Associate's Database Administration Programs in Pennsylvania
Bucks County Community College — Newtown, PA
At the associate's level, bucks County Community College provides database administration and IT programs serving the Philadelphia metropolitan area's northern suburbs. The program emphasizes SQL, database design, and systems administration with connections to the region's technology and financial services sectors. BCCC offers multiple delivery formats including on-campus, online, and hybrid options. The college supports both workforce-focused students entering the job market and transfer students continuing at four-year institutions.
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: Financial services firms, Insurance companies, Healthcare systems, Manufacturing companies, Government contractors.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University
- Temple University
- Drexel University
- Widener University
- Kutztown University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Database Support Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft SQL Server Certification
- Oracle Database Associate
Location Advantages:
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State DuBois — DuBois, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State DuBois offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State DuBois's associate degree carries the Penn State name recognition across employer networks nationwide, giving graduates from rural Pennsylvania a credential that travels far beyond the local job market.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State DuBois offers Database Administration programs in DuBois, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre — Dallas, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Wilkes-Barre's Dallas, PA location puts students near manufacturing and logistics hubs that depend heavily on supply-chain database systems, creating untapped recruitment pathways most community colleges overlook.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Wilkes-Barre offers Database Administration programs in Dallas, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton — Dunmore, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Scranton's Dunmore location sits within commuting distance of both Northeastern Pennsylvania's industrial base and Philadelphia's tech corridor, enabling students to leverage both regional markets simultaneously.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Scranton offers Database Administration programs in Dunmore, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
University of Pittsburgh-Bradford — Bradford, PA
Key Distinction: University of Pittsburgh-Bradford offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: University of Pittsburgh-Bradford's associate program benefits from Pitt's research reputation in data systems without the tuition premium, allowing students to build credentials under an R1 institution's umbrella at community college cost.
University of Pittsburgh-Bradford offers Database Administration programs in Bradford, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York — York, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State York's proximity to Baltimore and Washington DC tech markets means graduates can pursue database roles at federal contractors and defense firms—a vertical most associate programs don't explicitly target.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State York offers Database Administration programs in York, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto — Mont Alto, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Mont Alto's rural location masks an advantage: low cost of living combined with a Penn State credential creates unusual ROI leverage for students willing to relocate after graduation to higher-wage metros.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Mont Alto offers Database Administration programs in Mont Alto, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Hazleton — Hazleton, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Hazleton offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Hazleton's placement in Northeastern Pennsylvania's post-industrial economy means employers actively recruit skilled database talent locally; graduates often negotiate signing bonuses and tuition reimbursement packages.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Hazleton offers Database Administration programs in Hazleton, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Immaculata University — Immaculata, PA
Key Distinction: Immaculata University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Immaculata University's private, faith-based model attracts employer partnerships with Catholic health systems and diocesan IT operations—a niche pipeline that secular programs rarely access.
Immaculata University offers Database Administration programs in Immaculata, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Thiel College — Greenville, PA
Key Distinction: Thiel College offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Thiel College's small cohort model in Greenville allows database students individualized faculty mentorship on real capstone projects, creating portfolio work that associates from larger programs often lack.
Thiel College offers Database Administration programs in Greenville, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Bachelor's Database Administration Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Mandatory internship experience (MIS 495) integrated into curriculum. ERP certification options with SAP or Oracle concurrent education
Hakia Insight: Penn State Behrend's mandatory MIS 495 internship isn't just a resume line—it's embedded into the curriculum itself, meaning you graduate with concrete enterprise experience rather than theoretical knowledge, while simultaneous SAP/Oracle certifications let you enter the job market as a credentialed operator, not just a degree holder.
The Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems at Penn State Behrend prepares students for IT-related careers including database administrator, programmer/analyst, systems analyst, data analyst, project manager, and consultant. The curriculum integrates three core areas: business fundamentals (accounting, economics, finance, management), MIS core courses (database management systems, data analytics, business intelligence), and hands-on technical skills (Python programming, ERP systems). The program requires a mandatory MIS 495 internship experience, providing practical industry exposure. Students can focus on business or data analyst specializations through elective course combinations, including options for enterprise resource planning (ERP) certification with SAP or Oracle. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, teamwork, ethics, and functional knowledge across business domains. Graduates pursue roles in organizations requiring IT-business integration, with coursework aligned to real-world problem-solving and organizational technology application.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Systems and Networking Laboratory
- Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Bhuvan Urgaonkar — Cloud computing, systems performance, resource management
- Piotr Mardziel — Database security, information flow control
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (engineering programs)
Location Advantages: Central Pennsylvania location with proximity to major tech corridorsStrong connections to Mid-Atlantic tech companiesAccess to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia technology hubs
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Pitt distinguishes itself through its database and information systems research combined with strategic location in Pittsburgh's robotics and AI ecosystem.
Hakia Insight: Pitt's dual Database Group and Information Systems labs create an unusual advantage: undergraduates can access cutting-edge research in distributed systems and data mining while sitting in the same city as Carnegie Mellon and companies like Duolingo that actively recruit from campus, collapsing the typical gap between academic research and industry application.
At the bachelor's level, database administration education at Pitt integrates with the university's broader computer science and information science ecosystem, drawing on faculty research and expertise in data systems, distributed computing, and information management. The program offers depth across database technologies and approaches—from traditional relational systems to contemporary NoSQL, distributed databases, and cloud-based solutions—reflecting how real database environments now span multiple platforms. Students develop skills in database design, performance optimization, backup and recovery strategies, security architecture, and administration automation. Faculty engage in research around database systems, data management challenges, and emerging technologies, ensuring curriculum evolves alongside industry advancement. Pittsburgh's substantial technology sector, including major presence from software and healthcare companies, creates internship and employment opportunities for students. The program emphasizes both technical depth and understanding of how database administration fits within broader data governance and organizational IT strategy. Hands-on laboratory work provides experience with enterprise-grade database systems and administrative tools. Capstone and research projects allow students to explore specialized interests—whether cloud database management, security hardening, or performance engineering. Graduates pursue database administrator roles in corporations, healthcare systems, government agencies, and technology firms, with many advancing into senior database architect or data engineering positions. The program's integration within a research-focused institution exposes students to cutting-edge developments in data systems, preparing them for ongoing professional evolution in this rapidly changing field.
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
- Database Group
- Information Systems and Data Mining Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Uber ATG (corporate)
- Duolingo (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Uber, Duolingo.
Notable Faculty
- Alexandros Labrinidis — Database systems, data management, cloud computing
- Panos K. Chrysanthis — Distributed systems, databases, mobile computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Pittsburgh's robotics and AI ecosystem with proximity to Carnegie MellonStrong connections to regional tech companies including DuolingoAccess to advanced manufacturing and autonomous systems research facilities
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus — University Park, PA
Hakia Insight: Penn State World Campus graduates land jobs at Fortune 500 companies like Lockheed Martin and PNC despite completing the degree entirely online, suggesting the program's asynchronous rigor translates directly to employer recognition—a significant signal for working adults skeptical that online credentials carry equal weight.
Penn State World Campus brings university-level rigor to database administration through fully online delivery, making it ideal if you're juggling work and study. You'll gain hands-on experience with SQL Server, Oracle, and cloud platforms while earning credits that stack toward a bachelor's degree—a real advantage over a traditional associate. The program emphasizes both technical depth and career flexibility; graduates commonly move into database analyst or DBA support roles at major corporations, or continue upward into advanced database architecture roles. Penn State's reputation opens doors with Fortune 500 employers across Pennsylvania and nationally, and the flexible schedule means you won't sacrifice income while you learn.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, UPMC, Comcast, PNC Financial Services, PA state agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University Park (within same system)
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Database Support Technician
- SQL Developer (Entry-level)
- Data Analyst Associate
- Database Administrator Assistant
Included Certifications
- Oracle Database Associate
- Microsoft SQL Server certifications
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania — Slippery Rock, PA
Hakia Insight: Slippery Rock's emphasis on flexible online completion for working adults lacks the research infrastructure or industry partnerships that distinguish its peer institutions, making it a cost-conscious choice for career-switchers but not the platform for students seeking lab experience or internship pipelines.
