MD
$7,382
Tuition/yr
91%
Grad Rate
54.7
Score
Website
#6

Loyola University Maryland

Private
Baltimore, MD
$55,480
Tuition/yr
92%
Grad Rate
47.9
Score
Website
#7

Stevenson University

Private
Owings Mills, MD
$36,940
Tuition/yr
87%
Grad Rate
43.2
Score
Website
#8

Strayer University-Maryland

For-Profit
Suitland, MD
$13,725
Tuition/yr
41.6
Score
Website
#9

Washington Adventist University

Private
Takoma Park, MD
$23,400
Tuition/yr
42.8
Score
Website
#10

Notre Dame of Maryland University

Private
Baltimore, MD
$40,430
Tuition/yr
81%
Grad Rate
40.9
Score
Website

Complete Database Administration Degree Program Rankings in Maryland

Best Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

### Program Landscape Maryland offers **2 accredited** associate's degree programs in database administration, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Prince George's Community...**, **Wor-Wic Community College**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in Maryland offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$5,604/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$67,331** in Maryland. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Maryland's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among database administration schools in Maryland, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their database administration degrees in Maryland.

  1. #1. Prince George's Community College

    Hakia ranks Prince George's Community College as the #1 associate's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Largo, MD has annual tuition of $5,016. Ranking score: 38.1.

  2. #2. Wor-Wic Community College

    Hakia ranks Wor-Wic Community College as the #2 associate's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Salisbury, MD has annual tuition of $6,192. Ranking score: 37.9.

Best Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

### Program Landscape Maryland ranks among the nation's top destinations for database administration education, with **14 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **9 public** and **4 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **U of Maryland Global**, **U of Maryland-College Park**, **U of Maryland-Baltimore C...**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from Maryland database administration programs earn a median salary of **$104,057**—6% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$4,933** to **$55,480** annually, with an average of **$16,921/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **83%**, with the highest reaching **97%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Maryland's leading technology employers. For students seeking database administration degrees in Maryland, these top-ranked database administration schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. University of Maryland Global Campus

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland Global Campus as the #1 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Adelphi, MD has annual tuition of $7,632 and a 74% graduation rate. Ranking score: 84.4.

  2. #2. University of Maryland-College Park

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #2 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in College Park, MD has annual tuition of $9,889 and a 84% graduation rate. Ranking score: 72.4.

  3. #3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland-Baltimore County as the #3 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $9,238 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 59.0.

  4. #4. Salisbury University

    Hakia ranks Salisbury University as the #4 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Salisbury, MD has annual tuition of $7,706 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 59.4.

  5. #5. Towson University

    Hakia ranks Towson University as the #5 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Towson, MD has annual tuition of $7,382 and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 54.7.

  6. #6. Loyola University Maryland

    Hakia ranks Loyola University Maryland as the #6 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $55,480 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.9.

  7. #7. Stevenson University

    Hakia ranks Stevenson University as the #7 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Owings Mills, MD has annual tuition of $36,940 and a 87% graduation rate. Ranking score: 43.2.

  8. #8. Strayer University-Maryland

    Hakia ranks Strayer University-Maryland as the #8 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This for-profit institution in Suitland, MD has annual tuition of $13,725. Ranking score: 41.6.

  9. #9. Washington Adventist University

    Hakia ranks Washington Adventist University as the #9 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Takoma Park, MD has annual tuition of $23,400. Ranking score: 42.8.

  10. #10. Notre Dame of Maryland University

    Hakia ranks Notre Dame of Maryland University as the #10 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $40,430 and a 81% graduation rate. Ranking score: 40.9.

  11. #11. Coppin State University

    Hakia ranks Coppin State University as the #11 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $4,933. Ranking score: 42.4.

  12. #12. Morgan State University

    Hakia ranks Morgan State University as the #12 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $5,587 and a 52% graduation rate. Ranking score: 42.8.

  13. #13. University of Baltimore

    Hakia ranks University of Baltimore as the #13 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $7,442. Ranking score: 39.6.

  14. #14. Frostburg State University

    Hakia ranks Frostburg State University as the #14 bachelor's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Frostburg, MD has annual tuition of $7,110. Ranking score: 36.8.

Online Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

### Online Program Options 5 Maryland institutions offer bachelor's database administration degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **U of Baltimore**, **Strayer University-Maryland**, **Stevenson**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Maryland employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online bachelor's programs average **$24,387/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Maryland-based employers including NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online database administration degrees in Maryland, these accredited database administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • University of Baltimore - Baltimore, MD - Tuition: $7,442/year
  • Strayer University-Maryland - Suitland, MD - Tuition: $13,725/year
  • Stevenson University - Owings Mills, MD - Tuition: $36,940/year
  • Washington Adventist University - Takoma Park, MD - Tuition: $23,400/year
  • Notre Dame of Maryland University - Baltimore, MD - Tuition: $40,430/year

Best Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

### Program Landscape Maryland offers **9** master's degree programs in database administration, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Maryland Global**, **U of Maryland-Baltimore C...**, **Johns Hopkins**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in Maryland earn a median salary of **$122,420**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$26,907/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Maryland's database administration schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. University of Maryland Global Campus

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland Global Campus as the #1 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Adelphi, MD has annual tuition of $7,632 and a 74% graduation rate. Ranking score: 84.4.

  2. #2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland-Baltimore County as the #2 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $9,238 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 76.9.

  3. #3. Johns Hopkins University

    Hakia ranks Johns Hopkins University as the #3 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $62,840. Ranking score: 58.8.

  4. #4. University of Maryland-College Park

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #4 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in College Park, MD has annual tuition of $9,889 and a 84% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.9.

  5. #5. Loyola University Maryland

    Hakia ranks Loyola University Maryland as the #5 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $55,480 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.1.

  6. #6. Stevenson University

    Hakia ranks Stevenson University as the #6 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Owings Mills, MD has annual tuition of $36,940 and a 87% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.7.

  7. #7. Notre Dame of Maryland University

    Hakia ranks Notre Dame of Maryland University as the #7 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This private institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $40,430 and a 81% graduation rate. Ranking score: 41.5.

  8. #8. Strayer University-Maryland

    Hakia ranks Strayer University-Maryland as the #8 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This for-profit institution in Suitland, MD has annual tuition of $13,725. Ranking score: 42.8.

  9. #9. Bowie State University

    Hakia ranks Bowie State University as the #9 master's in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Bowie, MD has annual tuition of $5,993. Ranking score: 38.6.

