Top 3 Database Administration Programs in Michigan
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
172 Database Administration graduates annually, 92% graduation rate
Saginaw Valley State University
15 Database Administration graduates annually, 95% graduation rate
Northwood University
20 Database Administration graduates annually, 82% graduation rate
- 1.Michigan offers 12 accredited database administration programs with tuition ranging from $18,500 to $42,000 annually
- 2.Database administrators in Michigan earn a median salary of $89,200, 6% above the national average
- 3.The state's automotive and manufacturing industries drive strong demand for database professionals
- 4.Top programs offer specialized tracks in cloud databases, data warehousing, and business intelligence
- 5.Average job placement rate for Michigan DBA graduates is 89% within 6 months of graduation
What You'll Learn in Michigan DBA Programs
Michigan database administration programs provide comprehensive coverage of both foundational concepts and emerging technologies. Core coursework typically includes database design principles, SQL programming, data modeling, and system administration across multiple platforms including Oracle, SQL Server, and MySQL.
Advanced coursework focuses on modern challenges facing database professionals. Students learn cloud database management through hands-on projects with AWS RDS, Azure SQL Database, and Google Cloud SQL. Many programs also cover NoSQL databases like MongoDB and Cassandra, reflecting industry demand for professionals skilled in diverse database technologies.
- Database Design and Normalization Theory
- SQL Programming and Query Optimization
- Database Security and Access Control
- Backup and Recovery Procedures
- Performance Monitoring and Tuning
- Cloud Database Management (AWS, Azure, GCP)
- NoSQL Database Systems (MongoDB, Cassandra)
- Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence
- Database Integration and ETL Processes
- Disaster Recovery Planning
Several programs offer specialized tracks reflecting Michigan's industrial base. Students can focus on manufacturing databases, automotive data systems, or healthcare informatics depending on their career goals. This specialization gives Michigan graduates a competitive advantage in the state's key industries.
Complete Michigan Database Administration Program Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | $17,977 | 92% | — | — | 92.4 |
| 2 | Saginaw Valley State University | University Center, MI | $12,240 | 95% | — | — | 53.1 |
| 3 | Northwood University | Midland, MI | $31,400 | 82% | — | — | 49.4 |
| 4 | Grand Valley State University | Allendale, MI | $14,978 | 85% | — | — | 48.8 |
| 5 | Wayne State University | Detroit, MI | $13,660 | 89% | — | — | 44.9 |
| 6 | University of Michigan-Flint | Flint, MI | $12,942 | — | — | — | 44.6 |
| 7 | Aquinas College | Grand Rapids, MI | $37,720 | — | — | — | 36.6 |
| 8 | Calvin University | Grand Rapids, MI | $38,370 | — | — | — | 35.8 |
Top 5 Database Administration Programs in Michigan: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Michigan | U of Michigan-Dearborn | Saginaw Valley State | Northwood | Grand Valley State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $17,977 | $14,544 | $12,240 | $31,400 | $14,978 |
| Graduation Rate | 92% | 94% | 95% | 82% | 85% |
| Annual Graduates | 172 | 18 | 15 | 20 | 23 |
| Acceptance Rate | 18% | 59% | 73% | 84% | 95% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 92.4/100 | 56.6/100 | 53.1/100 | 49.4/100 | 48.8/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Database Administration in Michigan
Michigan offers 8 bachelor's-level database administration programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, Saginaw Valley State University, Northwood University. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $69,881 in the Michigan market.
A bachelor's in database administration typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Database Administration Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Database Administration Bachelor's Programs in Michigan
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Michigan | $17,977 | 92% | 172 | 92.4 |
| #2 Saginaw Valley State | $12,240 | 95% | 15 | 53.1 |
| #3 Northwood | $31,400 | 82% | 20 | 49.4 |
Top Database Administration Schools for Master's Degrees in Michigan
For graduate study, Michigan offers 6 master's-level database administration programs. Leading institutions include University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Wayne State University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Michigan reaching $129,779 or more.
