SQL Certification Courses – Structured Query Language

Learn SQL Online Courses

SQL Certification and Courses

In this article, we’ve collected some of the best SQL certification courses available online. If you want a strong foundation in this powerful database manipulation language, try out one of these online SQL courses today.

Think of databases as the lifeblood of data science. In order to effectively wrangle and analyze data, you must be fluent in SQL to manage and retrieve data.

These SQL certification programs and courses will help you get started and eventually master SQL. They cover everything from joins, queries, syntax, and much more.

If you’re looking to learn SQL, you can gain a solid foundation in SQL to work confidently with databases and make it easier to manage the information you need.

1. SQL Nanodegree Program (Udacity)

Udacity

With the Udacity SQL Nanodegree, you’ll study relational and non-relational databases management in order to build normalized, consistent, and performant data models. Additionally, you’ll learn how to use SQL commands to define, select, manipulate and join data tables. With this powerful skill set under your belt, you’ll be able to make insightful decisions and strategies that will drive any business forward.

PROS

  • Get hands-on practice with a high-quality, targeted nanodegree program. Learn from the best and keep your skills up-to-date.

  • Mentorship, CV/resume support, and real-world projects from industry leaders.

CONS

  • SQL Nanodegree has just two modules including an introduction to SQL and more hands-on skills.

COURSES
  • Introduction to SQL: Get a concise introduction to SQL by learning how to execute SQL commands, clean data, and optimize SQL queries for any business needs.
  • Management of Relational & Non-Relational Databases: Learn the skills and techniques for designing and building relational data models so that you can manage your relational and non-relational databases for improved performance.
VERDICT

If you want to be able to make informed decisions through data science, Udacity’s SQL Nanodegree will teach you everything you need to know about the language. From defining and manipulating data tables to building databases, you will gain the skills and knowledge you need to normalize data schemas, clean data, optimize queries, and more. You will learn how to build efficient data schemas so that your SQL queries run as quickly and smoothly as possible. This is really how to take your skills in structured query language to the next level.

Instructor Udacity
Duration 2 months (10 hours per week)
Certification SQL Nanodegree
Prerequisites Basic understanding of data types, familiarity with OS, spreadsheets, and word processing programs.
Skills Acquired SQL, Relational Databases, Non-Relational Databases

2. Professional Certificate in SQL, NoSQL, and Relational Database Fundamentals (IBM)

IBM

IBM founded SQL language over 50 years ago so it makes sense to get certified with them, right? The IBM Professional Certificate in SQL, NoSQL, and Relational Database Fundamentals is designed to allow students to understand fundamental concepts of SQL databases as well as NoSQL databases such as MongoDB. While this program provides an overview of the basics of both relational and NoSQL databases, it also provides hands-on experience with these technologies.

PROS

  • Receive a certificate from a global leader in technology, IBM.

  • Build your skills and have the opportunity to learn new skills, and apply them to your career in data science.

  • Integrates both SQL and NoSQL databases in a single certification program.

CONS

  • No Capstone project to showcase your skills and to apply all the instructions you learn into action.

  • A big focus on IBM-related technology and not always open to discussion on competitor products.

COURSES
  • Relational Database Basics: This course introduces you to MySQL, PostgreSQL, and IBM Db2 to get you started on the right foot with a solid understanding of relational databases and Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS).
  • Introduction to SQL: Whether you’re just starting out or need a refresher, this course will help you understand how to extract data from relational databases using SQL, the language of databases.
  • NoSQL Database Basics: Learn the fundamentals of NoSQL databases and gain hands-on skills for working with MongoDB, Cassandra, and IBM Cloudant NoSQL databases.
VERDICT

The essence of data is the ability to use it in order to gain results. This is why the IBM Professional Certificate in SQL, NoSQL, and Relational Database Fundamentals is so important. Each one is just a different way to store data. This program gives you a unique opportunity to demonstrate your proficiency in these types of databases.

Instructor IBM
Duration 4 months (2 to 3 hours per week)
Certification Professional Certificate in SQL, NoSQL, and Relational Database Fundamentals
Coursework 3 skill-building courses
Skills Acquired SQL, MongoDB, Cassandra and IBM Cloudant NoSQL databases.

3. SQL Fundamentals Skill Path (Dataquest)

Dataquest

SQL Fundamentals Skill Path from Dataquest is a comprehensive, hands-on training program that provides you with the knowledge and skills to design and implement database solutions with SQL. If you’re new to working with relational databases, then this program will teach you how to filter, sort, summarize, join and perform SQL subqueries.