Online Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

### Online Program Options Working professionals can advance their careers through 3 online master's database administration programs from Maryland universities, designed for flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Top-ranked online programs include **Stevenson**, **Strayer University-Maryland**, **Notre Dame of Maryland**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Maryland employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online master's programs average **$30,365/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Maryland-based employers including NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **30-36 credit hours** in 18-24 months while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online database administration degrees in Maryland, these accredited database administration schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Stevenson University - Owings Mills, MD - Tuition: $36,940/year
  • Strayer University-Maryland - Suitland, MD - Tuition: $13,725/year
  • Notre Dame of Maryland University - Baltimore, MD - Tuition: $40,430/year

Best Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

### Program Landscape Maryland is home to **2** doctoral programs in database administration, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **U of Maryland-Baltimore C...**, **U of Maryland-College Park** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages. ### Career Outcomes Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Maryland PhD holders earning a median of **$153,025**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Baltimore, Bethesda, Rockville region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like NSA, Lockheed Martin, Johns Hopkins APL. ### Costs & Value PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually. ### Curriculum & Specializations Research strengths across Maryland programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing database administration degrees in Maryland, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

  1. #1. University of Maryland-Baltimore County

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland-Baltimore County as the #1 doctoral in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in Baltimore, MD has annual tuition of $9,238 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.8.

  2. #2. University of Maryland-College Park

    Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #2 doctoral in database administration degree program in Maryland. This public institution in College Park, MD has annual tuition of $9,889 and a 84% graduation rate. Ranking score: 53.8.

Database Administration Tuition in Maryland

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$17,608/year
Average out-of-state tuition$44,020/year
Community college tuition$4,402/year
4-year savings for residents$105,648
2+2 transfer pathway savings$26,412

Source: IPEDS 2023

Database Administration Financial Aid & Scholarships in Maryland

State Aid Programs

Maryland students pursuing database administration degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways, starting with the federal Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Through Federal Student Aid, students can apply for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities regardless of their chosen institution. Maryland residents attending public universities benefit from additional state-level support through the Maryland Senatorial/Delegate Scholarship, a need-based award program administered by the Maryland Higher Education Commission that provides direct funding from state legislators. This scholarship is particularly valuable for students at the state's 30 institutions offering database administration programs, ranging from community colleges to research universities.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state grants, many institutions offering database administration programs provide institutional scholarships and financial aid packages tailored to enrolled students. Public four-year universities in Maryland charge an average in-state tuition of $7,730, making state schools more accessible than private alternatives. Students should explore aid options through the College Scorecard, which provides detailed financial information for each school, and consult the Maryland Higher Education Commission website for comprehensive state aid programs. Community college pathways offer additional savings, with institutions like those ranked in our best associate's programs list charging significantly less than four-year universities, making them an excellent entry point for students seeking affordable credentials before transferring through Maryland's ARTSYS articulation system.

Calculate Your Database Administration Degree ROI in Maryland

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a database administration degree in Maryland. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Database Administration Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a database administration degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+959%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,774,135

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$100,000

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,809,543

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Washington, DC)$145,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return5.1%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Career Paths

+25%

Design and develop software applications and systems

Median Salary:$138,335
+35%

Analyze complex datasets and build predictive models

Median Salary:$115,075
+32%

Protect computer networks from cyber threats

Median Salary:$128,541
+22%

Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines

Median Salary:$135,886
+28%

Design and maintain cloud computing infrastructure

Median Salary:$132,214
+40%

Build and deploy machine learning models

Median Salary:$154,249
Database Administration Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Maryland metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Baltimore$135K
Bethesda$129K
Rockville$122K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Database Administration Jobs in Maryland: Top Employers Hiring

Find database administration jobs in Maryland. These major employers across Maryland metro areas are actively hiring database administration graduates. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Database Administration Jobs in Baltimore

MD
Northrop Grumman
defense
Lockheed Martin
defense
ZeroFOX
cybersecurity
Catalyte
tech
Under Armour
retail-tech

Database Administration Jobs in Bethesda-Rockville

MD
Lockheed Martin
defense
NIH
government
Leidos
defense
DMI
consulting
Cloudbolt Software
cloud

Database Administration Jobs in Columbia-Fort Meade

MD
NSA
government
US Cyber Command
government
Booz Allen Hamilton
consulting
SAIC
defense

How to Apply to Database Administration Programs in Maryland

1

Research Program Requirements

Review admission requirements for database administration programs at your target schools. Requirements vary by institution and degree level.

2

Prepare Application Materials

Gather transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for graduate), letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

3

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines.

4

Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Apply early for priority consideration. Early action/decision deadlines are typically October-November; regular deadlines December-January.

5

Complete Enrollment Steps

Accept your offer, submit enrollment deposit, complete orientation requirements, and register for classes.

Database Administration Transfer Pathways in Maryland

State Transfer System

Maryland's transfer pathway system is streamlined through the Articulation System (ARTSYS), which maps course equivalencies between 18 two-year institutions and four-year universities (https://artsys.usmd.edu/). Students completing associate degree programs at leading community colleges such as Montgomery College ($8,190 tuition), Community College of Baltimore County ($5,784 tuition), and Prince George's Community College ($5,016 tuition) can seamlessly transfer database coursework to bachelor's degree programs. This articulated pathway allows students to earn 19 associate completions annually while reducing overall degree costs and completion time.

How Transfers Work

Transfer-friendly institutions like University of Maryland-College Park, University of Maryland-Baltimore County (tuition: $9,238), and Towson University (tuition: $7,382) actively recruit community college graduates and apply transfer credits directly toward bachelor's degrees. The Maryland Senatorial/Delegate Scholarship (https://mhec.maryland.gov/preparing/Pages/FinancialAid/descriptions.aspx) provides need-based financial aid for resident students, benefiting transfer students. Students beginning at affordable community colleges can substantially reduce total education costs while completing foundational database courses. For detailed transfer planning, consult the ARTSYS database, review the best bachelor's programs, and explore related cloud computing transfer pathways to design optimal educational routes matching career goals and financial circumstances.

Why Study Database Administration in Maryland?

Industry & Workforce

Maryland offers exceptional opportunities for students pursuing Database Administration degrees, with 30 institutions across the state offering programs at multiple degree levels (IPEDS). The state's higher education ecosystem includes 15 bachelor's-degree-granting institutions and 3 community colleges with associate programs, producing 2,981 bachelor's completions and 665 master's completions annually. This robust pipeline reflects strong regional demand for database professionals in Maryland's thriving technology sectors.

Salary Outlook

Maryland's strategic location within the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria and Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metropolitan areas creates unparalleled career opportunities. The state hosts major employers including Johns Hopkins University, the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Lockheed Martin, and Marriott, all requiring skilled database administrators. Public in-state tuition for four-year institutions averages $7,730, making Maryland programs significantly more affordable than the national average. Top-ranked programs like University of Maryland-College Park and University of Maryland-Baltimore County combine affordability with prestige, offering graduates competitive advantages in the job market. Explore related programs in data analytics and information systems to build comprehensive career pathways.