At the bachelor's level, SRU offers flexible online degree completion programs ideal for busy adults, with management being one of the most versatile majors applicable in both private and public sectors. The university provides comprehensive career services connecting students to opportunities at all levels from internships to full-time positions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Location Advantages:
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine — Media, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Brandywine's location in Media, PA positions it near Philadelphia's tech corridor, but without disclosed partnerships, research labs, or distinctive faculty like those at Penn State Behrend or Pitt, it functions primarily as an accessible regional credential rather than a launching pad for specialized database careers.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Brandywine offers Database Administration programs in Media, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg — Middletown, PA
Key Distinction: A research-informed database administration program within the Penn State system that combines academic rigor with practical state-government employment pipelines and flexible delivery options.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Harrisburg's direct pipeline into Pennsylvania state government IT roles (a documented employer) offers a rare predictable pathway for students prioritizing stable public-sector work over startup culture, though this same advantage limits mobility for those seeking private tech industry careers.
At the bachelor's level, penn State Harrisburg's database administration curriculum leverages the Penn State system's broader resources and research reputation while maintaining accessibility through its Harrisburg campus location. The program integrates database management into its computer science and engineering tracks, with coursework spanning database design, distributed systems, data warehousing, and big data technologies. Students have access to Penn State's online learning infrastructure, making it possible to combine on-campus lab work with flexible course delivery. Faculty are active in research communities, which means students encounter current methodologies in database optimization, data security, and scalability—topics beyond routine administrative maintenance. The campus's proximity to Pennsylvania state government in Harrisburg creates unique internship and employment pathways; state agencies represent substantial employers of database professionals. Compared to Penn State's University Park flagship campus, Harrisburg offers smaller class sizes and more direct faculty interaction while maintaining the research-oriented pedagogy Penn State is known for.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Database Administration — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Database Administration — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Pennsylvania State Government, Regional IT service providers.
Location Advantages: Direct proximity to Pennsylvania state government agenciesAccess to Harrisburg-area corporate and healthcare employersConnection to Penn State system research and resources
Thiel College — Greenville, PA
Key Distinction: Thiel College offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Thiel College's database program in Greenville, PA operates without disclosed research labs, industry partnerships, or notable faculty specialization, making it functionally interchangeable with dozens of other regional institutions rather than a differentiated choice for database administration careers.
Thiel College offers Database Administration programs in Greenville, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Lehigh Valley — Center Valley, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Lehigh Valley offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Lehigh Valley's Center Valley location sits within the Lehigh Valley's established corporate and healthcare employer base, yet the program lacks the documented research labs, ERP certifications, or industry partnerships that would leverage geographic proximity into measurable career acceleration.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Lehigh Valley offers Database Administration programs in Center Valley, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
University of Scranton — Scranton, PA
Key Distinction: University of Scranton offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: University of Scranton positions itself as a private alternative in northeastern Pennsylvania without published research infrastructure, industry partnerships, or employer outcome data, forcing prospective students to choose on faith rather than the verifiable employment and research connections that drive database career trajectories.
University of Scranton offers Database Administration programs in Scranton, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Greater Allegheny — McKeesport, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Greater Allegheny offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Greater Allegheny's McKeesport location offers no disclosed partnerships with regional tech employers or research labs that would differentiate it from the broader Penn State system's more robust database programs at Behrend or University Park.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Greater Allegheny offers Database Administration programs in McKeesport, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Master's Database Administration Programs in Pennsylvania
University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, PA
Hakia Insight: University of Pennsylvania's master's program lacks published detail on thesis options, faculty specialization, or industry partnerships—a striking omission for an Ivy League institution that should be competitive on research credentials but appears undersupported in the available program materials.
At the master's level, university of Pennsylvania offers a comprehensive Database Administration program.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Thesis vs. coursework-only track option (thesis available for Fall 2022+ enrollees). Part-time completion over up to 4 years for working professionals
Hakia Insight: Pitt's MSIS thesis-optional track and explicit 4-year part-time pathway make it unusual among research-intensive master's programs; working professionals can pursue original database research alongside faculty like Labrinidis without abandoning their jobs, a rare combination that explains why Google and Microsoft actively recruit from the program.