PROS

  • Ideal for beginners who are just starting to make sense of SQL and relational database models.

  • Get a better idea of how to use SQL functions, operations, and expressions in an interactive online platform.

CONS

  • Although Dataquest is known for how you can create portfolio-ready projects, there is less to build on with their SQL track.

COURSES
  • Introduction to SQL and Databases: Start your journey with SQL with a course that will teach you the basics like building a function. Next, you’ll learn how to write clean and effective SQL code, and you’ll also learn about filtering from databases and how to make the best use of them for your own business.
  • Filtering and Sorting Data in SQL: Learn how to filter and sort data in SQL with various optimization techniques. You’ll learn how to use various functions, operators, and expressions with any database.
  • Summarizing Data in SQL: This course will teach you how to summarize data in SQL and how to use it to review and analyze large datasets.
VERDICT

With the widespread adoption of SQL, it’s never been a better time to learn this powerful language. Not only is SQL a vital skill for any modern data analyst, but it’s also a critical tool in terms of being able to turn raw data into actionable business insights. One of the best places to start when learning SQL is with a foundational course such as Dataquest’s SQL Fundamentals Skill Path courses. These courses will teach you the basics of SQL and provide you with an understanding of how to prevent common mistakes that can lead to an analysis that doesn’t provide the desired results.

Instructor Dataquest
Duration 5 skill-building courses
Certification SQL Fundamentals Skill Path
Prerequisites None
Skills Acquired SQL, Relational Databases, Querying, and SQL Subqueries

4. SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization (UC Davis)

UC Davis

This SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization from UC Davis will equip you with the skills needed to effectively utilize SQL commands. For example, you will perform data filtering, sorting, and summarization. You’ll also learn how to manipulate strings, dates, and numerical data from different sources for analysis. By using a Databricks workspace, you’ll be able to create an end-to-end pipeline that reads data, transforms it, and saves the result.

PROS

  • Practical coursework from the start where you learn SQL for data science to finishing with a Capstone Project.

  • Relevant coursework related to Structured Query Language.

CONS

  • Poorly structured with large jumps in difficulty from course to course.

COURSES
  • SQL for Data Science: Take the first step in learning the basics of SQL, which will help you get started with your data analysis. The course will teach you how to write and execute simple queries before moving on to more complex ones.
  • Data Wrangling, Analysis, and AB Testing with SQL: Learn everything from working with timestamps, joins, conditionals, and segmenting data. Finally, you will gain the skills and tools to build a predictive analysis and run an AB test.
  • Distributed Computing with Spark SQL: Tackle the big data challenge with Apache Spark and learn how you can use it to transform your data by performing distributed computing.
  • SQL for Data Science Capstone Project: The SQL for Data Science Capstone Project helps you showcase your progress and to boost your portfolio for a problem specific to data science.
VERDICT

Upon completion of the SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization, you’ll have a strong foundation in SQL to build a career in data science. It will teach you the basics of SQL so that you can assess and create datasets to solve business questions and problems. You’ll learn how to develop project proposals, select your data, perform statistical analysis and develop metrics. Then, you will present your findings and recommendations. Overall, you’ll be able to make sound decisions about your data-driven projects.

Instructor UC Davis
Duration 4 months (5 hours per week)
Certification SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization
Level Intermediate
Skills Acquired SQL, Databricks, Apache Spark

5. Data Science Fundamentals with Python and SQL Specialization (IBM)

IBM

The IBM Data Science Fundamentals with Python and SQL Specialization is a globally recognized data science credential that provides the knowledge and skills to effectively build your career in data science. This course teaches students how to work with large sets of data using Python and SQL. The focus is on building a deep understanding of foundational concepts like relational databases, statistical analysis, and Python programming.

PROS

  • Learn the ins and outs of a global leader in technology (IBM).

  • This specialization contains 4 courses that target a wide range of areas of data science.

  • Add credentials to your CV/resume to give it a boost when you apply for jobs.

  • Filled with projects to apply your knowledge throughout.

CONS

  • Although it focuses on other applications like Jupyter, Python, and RStudio, the program incorporates IBM products like Watson.

  • Videos are in need of a refresh to the latest version of IBM Watson.