Database Administration Job Market in Maryland

Employment Outlook

Maryland's database administration job market is robust, supported by a diverse employer base spanning healthcare, technology, defense, and hospitality sectors. The state's major employment hubs are concentrated in the Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metro area and the Washington-Arlington-Alexandria metro region (Maryland portion), which collectively represent the largest demand for database professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maryland offers competitive compensation for database administrators with opportunities across multiple industries. Cities like Baltimore, Columbia, Germantown, Silver Spring, Rockville, Frederick, Bethesda, and Towson all maintain active tech talent markets with growing infrastructure demands.

Salaries by Metro

The state's educational pipeline supports this demand effectively. Maryland institutions awarded 2,981 bachelor's degrees, 665 master's degrees, and 21 doctoral degrees in database administration during 2023, with an additional 19 associate's degrees from community colleges (IPEDS Data). This supply of qualified graduates fuels Maryland's competitive advantage in attracting database administration talent. For detailed occupational outlook data and state-specific salary information, prospective professionals should consult the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics. Students exploring related career paths may also consider database management, data analytics, and information systems programs throughout the state.

Database Administration Curriculum & Specializations in Maryland

Core Requirements

Database Administration curricula in Maryland encompass core technical competencies essential for modern data management. Standard coursework includes relational database design, SQL programming, database security and backup/recovery procedures, query optimization, and systems administration. Students typically complete hands-on labs in database platforms such as Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL, alongside courses in data modeling, performance tuning, and enterprise database architecture. Associate degree programs focus on foundational skills across 3 institutions in Maryland, providing direct pathways to employment or four-year degree transfer.

Degree Pathways

Bachelor's programs deepen technical expertise while introducing cloud database management, big data technologies, and strategic database governance. Many programs feature capstone projects requiring students to design and implement complete database solutions for real-world scenarios. Master's programs, offered at 10 Maryland institutions, emphasize advanced topics including distributed databases, data warehousing, machine learning applications, and database administration leadership. Coursework often integrates with industry partnerships at major employers like Johns Hopkins and NIH, providing internship and research opportunities. Students gain practical experience through case studies, consulting projects, and participation in professional certifications (Oracle, Microsoft, CompTIA). Cross-listed courses with database management and data analytics programs allow students to build interdisciplinary expertise in contemporary data professions.

Online vs On-Campus Database Administration Programs in Maryland

Online Program Growth

Maryland's database administration programs offer both online and traditional campus options to accommodate diverse student schedules and preferences. Online bachelor's degree programs provide flexibility for working professionals and students with geographic constraints, with options ranked in our best online programs guide including University of Maryland Eastern Shore ($5,637), Morgan State University ($5,587), and Capitol Technology University ($26,088). These programs deliver the same rigorous curriculum as campus-based alternatives while allowing students to balance education with employment and personal commitments. University of Maryland Global Campus, which produced 2,389 completions—the highest among all Maryland institutions—exemplifies the robust online education infrastructure available in the state. Online learners benefit from asynchronous coursework, self-paced learning modules, and digital collaboration tools that mirror professional database administration environments.

Accredited Online Options

Campus-based programs at institutions like University of Maryland-College Park, University of Maryland-Baltimore County, and Towson University provide hands-on laboratory experience, face-to-face faculty mentorship, and integrated campus resources. These programs excel at providing real-time networking with peers and instructors while offering access to specialized computer labs and enterprise-grade database systems. Many institutions now offer hybrid models combining online coursework with periodic in-person labs or intensives, optimizing flexibility without sacrificing technical depth. Students should evaluate their learning style, career timeline, and geographic location when choosing between online and campus formats. Compare program structures through institution websites and the College Scorecard to identify whether online, campus, or hybrid delivery best supports your database administration career goals. Both pathways lead to identical credentials recognized by employers like Johns Hopkins, NIH, and Lockheed Martin.

Database Administration by City in Maryland

The Baltimore-Columbia-Towson metropolitan area stands as Maryland's premier hub for database administration careers. Baltimore hosts Johns Hopkins' extensive healthcare and research operations, while Columbia serves as a central business district attracting corporate headquarters and technology firms. Towson, located nearby, provides additional suburban employment opportunities and is home to Towson University, which awarded 44 completions in database administration. The region benefits from lower cost of living compared to DC-area suburbs, with public in-state tuition averaging $7,730 at four-year institutions. This makes the Baltimore metro attractive for both student recruitment and professional relocation.

The Washington DC suburbs—including Germantown, Silver Spring, Rockville, Frederick, and Bethesda—represent Maryland's second major tech corridor, driven by NIH, federal contractors, and technology-focused employers. These areas offer higher salaries but elevated living costs. University of Maryland-College Park, the top-ranked program with 605 completions, is ideally positioned between these two metro regions. For affordability-focused professionals, programs like Morgan State University ($5,587 tuition) and University of Maryland Eastern Shore ($5,637 tuition) provide cost-effective entry points. Explore related opportunities through data analytics and information systems programs established across these cities.

Compare Online Database Administration Programs in Maryland

View tuition costs, program formats & enrollment info

Database Administration Programs by City in Maryland

BaltimoreAnnapolisFrederickLaurelRockvilleSalisburyBel AirColumbiaHagerstownTowson

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Search by city to find accredited database administration programs ranked by our state methodology.

Database Administration Degree Programs by City in Maryland

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Baltimore, Maryland

As home to Johns Hopkins Medicine and University of Maryland Baltimore, Baltimore hosts massive healthcare IT operations requiring sophisticated database management for electronic health records, research data, and patient management systems. The city's inner harbor tech corridor and growing fintech presence create demand for database administrators skilled in high-availability systems and HIPAA-compliant data governance.

Baltimore is located in Baltimore City, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Baltimore, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 32.8 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 56.8 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 19.8 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Baltimore, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 29 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, in Baltimore. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 4.9 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Baltimore, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 29 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, in Baltimore. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, in Baltimore. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Baltimore, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 29 mi from Baltimore. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, in Baltimore. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, in Baltimore. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Annapolis, Maryland

While primarily known as Maryland's capital, Annapolis's government agencies and Naval Academy presence drive demand for database specialists in defense contracting and secure data operations, though most advanced DBA roles cluster in nearby Columbia and Rockville rather than the city proper.

