Career Profile: Database Administrator

Why Is Database Administration a Job of Tomorrow?
Many companies are relying more and more on electronic information and processing to conduct business. With so much riding on the efficiency and security of technology, database administrators, who manage all that information, will be in high demand. Employment opportunities for database administrators are forecast to rise 29 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Database administrators make an average salary of $64,670 annually.

What Does a Database Administrator Do?
Database administrators create ways to organize and store data. They are responsible for setting up new databases as well. With the widespread use of computers to store sensitive information, database administrators have the crucial duty of ensuring that all of the data is secure as well as organized. Many company databases are also connected to the Internet, therefore increasing their vulnerability to leaks and hacking. Database managers put security measures in place to guard against information theft while still allowing uninterrupted access to those authorized to use the database. When companies switch from an outdated database to a new one, database administrators handle the conversion and tackle the task of merging the two databases together.

What Kind of Training Do I Need to Become a Database Administrator?
Database administrators should plan on earning a bachelor's degree in computer science, information science or management information systems. A bachelor's degree program would take four years to complete, and covers such topics as systems analysis and management. Employers are beginning to prefer applicants who obtain a master's degree in business administration, which typically takes an additional two to three years after earning a bachelor's. Database administrators can further increase their marketability by earning certification in a specific product or seeking professional certification.