Best Online Master’s in Database Management Programs

As organizations increasingly collect, store, and use information, the demand for database managers grows. These professionals help protect and put data to better use, a priority for most organizations in the ever-advancing technological landscape. A master’s in database management prepares learners to oversee complex databases, along with other information technology systems.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 13% growth for computer occupations between 2020 and 2030, 5% faster than the rate for all occupations. Many of the top online schools have developed various computer science specializations to capitalize on this growth. The often accelerated and flexible schedules of online learning even allows graduate students to complete their two-year programs while still working.

The promising growth outlook and salary potential of the data management field helps prospective learners justify high training costs when choosing to attend graduate school. Here, we examine this program more closely. In addition to ranking the best online master’s in database management, we explore common courses and popular career paths.

To best prepare for graduate school, prospective students should know what the typical online master’s in database management looks like. In general, these programs feature between 30-45 credits and run for 1-2 years. While every program format is different, many online programs offer flexible schedules and independent study options to accommodate all types of learners.

Most students enter these graduate programs with a strong computer background. They build on their technical expertise and skills with significant research and practical training via virtual and on-campus labs. The programs often feature internships, which online students can usually complete virtually or at a location near them.

Though most master’s in database management programs award an MS degree, some MA options may be available. These programs likely differ very little in their core training, but they usually feature different electives. In some cases, MS degrees provide more technical-focused training, whereas MA degrees take more theoretical approaches.

Prospective students may also encounter concentrations in their programs. Typically, database management is a concentration of its own within a computer science degree. Yet some master’s in database management programs offer their own specializations, such as business intelligence or database architecture.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

In this course, students learn how to design and implement databases for organizations. The training examines methods for identifying organizational needs and user requirements, along with how to design a model based on these demands.

Students in this course learn how to gather and analyze various datasets. They also learn how this information can be used to improve business forecasting, evaluations, risk assessments, and decisions.

This course teaches students how to evaluate an organization’s IT needs, find solutions, and develop a realistic approach to reaching its goals. The training examines methods for connecting IT systems and strategies to the organization’s overall mission.

Students in this course learn how to analyze an organization’s information systems and needs. Learners look at ways of using this information to design, research, and provide solutions.

In this course, students learn to design data backup and recovery systems and plans for organizations. Some training may delve into security measures for database managers as well.

Organizations use information to better understand customers and markets and improve their products and services. The growth in data applications has created a significant demand for specialists in this field. As a result, the BLS projects 8% growth for database administrators and architects between 2020 and 2030, along with more than 13,000 annual openings in the field.

Database administrators and architects also earn very competitive wages, making median annual salaries that more than double the median annual wage for all occupations. Changing and new technologies, such as cloud services, should continue stimulating growth in the field.

Database management professionals can also pursue several other promising computer-related occupations, such as management, networking, and analyst positions.

See what a master’s in database management can do for you. Learn more about database management careers.

Database administrators and architects design and build systems to collect and store data. They protect, organize, and manage the information, while making it accessible when needed. These professionals also make upgrades to the system and ensure that all the information is accurate and untampered.

Median Annual Salary: $98,860

Computer and information systems managers take care of an organization’s computer-related activities. They help meet organizational goals, handle the department’s staffing and technological requirements, and design and implement system upgrades when needed. These professionals also provide input regarding the organization’s technological contributions, strategies, and budgets.

Median Annual Salary: $151,150

Computer systems analysts help organizations improve the effectiveness and performance of their computer systems. They evaluate system operations and then research, design, and implement improvements. These professionals incorporate projections, organizational requirements, and system demands when suggesting solutions.

Median Annual Salary: $93,780

Information security analysts ensure that an organization’s information and systems are secured. They evaluate the system protections and look for vulnerabilities. They then research and implement possible solutions. Analysts may also develop security best practices for organizations to follow and provide training or advice to in-house information technology administrators.

Median Annual Salary: $103,590

Computer network architects design and build networks for organizations based on their specific communication requirements. These professionals may perform various tests to determine the current system’s weaknesses before looking for an upgrade or redesign solution. They incorporate traffic and user needs into their designs, along with any budgetary and equipment limitations.

Median Annual Salary: $116,780

For graduates who do not wish to enter the workforce after graduation, several realistic continuing education pathways are available. One pathway is a doctorate in database administration. Professionals with this level of training can pursue postsecondary teaching and advanced research and development positions.

Graduates can also pursue a doctorate in various other computer-related disciplines, such as cybersecurity, software development, and computer engineering. They might also tackle an industry or vendor certification to enhance their skills in the field or with a specific technology.