Annapolis is located in Anne Arundel County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Annapolis, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 36 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 39.8 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 4.8 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Annapolis, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 23.6 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 22 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 29.1 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Annapolis, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 23.6 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 24.9 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 22 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Annapolis, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 23.6 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 24.9 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 22 mi from Annapolis. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Frederick, Maryland

Frederick's biotech and life sciences corridor, anchored by companies like Medivation and Fort Detrick's federal research operations, creates specialized demand for database administrators managing clinical trial data, genomics databases, and regulated scientific datasets requiring expertise in compliance-heavy environments.

Frederick is located in Frederick County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Frederick, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 26.7 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 64 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 55 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Frederick, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 39.6 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 39.5 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 43 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Frederick, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 39.6 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 43 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 39.5 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Frederick, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 39.6 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 43 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 39.5 mi from Frederick. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Laurel, Maryland

Laurel sits at the nexus of federal data management, hosting NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center and serving as a satellite hub for NSF and NOAA operations—roles requiring database architects comfortable with massive scientific datasets, real-time telemetry systems, and government security clearances.

Laurel is located in Prince George's County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Laurel, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 16.4 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 38.6 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 18.7 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Laurel, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 9.4 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 13 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 23.8 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Laurel, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 9.4 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 19.9 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 13 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Laurel, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 9.4 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 19.9 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 13 mi from Laurel. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockville, Maryland

Rockville is Maryland's biotech capital and a major tech hub with NIH, numerous pharmaceutical companies, and defense contractors like Lockheed Martin's information systems division, creating the state's highest concentration of enterprise database and data warehouse positions for DBA professionals.

Rockville is located in Montgomery County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockville, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, in Rockville. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 36.2 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 33.2 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockville, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 11.6 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 25.7 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 35.4 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockville, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 11.6 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 32.4 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 25.7 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Rockville, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 11.6 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 32.4 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 25.7 mi from Rockville. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Salisbury, Maryland

As a smaller Eastern Shore city, Salisbury offers limited on-site DBA opportunities, but Salisbury University provides database education and the city's healthcare systems (Peninsula Regional Medical Center) create modest demand; most professionals consider remote work or relocation to Baltimore or Washington, D.C. metro areas.

Salisbury is located in Wicomico County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Salisbury, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 100 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 79.2 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 70 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Salisbury, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 86.2 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 87.7 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 91.2 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Salisbury, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 86.2 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 88.1 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 87.7 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Salisbury, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 86.2 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 88.1 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 87.7 mi from Salisbury. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Bel Air, Maryland

Bel Air's proximity to Aberdeen Proving Ground (a major Army facility) and its location in Maryland's manufacturing corridor create niche opportunities in defense database systems and supply chain data management, though the job market remains smaller than central Maryland metros.

Bel Air is located in Harford County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Bel Air, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 54.7 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 77.7 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 35.9 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Bel Air, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 51.2 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 29.1 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 18.9 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Bel Air, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 51.2 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 22.2 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 29.1 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Bel Air, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 51.2 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 22.2 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 29.1 mi from Bel Air. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Columbia, Maryland

Columbia's planned community design houses a concentration of corporate headquarters including Marriott International and multiple financial services firms, making it a secondary hub for database administrators focused on enterprise data warehousing, customer data platforms, and business intelligence operations outside of federal agencies.

Columbia is located in Howard County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Columbia, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 17.5 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 44.6 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 21 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Columbia, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 15 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 8.9 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 19.1 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Columbia, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 15 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 15.7 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 8.9 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Columbia, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 15 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 15.7 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 8.9 mi from Columbia. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Hagerstown, Maryland

Hagerstown's small but growing tech presence and manufacturing base offer limited local DBA roles, making it better suited for remote database work or candidates willing to commute to Baltimore or the Washington, D.C. region for enterprise positions.

Hagerstown is located in Washington County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Hagerstown, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 46.8 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 83 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 75 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Hagerstown, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 60 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 58.6 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, 60.1 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Hagerstown, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 60 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 61 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 58.6 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Hagerstown, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 60 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 61 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 58.6 mi from Hagerstown. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Database Administration Degree Programs Near Towson, Maryland

Towson's location in Baltimore County near major corporate parks and Towson University (which offers database-related programs through its computer science department) creates a secondary market for database professionals supporting regional business operations and serving as a more affordable alternative to Baltimore City proper.

Towson is located in Baltimore County, Maryland.

Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Towson, Maryland
  1. Montgomery College (Public) — State #1, 36 mi from Towson. Tuition: $8,190/year.
  2. College of Southern Maryland (Public) — State #2, 61.9 mi from Towson. Tuition: $5,880/year.
  3. Anne Arundel Community College (Public) — State #3, 24.6 mi from Towson. Tuition: $6,984/year.
Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Towson, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 33.6 mi from Towson. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #2, 11.3 mi from Towson. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
  3. Towson University (Public) — State #3, in Towson. Tuition: $7,382/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Master's Database Administration Degree Programs Near Towson, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 33.6 mi from Towson. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 4.9 mi from Towson. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 11.3 mi from Towson. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs Near Towson, Maryland
  1. University of Maryland-College Park (Public) — State #1, 33.6 mi from Towson. Tuition: $9,889/year. Graduation rate: 84%.
  2. Johns Hopkins University (Private) — State #2, 4.9 mi from Towson. Tuition: $62,840/year.
  3. University of Maryland-Baltimore County (Public) — State #3, 11.3 mi from Towson. Tuition: $9,238/year. Graduation rate: 90%.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers. For those in Maryland considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

  • Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
  • Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
  • Self-taught developers seeking structured training
  • Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

  • Fast-track to employment—many graduates land jobs within 3-6 months
  • Hands-on, project-based learning builds real portfolio pieces
  • Career services and interview prep included in most programs
  • Strong alumni networks for job referrals and mentorship
  • Structured curriculum keeps you accountable and on track

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

  • Intense pace can be overwhelming—expect 60-80 hour weeks
  • Some employers still prefer traditional CS degrees for certain roles
  • Quality varies widely between programs—research carefully
  • Job placement stats can be misleading—ask for CIRR audited reports
  • May lack depth in computer science fundamentals like algorithms
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Top Ranked Database Administration Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in California6$49,880University of California-Riverside
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Texas15$8,319University of Houston
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in New York22$7,070CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Florida9$13,452Eastern Florida State College
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Washington2$13,965Bellevue College
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Massachusetts8$47,636University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Illinois15$35,680DeVry University-Illinois
Best Database Administration Degree Programs in Georgia10$13,725Georgia Southern University

Database Administration in Maryland: FAQ

How We Rank Database Administration Degree Programs

Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 50 database administration degree programs in Maryland using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for database administration graduates. Maryland median salary of $122,420 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

Maryland salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 15, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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Taylor Rupe

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.

Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

Prince George's Community College — Largo, MD

Hakia Insight: Prince George's Community College feeds federal contractors and GSA IT shops in the DC corridor at rates that rival four-year programs—a pathway to $68K–$78K federal DBA roles without four years of tuition.

At the associate's level, your advantage at Prince George's is the college's reputation for producing database administrators who immediately step into roles at federal agencies and contractors in the region—the DC metro job market for database talent is insatiable, and PGCC has the credibility to get your resume in front of hiring managers. The program teaches SQL Server, Oracle, and increasingly AWS and cloud database services, reflecting where the job market is heading. You'll work in collaborative labs where you troubleshoot real database issues, not just textbook exercises. Many graduates stay in the Hyattsville area working for government IT shops or move into the District for higher salaries; either way, the two-year timeline and affordable tuition make this a smart financial move compared to four-year universities.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Database Administration — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Database Administration — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Federal agencies, Government contractors, GSA IT contractors, DC-area tech firms, Healthcare systems.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • University of Maryland College Park
  • Howard University
  • American University
  • University of Maryland Eastern Shore
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Database Administrator
  • Junior DBA
  • Database Support Technician
  • IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft SQL Server Fundamentals
  • AWS Cloud Practitioner

Location Advantages:

Wor-Wic Community College — Salisbury, MD

Hakia Insight: Wor-Wic's Eastern Shore location eliminates the relocation tax that forces most regional students into Baltimore-Washington corridor debt; healthcare systems and government IT on the Shore hire aggressively at associate's level.

At the associate's level, for students in Maryland's Eastern Shore, Wor-Wic offers a database program that prepares you for tech roles without requiring relocation to the Baltimore-Washington corridor. The curriculum covers SQL Server and database fundamentals, with hands-on labs that give you practical experience managing databases. You'll learn the skills local employers seek—many of whom are in healthcare, government, and regional businesses—and can build a career on the Shore if you prefer staying in the area. The smaller, more collegial environment means you get personalized attention from instructors, and the affordable tuition plus lower cost of living make this an economical choice for an accredited database administration education.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Database Administration — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Database Administration — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Eastern Shore healthcare systems, Regional government IT, Local businesses and nonprofits, Small to mid-size tech firms.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • University of Maryland Eastern Shore
  • Salisbury University
  • Towson University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Database Support Technician
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Database Technician
  • Help Desk Technician
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft SQL Server Fundamentals

Location Advantages:

Best Bachelor's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

University of Maryland Global Campus — Adelphi, MD

Key Distinction: Computer Science Capstone course (CMSC 495) with hands-on projects. Hands-on coursework including real-world projects such as designing relational databases and benchmarking algorithms

Hakia Insight: UMGC's CMSC 495 capstone explicitly requires students to design relational databases and benchmark query performance—deliverables that candidates can drop directly into interviews at Oracle and Booz Allen Hamilton, cutting the usual 2–3 month job search.

UMGC's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science is a 120-credit online program designed with input from industry experts and employers. The curriculum covers introductory through advanced programming, computer systems and architecture, software engineering principles, database administration, algorithms, and emerging developments in artificial intelligence. Students complete a capstone course (CMSC 495) and engage in hands-on coursework including real-world projects such as designing relational databases, benchmarking sorting algorithms, and writing research papers on system performance evolution. The program emphasizes analytical skills, problem-solving, and professional communication. Graduates are prepared for careers as software engineers, database administrators, computer systems architects, and computer scientists across industries including data processing, healthcare, information security, and finance. Job growth for software developers and quality assurance analysts is projected at 17% through 2033, significantly above average occupational growth.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
  • Oracle (corporate)
  • Microsoft (corporate)
  • Booz Allen Hamilton (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Oracle Associate certification pathway
  • Microsoft SQL Server certification pathway

Location Advantages: Strong pipeline to federal contractors and government agencies in the DC-Maryland areaAccess to mid-Atlantic tech hubs with high DBA demand

University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD

Key Distinction: Hands-on learning with 400+ industry partner projects. Access to world-renowned research centers and labs

Hakia Insight: UMD College Park's 400+ industry partner projects mean students ship database work to real employers as undergraduates; resumes land differently when 'designed production schema for AWS RDS' appears as coursework rather than speculation.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Science at UMD College Park is a 4-year, 120-credit program that blends technical skills in database design, data analytics, web/mobile development, and cybersecurity with social sciences and humanities coursework. Students gain hands-on experience through projects with 400+ industry partners and access to world-renowned research centers. The curriculum includes 40 credits of general education, 45 credits in the major with 10 core courses, and 15 credits of upper-level electives. Graduates pursue careers in database administration, data science, UX/UI design, cybersecurity, and systems architecture at organizations like Google, IBM, the CIA, Library of Congress, and National Geographic. UMD ranks #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities and #3 overall.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Computer Science Department Database Research Group
Industry Partners
  • Amazon (corporate)
  • Google (corporate)
  • Microsoft (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Google, IBM.

Location Advantages: Proximity to tech company research centers in Washington DC areaAccess to major tech company recruiting pipelinesStrong regional presence of cloud infrastructure companies

University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: Internship and co-op support through special credit courses (IS 397, IS 399, IS 467, IS 469, IS 478, IS 479). Undergraduate research project opportunities with academic credit

Hakia Insight: UMBC's IS 397/399/467/469 co-op credit system lets students earn degree credits while working at NSA and NIST—an arrangement that compresses career progression for students willing to pursue security clearance tracks.

The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems at UMBC prepares students for diverse careers in the IS field, including Systems Analysis and Design, Computer Networking, and Health Care Informatics. The program requires completion of 9+ upper-level IS and Management courses, with a structured curriculum covering database design, database application development, data communications, network management, and decision support systems. Students must satisfy gateway requirements including a grade of C or higher in MATH 155 and IS 147, and a grade of B or higher in IS 300 and IS 310 before advancing to 400-level courses. The program supports internships, co-ops, and research projects through special courses (IS 397, IS 399, IS 467, IS 469, IS 478, IS 479), allowing students to gain hands-on experience while earning academic credit. All students must complete general education requirements alongside their major coursework.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Cybersecurity and Privacy
Industry Partners
  • National Security Agency (government)
  • NIST (government)
Notable Faculty
  • null — Database systems and query optimization

Location Advantages: Baltimore-Washington federal contracting hubProximity to NSA and NISTAccess to cybersecurity sector employersRegional tech company presence

Salisbury University — Salisbury, MD

Key Distinction: Salisbury's program stands out for direct alignment with vendor certification tracks and active placement pipelines into mid-Atlantic financial services and government IT operations.

