Learn More About SQL Classes in Baltimore
Structured Query Language (SQL) is a coding language used to manage and manipulate relational databases. With SQL, programmers can query data, create tables, aggregate data, and define the structure of databases. Professionals have used SQL for decades since its introduction by IBM in 1979. By the 1980s, SQL had become a standard of the ANSI and ISO. Today, SQL is one of the most popular and widely used programming languages for managing and interacting with relational database management systems (RDBMS). You can use SQL with almost all RDBMS, including MySQL and PostgreSQL.
SQL continues to evolve. Modern-day programmers, developers, and analysts use SQL to handle large-scale complex datasets, work with data science and AI tools, and better comply with data privacy regulations. Learning SQL can help you begin a new and exciting career launching a career in data or web development.
What Can You Do with SQL Training?
Enroll in SQL training today to begin a new career or start working on a personal project. Aspiring Web Developers can take their SQL skills to begin work as Back-End or Full Stack Web Developers. With SQL, developers can carry out commands like UPDATE, DELETE, and DROP when working on websites and applications. SQL also integrates with Python and R, which developers and analysts can take advantage of.
SQL also aids in the creation of tracking tools. You can use SQL to keep track of your habits or interests. For example, with SQL you can create databases that track your income and expenses or keep track of recipes you like. Whatever personal database you want to create, SQL is likely to help. Small business owners can also depend on SQL to create important databases like inventory tracking databases. SQL training will help you discover the many ways that using SQL can help you professionally and personally.
What Will I Learn in an SQL Class?
In a beginner-level SQL class, you can expect to learn the basics of SQL, like how to query. After learning the basics of SQL, enroll in intermediate and advanced-level classes to expand your knowledge of SQL and databases. When learning SQL, you can expect to learn about SQL queries, relational databases like SQL Server and PostgreSQL, data analysis, and develop communication skills.
SQL Queries
SQL queries, also known as SQL statements, are commands given to relational databases using SQL. For example, when you want to retrieve data from a database using SQL, you need to write a query. Basic SQL queries you’ll learn will help you retrieve data, insert data, modify data, delete data, create and alter tables or databases, and combine data from tables. Advanced-level queries can help you filter and sort data. When you write an SQL query, you’re writing a declarative statement, meaning you’re telling the RDBMS what you want done. SQL’s relatively simple syntax makes querying one of the easier concepts for beginners to understand.
SQL Server
SQL Server is Microsoft’s RDBMS. Microsoft introduced SQL Server in 1989 and the RDBMS has become one of the leading systems. SQL classes typically cover at least one RDBMS, with SQL Server being one of the likely RDBMS to be covered. Microsoft offers SQL Server in a subscription format with add-ons available.
PostgreSQL
PostgreSQL is another popular RDBMS that you may learn to query in an SQL class. This open-source RDBMS is popular due to its flexibility. PostgreSQL makes data manipulation and retrieval simple. The system can also support advanced querying and extensions for handling complex data types. PostgreSQL and SQL Server both support data integrity features and use indexes to improve queries, but differences between the two exist. PostgreSQL runs on a variety of platforms, including Linux, Windows, and macOS, while SQL Server primarily runs on Windows; PostgreSQL supports a wider variety of data types; and SQL Server offers more integrated tools for performance analysis. The RDBMS you learn first will depend on the SQL class you enroll in.
Data Analysis
SQL helps simplify the data analysis process. With SQL, analysts can quickly retrieve data and summarize large datasets. After working with their data using SQL, analysts can identify patterns and even export the data to a data visualization tool like Tableau or Power BI. You can learn the process of using SQL for data analysis in a data analysis bootcamp or in a class that focuses on using SQL as part of the data analysis process.
Communication
Communication skills play an important role in working in a team environment. Developers, programmers, and analysts often need excellent written and verbal communication skills. Developers and programmers often work on projects in teams, so they need to understand interpersonal communication. Analysts may need to report information to their supervisors or clients, so they need to know how to talk to others about their work without turning to jargon that others may not understand. In an SQL class, you’ll develop your communication skills by working with others on projects and preparing reports.
How Hard is It to Learn SQL?
You may find it hard to learn SQL when you first begin taking SQL classes. Most of the trouble that new students have when learning SQL is understanding the concept of coding as well as the idea of a database. Learning to code is like learning a new language. You’re likely to need lots of practice to get the hang of things. Enrolling in formal SQL classes and practicing SQL on real-world projects and activities will help you get over the initial learning curve that comes with learning a new language—especially one as unfamiliar as a coding language.
Another challenge new students face when learning SQL is understanding the differences among RDBMS. Although many RDBMS have similarities, they also have major differences. These differences include differences in functionality and syntax. Some RDBMS require different punctuation within commands or different syntax altogether for certain commands compared to other RDBMS. It’s recommended that students first learn one popular RDBMS before focusing on others. This method will help them learn the basics of using an RDBMS and they can then apply their newfound knowledge to future systems to more easily spot the differences.
