Foundations of Relational Databases and SQL

via Coursera

Go to class Write review

Details

Go to class

Provider

Coursera
Pricing

Paid Course
Languages

English
Certificate

Certificate Available
Effort

10 weeks, 1 hour a week
Sessions

Self-Paced
Level

Beginner
Subtitles

English

Found in

Overview

Google, IBM & Meta Certificates – 40% Off

One plan covers every Professional Certificate on Coursera.

Unlock All Certificates

This course introduces the core principles of relational databases and SQL, highlighting their role in managing and organizing critical business and technical data. Learners will understand how database design and querying skills drive efficiency and accuracy in data-driven environments. Students will explore relational modeling, system analysis, and SQL syntax to build functional, optimized databases. The course emphasizes practical application, guiding learners from conceptual design to real-world SQL implementation. What sets this course apart is its integration of theory with hands-on exercises, covering both database architecture and detailed SQL operations. Learners gain insight into balancing performance, correctness, and usability in database systems. Ideal for beginners, IT professionals, and aspiring database developers, this course requires basic familiarity with computers and logical reasoning. No prior SQL experience is necessary. This course is part one of a three-course Specialization designed to provide a comprehensive learning pathway in this subject area. While it delivers standalone value and practical skills, learners seeking a more integrated and in-depth progression may benefit from completing the full Specialization. From SQL All-in-One For Dummies Copyright © 2024 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Hoboken, New Jersey Used by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Syllabus

Understanding Relational Databases

This module introduces the evolution of data storage, comparing hierarchical, network, object-oriented, and relational database models. Learners will explore how SQL facilitates data management and retrieval, and understand the advantages of separating metadata from application logic. By the end, you'll grasp the foundational concepts that underpin modern database systems.

Modeling a System

This module guides learners through the process of capturing user requirements and translating them into formal Entity-Relationship (ER) models for effective database design. Learners will explore advanced ER concepts, practice drawing ER diagrams, and apply normalization techniques to simplify complex data relationships.

Getting to Know SQL

This module introduces the origins and evolution of SQL as the standard language for relational database management systems. Learners will compare major SQL implementations, including Microsoft Access and SQL Server, and understand the impact of standardization on database development. Practical considerations for using different SQL-based systems are also discussed.

SQL and the Relational Model

This module explores the foundational relationship between SQL and the relational database model, highlighting key theoretical concepts such as functional dependencies, views, and catalogs. Learners will gain an understanding of how these elements shape database structure and management in real-world applications.

Knowing the Major Components of SQL

This module introduces the foundational components of SQL, including how to define database structures, manipulate data, and manage security. Learners will gain practical skills in creating and modifying tables, handling data operations, and implementing access controls to protect information.

Drilling Down to the SQL Nitty-Gritty

This module delves into the foundational elements of SQL, including syntax, data types, and constraints essential for robust database design. Learners will explore how to correctly use reserved words, manage various data types such as numerics, strings, datetimes, and XML, and enforce data integrity through constraints and foreign keys. By the end, you'll be equipped to structure and safeguard data effectively in SQL-based systems.

System Development Overview

This module introduces the foundational concepts of database systems, focusing on the key components and the structured phases of the System Development Life Cycle (SDLC). Learners will gain insight into requirements gathering, evaluation, design, and implementation processes essential for building reliable and effective database applications.

Building a Database Model

This module guides learners through the process of engaging stakeholders, building consensus, and designing robust relational database models. You will explore the importance of keys, standards, and normalization techniques to prevent data anomalies and ensure data integrity. By the end, you'll understand how to create database systems that effectively meet diverse organizational needs.

Balancing Performance and Correctness

This module examines the trade-offs between optimizing database performance and ensuring data correctness. Learners will explore normalization, integrity constraints, relationship modeling, and indexing strategies to achieve efficient and reliable database systems. Practical techniques for tuning queries and interpreting execution plans are also covered.

Creating a Database with SQL

This module introduces the foundational concepts of SQL Data Definition Language (DDL), focusing on how to create and manage database structures. Learners will explore the use of keys, constraints, and indexes to organize tables efficiently and ensure data integrity. Practical skills in writing SQL statements for table creation are emphasized.