The Master of Science in Information Science (MSIS) at University of Pittsburgh prepares working professionals for careers as information professionals, systems analysts, database developers, and information security experts. The 36-credit program offers flexibility for part-time study over up to four years, accommodating working professionals. Students can choose between a coursework-only track or pursue a thesis option (available for students enrolling Fall 2022+). The program features six specializations—Big Data Analytics, Database and Web Systems, Geoinformatics, Human-Centered Computing, Information Security, and Telecommunications and Distributed Systems—allowing students to tailor their education to career goals. All students complete five required core courses and seven electives. The program emphasizes experiential learning through optional co-op placements (one term) or practicum after 18 credits, with internship opportunities at major corporations including PPG Industries, BNY Mellon, Lockheed-Martin, and UPMC. A joint MSIS-GSPIA degree option is available for those pursuing policy careers.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Database Group
- Information Systems and Data Mining Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Uber ATG (corporate)
- Duolingo (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Alexandros Labrinidis — Database systems, data management, cloud computing
- Panos K. Chrysanthis — Distributed systems, databases, mobile computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Pittsburgh's robotics and AI ecosystem with proximity to Carnegie MellonStrong connections to regional tech companies including DuolingoAccess to advanced manufacturing and autonomous systems research facilities
Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA
Key Distinction: Drexel is distinguished by its mandatory cooperative education model that integrates extensive industry experience into every computing degree program.
Hakia Insight: Drexel's non-negotiable cooperative education requirement means every student completes paid industry rotations embedded in the curriculum, creating a built-in apprenticeship model that most competing programs treat as optional—this structural difference explains why JPMorgan Chase and top tech firms treat Drexel graduates as job-ready operatives rather than fresh hires requiring onboarding.
At the master's level, drexel's approach to database administration education integrates technology education with its distinctive cooperative education model, requiring students to complete paid work terms with employers while pursuing their degree. This alternating structure means aspiring database administrators gain real-world experience managing actual databases for organizations while simultaneously studying advanced concepts—creating a uniquely immersive learning pathway. The program curriculum covers relational and non-relational database systems, data warehousing, advanced SQL, database security, and emerging technologies like cloud database platforms. Faculty expertise spans enterprise database management, business intelligence applications, and data governance, areas increasingly critical as organizations manage exponentially growing data volumes. Drexel's location in Philadelphia provides access to a dense technology ecosystem with numerous co-op placement opportunities across financial services, healthcare, and technology firms. Students work alongside experienced database professionals, accelerating their learning curve and building professional networks before graduation. The program emphasizes problem-solving through hands-on project work and exposure to industry-standard tools and platforms. Graduates emerge with both technical certification-ready knowledge and substantive professional experience, positioning them competitively for database administrator roles. The co-op model also provides clarity about career fit—students can test whether database administration aligns with their interests before committing fully to the field. Many employers actively recruit Drexel co-op students into permanent database administration positions, reflecting the program's reputation for producing job-ready professionals.
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
- Software Engineering Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Apple (corporate)
- JPMorgan Chase (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, JPMorgan Chase, Comcast.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Located in Philadelphia technology corridorProximity to major financial services companiesAccess to mid-Atlantic tech startups and enterprises
Pennsylvania State University-World Campus — University Park, PA
Hakia Insight: Penn State World Campus masters graduates work at the same employers (Lockheed Martin, UPMC, PNC) as on-campus cohorts, a data point that quietly validates the program's asynchronous rigor at the graduate level where employer skepticism about online credentials typically runs highest.