How Long Does It Take to Learn SQL?
The time it takes you to learn SQL depends on how long you have to practice, your prior experience with SQL and coding, and the method you use to learn SQL. The more you can practice SQL, the better off you’ll be. Working on real-world projects and practicing in your free time will make it easier and faster for you to understand how to use SQL. Prior experience with coding also helps because it can help you understand SQL conceptually, something that beginners sometimes struggle with. It’s recommended that you learn SQL through formal training as it’s the most efficient and thorough method of learning.
With dedicated practice and formal training, you can go from no SQL knowledge to a basic knowledge of SQL in two to three weeks. This level of knowledge includes understanding basic SQL commands, simple queries, and aggregate functions. After about one to three months of training, you’re likely to develop intermediate-level SQL skills. Intermediate-level SQL includes performing subqueries and aggregating data. It’s not until about the three to six-month mark that most people develop advanced-level SQL skills and knowledge. Within this time frame, you can expect to know how to conduct performance tuning and database design. The range for achieving advanced-level knowledge of SQL is so wide because these complex skills require dedicated practice, efficient training, and a commitment to learning.
Should I Learn SQL in Person or Online?
When enrolling in an SQL class, you have the option of registering for in-person or online classes.
In-person training classes provide the most traditional-style learning environment that students typically find familiar. Classes take place in a classroom or computer lab face-to-face. Students will learn from an expert instructor who can answer their questions, provide demonstrations, and give feedback. To enroll in an in-person class, students simply need to find one available in their area and register for a class held during a time that fits their schedule. Attending an in-person SQL class means commuting, so it’s important to factor travel time in when enrolling too.
Students who cannot find in-person classes in their area or who do not want to attend an in-person class can enroll in a live online class. Live online classes make learning SQL more accessible because anyone across the country can enroll in a live online class. This class type eliminates the need to commute but is similar to in-person classes in other ways. Both class types can take place during the week, in the evenings, and on weekends, and they usually cost the same.
Students looking to self-teach can explore on-demand classes. On-demand classes, also known as asynchronous classes, provide students with access to course materials, which they then work through by themselves. No instructor guides students through an on-demand course, but students may have pre-recorded video lectures to watch. On-demand classes work best for students with busy schedules who can’t attend a live class and feel comfortable working through course material on their own.
Can I Learn SQL Free Online?
Before enrolling in formal SQL training, you can learn the basics online for free. One option for learning SQL is signing up for a free on-demand class. Coursera, Udemy, and other online learning platforms offer free short-form on-demand SQL classes that teach students the basics of SQL. Noble Desktop and other training centers and schools upload video tutorials to YouTube to help you learn the foundations of SQL. Worried you’ll get confused when learning on your own? If that’s the case, search for online forums where programmers, developers, and other SQL users meet to ask questions and help each other troubleshoot. After learning the basics of SQL online for free, consider the formal training options available to you, including SQL bootcamps and certificate courses.
What Should I Learn Alongside SQL?
When learning SQL, you may find yourself introduced to new and related topics that you find worth exploring. Find out about other skills and concepts to consider learning alongside SQL below.
When learning SQL, some students choose to learn about NoSQL too. SQL is used to work with data stored in a relational database, but not all databases are relational. NoSQL (“Not Only SQL”) databases store data in a non-tabular format. When you want to handle other types of data structures, like documents and graph databases, you can turn to NoSQL. Benefits of NoSQL include flexibility, elastic scalability, and high availability.
If using SQL to work on web development interests you, you might also like learning how to use other programming languages. Alongside SQL, Back-End and Full Stack Web Developers use Python, C#, Ruby, Java, and other server-side programming languages to work on the back-end of websites and applications. You can also learn how to use libraries and frameworks that will help you interact with databases such as SQLAlchemy, Psycopg2, and PyMongo.
Your knowledge of SQL can also help you learn data visualization. Data Analysts use data visualization tools to represent data in a visual format for ease of understanding. They may choose to show off data in the form of a graph, a chart, or even a map. With SQL, Data Analysts can transform data and then share their work with a data visualization tool. Enroll in a data visualization program to learn how you can use SQL and other coding languages to help you learn the data visualization process.
Industries That Use SQL
Ready to put your SQL skills to the test? Check out these industries in Baltimore looking to hire professionals with SQL skills.
Healthcare
Baltimore is home to some of the country’s most prestigious hospitals and medical schools, including Johns Hopkins. These institutions, along with the University of Maryland Medical Center, healthcare startups, and a community that pushes for a focus on public health initiatives, have contributed to the city’s dynamic healthcare industry. You can use your knowledge of SQL to help Baltimore’s healthcare industry tackle some of its greatest challenges. SQL skills contribute to managing patient records, managing billing data, storing clinical and lab test results, and aggregating data to analyze trends among patient populations.
