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Database administrator: the path

Administer, test, and implement computer databases, applying knowledge of database management systems. Coordinate changes to computer databases. Identify, investigate, and resolve database performance issues, database capacity, and database scalability. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases. Description from O*NET

Also called: Database Administration Manager, Database Administrator (DBA), Database Analyst, Database Coordinator, Database Engineer

Typical pay$104,620Median yearly pay, BLS 2025
Job outlook-0.1% jobsProjected change, 2025–35. All jobs: +3.5%.
Time after high schoolAbout 4 to 6 yearsTypical full-time study and training
  1. Step 1Bachelor’s in computer science or information systems4 years
  2. Step 2Work experienceOften starting in a related IT role
  3. Step 3Database administrator job

Typical education to start: Bachelor's degree · More on the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

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Colleges for this path

Related majors: Computer and Information Sciences, General · Computer Software and Media Applications · Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management

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1,022 colleges match

College Scorecard, 2024 data. Earnings are the median for graduates of the related majors, 4 years after graduating. All figures are estimates.

Best value = earnings ÷ (net price × years of study). Net prices under $1,000 count as $1,000.

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