Hakia Insight: Salisbury's direct alignment with Oracle and Microsoft certification tracks means graduates sit for vendor exams during senior capstone, not months later; this timing difference shrinks job search windows by 6–8 weeks in the mid-Atlantic government contracting market.

At the bachelor's level, salisbury University's database administration program within its computer science offerings delivers enterprise-focused training grounded in industry certifications and regional demand. The curriculum progresses from foundational relational database concepts through advanced administration topics including backup/recovery strategies, performance tuning, and cloud database platforms (Azure, AWS), preparing students for immediate workplace relevance. What sets Salisbury apart is its intentional connection to the Eastern Shore's growing tech economy and proximity to Baltimore's financial services sector—both significant employers of database professionals. Faculty emphasize hands-on labs using production-grade tools (Oracle, SQL Server, PostgreSQL) rather than purely theoretical study, and many instructors bring consulting or full-time IT operations experience. Graduates frequently land positions as junior DBAs or database support specialists within 6 months of graduation, with clear pathways to senior administrator and architect roles. The program also encourages pursuit of vendor certifications (Oracle DBA, Microsoft SQL Server), which Salisbury's curriculum is designed to support.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Oracle (corporate)
  • Microsoft (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Oracle Database Associate certification pathway
  • Microsoft SQL Server certification pathway

Location Advantages: Eastern Shore tech economy growthProximity to Baltimore financial services sectorAccess to mid-Atlantic government IT contracting

Towson University — Towson, MD

Key Distinction: Towson's program excels at making database administration accessible to working professionals through hybrid scheduling and immediate, employer-aligned skill development.

Hakia Insight: Towson's hybrid scheduling attracts working professionals, but the real edge is Dr. Michael McGuire's machine learning and environmental informatics lab—a non-obvious research bridge that positions database graduates for GIS and climate data roles at higher margins than standard DBA tracks.

At the bachelor's level, towson's database administration pathway within its computer science program targets working professionals and full-time students seeking immediate industry applicability, with a curriculum anchored in SQL Server, Oracle, and open-source platforms used across the region's employers. The program distinguishes itself through evening and hybrid course options, making it accessible to students already employed in IT support or adjacent roles looking to specialize in database administration. Core competencies span database design, T-SQL and PL-SQL programming, security and access control, performance monitoring, and backup/recovery procedures—the practical toolkit employers need on day one. Towson's proximity to Baltimore's financial services industry and the Washington metro tech corridor means students engage with real-world database challenges through guest lectures, internship placements, and capstone projects that address actual institutional data management problems. Graduates typically transition into DBA roles at banks, insurance firms, healthcare systems, and government agencies throughout the mid-Atlantic, with many pursuing vendor certifications immediately after graduation.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • TU Center for Interdisciplinary Research
  • TU Human Remains Identification Laboratory (THRIL)
Industry Partners
  • Baltimore Police Department (collaborator)
  • Maryland State Police Forensic Sciences Division (collaborator)
  • QIAGEN, LLC (partner)
  • Verogen (partner)
  • Gentueri, Inc. (partner)
  • Stellar Scientific (partner)
  • KYK9 Search and Reunite Services (collaborator)
  • Maryland Department of Transportation (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Michael McGuire — Machine Learning, AI, Data Science, Environmental Informatics
  • Dr. Sidd Kaza — Cybersecurity Education, Data/Web Mining, Learning Sciences
  • Dr. Katherine Tang — Multimedia, Computer Graphics and Vision, Virtual Reality
  • Dr. Suranjan Chakraborty — Requirements Engineering, Human Computer Interaction
  • Dr. Kelly Elkins — Forensic DNA Analysis, Next Generation Sequencing
Accreditations and Certifications
  • SQL Server and Oracle certification preparation integrated into curriculum

Location Advantages: Baltimore financial services sectorWashington metro tech marketMid-Atlantic government IT contracting opportunities

Loyola University Maryland — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: Loyola uniquely integrates vendor certifications (SQL Server, Oracle, AWS) into the degree curriculum with faculty maintaining active industry consulting to ensure immediate market relevance.

Hakia Insight: Loyola embeds SQL Server, Oracle, and AWS certifications into the degree rather than sandboxing them as optional add-ons; students graduate exam-ready, a credential gap that translates to 3–6 month salary jumps at T. Rowe Price and Johns Hopkins.

At the bachelor's level, loyola's computer science program weaves database administration into a curriculum explicitly designed around industry certification pathways and rapid job placement. Students pursue Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle certifications alongside degree coursework, with courses timed to align with certification exam windows. The program's strength emerges from its integration of cloud platform administration—AWS and Azure modules appear throughout, reflecting the reality that modern database professionals manage both on-premises and cloud infrastructure. Faculty, many with active industry consulting practices, bring current enterprise challenges into the classroom; students might design solutions to problems their instructors encountered that week with real clients. Outcomes data reflects this approach: Loyola graduates move quickly into database roles at financial services firms, healthcare systems, and mid-market enterprises across the Mid-Atlantic.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Microsoft (corporate)
  • Oracle (corporate)
  • Amazon Web Services (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: T. Rowe Price, Legg Mason, Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Paul Tallon — Information Systems
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
  • Oracle Database Associate Certification pathway

Location Advantages: Baltimore financial services and wealth management hub (T. Rowe Price, Legg Mason)Johns Hopkins Medicine and healthcare IT ecosystem

Stevenson University — Owings Mills, MD

Key Distinction: Stevenson University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Stevenson University's program details remain sparse in available materials; prospective students should request curriculum mapping and recent graduate placement data before enrolling to verify it competes with stronger regional alternatives.

Stevenson University offers Database Administration programs in Owings Mills, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Strayer University-Maryland — Suitland, MD

Key Distinction: Strayer University-Maryland offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Strayer's accelerated bachelor's model compresses database administration fundamentals into a timeline suited for working adults, making it practical for career-switchers who can't afford multi-year degree timelines.

Strayer University-Maryland offers Database Administration programs in Suitland, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Washington Adventist University — Takoma Park, MD

Key Distinction: Washington Adventist University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Washington Adventist's database program benefits from its tight-knit institutional scale, enabling personalized mentorship from faculty who know each student's career trajectory rather than treating DBA training as a standardized pipeline.

Washington Adventist University offers Database Administration programs in Takoma Park, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Notre Dame of Maryland University — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: Notre Dame of Maryland University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Notre Dame of Maryland's bachelor's program sits within Baltimore's healthcare and nonprofit sector, positioning graduates for immediate placement in mission-driven organizations where database stewardship directly impacts patient care and community services.

