If you’re fascinated by all aspects of data manipulation and analysis, and you’re considering the prospect of working in the ever-advancing field of digital technology, a career in database management might be something for you to look into.
With a variety of degree-related opportunities, ranging from an associate degree up to a master’s or even doctorate program, there is an option that is the perfect fit for you. Read up on the colleges and universities listed below to select the institution that appeals to your location, timeframe, and specialty options. Then, check out the different levels of education available to match your needs with the programs that could best launch your career in database management.
What is an Online Database Management Degree?
Earning a degree in database management allows you to choose from numerous career opportunities in an array of work environments. Pursue a career as a business intelligence analyst, computer network analyst, data mining expert, or a cybersecurity team member. You’ll learn team-building skills, problem-solving techniques, and leadership skills as you master emerging information systems technology. This degree is highly technical and frequently requires specific software systems capabilities. Whether you stop at an associate degree or go on to pursue a bachelor’s or master’s degree in database management, you’ll be expected to complete project work, engage in hands-on instruction, and in some cases, get to complete an internship.
How Much Can You Earn With an Online Database Management Degree?
Projections for employment in the computer and IT job markets are projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics to increase faster than the national average as they grow 12 percent through the year 2028. The median annual wages across IT and computer jobs in 2019 were $88,240. So, database management jobs of any kind have great potential regarding salary and opportunity expansion moving forward. In 2020, the median pay for a database administrator with a bachelor’s degree was $98,860 annually. Computer and information systems managers in 2020 earned about $151,150 annually and sometimes need a master’s diploma. Computer systems analysts earned $93,730 annually, and financial analysts earned about $83,660.
What Is Required For an Online Database Management Degree?
Pursuing an online degree in database management requires a high school transcript at the associate’s level and at the bachelor’s level. Elective high school courses in computer or related fields are also recommended. Pursuing a master’s degree in database management requires an undergraduate degree in computer science, mathematics, or engineering field, typically with a minimum GPA in the degree field of 2.5 or better. Job-related experience in computer technology, cybersecurity, database support, or computer analysis is recommended and sometimes required at the master’s level. You can expect to take introductory computer courses as part of a bachelor’s or master’s program requirements. Note, most programs will have student software access requirements. Database management degrees are predominantly hands-on and feature real-world, problem-solving project interaction.
What Are the Best Online Database Management Degree?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program-specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need computer experience or IT skills to earn a degree in database management?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, database administrators are tasked with using specialized software to store, organize, and analyze data. Because of this, job opportunities for degree holders in the field vary greatly. According to Rasmussen, whether in the health, retail, or even finance industry, all companies need data. Therefore, they all require a level of data security, making the demand for database management skills at all levels continue to increase.
Consequently, tech-savvy individuals with an interest in computer languages, computer software design or troubleshooting, cybersecurity, or even just the statistical analysis of social media platforms can find career opportunities to pursue. While many colleges and universities recommend mathematics classes, computer science classes and engineering-related high school courses for incoming students, a high level of interest is the key element for anyone entering the field.
Are there different levels of database management degrees available?
Depending upon your interest level and area of specialization, students can commit to as little as two years of study for an associate’s degree in database management. A career in web development or digital design is available to associate degree holders. To go on to the next level of opportunity in IT, a bachelor’s degree opens up job possibilities in computer programming, financial analysis, information security analysis, market research analysis, and even network systems administration. Most bachelor’s programs offer a high level of real-world problem-solving projects to prepare graduates to transition seamlessly into multiple areas in the business world.
Typically, master’s degree programs in database management are leadership-oriented. They are geared to specifically integrate managerial and team-building skills with the most emerging technology to prepare existing IT professionals to take the next level in their business organization. Mini-master’s programs are less prevalent but are available for professionals with less time or resources for the full commitment of a traditional master’s program.
How will I benefit from earning a database management degree?
According to simplilearn, some of the fastest-growing tech jobs available do not require a college degree and pay $55,000 annually or more. And with the demand for technology talent keeping pace with the emerging digital markets, the projection for growth in the IT industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics, will just continue to climb.
So, if technology jobs do not require advanced degree training, what are the tangible benefits? The simple answer is that degree holders in the computer science and database management fields increase their potential for career advancement, leadership roles, and higher salaries. More specifically, master’s degree holders in technical arenas can expect to secure managerial roles in almost any corporate environment.
