How Do I Become a Database Specialist?

Although not all database specialist positions require a degree, most employers will likely want you to have at least some type formal training or degree. If you have an associate's degree, an employer will look more closely at your past work experience and any certifications. Those who become a database specialists will likely start at an entry level position, specialize in specific areas of database management, and eventually move to higher positions within a company or organization.

To become a database specialist, the educational requirements will likely vary widely from employer to employer. Some companies want their applicants to have at least an associate's degree in computer science, management systems, or database technology. Other companies will require a bachelor's degree or master's degree in a related field of study, especially if you want to start out in one of the higher-level or management positions. You should follow a degree plan that includes mathematics, computer sciences, statistics, and other types of computer science courses. If you have extensive experience with database programs and information technology, it is possible to be hired without a degree. Check online for colleges and universities offering coursework for these types of advanced degrees.

A working knowledge and proficiency in many different computer programs and programming languages is required if you want to become a database specialist. Some of the necessary programming and computer skills needed to do this job include HTML, Javascript, and Java development, statistical analysis systems (SAS) and structured query language (SQL). Vendor-created database management programs offer ongoing training for their own database programs to assist database specialists in remaining current on the latest database and information technology. In 2011, the best news for anyone who wants to become a database specialist is the increase in the number of positions projected by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics in this industry over the next decade.

There may be some professional association memberships and certifications necessary if you want to become a database specialist. Many product vendors, associations, educational programs, and training institutions offer various certification programs in computer science and information technology. These various levels of certification are evidence of your competence in specific areas of database management and may open up more employment opportunities. The type of certification you need will likely be determined by the information technology used by prospective employers, so check with each company or organization for specific details on specialized database certifications. These specialized certifications provide the ongoing training necessary to broaden your skill-set and perform your job more effectively.