Database Administrator

Credential:: certificate More info on program credentials
Program length:: 40 weeks Learn more about program length
Location:: Blended (Main Campus and Online) More info on program location
International applicant info:: Accepted | PGWP eligible | CIP: 11.0802 Learn more about international applicant eligibility
Faculty:: School for Advanced Digital Technology

Credit credentials

A credit credential includes courses with post-secondary credit applied.

These credits will be used towards your specific program and may be accepted towards a credential at SAIT or a different post-secondary institution.

The credit credentials include a bachelor's degree, applied degree, diploma, certificate and post-diploma certificate.

Bachelor Degree

SAIT has bachelor's degree programs in business, construction, and hospitality and tourism management.

Bachelor's degrees are generally four-year programs, but you have up to 10 academic years to complete your courses.

Applied Degree

SAIT's full-time applied degree programs involve one year of study through classes and lab work followed by one year of directed studies in a workplace setting. This builds on the completion of a recognized two-year diploma, which you must have to be admitted to an applied degree program.

You then have seven academic years to finish your applied degree, starting from the day you begin the first course in that program.

Diploma

At SAIT, over 40 full-time diploma programs cover a broad range of areas, from aircraft maintenance to travel and tourism.

Most diploma programs are completed in two years, though you can take up to seven academic years to complete the requirements.

Certificate

SAIT has several certificate programs in the sciences, health and trades.

These programs provide the essential skills to start a career but are shorter in length than SAIT's diploma programs - usually a year or less. However, you have up to five years to complete your program.

Post-Diploma Certificate

These programs build on skills developed through a diploma or degree program and combine classroom instruction with a workplace practicum.

They are often completed in a year or less.

Journeyperson

A certified journeyperson is recognized as a qualified and skilled person in a trade and is entitled to the wages and benefits associated with that trade. You must complete all apprenticeship periods and pass the exams to earn a journeyperson designation.

Non-credit credentials

A non-credit credential comprises courses and programs designed for professional or personal development.

Because these do not have post-secondary credits attached, they cannot be used towards any of the credentials above. We also cannot guarantee an external institute will accept these courses or credentials for transfer credit.

SAIT's non-credit certificates of achievement and completion are offered through Continuing Education and Professional Studies.

Certificate of Achievement

Certificates of achievement recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 144 (required and elective) course hours.

Certificates of achievement typically develop broader, complex skill sets. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began these programs before July 1, 2022, you still have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Certificate of Completion

Certificates of completion recognize the completion of a program that includes a formal evaluation of performance and a minimum of 30 to a maximum of 143 course hours.

These certificates are shorter in duration than certificates of achievement and offer a focused education program. As of July 1, 2022, you have up to three years to complete the certificate. If you began before July 1, 2022, you will have five calendar years to complete the program from when you began the first course.

Professional Certificate

Program certificates recognize completion of a program that includes the formal evaluation of performance, and that is a minimum of one year in length.

These certificates have program-specific admission requirements.

Micro-credential

A micro-credential recognizes the completion of a non-credit course that includes a formal performance evaluation and verifies you have demonstrated specific competencies.

Micro-credentials focus on the mastery of specific skills. You receive a digital, shareable badge upon completing a SAIT micro-credential (SAITMicro).

Overview

A database administrator plays a crucial role in managing and maintaining databases within an organization. You ensure the availability, security, integrity and performance of the databases that store critical data.

This program may be for you if you have existing relational database knowledge and an interest in computers and information technology.

In this program, you will learn:

how to use database administration tools from industry leaders like Oracle and Microsoft and gain proficiency in managing databases on Windows and Linux platforms, commonly used in enterprise environments
how data is organized, structured and related within these databases
to design efficient and scalable database systems, master data modelling, and normalization techniques while creating database schemas that meet business requirements
how to create, design and optimize database systems for speed, responsiveness and scalability
to be proficient at ongoing database maintenance tasks
to implement robust backup and recovery plans to safeguard data integrity
to implement security measures to safeguard data from unauthorized access and security threats, a top priority for organizations to protect sensitive information.

Apply your knowledge and skills as a database system administrator to real-world computer science scenarios. Hands-on experience in a practicum placement will prepare you to tackle the challenges and complexities of database administration in actual work settings.

Database technology is continuously evolving. As a graduate, you will be well-prepared for a career in a dynamic field as an asset to organizations relying on data-driven decision-making.

Potential roles include Oracle database administrator, database developer, data analyst or database architect.

Due to the tight integration of the courses in the Database Administrator program, credit for prior learning is unavailable.

Those working in the database administration field tend to be innovative, methodical and directive.

You need:

to learn quickly, think logically and study information
to build abstract structures that represent complex relationships
to focus on details without losing sight of the whole
an awareness of legal, policy and privacy restrictions
speaking, listening and writing skills
to work on a team
an active interest in keeping up with changes in technology.

This program is designed for learners with existing IT literacy. We strongly recommend you have prior experience with relational databases (like Microsoft Access) and operating systems (like Linux/Unix, Windows.)

To do well in this field, you should enjoy working with a variety of people in a team setting and solving problems.