At the master's level, penn State World Campus brings university-level rigor to database administration through fully online delivery, making it ideal if you're juggling work and study. You'll gain hands-on experience with SQL Server, Oracle, and cloud platforms while earning credits that stack toward a bachelor's degree—a real advantage over a traditional associate. The program emphasizes both technical depth and career flexibility; graduates commonly move into database analyst or DBA support roles at major corporations, or continue upward into advanced database architecture roles. Penn State's reputation opens doors with Fortune 500 employers across Pennsylvania and nationally, and the flexible schedule means you won't sacrifice income while you learn.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Lockheed Martin, UPMC, Comcast, PNC Financial Services, PA state agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Penn State University Park (within same system)
- University of Pittsburgh
- Temple University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Database Support Technician
- SQL Developer (Entry-level)
- Data Analyst Associate
- Database Administrator Assistant
Included Certifications
- Oracle Database Associate
- Microsoft SQL Server certifications
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
DeSales University — Center Valley, PA
Key Distinction: DeSales positions database administration graduates as business-technical hybrids with expertise in data warehousing and business intelligence alongside core DBA competencies.
Hakia Insight: DeSales deliberately trains database professionals as business technologists by pairing data warehousing and BI expertise with core DBA skills—a positioning that's rare enough to matter, especially for graduates targeting the Lehigh Valley's concentrated financial services sector where data architecture decisions shape business strategy, not just IT operations.
At the master's level, what distinguishes DeSales' database administration pathway is its deliberate combination of database technical depth with business process optimization—the program trains students to see databases as strategic business tools, not just technical infrastructure. Coursework in data warehousing, business intelligence, and database analytics sits alongside traditional DBA topics like backup/recovery and performance monitoring, creating graduates who can speak fluently both to IT operations teams and business stakeholders. This business-technical bilingualism proves invaluable in mid-market and enterprise environments where DBAs increasingly influence decisions about data strategy and organizational analytics capabilities. The university's strong ties to regional financial services and insurance companies translate into guest lectures from working professionals and internship placements in environments where data governance and regulatory compliance demand rigorous database management. DeSales also encourages students to pursue industry certifications (Microsoft, Oracle) during their studies, with the curriculum structured to align closely with certification exam domains so that graduation often coincides with credential achievement.
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
- Investors Heritage Capital (corporate)
- Santander Bank (corporate)
Location Advantages: Center Valley location near Lehigh Valley finance and insurance companiesProximity to Philadelphia metropolitan financial services employers
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Harrisburg — Middletown, PA
Key Distinction: A research-informed database administration program within the Penn State system that combines academic rigor with practical state-government employment pipelines and flexible delivery options.
Hakia Insight: Penn State Harrisburg's proximity to Pennsylvania state government agencies creates a direct hiring pipeline that most regional master's programs lack—students can build relationships with actual employers during coursework rather than competing for positions afterward.
At the master's level, penn State Harrisburg's database administration curriculum leverages the Penn State system's broader resources and research reputation while maintaining accessibility through its Harrisburg campus location. The program integrates database management into its computer science and engineering tracks, with coursework spanning database design, distributed systems, data warehousing, and big data technologies. Students have access to Penn State's online learning infrastructure, making it possible to combine on-campus lab work with flexible course delivery. Faculty are active in research communities, which means students encounter current methodologies in database optimization, data security, and scalability—topics beyond routine administrative maintenance. The campus's proximity to Pennsylvania state government in Harrisburg creates unique internship and employment pathways; state agencies represent substantial employers of database professionals. Compared to Penn State's University Park flagship campus, Harrisburg offers smaller class sizes and more direct faculty interaction while maintaining the research-oriented pedagogy Penn State is known for.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Database Administration — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Database Administration — 1-2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Pennsylvania State Government, Regional IT service providers.
Location Advantages: Direct proximity to Pennsylvania state government agenciesAccess to Harrisburg-area corporate and healthcare employersConnection to Penn State system research and resources
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Great Valley — Malvern, PA
Key Distinction: Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Great Valley offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Great Valley's location in Malvern positions graduates to tap Philadelphia's financial services corridor while maintaining access to Penn State's research labs and system-wide resources, a geographic advantage competitors in other regions simply don't have.
Pennsylvania State University-Penn State Great Valley offers Database Administration programs in Malvern, PA. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Strayer University-Pennsylvania — Trevose, PA
Key Distinction: Strayer University-Pennsylvania offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Strayer's evening and weekend formats mean working IT professionals can earn a master's without leaving their current DBA roles, allowing them to apply new skills immediately and negotiate raises during their own degree completion.