COURSES
  • Tools for Data Science: From Jupyter Notebooks to Watson Studio, learn what tools you’ll need to go into data science, how to use them, and how to work with data.
  • Python for Data Science, AI & Development: Get the foundational skills you need to develop a career in data science. This comprehensive course covers the fundamentals of artificial intelligence without any prior experience.
  • Python Project for Data Science: Get hands-on experience in this Python project learning how to create a dashboard using Jupyter Notebook.
  • Statistics for Data Science with Python: Gain practical knowledge of topics in statistics from data gathering to hypothesis testing. This course will teach you how to use Python and Jupyter to conduct basic data analysis and build statistical models.
  • Databases and SQL for Data Science with Python: Learn the basics of relational database concepts and get started with learning SQL for data retrieval and analysis.
VERDICT

The Data Science Fundamentals with Python and SQL Specialization is a five-module track that teaches you the fundamental principles of data science, statistics, database systems, machine learning, and predictive modeling. Throughout the coursework, you will explore these topics and build your proficiency specific to SQL and Python.

Instructor IBM
Duration 6 months (4 hours per week)
Certification Data Science Fundamentals with Python and SQL Specialization
Level Beginner
Skills Acquired SQL, Python, Jupyter Notebooks, R Studio, GitHub, IBM Watson Studio, IPython, and Git

6. Modern Big Data Analysis with SQL Specialization (Cloudera)

Cloudera

Relying on the power of big data, businesses are starting to use data for everything, from marketing and sales to data mining and customer retention. There are many ways in which Big Data can be analyzed. The Modern Big Data Analysis with SQL Specialization by Cloudera will teach you how to make sense of your data so you can make sense of your data.

PROS

  • A different approach to learning SQL by focusing on big data.

  • Learn how to configure an environment (virtual machine) during the specialization course.

CONS

  • No Capstone project to wrap up all your instructions in a final course.

  • Light on learning hands-on skills for SQL.

COURSES
  • Foundations for Big Data Analysis with SQL: Gain an overview of big data, database systems, and SQL, as well as how to install and configure an environment (virtual machine) for exercises in the specialization courses.
  • Analyzing Big Data with SQL: Learn the ins and outs of big data SQL engines Apache Hive and Apache Impala. The course will teach you how to analyze large datasets with SQL databases, covering the main clauses of the SQL SELECT statement.
  • Managing Big Data in Clusters and Cloud Storage: This course will teach you everything you need to know to manage big data in clusters and cloud storage. You’ll learn the fundamentals of distributed SQL engines like Apache Hive and Apache Impala that can run queries against data stored in the cloud.
VERDICT

These programs provide students with the fundamentals necessary to understand how big data works and what tools can be used for their work. The Modern Big Data Analysis with SQL Specialization will also give you a taste of big data warehouses like Apache Hive and Apache Impala for providing analysis and querying.

Instructor Cloudera
Duration 4 months (3 hours per week)
Certification Modern Big Data Analysis with SQL Specialization
Level Beginner
Skills Acquired SQL, Apache Hive, Apache Impala

7. Introduction to SQL (DataCamp)

DataCamp

The DataCamp Introduction to SQL provides a comprehensive course on SQL and beyond, teaching you the basics of syntax in a way that is shared by many types of databases. This course will teach you the basics of querying tables in relational databases such as MySQL, SQL Server, and PostgreSQL.

PROS

  • The course is free and covers a range of topics for querying databases using SQL.

  • Learn to select, filter, aggregate, sort, and group.

  • It’s free with paid options to upgrade your skills and earn certification.

CONS

  • Covers basic topics for handling raw data with SQL but does not introduce more advanced skills.

COURSES
  • Selecting columns: Use basic SQL commands to make selections from relational databases.
  • Filtering rows: Explore different options to filter rows using a variety of operators and match patterns.
  • Aggregate Functions: Summarize data using aggregate functions to return a numerical value for better insights.
  • Sorting and grouping: Learn how to sort and group data within a relational database.
VERDICT

You’ll learn how to navigate these databases using the SQL language to drive powerful insights from databases. Although learning SQL can be difficult, the Introduction to SQL from DataCamp course makes it easy with step-by-step tutorials and exercises. With this knowledge under your belt, you’ll be able to get started with the expanding field of data science.

Instructor DataCamp
Duration 4 hours
Course Introduction to SQL
Prerequisites None
Skills Acquired MySQL, SQL Server, and PostgreSQL

8. Analyze data with SQL Skill Path (Codecademy)

Codecademy

If you want to learn SQL and become a professional database administrator, you can complete the SQL Skill Path from Codecademy. This is one of the best ways to learn SQL quickly, because of its hands-on online platform. It also includes various projects so you can apply your skills and reinforce what you’ve learned. This Codecademy skill track covers all sorts of topics like queries, aggregates, and joins, so make sure to check them out.

PROS

  • Provides a thorough intermediate course with advanced window, math, and date functions.