Government Services
It’s no surprise that Baltimore’s government industry is a pillar of the city’s economy. Baltimore is the largest city in Maryland and has developed a strong presence alongside the development of the nation’s capital. Baltimore’s mayoral position plays an important role in the city’s operations as does the City Council and numerous government agencies that provide public services, enforce regulations, and promote development. Government entities rely on SQL to manage public records and citizen data, budget, store police records, and analyze health data.
Financial Services
Baltimore’s financial services industry provides banking services, investment management, insurance, and FinTech to residents in the city, around the state, and across the broader Mid-Atlantic region. Modern trends in this industry have poised the city for further expansion and an increase in technological advancements that will benefit the city’s economy and job market. You can apply your SQL skills in the financial services industry. SQL is useful for managing transaction data, tracking and reporting on compliance, and monitoring risk.
SQL Job Titles and Salaries
Do you have experience with SQL and want to know what industries you can find work in? SQL experience and skills can help you start a position as an SQL Developer, a Financial Analyst, or a Web Developer.
SQL Developer
SQL Developers use their technical skills and in-depth knowledge of databases to design and build SQL databases and applications. An SQL Developer needs to know how to use different RDBMS, how to optimize database performance, and oversee database security. This role often requires lots of communication with supervisors, clients, and team members, so an SQL Developer needs strong communication and collaboration skills. SQL Developers in Baltimore make an average annual salary of $108,500.
Financial Analyst
Do you know finance principles? If so, you may find yourself qualified for a Financial Analyst role. Financial Analysts analyze financial data, make financial predictions, evaluate financial risk, and make investment recommendations. A Financial Analyst needs to know how to problem-solve, think analytically, and use their knowledge of a variety of programs and coding languages, including SQL, to do their job. Entry-level Financial Analysts in Baltimore make an average salary of $57,000 per year. Financial Analysts typically report significant growth in earnings over time, which makes it unsurprising that Financial Analysts in Baltimore make around $112,000 on the high end.
Back-End Web Developer
Back-End Web Developers work on the back-end of websites and applications to make sure that they remain functional and that the interface continues to meet user expectations. This role requires knowledge of coding languages like SQL, Python, and Java, as well as a thorough knowledge of databases and APIs. In Baltimore, Back-End Web Developers make an average annual salary of $99,000.
SQL Classes Near Me
Do you live in Baltimore? You can find in-person and live online SQL classes open for enrollment today. Consider the type of SQL class you’d like to enroll in before checking out the classes below.
Noble Desktop’s SQL Bootcamp is an 18-hour live online program that will teach you the basics of SQL, including how to write queries, join tables, aggregate data, and filter results from databases. The bootcamp also covers more advanced techniques like aggregate functions, subqueries, and how to use functions with parameters. When it comes to RDBMS, you can expect to learn PostgreSQL. This class is offered as part of a certificate program that you can enroll in to save on the cost of enrollment. Included in the cost of enrollment is a 1-on-1 training session that you can use to ask questions about challenging course content or your project.
In Noble Desktop’s SQL Server Bootcamp, you’ll learn how to use Microsoft SQL Server and the free SQL Server Management Studio app to explore databases and execute SQL queries. The 18-hour live online class will walk you through beginner, intermediate, and advanced-level SQL through hands-on lessons and project-based learning. Like students enrolled in the SQL Bootcamp, you’ll receive a 1-on-1 training session. After finishing the class, you’ll receive a certificate of completion and access to a free retake within one year.
General Assembly offers a Data Analytics Short Course that will teach students all about data. By the end of class, they’ll know how to collect data, clean data, analyze data, visualize data, and use data tools like SQL and Tableau. Students will gain hands-on experience with real-world problems when they wrap up the course with a capstone project for students enrolled in the one-week class, and two additional projects for students enrolled in the 10-week class. This beginner-friendly class includes an optional three hours of pre-work designed to prepare students for the class.
Learn basic, intermediate, and advanced-level SQL in Certstaffix Training’s SQL Querying—Combo class. The three-day class covers essential SQL knowledge, like queries to retrieve information from databases, joining tables, building on subqueries, and writing advanced queries. No prior knowledge is required to enroll in this course. Students who complete the class can expect to receive a digital badge, a certificate of completion, and a free retake within six months. This class is offered by Certstaffix in a live online format or onsite for teams.
SQL Corporate Training
Do you want your team to learn SQL? Noble Desktop can provide your organization with SQL training that meets your employees’ learning objectives and scheduling needs. When enrolling in corporate training, you have the option of selecting live online or onsite training options. Teams interested in corporate training can purchase group vouchers in bulk at a discount from Noble Desktop. When purchasing group vouchers, you can select the courses available to your team to choose from. They can then schedule their training at a time that fits their schedules.
Reach out to corporate@nobledesktop.com to learn more about Noble Desktop’s corporate training services and receive help in determining which option best fits your team’s needs and goals.