Strayer University-Pennsylvania offers Database Administration programs in Trevose, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
La Roche University — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: La Roche University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: La Roche's Pittsburgh location offers proximity to UPMC and Highmark's enterprise database environments, but the program lacks the industry partnerships or research distinction that would justify premium tuition over Penn State or Pitt alternatives.
La Roche University offers Database Administration programs in Pittsburgh, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Point Park University — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Point Park University offers comprehensive Database Administration programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Point Park competes in Pittsburgh's crowded master's market against Pitt and Carnegie Mellon without documented employer partnerships or faculty research distinction, making it a choice primarily for students prioritizing schedule flexibility over institutional brand.
Point Park University offers Database Administration programs in Pittsburgh, PA. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region. Visit the school's website for current program offerings, admission requirements, and tuition information.
Doctoral Database Administration Programs in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus — University Park, PA
Key Distinction: Penn State's database and systems research is distinguished by its large-scale distributed systems focus and extensive partnerships with industry leaders in cloud computing and enterprise software.
Hakia Insight: Penn State's Systems and Networking Laboratory and faculty like Bhuvan Urgaonkar enable doctoral candidates to publish distributed systems research that directly shapes how cloud platforms manage data—a rare opportunity to influence infrastructure used by billions of users.
At the doctoral level, penn State's computer science and engineering programs rank among the largest in the United States, with the Department of Computer Science and Engineering serving over 2,000 undergraduate majors. Founded with roots in computing research dating back to the 1960s, Penn State has grown into a comprehensive research institution with $183 million in annual research expenditures across all colleges. The university operates multiple campuses but the University Park main campus houses the primary computer science facilities and research centers. Penn State is particularly recognized for strengths in systems, networking, cybersecurity, and high-performance computing. The institution emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, with extensive industry partnerships and a commitment to undergraduate research opportunities. The College of Engineering consistently ranks in the top 10 nationally for engineering research.
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
- Systems and Networking Laboratory
- Cybersecurity and Privacy Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
- IBM (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Intel (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, IBM.
Notable Faculty
- Bhuvan Urgaonkar — Cloud computing, systems performance, resource management
- Piotr Mardziel — Database security, information flow control
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET accredited (engineering programs)
Location Advantages: Central Pennsylvania location with proximity to major tech corridorsStrong connections to Mid-Atlantic tech companiesAccess to Pittsburgh and Philadelphia technology hubs
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus — Pittsburgh, PA
Key Distinction: Pitt distinguishes itself through its database and information systems research combined with strategic location in Pittsburgh's robotics and AI ecosystem.
Hakia Insight: Pitt's partnership with Duolingo and positioning within Pittsburgh's robotics ecosystem mean database doctoral students can research real-time data problems at scale (Duolingo processes millions of learning events daily) rather than working on hypothetical datasets.
At the doctoral level, database administration education at Pitt integrates with the university's broader computer science and information science ecosystem, drawing on faculty research and expertise in data systems, distributed computing, and information management. The program offers depth across database technologies and approaches—from traditional relational systems to contemporary NoSQL, distributed databases, and cloud-based solutions—reflecting how real database environments now span multiple platforms. Students develop skills in database design, performance optimization, backup and recovery strategies, security architecture, and administration automation. Faculty engage in research around database systems, data management challenges, and emerging technologies, ensuring curriculum evolves alongside industry advancement. Pittsburgh's substantial technology sector, including major presence from software and healthcare companies, creates internship and employment opportunities for students. The program emphasizes both technical depth and understanding of how database administration fits within broader data governance and organizational IT strategy. Hands-on laboratory work provides experience with enterprise-grade database systems and administrative tools. Capstone and research projects allow students to explore specialized interests—whether cloud database management, security hardening, or performance engineering. Graduates pursue database administrator roles in corporations, healthcare systems, government agencies, and technology firms, with many advancing into senior database architect or data engineering positions. The program's integration within a research-focused institution exposes students to cutting-edge developments in data systems, preparing them for ongoing professional evolution in this rapidly changing field.
