Database administrator
Database administrators organise and update computer systems that store data for commercial companies and public organisations.
- Starter salary£28,000 a year
- Experienced£62,000 a year
- Typical hours37 to 39 a week
What you'll do
As a database administrator, you could:
- speak to clients to understand what they want from a database
- work with developers to plan the design of a system
- decide what data to use and how to organise it
- test prototype versions to identify issues or 'bugs'
- update information, create back-up copies and report errors
- make sure users can find the information they want
- add new information to a database or transfer existing data into it
- manage who has access to a database and put in security measures
- make sure systems meet data storage and security standards
- provide support for database users
Working environment
You could work in an office or at a client's business.
Skills and knowledge you'll need
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- analytical thinking skills
- the ability to work well with others
- maths knowledge
- excellent verbal communication skills
- persistence and determination
- the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
- complex problem-solving skills
- to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications
How to become a database administrator
You could get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
University
You could study for a higher national diploma, degree or postgraduate qualification before joining a company training scheme.
Useful subjects include:
- computer science
- business information systems
- software engineering
- information technology management
- mathematics
You may have an advantage when you look for work if you do a degree that includes a work placement.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
Apprenticeship
You could get into this job by applying to do an apprenticeship, such as:
- Data Engineer Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
- Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship
If you already have a degree or relevant experience, you may be able to do a Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.
Direct application
You may be able to apply directly for a place on a graduate training scheme. You can usually apply if you have a degree related to computing or technology, though employers may accept other subjects.
Foundation apprenticeship
You may be able to start in a junior or assistant role by doing a Software and Data Level 2, or Hardware, Network and Infrastructure Level 2, Foundation Apprenticeship.
You can apply for a foundation apprenticeship if you're aged 16 to 21.
If you're aged 22 to 24, you can apply if you:
- have an education, health and care (EHC) plan
- are in care or have been in care
- are in prison or have been in prison
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- no specific qualifications or experience to apply for a foundation apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
Restrictions and requirements
You'll need to know how to use structured query language (SQL) and database management systems (DBMS).
Career path and progression
With experience, you could become a:
- systems analyst
- IT project manager
- web developer
- network manager
You could also work as a consultant or become self-employed.
Career tips
Experience in IT support, programming or web development will help.
Guides for this industry
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