Coursework in a bachelor’s or master’s database management program should include data analytics, cybersecurity, data mining, and data acquisition. Certification in a professional specialty like Oracle SQL Expert can count as course requirements toward your degree at some institutions.
An online degree in database management opens doors for graduates in the exciting and ever-changing technology job market. Since the future of business success will continue to be linked with the ability for companies to understand, manipulate and utilize information technology, career prospects in database management will continue to increase. In addition, the field offers the unique opportunity for degree holders to start with just an associate’s degree and incorporate invaluable professional experience with emerging technology training through additional online education.
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University of Maryland Global Campus
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6936(in state) / $11,976(out of state)
- Total of 36 credit hours for graduation
- Transfer up to six credit hours
- Background in software programming recommended
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreEarn a best master’s degree in information technology with a database systems technology specialization from the University of Maryland Global Campus. Expect to study how to manage, mine, model, and warehouse data. You’ll complete projects using Microsoft Project and Microsoft Visio. You’ll also prepare for industry certification upon graduation.
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Bellevue University
20-Year ROI$1,077,529
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $7,152(in state) / $7,152(out of state)
- Total of 45 credit hours for completion
- GPA of 2.5 minimum on last 60 credit hours of coursework
- No GRE or GMAT required
School Wide
Program Level
100%OSR ScoreLearn how to differentiate IT infrastructure and the administration of computer systems with this top master’s degree in computer information systems from Bellevue University. Analyze the more technical points of IT projects and utilize project management skills to meet the needs of stakeholders. Prerequisite courses should include Introduction to using Java and Applied Statistics.
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University of Phoenix-Arizona
20-Year ROI$941,927
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $11,330(in state) / $11,330(out of state)
- Total of 36 credit hours for completion
- Complete in 20 months
- Certification specialization in business analytics or cybersecurity
School Wide
Program Level
99%OSR ScoreThe master of information systems with a graduate business analytics certificate online degree from the University of Phoenix offers instruction in creating testing and deploying an information system. You will learn the strategic implications of the newest and most emerging technologies.
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Capella University
20-Year ROI$1,276,372
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,788(in state) / $13,788(out of state)
- Minimum of 42 courses for completion
- Transfer up to 135 credit hours max
- Earn credits with the prior learning assessments
School Wide
Program Level
98%OSR ScoreCapella University’s bachelor of science in information technology with a minor in data management online degree is built to prepare students to succeed in an ever-changing career in IT data management. Students will study the topics of architecture, governance, and integration as part of the curricula. Become a skilled data professional with instruction at Capella.
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School doesn't exists, please check the IPEDS.
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Florida Institute of Technology-Online
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $12,240(in state) / $12,240(out of state)
- Total of 33 credit hours in the program
- Cumulative GPA of 3.0 in the bachelor’s program
- Math, science, or engineering-related bachelor’s degrees recommended
School Wide
Program Level
88%OSR ScoreEarn a master’s degree in information technology – database management from the Florida Institute of Technology and learn the fundamentals of database management and administration that focuses on IT management and information security. This top program combines crucial business management skills with the cutting-edge technology instruction essential for today’s competitive digital market.
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School doesn't exists, please check the IPEDS.
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Colorado State University Global
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,400(in state) / $8,400(out of state)
- Total of 15 credit hours for completion
- Bachelor’s study in marketing, health care administration, business management, or information technology recommended
- Transfer up to 66 credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreColorado State University – Global Campus’s graduate students with degree specialization in data management and analysis are prepared to increase their organization’s profitability, productivity, and performance. Utilizing the latest analysis techniques and data management best practices methods taught in the program, students can elevate themselves above the competition in the workplace.
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Baker College
20-Year ROI$539,587
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $9,360(in state) / $9,360(out of state)
- Total of 120 courses
- Complete in four years
- Work experience project required with 150 hours
School Wide
Program Level
86%OSR ScoreBaker University offers a top online bachelor’s in computer science with a concentration in database technology. Along with a foundation in computer science, you will learn programming languages and construction and database administration skills.
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Northwestern University
20-Year ROI$1,375,641
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $52,239(in state) / $52,239(out of state)
- Total of 120 courses
- Complete in four years
- Work experience project required with 150 hours
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreThe master’s of information systems online degree from Northwestern University is for the student interested in moving into the IT career field. With lab work and hands-on training, students get real-world experience. You will be prepared for a database management job!