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
- Database Group
- Information Systems and Data Mining Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Uber ATG (corporate)
- Duolingo (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, Uber, Duolingo.
Notable Faculty
- Alexandros Labrinidis — Database systems, data management, cloud computing
- Panos K. Chrysanthis — Distributed systems, databases, mobile computing
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Pittsburgh's robotics and AI ecosystem with proximity to Carnegie MellonStrong connections to regional tech companies including DuolingoAccess to advanced manufacturing and autonomous systems research facilities
Robert Morris University — Moon Township, PA
Key Distinction: Robert Morris integrates security-first database design and compliance frameworks throughout its curriculum, producing DBAs equipped to manage data governance in regulated industries.
Hakia Insight: Robert Morris's explicit focus on security-first database design, combined with partnerships to UPMC and Highmark—healthcare systems managing some of America's most heavily regulated patient data—produces DBAs immediately valuable to compliance-intensive industries.
At the doctoral level, robert Morris University's database administration program distinguishes itself through an explicit focus on security-first database design and management—in an era of frequent data breaches and regulatory scrutiny, the program recognizes that DBAs increasingly serve as frontline defenders of organizational data assets. Security topics permeate the curriculum: encryption, access control, audit logging, and threat detection are not afterthoughts but core components of every database architecture discussion. Students work with real-world compliance frameworks (HIPAA, GDPR, PCI-DSS) and understand how database design decisions either enable or hinder regulatory adherence. This security emphasis resonates particularly with healthcare and financial services employers, who represent a significant portion of the program's recruitment pipeline. Beyond coursework, Robert Morris maintains connections with cybersecurity-focused organizations and encourages cross-disciplinary learning—students can combine database administration study with cybersecurity courses to create a differentiated credential. The program's capstone projects frequently involve designing secure, compliant database architectures for realistic organizational scenarios, ensuring students graduate with portfolios demonstrating both technical depth and security consciousness.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Database Administration — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Database Administration — 4-6 years, online
Industry Partners
- UPMC (corporate)
- Highmark Health (corporate)
Location Advantages: Pittsburgh region healthcare IT employersProximity to major healthcare systems (UPMC, Highmark) with sophisticated database environments
Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA
Key Distinction: Drexel is distinguished by its mandatory cooperative education model that integrates extensive industry experience into every computing degree program.
Hakia Insight: Drexel's mandatory cooperative education model means doctoral students complete paid industry rotations alongside research, building CVs that signal both theoretical depth and hands-on infrastructure experience that pure research-focused programs cannot match.
At the doctoral level, drexel's approach to database administration education integrates technology education with its distinctive cooperative education model, requiring students to complete paid work terms with employers while pursuing their degree. This alternating structure means aspiring database administrators gain real-world experience managing actual databases for organizations while simultaneously studying advanced concepts—creating a uniquely immersive learning pathway. The program curriculum covers relational and non-relational database systems, data warehousing, advanced SQL, database security, and emerging technologies like cloud database platforms. Faculty expertise spans enterprise database management, business intelligence applications, and data governance, areas increasingly critical as organizations manage exponentially growing data volumes. Drexel's location in Philadelphia provides access to a dense technology ecosystem with numerous co-op placement opportunities across financial services, healthcare, and technology firms. Students work alongside experienced database professionals, accelerating their learning curve and building professional networks before graduation. The program emphasizes problem-solving through hands-on project work and exposure to industry-standard tools and platforms. Graduates emerge with both technical certification-ready knowledge and substantive professional experience, positioning them competitively for database administrator roles. The co-op model also provides clarity about career fit—students can test whether database administration aligns with their interests before committing fully to the field. Many employers actively recruit Drexel co-op students into permanent database administration positions, reflecting the program's reputation for producing job-ready professionals.
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
- Software Engineering Research Laboratory
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
- Apple (corporate)
- JPMorgan Chase (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Apple, JPMorgan Chase, Comcast.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Located in Philadelphia technology corridorProximity to major financial services companiesAccess to mid-Atlantic tech startups and enterprises
