A Database Administrator helps to maintain and operate databases, which are collections of electronically stored data. As more and more companies rely on data in the decision-making process, database administrators are found across industries.
To become a Data Administrator, students need to have advanced mathematical knowledge, be fluent in multiple programming languages, and have excellent communication skills. The best way to practice and improve is to work on multiple projects while studying.
In this article, we will learn about the role and responsibilities of a Data Administrator, career path, and how to become a Database Administrator in South Africa.
Table of Contents
What is the Role of a Database Administrator?
A Database Administrator is responsible for designing, maintaining, and securing the database of any organisation. The database includes information related to consumers, products, orders, business processes, etc. Administrators can also create sub-systems which allow access to certain files or information of the central database.
In their role, a Database Administrator helps to bring efficiency to all the applications or software that rely on the database for access. The administrator, therefore, needs to ensure that the data is easily accessible while protecting it from unauthorised users. If students are interested in these tasks, they need to learn how to become a Database Administrator.
Below is the Database Administrator duties and responsibilities list:
- Design and Maintain: Data administrators help to design secure databases. They are also responsible for assigning permissions and maintaining security. They need to also ensure that the database is compatible with existing hardware and software in use.
- Monitor and Optimise: They are also responsible for running regular maintenance checks and are in-charge of upgrading the system to improve performance.
- Troubleshoot: The administrator needs to conduct a root cause analysis to identify the source of the problem, quickly resolve the issue, and secure the database.
- Backup and Recovery: Since multiple users access databases and can be hacked, database administrators must have system backups. They should also have procedures in place for recovery.
- Documentation: They are also responsible for maintaining written records of policies and processes. These, along with training materials, help guide junior administrators.
Database Administrator Qualifications
Database Administration is a technical field. Therefore, students who wish to make this field a career need to complete higher education. They need to complete their undergraduate study in a field that prepares them for this role, such as a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Software Engineering.
To prepare for university, students should select subjects like Mathematics, Information Technology, and Computer Applications Technology for their matric exams.
In addition to an undergraduate qualification, data administrators can also complete additional certifications to boost their resume. Students must also keep track of these when searching for how to become a Database Administrator. These are some certifications that students can pursue after graduation:
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
- Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals
- IBM Certified Database Administrator
- Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate
- Teradata Vantage Administrator
- Professional Cloud Database Engineer
Read more on What is BSc Computer Science? here
How to Become a Database Administrator?
Students who are skilled in computers and programming and wish to work in the technology field should learn how to become a Database Administrator. The technical and soft skills graduates earn are transferable to any industry. This allows data administrators to shift industries based on their opportunities.
Since this role requires graduates to be proficient in advanced mathematics and programming languages, completing an undergraduate programme in Computer Science or a related field is essential.
These are the steps students can take if they wish to learn how to become a Database Administrator:
- Enrol for a relevant undergraduate programme
- Develop your skills while studying
- Work on sample or open-source projects
- Complete an internship
- Consider getting certified
- Apply for a Data Administrator job
Where can I Study for a Database Administrator Course in South Africa?
When students research how to become a Database Administrator, they will understand that there is no specific undergraduate programme with that name. Rather, interested candidates need to study a Bsc in Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Engineering to prepare for this role.
At Regenesys School of Technology, BSC in Computer Science is an accredited three-year programme with 365 academic credits. The curriculum includes Advanced Calculus, Programming Languages, Project Management, and Linear Algebra, which are technical skills and knowledge required for the role.
At Regenesys, Computer Science is offered as an online programme, and graduate students earn an NQF Level 7 qualification.
Students who wish to learn how to become a Database Administrator must meet the following admission criteria:
- Matric with Bachelor pass [or]
- NQF level 4 equivalent qualification [or]
- A relevant NQF Level 5 qualification from an accredited institution as per SAQA requirements
- Competent in Mathematics and written and oral communication NQF Level 4
Read more on What Does Computer Science Teach? Key Skills and Real-World Applications Explainedhere.
What are the Database Administrator Skills?
A database administrator needs technical, interpersonal, and other soft skills to succeed in their role. Database administrators must develop technical skills to design, maintain, and secure databases efficiently.
As they gain experience in the field, they should keep track of new technology or programming languages that can help them bring efficiency to their job. Continuous learning demonstrates that a professional is looking to improve and is willing to adapt to new changes.
When searching for how to become a Database Administrator, students should pay special attention to the technical and soft skills required for this role. Listed below are some technical and soft skills that can benefit a Data Administrator:
1. Technical Skills for a Data Administrator
- Programming languages such as Python and Java
- Query language such as SQL
- Experience with various databases such as Azure, Oracle, IBM
- Database Modelling
- Data Analysis
- Computing Architecture
- Database Design
2. Soft Skills for a Data Administrator
- Attention to Detail
- Communication
- Critical Thinking
- Organisational
- Business Intelligence
Database Administrator Career
When seeking more information on how to become a Database Administrator, students should learn about the career path available. While this is a technology-based role, data administrators can work in various industries. As consumers shop online, universities offer flexible learning, and banking transactions take place on the web, data administrators are required in many industries.
Before graduates can become data administrators, they need to work in other IT profiles to help gain experience and learn the practical implications of their technical skills. Alternatively, they can start in a Junior Data Administrator role, primarily assisting the manager.
As data administrators gain experience, they can move to senior positions such as Information Technology Manager or Chief Technology Officer (CTO).
Conclusion
Database Administrators help to manage and secure an organisation’s database. At the same time, they run regular testing to ensure its efficiency and accessibility. With the rising reliance on data for decision-making, data administrators are in high demand across industries.
Students who wish to learn how to become a Database Administrator must complete an undergraduate qualification in Computer Science or a related field from an accredited institute. While studying, they must work on projects and internships to develop their technical and soft skills.
Visit the Regenesys website today for full details about the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science offered by the School of Technology.
How to Become a Database Administrator? – FAQs
Is there a Database Administrator degree?
There is no qualification of that name. Students must complete a Computer Science, Information Technology, or Computer Engineering degree.
What are some Database Administrator skills?
Some skills include communication, organisation, programming languages, database modelling, and data analysis.
What is a Database Administrator?
The Database Administrator definition is that they are a technology professional who is responsible for designing, maintaining, and securing a company’s database.
What are a Database Administrator’s requirements?
Database administrators must have relevant qualifications, such as a BSc in Computer Science. They must also have experience with various database systems, data architecture, and programming languages.
What is the work of a Database Administrator?
A Database Administrator helps to design and maintain databases, monitor performance, optimise operations, and initialise backup and recovery, among other tasks.