During your final semester, you'll participate in a practicum at a participating company, providing you with a realistic taste of the technology industry and the opportunity to network with a potential employer.

This program, offered in conjunction with the Oracle Workforce Development Program, includes core Oracle Education courses needed to challenge the Oracle Certified Professional Database Administrator designation.

With additional relevant work experience and exam preparation study, you will be prepared to successfully challenge and complete the Oracle Certified Professional (OCP) Database Administration designation.

Upon successful completion of this program, you will be awarded a SAIT Database Administrator certificate.

Download program info

Careers and opportunities

Each year, SAIT conducts a survey between February and April to determine the employment rate, salary and satisfaction of our newest SAIT alumni.

people icon 83% graduate employment rate

salary icon $74,000 average starting salary

Find out more about our graduate employment statistics >

Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.

Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 21211, 21223.

Career planning support

Unsure which career path is for you? Here are some recommended career planning resources to help you decide your future.

You can also head to Alberta alis for lots of information about careers in Alberta, including quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a path.

Finally, you can take our online career finder quiz, which can help narrow your options based on your current skills and interests.

Take our career finder quiz

Courses

The Database Administrator certificate requires 39 credits (18 courses) to complete.

The program spans 40 weeks, with three semesters.

View classes by semester

Suggested schedule of study

Semester 1

Course code	Course name	Credit
CMPN 274	Oracle Architecture and Administration	3.0
CPLN 240	Career Planning and Management	1.5
CMPP 252	Oracle Fundamentals: SQL and PL/SQL	3.0
CMPP 267	Database Operating Systems Network Fundamentals	3.0
CMPP 273	Data Modelling and RDB Design	1.5
CMPP 278	Database Administration Project	6.0
PROJ 237	Project Management for DBA	1.5
Semester 1 total		19.5

Semester 2

Course code	Course name	Credit
CMPN 295	Oracle: Network Administration	1.5
CMPP 238	Scripting for Databases	1.5
CMPP 276	Data Warehousing and Mining	1.5
CMPP 277	Oracle: Backup and Recovery	3.0
CMPP 279	Oracle Performance and Tuning	1.5
CPRG 203	Microsoft SQL Server Database	1.5
CPRG 205	Linux Fundamentals	1.5
CPRG 206	Database Web Integration	1.5
CPRG 209	Database Skills in Unix/Linux	1.5
DBAD 205	Database Security Fundamentals	1.5
Semester 2 total		16.5

Semester 3

Course code	Course name	Credit
PRAC 249	Career Advancement Practicum	3.0
Semester 3 total		3.0
Program total		39.0

Course	Credits
This course is designed to give the Oracle Database Administrator a firm foundation in basic administrative tasks and provide the necessary knowledge and skills to set up, maintain, and troubleshoot an Oracle database. This course uses Oracle Certified curriculum.	3
In this course, learners configure an Oracle database in a networked environment. Networking security risks and optional solutions are presented. In addition, learners are introduced to common errors, and troubleshooting and debugging tools. This course uses Oracle Certified curriculum.	1.5
This course covers the basics of shell scripts for databases.	1.5
This course provides an extensive introduction to data server technology including relational databases and the SQL and PL/SQL programming languages. Learners are taught to create and maintain database objects and to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. In addition, learners create PL/SQL code. This course uses Oracle Certified curriculum.	3
In this course, learners receive an introduction to network concepts, network designs, client/server configurations, and system administration, networking and troubleshooting in Windows environments. Database concepts are explored using Microsoft Office Access.	3
This course covers the use of Entity Relationship Modelling in detail through real life examples, practical business problems and solutions. The second part of the course explores the design process and presents the considerations for creating a normalized, stable, maintainable and well-defined relational database.	1.5
Learners are introduced to the concepts and application of data warehousing and mining. Data warehousing and mining processes are explored. Various data mining techniques are examined, with a focus on business problem applications.	1.5
This course introduces learners to the critical task of planning and implementing database backup and recovery strategies. The course addresses backup and recovery techniques and examines various backup, failure, restore, and recovery scenarios. This course uses Oracle Certified curriculum.	3
In this course learners conduct a system analysis, develop a project schedule, incorporate the components of a database and prepare a proposal.	6
In this course, learners are introduced to the techniques used to improve the performance of the Oracle server. Learners use a variety of tools to recognize, troubleshoot and resolve common performance related problems in administering a database.	1.5
This course will include the skills required for career management including resume and cover letter writing, job search strategies and interviewing skills.	1.5
This course provides learners with the technical skills required to program a database solution and write SQL queries. It also provides learners with the knowledge and skills required to install, configure, administer, and troubleshoot the client-server database management system of Microsoft® SQL Server™.	1.5
In this course, learners receive an introduction to network concepts, designs, client/server configurations, and system administration, networking and troubleshooting in Unix/Linux environments.	1.5
Learners will gain the knowledge and skills they need to create dynamic web sites. At the completion of the course, learners will be able to explain and demonstrate the process of building a dynamic web site, and will also learn how to create a site that pulls content from a database. In addition, learners will be able to create a web interface for the database involved, enabling data input to be done without requiring any prior knowledge of Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), or database functionality. Equivalents: CMPP 281	1.5
In this course, learners will receive an introduction to system administration and networking in a Unix environment. The emphasis is on aspects of the Unix operating system required for successful database administration, backup and security. Topics may include: customizing the login environment, standard Unix editors, Unix file system, device management, printers, backup and recovery tools, security, process control, Unix networking and shell programming. Equivalents: CMPP 275	1.5
This course offers learners an overall view of the importance of Database Security in the larger picture of IT.	1.5
This is a practicum conducted off campus at a participating corporation or business. It provides learners with a realistic taste of what it is like to work in the technology industry. Learners are involved in all steps of the practicum process.	3
In this course, learners will be introduced to the concepts of system analysis and the project life cycle. Topics covered during this class may include: planning and feasibility, project life cycle, cost-benefit analysis, requirements analysis and documentation, estimation and allocation of project resources and budgets.	1.5

