Where to Find the Best Online SQL Courses, Classes, and Training

If you’re thinking of starting a career in data science, data analytics, or any other data-related fields, you need to learn SQL. Structured Query Language, also known as SQL, is one of the most important technologies to become a technical expert in your chosen field, and taking an online course is one of the fastest ways to get the advanced knowledge you need. 

In this article, you are going to find a list of the best online SQL courses. First, you will get a vivid picture of what SQL is and how you can use it in the world of data. You will also find details on what to look out for when choosing an online SQL course as well as the benefits of pursuing certification in this field.

What Is SQL?

Structured Query Language is a programming language primarily used to organize and extract data in relational databases. Using SQL, a data expert can retrieve any information from a database management system for analysis, perform nested queries, and make data-driven decisions. Over the years, SQL has become the standard language for all database-related issues and programming resources. 

The most popular version of SQL used in today’s world is MySQL, an open-source tool used to manage the server-side data of web applications. SQL servers are used for backend data storage by major tech companies across the globe. Apart from retrieving data, professionals can use SQL to execute queries, create new databases, and update database records.

Why Online SQL Courses Are Important for Professional Development

Online SQL courses are essential for professional development because they allow you to learn SQL basics even if you have a full-time job. With an online course, you only need an average of 10 hours per week for a few months to get a firm handle on this language. Online SQL courses allow students to understand the fundamental principles necessary to become an industry expert.

Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn SQL?

Yes, you should attend a coding bootcamp to learn SQL. Coding bootcamps are training centers that provide fast-paced programs that focus on job-specific skills. The best bootcamps to learn SQL are those on data analytics and data science. 

Apart from accelerated training at coding bootcamps, it is important to note that these institutes are more affordable than traditional four-year university degrees. Moreover, it is also possible to find bootcamps that offer free education to qualified students. 

Overview: The Best Online SQL Courses, Classes, or Training

The table below contains the top 15 online courses for SQL from bootcamp providers, learning platforms, and universities. Our selection is based on the reputation of the course provider, the quality of the curriculum, and the reviews of former students.

Provider	Course	Price	Length	Certificate
Thinkful	Data Science	$9,500	26 weeks	Yes
Nucamp	Back End, SQL, and DevOps with Python	$1,821	16 weeks	Yes
Kenzie Academy	Software Engineering Program with Amazon Technical Academy	$16,000	39 weeks	Yes
General Assembly	SQL Bootcamp	$250	6 hours	Yes
Springboard	Full Stack Web Development: HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Python, Django, and SQL	$9,900	74 hours	Yes
Udemy	The Ultimate MySQL Bootcamp: Go from SQL Beginner to Expert	$149.99	20h 33m	Yes
Pluralsight	Introduction to SQL	$29 monthly	3h 1m	Yes
Codecademy	Learn SQL	$15.99	8 hours	Yes
Coursera	Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL)	$49	16 hours	Yes
Datacamp	Introduction to SQL	Free	4 hours	Yes
eCornell	Data Science with SQL and Tableau	$3600	13 weeks	Yes
University of Washington	Certificate in SQL Server Development	$3,597	34 weeks	Yes
University of Washington	Foundations of Databases & SQL Programming	$1,029	9 weeks	Yes
University of San Francisco	SQL for Data Analysis	$995	6 weeks	Yes
Temple University	SQL Certificate	$595	48 hours	Yes

In Detail: The Best Online Classes, Courses, or Training

Data Science Bootcamp | Thinkful 

• Learning Format: Part-time bootcamp 
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, Python, Spark, algorithms, machine learning, Hadoop, database architecture

Thinkful doesn’t currently offer a program dedicated to learning SQL alone, but it does offer SQL as part of the data science program. You will learn analytics skills in SQL and data visualization, statistics, machine learning, calculus, and computer programming. 

Thinkful currently has a job placement rate of 62 percent for its data science program, which is lower compared to other programs. However, graduates work in places like Amazon, Google, IBM, Walmart Labs, Twitter, and Webflow. Also, Thinkful offers job guarantees, so students who do not get jobs are eligible to apply for tuition forgiveness or refund. 

Key Takeaway: The program is self-paced and part-time so that you can study without much disruption to your daily life. 

Back End, SQL, and DevOps Developer with Python | Nucamp 

• Learning Format: Certificate course 
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, Python, software engineering with DevOps, data structures, algorithms. 

Nucamp was founded in 2017 and has become one of the most popular bootcamps, with branches all around the world. SQL is an integral part of the backend development program at this school. The program tests students’ knowledge with quizzes on key concepts after each module.

Nucamp currently has a job placement rate of 79 percent, and about 70 percent of all students who enroll in this school graduate on time. The school also offers one-on-one mentorship and career coaching to ensure that people find high-paying jobs post-graduation. 

Key Takeaway: It offers a flexible financing method that allows you to pay as little as $10 monthly. 

