The Database Certificate is designed to provide the student with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for career opportunities in entry-level database design, management, or administration. This certificate is ideal for adult students re-entering college or for students who are currently in the workforce and want to update their skill sets. 

Program Overview

What Will You Learn?

Certificate

You will develop basic programming, data, and database management application development techniques. You will code intermediate and advanced SQL and PL/SQL programs and design Relational Database Management System (RDMS).

Cost

In-State Tuition: $223/credit

Out-of-State / International Tuition: $429/credit

Some programs have additional program fees

Timeline

2 Semesters

27-28 credits

Learn Online

This program may be completed 80% or more online.

Requirements

High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

Locations

  • This program may be completed at QCC Worcester (Main Campus).
  • This program may be completed face-to-face.

Connections

The following program(s) have connections that can be completed alongside or applied to this program:

Associate of Science

Computer Information Systems - Career - Enterprise Information Systems

The Computer Information Systems - Career - Enterprise Information Systems program is a career-based program which will prepare the student to work in a business information systems environment. The curriculum provides hands-on experience in application software, web development platforms, program development languages, and database design methodologies. The primary focus of this program is application software development in a business environment.

Career Stats

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More Info
Course TitleCourse #Semester OfferedCreditsPrerequisites

Semester 1

  • Apply and get accepted to this program (Program Code: DB).
  • Register for and successfully complete all courses to graduate in two semesters.
  • Complete CIS 105, CIS 111, and CIS 121.
Introduction to Information TechnologyCIS 105F/S3 
Introduction to Microcomputer ApplicationsCIS 111F/S/SU3 
Introduction to Programming with C++CIS 121F/S3Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score, Coreq: CIS 105 or CIS 111
Speech Communication SkillsSPH 101F/S/SU3Placement into college level English
  Total12 

Semester 2

  • If seeking employment, meet with Career Services for career readiness preparation and to learn more about QCC’s job board.
  • Submit an Intent to Graduate Form, located on The Q.
Introduction to Data Communication & Networks ORCIS 141S/SU3-4Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score, Coreq: CIS 105 or CIS 111
Networking TechnologiesCSC 234F/S/SUCoreq: CSC 141
.NET Programming ICIS 223S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, CIS 121 or CSC 108
SQL ProgrammingCIS 228S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
Database Management Application DevelopmentCIS 243S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
Database Management ConceptsCIS 244S3CIS 105 or CIS 111, Placement into college level English, MAT 095 with a grade of “C” or higher or approp place score
  Total15-16 
Total Credits Required:  27-28 

Program Goals:

The Database Certificate is designed to provide the student with the basic knowledge and skills necessary for career opportunities in entry-level database design, management, or administration. This certificate is ideal for adult students re-entering college or for students who are currently in the workforce and want to update their skill sets. The curriculum may be completed in one academic year, depending on the student’s background in computer applications. Courses in general computer applications and basic programming are combined with basic database development tools and approaches through the use of Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS) and SQL. At the completion of this certificate, students will be able to manipulate data in complex RDBMS structures. This certificate is for anyone who wants to understand basic database design and implementation technologies in today’s workplace.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

  • Apply database management application development techniques to basic business applications.
  • Code intermediate and advanced SQL and PL/SQL programs for the solution of business applications.
  • Apply end user basic software to develop word processing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations.
  • Design Relational Database Management System (RDMS) per industry Database System Development Life Cycle (DSDLC) standards.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of fundamental business methods, including communications, math, and writing.
  • Demonstrate personal productivity with Information Systems (IS) technology.
  • Develop basic programming, data, and database techniques.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

  • High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

  • Students must have access to a PC or laptop using Windows environment.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 11.0802.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.

Additional Information:

  • Some courses may utilize a virtual laboratory; contact the Program Coordinator for minimum hardware and software requirements.