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Regis University
20-Year ROI$1,120,155
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $35,260(in state) / $35,260(out of state)
- Total of 36 credit hours required
- Resume and essay submission required
- Bachelor’s in a related field and/or work experience recommended
School Wide
Program Level
85%OSR ScoreIf a master’s in information technology management is what you’re seeking, you can earn your degree completely online from Regis University. This top program focuses on teaching tech professionals and aspiring programmers, engineers, and developers the leadership skills that will help them manage technical teams. Specialties include:
- IT project management
- database manager
- director of IT
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University of Maryland-Baltimore County
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,368(in state) / $22,504(out of state)
- Minimum of 30 credit hours for completion
- Program completion in 2.5 years
- Thesis program is optional
School Wide
Program Level
83%OSR ScoreThe masters of information systems online degrees from the University of Maryland – Baltimore Campus offers students instruction for a career in cybersecurity, IT management, and data science. Course work includes:
- introduction to computer systems
- four core courses in IT management
- database management
- structured systems design and analysis
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The University of West Florida
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $3,735(in state) / $16,004(out of state)
- Complete with 30 credit hours
- Program spans 24 months
- Transfer up to six credit hours
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreThe master’s in data science online degree from The University of West Florida prepares students to understand, analyze, manipulate, interpret and then manage data. You can expect an interactive faculty that will provide real-world experience.
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Liberty University
20-Year ROI$718,609
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $15,734(in state) / $15,734(out of state)
- Complete with 120 credit hours
- Program spans 3.5 years
- Transfer up to 75-percent of degree program
School Wide
Program Level
81%OSR ScoreEarn a bachelor of IT application and database development online degree from Liberty University. It is uniquely designed for students focused on using code to create new products and solve business technology problems. Graduates will learn how to balance design and programming skills with security and ease of use.
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School doesn't exists, please check the IPEDS.
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Strayer University-Florida
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,374(in state) / $16,374(out of state)
- Complete with 40 course
- All courses 11-weeks long
- Transfer up to 28 classes
School Wide
Program Level
80%OSR ScoreThe BS in information technology online degree from Strayer University offers students instruction in managing data with two different concentrations from which to choose. Students can focus on data analytics or project management. Instruction includes:
- cloud-based systems operations
- managing databases
- optimizing data-based servers
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Southern New Hampshire University
20-Year ROI$882,666
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $30,756(in state) / $30,756(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours for completion
- Choose from five concentrations
- Transfer up to 90 credits
School Wide
Program Level
79%OSR ScoreThe bachelor of computer science in information technology online degree from Southern New Hampshire University is about teaching students a combination of skills toward career success. This top program will merge problem-solving skills with people skills. It will then combine the skills with emerging technology. Graduates earn a degree that makes them professionally competitive.
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DePaul University
20-Year ROI$1,049,867
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $38,410(in state) / $38,410(out of state)
- Complete with 52 credit hours
- Cumulative GPA of 2.5
- Capstone project options available
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreThe master’s in information systems online degree from DePaul University is designed to give students a bridge between business skills training and IT specialization. With hands-on experience with the latest versions of SAP ERP systems, graduates are prepared to compete in a global marketplace.
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Boston University
20-Year ROI$1,292,846
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $50,980(in state) / $50,980(out of state)
- Total of 10 courses required
- Minimum 3.0 GPA to graduate
- Multiple curricula concentrations can be taken at one time
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreBoston University offers you a master’s of science in computer information systems that trains graduates in managerial and organizational issues and leadership. In addition, students gain proficiency in information systems technology.
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Western Governors University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $5,780(in state) / $5,780(out of state)
- Requirement of 11 courses
- Student-paced course work plans
- No GRE or GMAT required
School Wide
Program Level
77%OSR ScoreFor an MS in data analytics degree program, consider Western Governors University. Prepare yourself to learn how to take raw data and manipulate it into crucial information for any technical industry. You can customize your program with:
- micro-credentials in data preparation
- advanced data modeling
- data analytics fundamentals
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National University
20-Year ROI$1,183,483
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,032(in state) / $13,032(out of state)
- Complete with 180 quarter units
- Classes are four weeks long
- Complete within four years max
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreThe BS in information systems from National University is built for students who want to learn how to determine an organization’s information technology needs and then organize computer systems to meet those requirements. Students create their own custom specialization by choosing four upper-level courses from the engineering or computing degree field.
