Structured Query Language (SQL) is a programming language that is used to communicate with relational databases. It was created in the 1970s. Today, most businesses collect large amounts of information and analyze it to make many different types of decisions. All of the information that is collected is stored in relational databases. In order to utilize the data in the databases, analysts need to be able to speak in a language that the database can understand; that language is SQL. With SQL, users can create queries for data in a database, that join or exclude certain results.
There are many different types, or “flavors” of SQL including SQL Server, PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQLite, and Oracle. While each flavor subscribes to the same syntax, the main difference is that different functions are available in each one to address specific data types.
What Can You Do with SQL Training?
With SQL training you’ll be able to perform queries, aggregate functions, manipulate data, and build tables in a relational database. If you want to be able to analyze data effectively, it is important to be able to use SQL and other data analysis tools correctly so that you can get high-quality results. Without understanding how to use these tools properly, you won’t be able to make the most of the data. Fluency in SQL is an in-demand skill. An Indeed article titled, “18 Key Data Analyst Skills To Get You Hired in 2024” places SQL in the number one position. The author comments, “SQL is a valuable tool for data analysts, so knowledge of its functionality is key.”
In an article titled, “What is SQL (Structured Query Language)?” Amazon Web Services explains one reason that SQL is so popular. It says, “Data analysts and developers learn and use SQL because it integrates well with different programming languages. For example, they can embed SQL queries with the Java programming language to build high-performing data processing applications with major SQL database systems such as Oracle or MS SQL Server.”
What Will I Learn in an SQL Class?
SQL has its own unique syntax, so an SQL class is likely to start by covering the syntax. For example, some common SQL commands are SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE. After you learn the syntax, you’ll learn how to use it to create queries. A query is a statement that tells a database to perform a specific action. With an SQL query, you can filter a dataset based on specific conditions. You’re also likely to learn more advanced skills like using aggregate functions to apply mathematical operations, and using joins to combine data from multiple sources. Another thing you’re likely to learn in an SQL class is to work with real-world data. You may do this by working on several real projects.
How Hard is It to Learn SQL?
Many people find it easier to learn SQL than some other programming languages. Some languages are known as procedural languages, meaning that users have to specify how they want something done, which can be challenging to learn. In contrast, SQL is a declarative language, which means that users just have to specify what they want done. This can make it easier to learn. SQL also has a relatively simple syntax compared to some other languages. For instance, many of its keywords mean the same thing as they do in the English language.
How Long Does It Take to Learn SQL?
How long it takes to learn SQL varies from person to person and can be influenced by many different factors such as whether you already have any expertise with programming languages or data analytics and how much time you devote to practice. In general, most people say that SQL is relatively easy to learn compared to some other programming languages and that you can master some basic skills within a few weeks. Mastering SQL takes more time and experience, and is likely to take several months or even longer.
In a November 2020 LinkedIn post, Data Scientist Shantesh Mani cautions that when you’re learning SQL, it is important to start by mastering the basics, otherwise you could end up making costly and time-consuming errors. He says, “A small mistake in wiping off your organization’s data or manipulating data would require massive effort to undo any changes. As easy as SQL is, it is essential to grasp all the concepts without being overconfident in your skills.”
What Should I Learn Alongside SQL?
SQL is often used in data analytics, so if you’re learning this language, you may want to consider learning other data analytics skills. A number of other languages are used for data analytics, including Java, R, and C#, so you may want to learn one of these languages. Data analytics platforms like Power BI can also be useful in this field. In addition, you might consider learning about statistics, which is an important skill in the field of data analytics.
People who work in data analytics also frequently need to communicate with other people about their findings, so it can be helpful to work on your communication and other soft skills. In fact, soft skills are an asset in almost any type of job. In a 2023 article called, “10 Reasons Why Soft Skills Are Important for Your Career, ” Indeed explains how soft skills can benefit your career. It says, “Any time individuals interact with their coworkers, clients or customers, they can use soft skills to make their work easier or more efficient. Developing and improving soft skills is important because they can help employees perform their tasks successfully and further their professional development.”
Industries That Use SQL
SQL is used in many different types of industries. It is a common tool within the field of information technology, where it is used to help store and analyze data. Healthcare companies may use it too to help them collect and analyze data that they can use to get a better understanding of their patients and improve healthcare. SQL is also used by public sector companies like government agencies, to help make sense of large amounts of data and create policies for the future. According to the Detroit Chamber, Healthcare, Defense, and Information Technology are all top industries in Detroit. The organization also states, “In 2022,2.3 million individuals were employed in the Detroit Region. The average salary in the Region was $68,133, slightly lower than the national average of $69,985. The average salary in the Region has increased 16.4% since 2018.”