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers Database Administration programs in Baltimore, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Best Master's Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

University of Maryland Global Campus — Adelphi, MD

Key Distinction: UMGC delivers database administration training optimized for working professionals, with coursework aligned to industry certifications and delivered in flexible, evening-friendly formats.

Hakia Insight: UMGC's master's program leverages Oracle, Microsoft, and Booz Allen Hamilton partnerships to embed vendor certifications directly into coursework, letting working professionals earn industry credentials while earning their degree—eliminating the typical choose-one-or-the-other dilemma.

At the master's level, UMGC's database administration offering targets working professionals seeking flexible, industry-aligned credentials without pausing their careers. The program curriculum maps directly to Oracle and Microsoft certification pathways, allowing students to stack credentials toward a degree while maintaining employment. Live, evening, and asynchronous course formats accommodate night-shift DBAs and database specialists seeking advancement. Faculty bring active industry experience—many are certified database professionals or hold roles at major tech companies—ensuring course content reflects current production challenges: backup strategies, security hardening, cloud migration, and compliance frameworks. Hands-on labs use commercially-supported database platforms (SQL Server, Oracle, PostgreSQL) so students develop skills on tools they'll encounter immediately. This approach appeals to practitioners looking to formalize expertise into a credential recognized by employers in the DC-Maryland region and beyond.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Oracle (corporate)
  • Microsoft (corporate)
  • Booz Allen Hamilton (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Oracle Associate certification pathway
  • Microsoft SQL Server certification pathway

Location Advantages: Strong pipeline to federal contractors and government agencies in the DC-Maryland areaAccess to mid-Atlantic tech hubs with high DBA demand

University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: UMBC uniquely positions database administration within a research-active environment, exposing students to how modern database systems support data science and AI infrastructure.

Hakia Insight: UMBC's Center for Cybersecurity and Privacy creates an unusual advantage: database administrators graduate with hands-on exposure to security-first database design, a skillset that commands premium salaries in federal contracting roles where data breach costs are measured in millions.

At the master's level, UMBC's database systems curriculum is embedded within one of the region's most research-active computer science departments, giving database administration students exposure to both operational excellence and emerging data technologies. The program balances core database administration competencies—transaction management, query optimization, data security, replication—with advanced electives in big data platforms, distributed systems, and cloud data architecture. UMBC's particular strength is its integration of database work with the department's active research in data science, machine learning infrastructure, and high-performance computing, meaning students can see how database technology underpins modern analytics and AI pipelines. The university's location in the Baltimore-Washington corridor and established relationships with federal agencies, cybersecurity firms, and tech companies create internship and post-graduation opportunities that extend well beyond traditional DBA roles into data engineering and cloud architecture. Faculty members actively publish in database systems conferences (SIGMOD, VLDB), creating a research-aware environment where even hands-on database administration students benefit from cutting-edge thinking about data management challenges.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Cybersecurity and Privacy
Industry Partners
  • National Security Agency (government)
  • NIST (government)
Notable Faculty
  • null — Database systems and query optimization

Location Advantages: Baltimore-Washington federal contracting hubProximity to NSA and NISTAccess to cybersecurity sector employersRegional tech company presence

Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: Johns Hopkins combines research-intensive database theory with hands-on enterprise database management, preparing administrators who can architect systems at scale.

Hakia Insight: Johns Hopkins' Database Systems Lab gives students access to research benchmarking real-world performance at enterprise scale—meaning graduates don't just learn to manage databases, they've debugged systems that inform how Fortune 500 companies architect their infrastructure.

At the master's level, johns Hopkins' database administration program stands out for its integration with world-class research infrastructure and a curriculum that bridges theoretical foundations with enterprise-scale systems. The program emphasizes distributed database systems, data consistency models, and performance optimization—skills directly applicable to managing petabyte-scale operations. Students gain hands-on experience through projects involving real database workloads, often collaborating with faculty who contribute to cutting-edge research in data management. The location in the Baltimore-Washington corridor provides natural connections to government agencies and Fortune 500 firms managing critical databases. Graduates emerge with both academic rigor and practical competency, prepared for roles at companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and financial institutions where database reliability determines business outcomes. The program's strength lies in treating database administration not as IT operations, but as a discipline requiring deep understanding of algorithms, transaction processing, and systems architecture.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Database Systems Lab
Industry Partners
  • Amazon Web Services (corporate)
  • Microsoft Azure (corporate)
  • National Institutes of Health (government)

Location Advantages: Proximity to NSA, NIST, and federal database infrastructureAccess to Baltimore-Washington tech corridor with major tech company regional officesStrong connections to healthcare IT sector (Johns Hopkins Health System)

University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD

Key Distinction: All courses scheduled in evenings to accommodate working professionals. Hybrid format: in-person GIS labs and traditional classrooms simultaneously broadcast online via Zoom

Hakia Insight: UMD-College Park's evening-hybrid delivery via Zoom simultaneously broadcasts in-person GIS labs, creating a rare model where remote students access the same hands-on infrastructure as on-campus peers without sacrificing lab work that separates theoretical knowledge from operational competency.

The Master of Science in Geospatial Information Sciences (MS GIS) at University of Maryland-College Park is a 30-credit program designed for working professionals. All courses are scheduled in evenings and offered simultaneously online via Zoom with archived lectures for flexibility. The program features a professional capstone project (GEOG797) culminating in real-world applications. Students can earn a Graduate Certificate in GIS or Remote Sensing concurrently. The curriculum covers spatial analysis, databases, programming, Web GIS, remote sensing, big data analytics, and drone technology. The program is an ESRI Innovation Program Institution, providing industry-recognized credentials. No thesis option is mentioned; the capstone project serves as the culminating requirement. Graduate assistantships and specific salary advancement data are not detailed in available materials. Employer tuition partnerships and embedded professional certifications beyond ESRI recognition are not specified.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Geospatial Information Sciences — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Computer Science Department Database Research Group
Industry Partners
  • Amazon (corporate)
  • Google (corporate)
  • Microsoft (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian, CIA, IMF, Discovery Channel, National Agricultural Library, New York Times, National Geographic.

Location Advantages: Proximity to tech company research centers in Washington DC areaAccess to major tech company recruiting pipelinesStrong regional presence of cloud infrastructure companies

Loyola University Maryland — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: Loyola uniquely integrates vendor certifications (SQL Server, Oracle, AWS) into the degree curriculum with faculty maintaining active industry consulting to ensure immediate market relevance.

Hakia Insight: Loyola embeds SQL Server, Oracle, and AWS certifications into the curriculum with faculty who maintain active consulting engagements, ensuring the certification prep you do counts toward your degree rather than competing for study time after graduation.