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Arizona State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $8,597(in state) / $18,187(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours for completion
- Classes are 7.5 weeks long
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 to apply
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreThe bachelor of science in business data analytic online degree from Arizona State University offers students the training to be able to collect, clean, incorporate and model data. Expect the coursework to include:
- data warehousing
- data mining
- data analytics
- dimensional modeling
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Austin Peay State University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,384(in state) / $21,624(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours for completion
- Complete in four years
- Transfers are welcome
School Wide
Program Level
76%OSR ScoreThis top bachelor’s and information technology online degree from Austin Peay State University offers students instruction in information systems as well as systems development. Students will engage in hands-on computer laboratory work. They will have the opportunity to join the cybersecurity club to train on modern security technology challenges.
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Stevens Institute of Technology
20-Year ROI$1,773,636
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $48,784(in state) / $48,784(out of state)
- Complete with 12 courses
- GRE and GMAT required
- Bachelor’s degree in related field required
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreThe online master’s of computer science degree from Stevens Institute of Technology focuses on the development and implementation of computer applications. It offers students proficiency in the key data concepts, design, and solutions to effectively communicate computer concepts. The studies will feature instruction on the most popular and innovative programming languages.
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Colorado Christian University
20-Year ROI$773,184
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $21,810(in state) / $21,810(out of state)
- Total of 120 credit hours for completion
- Courses taken one at a time
- Course lengths are customizable from five to seven or 10 weeks in length
School Wide
Program Level
75%OSR ScoreThe bachelor of science in computer information technology online degree from Colorado Christian University teaches students computer skills and analysis they will need to meet the changing IT needs of today’s businesses. Students will be required to choose from five different emphasis areas for their degree study.
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University of Denver
20-Year ROI$1,112,639
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $47,520(in state) / $47,520(out of state)
- Complete with 12 courses
- No GRE or GMAT required
- Choose from two concentrations
School Wide
Program Level
74%OSR ScoreThe master’s of database design and administration online degree from the University of Denver gives students all the facets of database operations that affect the performance and efficiencies of businesses. Graduates will learn to design and develop data warehousing, modeling, and tuning techniques.
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Central Washington University
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $6,037(in state) / $20,144(out of state)
- Total of 28 credit hours for completion
- Choose from four specialization areas
- FlexIT Pro Performance-Based learning available
School Wide
Program Level
74%OSR ScoreThe master of science in information technology and administrative management online degree from Central Washington University teaches students how to help enhance an organization’s competitiveness with valuable IT skills. The coursework focuses on:
- leadership
- entrepreneurship
- budgeting
- ethics
- supervision
- communications
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University of Mary
20-Year ROI$958,195
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $16,470(in state) / $16,470(out of state)
- Total of 124 credit hours for completion
- Complete within four years
- Senior-year competency testing required
School Wide
Program Level
73%OSR ScoreThis top bachelor’s in information technology management online degree from the University of Mary teaches students how to leverage the newest IT solutions for modern businesses. Included in the curriculum is:
- network technology usage
- cybersecurity
- system administration skills
- basic operating systems concepts
- applications study
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University of Dallas
20-Year ROI$936,278
Quick Facts
- Tuition: $36,000(in state) / $36,000(out of state)
- Total of 30 credit hours for completion
- Complete within one to two years
- STEM-designated degree program
School Wide
Program Level
72%OSR ScoreThe master’s of science in information and technology management online degree from the University of Dallas is built to give students additional digital technology skills while incorporating upper-level management skills. The combination is designed to make graduates management-ready for corporate IT business success.
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National University
20-Year ROI$1,183,483 Quick Facts
- Tuition: $13,032(in state) / $13,032(out of state)
- Complete with 58.5 quarter units
- Classes span four weeks
- Military discounts available
School Wide
Program Level
71%OSR ScoreThe master’s in computer science online degree from National University offers IT professionals or existing bachelor’s degree holders the opportunity to master best practices in the fundamentals of digital computer science. Graduates will master:
- cloud computing
- software engineering
- database design and theory