  • Get ready for a career by testing your skills with SQL interview preparation.

CONS

  • Can be difficult to navigate and skip through lessons that you have a thorough grasp of.

  • Although you’re immersed in coding in the Codecademy online platform, that mindset is hard to translate to your career.

COURSES
  • Getting Started with SQL: Get started in the SQL world with a course designed for beginners. Break down complex queries and learn to write your own—then use what you’ve learned to complete real-world projects.
  • Analyze Real Data with SQL: You’ll be able to practice SQL commands as you learn more advanced techniques. And you can set up a SQL database on your personal computer and write queries to find real-world solutions to business problems.
  • Advanced SQL: Get the practical experience of SQL with a course that teaches you advanced SQL skills such as window, math, and date functions.
VERDICT

Learning SQL certification from Codecademy is the perfect way to learn this popular language. The Codecademy SQL Skill Path provides easy-to-follow instructions that walk you through the process of learning SQL, which will help take away any confusion and provide you with a solid foundation for understanding how SQL works. If you’re not sure where to start, the courses are designed to be self-paced so that you can get started at a pace that’s right for you.

Instructor Codecademy
Duration 6 weeks
Certification Analyze data with SQL Skill Path – Certificate of Completion
Prerequisites None
Skills Acquired SQL, Data Science, Command Line, SQLite, Databases, Queries, Tables

9. Introduction to Structured Query Language (University of Michigan)

University of Michigan

This is a single course that is an introduction to database fundamentals and SQL. You will learn how to write queries, run data analysis, use table functions, and much more. By the end of the Introduction to Structured Query Language course, you will have learned enough database fundamentals to feel comfortable writing your own queries in SQL.

PROS

  • Although this is a very basic course, it’s ideal for those learners just starting out and wanting a taste of SQL.

  • Receive introductory knowledge to build a solid foundation in relational databases.

CONS

  • Not a specialization or certification so it’s harder to show on a resume/CV for proficiency.

  • Course is part of a web development specification and is more catered towards that field of study.

COURSES
  • Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL): This course begins by providing an introduction to both SQL and PHP. Next, learn how to design relational databases and the types of JOIN operations and test your knowledge with quizzes.
VERDICT

We only recommend the Introduction to Structured Query Language course if you want to go into web development. This course is the perfect introduction to SQL for those who want to learn about databases and how to query them. The goal of this course is to teach you the essential skills in an easy-to-follow way. Although you won’t learn intermediate SQL skills, it still provides a good basis for your career.

Instructor University of Michigan
Duration 16 hours
Course Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL)
Level Intermediate
Skills Acquired SQL, MySql Database, PHP, Phpmyadmin

10. Introduction to SQL (Davidson College)

Davidson College

An Introduction to SQL from Davidson College course is an ideal way for beginners who want to learn about this important tool which will enable them to maximize the potential of their skillsets. The course will teach you how to write queries and set up database projects where you’ll build an application from scratch. Knowledge gained from the course will be transferable into your future career as well as provide you with the basics you need.

PROS

  • Learn how to perform simple database operations such as how to aggregate, select, and analyze rows.

  • Instructions from a college-level education.

CONS

  • Very basic course and you cannot advance your skills to become proficient in SQL.

  • You cannot obtain certification from a single course.

COURSES
  • Introduction to SQL: Understand how databases work, including the principles of relational databases and how to create tables. It also provides training on how to write queries and run several types of analyses.
VERDICT

As this course is just for beginners, we only recommend this course if you are just starting out. With this Introduction to SQL course from Davidson College, students will learn just the basics of relational database design. For instance, they will establish basic data manipulation and analysis related to SQL queries and basic commands.

Instructor Davidson College
Duration 4 weeks (3 to 5 hours per week)
Course Introduction to SQL
Prerequisites None
Skills Acquired SQL

Learn SQL Online

So whether you’re a beginner or an experienced user, this list of SQL online courses will help you get started on your journey to learning structured query language.

In data science, learning Structured Query Language (SQL) is a great skill to have. It can help you get more out of your database and make it easier for you to retrieve data with ease.

SQL can also be used with other programming languages, which means that knowing these skills could lead to better job opportunities and higher pay rates than those without them.

If you want to learn how to use SQL, there are plenty of great online courses available. All can help give you the foundation needed to excel in data science. These were the best SQL online courses that we recommend.

Related SQL Certification Courses

If you’re interested in getting the right credentials and gaining expertise in Structured Query Language, try enrolling in one today. Otherwise, you can try out one of the data science and programming courses below.

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