SEF-DAT7711 - Data Fundamentals and SQL

Course Description

Data is everywhere, and professionals must understand how to use it to make informed business decisions. Relational databases dominate the world of data due to their simplicity, robustness, flexibility, performance, and scalability, and SQL is the standard language used for querying and maintaining the database. In this class, you will learn how the relational database model enables easy access to information because it represents data intuitively.  You will also learn to use SQL to retrieve data, execute queries, and create content. Learning relational databases and SQL is easier than you might think, and the benefits far outweigh the time investment. Experts agree that Data Literacy skills increase marketability in the changing work environment.

Course Outline

Week 1- Database Systems and Data Models
Week 2 -  Relational Data Model and Entity Relationship Model
Week 3 - Normalization, DB Recap, and Intro to SQL
Week 4 - Querying / Aggregation / Individual or Group Labs
Week 5 - Joining Individual or Group Labs
Week 6 - Subqueries / Sets / Class Labs
Week 7 - Functions / DML / Individual or Group Labs.
 

Learner Outcomes

The purpose of this course is to provide a good understanding and hands-on practice of relational databases and T-SQL language which is used by MS SQL Server. Upon completing the course, students will be able to:

• Describe what a database is and the importance of database design
• Identify the main characteristics of entity relationship components 
• Explain normalization and its role in the database design process 
• Perform effective single-table queries by using the SELECT statement.
• Query multiple tables by using joins, subqueries, table expressions, and set operators. 
• Insert, update, and merge data.
• Create tables and enforce data integrity.

Notes

Target Audience:
This class is recommended for anyone who needs to work with data and understand the querying process in SQL, such as SQL developers, database administrators, business intelligence practitioners, data scientists, report writers, and analysts. Software developers would also benefit from learning how data is pulled and stored in a server database.

Occupational Outlook:
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that employment of data workers is projected to grow 36 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. About 13,500 openings for data workers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. The recommended education level is a Bachelor's degree or higher.

Information Technology Continuing Education Certificate: This course is part of the Business Data Analytics Certificate. Certificates are awarded with the completion of all required courses (no substitutions).  A certificate of completion for the class will be issued to participants with at least 80% attendance, class participation, and completion of hands-on practice and projects.

Method of Instruction:
Lecture with demonstration, discussion, hands-on exercises, and problem-solving. May have outside assignments.

Evaluation:
Participation in class discussions and completion of skill practices in and outside of the classroom is expected. This class also has a final test.
 

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Business Data Analytics Certificate : Business Data Analytics Certificate
• Full Stack Java Developer Certificate Program : Full Stack Java Developer Certificate Program