At the master's level, loyola's computer science program weaves database administration into a curriculum explicitly designed around industry certification pathways and rapid job placement. Students pursue Microsoft SQL Server and Oracle certifications alongside degree coursework, with courses timed to align with certification exam windows. The program's strength emerges from its integration of cloud platform administration—AWS and Azure modules appear throughout, reflecting the reality that modern database professionals manage both on-premises and cloud infrastructure. Faculty, many with active industry consulting practices, bring current enterprise challenges into the classroom; students might design solutions to problems their instructors encountered that week with real clients. Outcomes data reflects this approach: Loyola graduates move quickly into database roles at financial services firms, healthcare systems, and mid-market enterprises across the Mid-Atlantic.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Microsoft (corporate)
  • Oracle (corporate)
  • Amazon Web Services (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: T. Rowe Price, Legg Mason, Johns Hopkins Medicine.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Paul Tallon — Information Systems
Accreditations and Certifications
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
  • Oracle Database Associate Certification pathway

Location Advantages: Baltimore financial services and wealth management hub (T. Rowe Price, Legg Mason)Johns Hopkins Medicine and healthcare IT ecosystem

Stevenson University — Owings Mills, MD

Key Distinction: Stevenson University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Stevenson's location in Maryland's tech corridor positions graduates within commuting distance of Baltimore's emerging data infrastructure jobs while maintaining the personalized advising that larger state universities cannot offer.

Stevenson University offers Database Administration programs in Owings Mills, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Notre Dame of Maryland University — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: Notre Dame of Maryland University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Notre Dame of Maryland's master's program anchors students in Baltimore's healthcare and biomedical research sector, where database administration roles demand healthcare compliance expertise (HIPAA, HITECH) that clinical organizations pay 15-20% premium salaries to acquire.

Notre Dame of Maryland University offers Database Administration programs in Baltimore, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Strayer University-Maryland — Suitland, MD

Key Distinction: Strayer University-Maryland offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.

Hakia Insight: Strayer's master's program caters to IT professionals already mid-career, compressing advanced database topics into a streamlined format that respects their existing infrastructure knowledge while filling specific gaps in architectural decision-making.

Strayer University-Maryland offers Database Administration programs in Suitland, MD. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

Bowie State University — Bowie, MD

Key Distinction: Bowie's approach treats database administration as an integrated IT systems skill set rather than a siloed specialty, producing graduates who understand infrastructure, networking, and data architecture together.

Hakia Insight: Bowie State's integrated approach treats database administration as part of systems infrastructure rather than isolation, producing graduates who understand why networking latency matters to query performance—a perspective that differentiates them in federal government IT modernization roles.

At the master's level, database administration at Bowie State emerges through its information technology program's emphasis on enterprise systems and infrastructure. Students develop competency in SQL Server, Oracle, and cloud database platforms while completing coursework in networking and systems administration—a combination that prepares them to manage databases within larger IT operations. The program's value lies in its broad IT foundation, which makes graduates attractive to employers seeking DBAs who can troubleshoot infrastructure issues and understand how databases fit into organizational technology ecosystems. Connection to Maryland's technology corridor and relationships with state agencies provide internship and employment pathways. Bowie State positions database work as a natural specialization within IT rather than an isolated discipline, which aligns with how many employers structure their data teams.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Maryland Department of Information Technology (government)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: State of Maryland agencies, Federal contractors in Maryland region.

Location Advantages: Located in Prince George's County near federal agenciesAccess to Maryland state IT operations and modernization initiativesProximity to Washington DC metro tech employment market

Best Doctoral Database Administration Degree Programs in Maryland

University of Maryland-Baltimore County — Baltimore, MD

Key Distinction: UMBC uniquely positions database administration within a research-active environment, exposing students to how modern database systems support data science and AI infrastructure.

Hakia Insight: UMBC's doctoral program in database systems uniquely positions candidates to lead AI infrastructure projects where database architecture directly enables machine learning pipelines, a rare specialization that NSA and NIST actively recruit for.

At the doctoral level, UMBC's database systems curriculum is embedded within one of the region's most research-active computer science departments, giving database administration students exposure to both operational excellence and emerging data technologies. The program balances core database administration competencies—transaction management, query optimization, data security, replication—with advanced electives in big data platforms, distributed systems, and cloud data architecture. UMBC's particular strength is its integration of database work with the department's active research in data science, machine learning infrastructure, and high-performance computing, meaning students can see how database technology underpins modern analytics and AI pipelines. The university's location in the Baltimore-Washington corridor and established relationships with federal agencies, cybersecurity firms, and tech companies create internship and post-graduation opportunities that extend well beyond traditional DBA roles into data engineering and cloud architecture. Faculty members actively publish in database systems conferences (SIGMOD, VLDB), creating a research-aware environment where even hands-on database administration students benefit from cutting-edge thinking about data management challenges.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Center for Cybersecurity and Privacy
Industry Partners
  • National Security Agency (government)
  • NIST (government)
Notable Faculty
  • null — Database systems and query optimization

Location Advantages: Baltimore-Washington federal contracting hubProximity to NSA and NISTAccess to cybersecurity sector employersRegional tech company presence

University of Maryland-College Park — College Park, MD

Key Distinction: UMD-College Park grounds database administration in rigorous computer science foundations, preparing DBAs who understand the algorithms and architecture behind the systems they manage.

Hakia Insight: UMD-College Park's doctoral research group in database systems ensures candidates engage with unsolved problems in distributed query optimization and data consistency, producing researchers who contribute to the foundational knowledge that tools like Apache Spark and Google BigQuery are built upon.

At the doctoral level, UMD's database administration program emerges from its computer science department's research leadership in data systems and information management. The curriculum balances foundational computer science with specialized tracks in database design, query optimization, and modern NoSQL architectures—acknowledging that contemporary database administration spans relational, graph, and distributed data platforms. Undergraduate and graduate pathways allow students to specialize in database systems while maintaining breadth in algorithms and systems theory. The program benefits from proximity to major tech company research offices in the broader Washington metro area, with internship pipelines to companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft. Faculty conduct research in areas directly relevant to practitioner challenges: transaction processing, indexing strategies, and data warehouse optimization. Graduates leave with both theoretical depth and practical competency, competitive for roles that demand understanding of why databases behave as they do, not just operational know-how.

Programs Offered
  • Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
  • Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Computer Science Department Database Research Group
Industry Partners
  • Amazon (corporate)
  • Google (corporate)
  • Microsoft (corporate)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian, CIA, IMF, Discovery Channel, National Agricultural Library, New York Times, National Geographic.

Location Advantages: Proximity to tech company research centers in Washington DC areaAccess to major tech company recruiting pipelinesStrong regional presence of cloud infrastructure companies