SQL Job Titles and Salaries
SQL is an important skill if you want to work in a data-related field. Both Data Scientists and Data Analysts use it. These roles both involve collecting, organizing, and analyzing data, but Data Scientists generally have more experience and education. The average salary for a Data Analyst is $75,000 to $77,000, and for a Data Scientist, it is about $120,000 to $124,000 yearly. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (the BLS), a federal agency that publishes U.S. labor market data, predicts that between 2022 and 2032, data science jobs will grow by 35 percent.
Financial Analysts and Business Analysts also use SQL. These jobs involve analyzing financial and business data. Analysts use their skills to help businesses make better decisions. The average salary for a Financial Analyst is $76,000 to $85,000. According to the BLS, there will be an 8 percent increase in Financial Analyst jobs over the next ten years.
Other jobs that involve working with data and SQL include Database Administrators who are responsible for maintaining and organizing the databases operated by large corporations and organizations, and Software Engineers, who use programming languages to develop software. A Database Administrator earns $76,000 to $100,000 yearly, and a Software Engineer earns $105,000 to $115,000. The BLS predicts 25 percent job growth for Software Developers over the next ten years.
SQL Classes Near Me
The University of Michigan’s Michigan Online program has an SQL class called Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL). This is an online class where students will learn to install a text editor, install a MAMP or XAMPP, and create a MySQL Database. They will learn about single table queries, SQL syntax, and database design with multiple tables, foreign keys, and the JOIN operation.
Noble Desktop is a coding and design school that was founded in 1990. It offers in-person classes at its New York City campus, in addition to classes in a live online format. The SQL Bootcamp is a popular option. This is a multi-day class where you’ll learn how to write queries, join tables, and aggregate data. You’ll also learn how to filter data and group it. The course covers PostgreSQL and the free DBeaver app. The course comes with a certificate of completion and one-on-one training sessions. You’ll also have the option of doing a free retake within one year.
Another Noble Desktop option is the SQL Server Bootcamp. This course is a combination of Noble’s SQL Level 1,2, and 3 classes. You’ll learn how to write SQL queries, filter data, and group it. You’ll also learn advanced techniques including using aggregate functions, subqueries, and functions with parameters and stored procedures. The course also covers Microsoft SQL Server and SQL Server Management Studio. In addition, you’ll receive a one-on-one training session. Noble Desktop is licensed by the New York State Education Department.
You can also learn SQL as part of a longer, more comprehensive data analytics class. For instance, Noble Desktop runs a multi-week Data Analytics Certificate, which is designed to give you the skills you’ll need to work in data or business analytics. You’ll learn to use SQL, in addition to many other data analysis, data visualization, and statistical analysis skills. In addition, you’ll work on several real-world data analysis projects, where you can practice gathering, wrangling, analyzing, and visualizing data. You’ll also get eight one-on-one mentoring sessions.
Another SQL training option is to take a live online class through Certstaffix Training. Certstaffix was founded in 2008 and offers computer and business skills training classes. SQL Querying-Basic is a beginner-level class that covers programming databases, differentiating data types, writing select queries using modifiers like BETWEEN and NOT, using SQL’s built-in functions, and merging and altering tables. Certstaffix also offers SQL Querying-Advanced, which covers more complex skills like using scripts such as CROSS APPLY, OUTER APPLY, and MERGE statements. Certstaffix offers students the option of a free retake within six months, and provides a certificate of completion.
SkillSpire also offers live online SQL training. Intro to Data Analytics provides immersive SQL training paired with instruction in Python and Microsoft Power BI. Students who take this class learn how to build relational databases using SQL and how to collect, analyze, and visualize this data. Students will work on practical projects and build databases using real-world data. They will learn to create their own databases and program dashboards. This is a multi-week course.
General Assembly also runs SQL training classes. For instance, the SQL Bootcamp is a workshop that covers a wide range of different SQL skills. Students learn about SQL vocabulary, how to create basic queries, and how to apply SQL aggregate functions. They also learn to use CAST and advanced SQL commands, and to use JOINS and apply UNION to tables and columns.
SQL Corporate Training
SQL skills can benefit companies of all sizes. If you’re interested in training a group of employees in SQL, you’ll find onsite and virtual SQL corporate training offered through Noble Desktop. You can choose from existing curricula or customize your own, and Noble’s experienced instructors can either come to your office or conduct a virtual training session via Zoom or a similar platform. Another popular training option is to purchase vouchers for Noble’s regular group classes and let your employees enroll in a class that fits their schedule. A discount is offered with bulk voucher purchases. All classes include post-training support resources such as handouts and access to videos. To get more information about corporate training options, contact Noble Desktop.