Top 3 Database Administration Master's Programs in Michigan
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Michigan | $17,977 | 92% | 279 | 92.4 |
| #2 U of Michigan-Dearborn | $14,544 | 94% | 18 | 56.6 |
| #3 Wayne State | $13,660 | 89% | 4 | 43.7 |
Most Affordable Database Administration Colleges in Michigan
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable database administration programs in Michigan are at Saginaw Valley State University ($12,240/year), University of Michigan-Flint ($12,942/year), Wayne State University ($13,660/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Michigan's competitive tech salaries.
At Saginaw Valley State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $48,960 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $69,881, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 1.4 years.
Most Affordable Database Administration Programs in Michigan (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Saginaw Valley State | $12,240 | $48,960 | 1.4 years | Public |
| #2 U of Michigan-Flint | $12,942 | $51,768 | 1.5 years | Public |
| #3 Wayne State | $13,660 | $54,640 | 1.6 years | Public |
Michigan Database Administration Programs: Complete Analysis
Michigan's database administration programs benefit from the state's diverse economy, with strong demand from automotive manufacturers, healthcare systems, and financial services companies. The automotive industry's digital transformation has created particular demand for professionals skilled in cloud database technologies and real-time data processing.
Database administrators in Michigan earn a median annual salary of $89,200, approximately 6% above the national median of $84,090 according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data (BLS). The Detroit metropolitan area shows particularly strong salary premiums, with experienced DBAs earning upwards of $105,000 annually.
The top-ranked program at University of Michigan - Dearborn stands out for its comprehensive curriculum covering both traditional relational databases and modern NoSQL systems. Students gain hands-on experience with Oracle, SQL Server, MySQL, and MongoDB through industry-sponsored projects. The program's reflects strong employer demand and effective career services support.
How Michigan DBA Programs Compare Nationally
Michigan's database administration programs rank competitively against national benchmarks, with several unique advantages. The state's manufacturing heritage has created specialized expertise in industrial database systems and real-time data processing that few other regions can match.
Compared to California programs, Michigan offers significantly lower tuition costs while maintaining strong industry connections. The average annual tuition of $29,800 for Michigan programs is 35% below the California average, making Michigan an attractive option for students seeking quality education without excessive debt burden.
Michigan programs also benefit from the state's diverse economic base. While tech hubs like Silicon Valley focus heavily on web-scale databases, Michigan programs provide broader exposure to enterprise systems used in manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services. This diversity prepares graduates for a wider range of career opportunities.
Admission Requirements and Application Process
Most Michigan database administration programs require a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field. However, several programs accept students from other backgrounds who demonstrate strong analytical skills and complete prerequisite coursework in programming and mathematics.
Typical admission requirements include a minimum GPA of 3.0, GRE scores (for graduate programs), and proficiency in at least one programming language. Some programs waive standardized test requirements for applicants with relevant work experience or professional certifications.
- Bachelor's degree (any field, with prerequisite courses)
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in undergraduate coursework
- Programming experience (Java, Python, or C++ preferred)
- Mathematics background through Calculus I
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose outlining career goals
- GRE scores (waived for experienced professionals)
Application deadlines vary by program, but most accept applications for fall semester through March 15th. Several programs offer rolling admissions for qualified candidates. International students should apply by February 1st to allow sufficient time for visa processing.
Industry Partnerships and Internship Opportunities
Michigan's database administration programs benefit from strong industry partnerships, particularly with automotive manufacturers, healthcare systems, and financial services companies. These relationships provide students with internship opportunities, co-op placements, and direct pathways to employment upon graduation.
Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Quicken Loans maintain active recruiting relationships with multiple programs. These companies regularly sponsor capstone projects, provide guest lectures, and offer both summer internships and full-time positions for graduates. The automotive industry's ongoing digital transformation has created particularly strong demand for database professionals.