Software Engineering Program with Amazon Technical Academy | Kenzie Academy 

• Learning Format: Certificate course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Java development, object-oriented programming, database structure, GitHub, cloud architecture

In collaboration with Amazon, Kenzie Academy offers an extensive software engineering program that covers SQL queries. The course prepares students for enterprise jobs specifically. During the program, students work on applications with real-world use cases. 

In this program, students obtain in-demand skills to make informed decisions about their careers. You need to be at least 18 years with a high school diploma or GED to qualify for admission. Top Amazon developers contributed to creating the curriculum. 

Key Takeaway: Graduates are eligible to apply for a software engineering role at Amazon even if they don’t have a four-year degree. 

SQL Bootcamp | General Assembly 

• Learning Format: Workshop
• Level: Beginner to advanced 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, relational databases

At General Assembly, you can either learn SQL as part of a data science program or attend an online SQL workshop. These online workshops are offered at scheduled intervals, so find out the next date and enroll to join. You don’t need to pass the traditional application process for online workshops as you would for regular bootcamp programs.

General Assembly has an excellent reputation in the tech industry as one of the most reliable bootcamps with a global alumni strength of 70,000. In addition, there are 20,000 expert instructors scattered around 30 campuses and a global online platform. 

Key Takeaway: This bootcamp has more than 19,000 hiring partners across the globe. 

Full Stack Web Development: HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Python, Django, and SQL | Springboard 

• Learning Format: Certificate course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, front end web development with HTML and CSS, backend web development, databases, version control, Django, Flask

To learn SQL at Springboard, you will have to take the extensive full stack development class, which covers a wide variety of topics. Students will learn how to manipulate databases with SQL and Python. 

You can also learn advanced SQL as part of the data science bootcamp. Apart from the paid courses, Springboard also has free downloadable resources for those who want to gain basic knowledge of advanced SQL queries. This school also provides a job guarantee so students who don’t get placed after the first six months may request a tuition refund. 

Key Takeaway: Only a handful of bootcamps can boast of a 100 percent job placement rate for its software engineering track. 

The Ultimate MySQL Bootcamp: Go from SQL Beginner to Expert | Udemy 

• Learning Format: Certificate course 
• Level: Beginner to advanced 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, MySQL, Node, database development, enterprise data management 

With over 59,923 reviews, this is one of the most popular SQL courses for beginners on Udemy. This course teaches you how to develop databases, manipulate existing databases, and build tables for large datasets. If you enroll in this course, you will get a lifetime of unlimited access to downloadable resources, 142 articles, and 20 hours of on-demand videos. 

Key Takeaway: All you need to start is a laptop. No experience is required. 

Introduction to SQL | Pluralsight 

• Learning Format: Certificate course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, data query, data filtering, JOINs data matching, database tables 

Pluralsight is another great provider of SQL learning materials. This program will teach you how to query data with SQL and how to develop and modify SQL tables. By the end of the program, students will be able to create a relational database from scratch as part of their real-world projects. 

Apart from what you get directly from online educators, there is also a library of information that you can use to teach yourself or navigate the program. However, it is essential to note that the course was last updated in 2017.

Key Takeaway: Students can start a 10-day free trial and drop out if they are unsatisfied with the course. 

Learn SQL | Codecademy 

• Learning Format: Certificate course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: SQL manipulation, multiple tables, aggregate functions, complex queries 

Codecademy has been a prime destination for tech students since 2011. This course is for beginners who want to learn how to manipulate both straightforward and complex databases using SQL. 

This is a short and effective online program that has been completed by more than 1.2 million people to date. This SQL course, like many other Codecademy courses, is free but requires a fee to get a certificate of completion. 

Key Takeaway: The free option allows you to learn what you need to know about SQL even if you have no money. 

Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL) | Coursera 

• Learning Format: Certificate course 
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Relational database, database design, installing PHP, string functions 

At the beginning of this course, you will learn how to install PHP programs and create MySQL databases for real-world use. Each section of this course comes with an interactive quiz to help you get the picture and enjoy the program. Some even come with up to two or three interactive quizzes. There are also on-demand videos available. 

This course is offered in collaboration with the University of Michigan and can be used as a preparatory course for a bachelor’s degree. However, it does not have credits that can be applied to a degree program. 

Key Takeaway: Enrollment is free but monthly payments are required to complete the program and get certified. 

Introduction to SQL | Datacamp 

• Learning Format: Certificate course
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: SQL Server, Oracle, MySQL, PostgreSQL, advanced queries, window functions 

Datacamp provides this introductory course to SQL for anyone who doesn’t know where to start and isn’t ready to invest money yet. It contains four free video lectures that students can complete at their pace. These courses cover fundamental concepts like selecting columns, filtering rows, aggregate functions, sorting, and grouping. 

Each part of the learning experience is divided into sub-topics, and you can play these online training videos multiple times if you wish. The program consists of 41 exercises, making it an excellent first step to becoming a database developer. 

Key Takeaway: This course is 100 percent free, and it offers as much value as premium courses. 