Progression

You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.

To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.

Review our grading and progression procedure >

Admission requirements

Applicants educated in Canada

Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of one of the following courses or equivalents:

at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-1 or 30-2 or equivalent, or
a minimum of two years of post-secondary education from a recognized university, institute or college.

SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside Alberta.

All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options.

SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.

Academic Upgrading

Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.

Upgrade

English language proficiency

All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.

Learn more

Transfer agreements

At SAIT, we evaluate post-secondary credit you have previously earned and apply it to your SAIT credential. Explore our formal transfer agreements available for this program.

We can evaluate your prior education, even if we don't have a formal agreement in place.

Submit a transfer credit application

There are no formal transfer agreements currently in place for this program.

Transfer options for graduates

Build on the knowledge you’ve learned at SAIT. The opportunity to advance your education at an accredited post-secondary institution may be available.

🔗 Visit Transfer Alberta search tool for all transfer agreements in Alberta (including UCalgary, MRU and BVC).

If there are transfer agreements with other institutions outside of Alberta, nationally or internationally, they will be listed below.

Available intakes

Fall 2025

Start dates:

Sep 02, 2025

Domestic students: Open: Application deadline: June 30, 2025

Costs

2024/25 tuition and fees

The following estimated costs are effective as of July 1, 2024.

Domestic students

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for domestic students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5	$18,174	$1,840	$20,014
Total cost:				$20,014

The estimated total cost of tuition and fees for international students is based on the recommended course load per year.
Year	Number of semesters	Tuition fees	Additional fees	Total per year
1	2.5	$29,718	$1,922.50	$31,640.50
Total cost:				$31,640.50

Books and supplies are approximately $1,000 - $1,500 per full-time year.

This is a bring-your-own-device program with a power-user hardware and software requirement. See the specific requirements on our computers and laptops page.

Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date.

Can't find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they're still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.

Financial aid

Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.

Learn more

Fees

Your fees are calculated based on the number of course credits you take per semester (approximately 16 weeks of study). In most cases, your fee is determined based on whether you're taking more or less than nine (9) course credits (more than nine credits in a semester are considered full-time studies.)

Fees are adjusted for programs with start dates outside the typical 15-week program.

2024/25 fees per semester

Fees are subject to change without notice.

A breakdown of mandatory fees based on whether you are taking less than or more than nine credits per semester
SAIT fees	Less than 9 credits/semester	9 or more credits/semester
Campus athletic and recreation fee: supports the provision of recreation and fitness facilities, movement classes, wellness programs, events, intermural activities, varsity sports programs, and a variety of initiatives offered throughout the academic year. Exemptions to recreation fees are made in some circumstances.	$51.50	$103
Student support fee: supports services and resources to help you succeed throughout your academic career, including Career Advancement Services and Student Development and Counselling.	$53.75	$107.50
Student technology fee: supports improvements to cybersecurity to protect student and institutional information, access to learning material outside the classroom, and technology to enhance your experience.	$53.75	$107.50
UPass: provides you with unlimited access to Calgary Transit. Additional eligibility requirements apply to obtain a UPass.	n/a	$165
Saitsa fees
Saitsa fee: supports the student-led, non-profit organization representing students. Fees support the operation of various student services, activities, and programming. Saitsa fees are paid per credit to a maximum amount of $146 per semester.	$16.23/credit	$146 maximum
Health and dental plan: provides access to thousands of dollars in coverage for prescription medication, dental treatments, paramedical services, and multiple other benefits. Health and dental fees are charged per semester to an annual maximum amount of $172 for health and $158 for dental. Find more details at saitsa.com/benefits. In most cases, your fees are quoted based on paying for a full year of health and dental coverage. International students are charged these fees regardless of course load. Domestic students with existing health and dental coverage may opt-out.	n/a	$91 for health $84 for dental

Application process

Ready to apply?

Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.

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Communication during admission

Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the sadt.advising@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.

Begin your application

Apply now using the online application portal.

Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $175 for international applicants.

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Information sessions

Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.

Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:

What sets SAIT apart
An introduction to the program and area of study
Admission requirements
Future career paths
Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.

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Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.

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Database Administrator

On this page:

Overview