Healthcare organizations including Henry Ford Health System and Beaumont Health also partner with programs to provide students exposure to healthcare informatics and medical data management. These partnerships are increasingly valuable as healthcare organizations modernize their data infrastructure and implement electronic health records systems.
Students interested in gaining additional skills should consider pursuing cloud certifications alongside their degree program. Many Michigan employers specifically seek candidates with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud credentials to support their cloud migration initiatives.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, MI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $17,977 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Administration Graduates: 172 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 18%
- • Ranking Score: 92.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 172 database administration graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 92.4 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (172 graduates), state salary outcomes ($99,830), and selectivity (18% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Michigan-Dearborn
Dearborn, MI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,544 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 94% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Administration Graduates: 18 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 59%
- • Ranking Score: 56.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 94% graduation rate
- 18 database administration graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 56.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (94%), program size (18 graduates), state salary outcomes ($99,830), and selectivity (59% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Information Systems Management BBA at UM-Dearborn combines classroom instruction, case studies, projects, and hands-on learning to provide a strong foundation in all components of computer-based information systems including hardware, software, telecommunications, databases, people, and procedures. The curriculum includes 29 credits in BBA prerequisites, 37-38 credits in BBA Core courses, and a 21-credit major with required courses covering programming, database systems, and networking.
Saginaw Valley State University
University Center, MI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,240 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 95% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Administration Graduates: 15 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 73%
- • Ranking Score: 53.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- 95% graduation rate
- 15 database administration graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 53.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (95%), program size (15 graduates), state salary outcomes ($99,830), and selectivity (73% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Northwood University
Midland, MI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $31,400 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 82% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Administration Graduates: 20 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 84%
- • Ranking Score: 49.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 82% graduation rate
- 20 database administration graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 49.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (82%), program size (20 graduates), state salary outcomes ($99,830), and selectivity (84% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Grand Valley State University
Allendale, MI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $14,978 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Database Administration Graduates: 23 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 95%
- • Ranking Score: 48.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 23 database administration graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 48.8 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (23 graduates), state salary outcomes ($99,830), and selectivity (95% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1141Design, implement, and maintain database systems for organizations across industries
Data Architect
SOC 15-1299Design data management frameworks and database structures for enterprise systems
Database Developer
SOC 15-1251Create database applications and optimize database performance for specific business needs
Business Intelligence Analyst
SOC 15-2041Extract insights from databases to support business decision-making processes
Data Warehouse Specialist
SOC 15-1299Design and maintain systems for storing and analyzing large volumes of organizational data
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Database Administration degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific database administration salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Database Administration Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Employment and salary data for database administrators
Graduation rates, employment outcomes, and salary data by program
Institutional characteristics, enrollment, and completion data
State-specific employment projections and workforce data
Starting and mid-career salary data by program and institution
Source: Michigan Department of Labor projects 1,850 annual database administrator openings through 2032
18 months
Average Program Length
25 students
Typical Class Size
45+ companies
Industry Partners
89%
Job Placement Rate
$29,800
Average Tuition
12 total
Programs Available
Next Steps: Applying to Michigan DBA Programs
Research Program Requirements
Review admission requirements for your target programs and identify any prerequisite courses you may need to complete. Most programs require programming experience and mathematics through calculus.
Prepare Application Materials
Gather transcripts, letters of recommendation, and draft your statement of purpose. Highlight any relevant work experience, programming projects, or technical certifications you've earned.
Consider Certification Prep
Start preparing for industry certifications like Oracle DBA or Microsoft SQL Server. Many programs offer certification prep as part of their curriculum, giving you a head start on professional credentials.
Connect with Industry Professionals
Attend local technology meetups and database user groups to network with professionals in the field. Michigan has active Oracle and SQL Server user groups that welcome students.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA and research scholarship opportunities. Many programs offer graduate assistantships that provide tuition remission and valuable teaching or research experience.
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.