Data Science with SQL and Tableau | eCornell 

• Learning Format: Certificate program 
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Data visualization, business intelligence, relational database, Tableau 

This program is a five-part, instructor-led course offered online by eCornell, Cornell University’s online learning platform. The course teaches students how to extract relevant insight from raw and unstructured data using SQL and other resources. It is meant for anyone who is thinking of diving into the world of data. 

All you need to do is devote about three to five hours per week to complete the program in no more than three months. During this time, you should record a total of 50 professional development hours, which serves as a helpful boost to your resume.

Key Takeaway: This certificate is awarded directly by Cornell University Center for Advanced Computing. 

Certificate In SQL Server Development | University of Washington

• Learning Format: Certificate program
• Level: Intermediate 
• Subjects Covered: Relational database modeling, SQL programming, Microsoft SQL Server, ANSI SQL, and Microsoft’s Transact-SQL 

This program was designed specifically for professionals who want to improve their resumes by learning SQL server development. It is divided into three sections: SQL Server Essentials for Developers, Database Programming Using T-SQL, and Non-relational SQL Server Features & Tools. You will receive a certificate from the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering.

Key Takeaway: You do not need to be enrolled in the university to take this certificate program. 

Foundations of Databases & SQL Programming | University of Washington

• Learning Format: Certificate course 
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Database modeling and normalization, relational database management systems, database development, SQL 

This program at the University of Washington provides students with a certificate and is for those with no prior knowledge of major databases. The course serves as a stepping stone to the certification in SQL server development listed above. It contains online videos covering foundational SQL skills. 

While the course schedule is flexible, students may opt for group-paced scheduling which allows them to finish at the same time as their peers. You will have less flexibility if you choose the option, but you may be more motivated to complete it. 

Key Takeaway: You do not need any professional experience to take this certificate program. 

SQL for Data Analysis | University of San Francisco

• Learning Format: Certificate program 
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: SQL, data analytics, debugging, database systems 

This complete beginner’s course focuses on the practical applications of SQL rather than just theory. You will learn via online quizzes, interactive class discussions, exercises, and a host of projects. You do not need to pass a rigorous admission process to qualify for the program.

Key Takeaway: The course is taught by Tim Lee, a data analyst at Workday. 

SQL Certificate | Temple University 

• Learning Format: Certificate program
• Level: Beginner 
• Subjects Covered: Writing SQL, relational databases, data analytics with SQL, business intelligence 

This is a non-credit professional certificate program that offers a quick but effective introduction to SQL. It revolves around writing good SQL code for relational databases on an enterprise scale. Studying a few hours each week, students will understand essential interview questions and marketing efforts used by SQL experts in the field. The entire program can be completed in a single semester. You will earn a shareable certificate.

Key Takeaway: You cannot take this program with a Mac operating system. It has to be Windows 8 and above. 

Online SQL Classes, Training, or Courses: Which Is the Right Option?

Courses, classes, and training are similar terms that are frequently used in the education industry. Even though they are often used interchangeably, there are slight differences between them.

An SQL course is a program composed of several classes, each addressing different aspects of a particular subject matter. A course can last anywhere from a few days to several months. Classes, by contrast, are shorter and usually one-off lessons that focus on a specific subject or skill. 

Finally, training is a hands-on method of teaching based on a learning-by-doing approach. For example, an instructor may give instructions about an assignment and ask a student to put these theories into practice through coding challenges or real-world projects.

Classes are ideal for professionals who already understand SQL but are trying to upgrade their knowledge about a specific aspect of SQL. Courses are great if you want a more in-depth knowledge of SQL since they are more comprehensive. Training is for those who already have the theoretical knowledge of SQL and are looking for hands-on practice. 

How to Choose the Right Online SQL Course, Class, or Training Program

Course Syllabus 

What will you learn during the online SQL course? This is the first thing you should find out when you’re looking for the ideal program. Make sure the content of the syllabus is in line with your learning needs to get the most value for your time and money. 

When it comes to learning SQL, some of the topics you want to see in the curriculum are SQL coding, debugging, relational database, single table queries, database development with SQL, MySQL, data modeling, data visualization, Tableau, PostgreSQL, and Oracle database. 

Difficulty Level 

If you have never used SQL or any other database programming language, you must go for a beginner course. If you have already mastered the fundamental concepts, you should enroll in an intermediate program, while those with a firm understanding of this technology should take an advanced class. 

Be honest with your level of technical expertise when selecting a program. If you’re just starting in the field but choose a program designed for experts, you won’t learn the skills you need and you would probably end up dropping out before completing the course.

Timeline and Flexibility 

Courses should not be based on rigid timelines. When picking an SQL course, go for one that allows you to focus on your job or other important activities in your life. You should not have to quit your job in order to earn that shareable certificate to upgrade your resume. 

To this end, you should enroll in a self-paced SQL course. This format will give you the freedom to decide when and how long to study. You can even stop learning in the middle of a class and resume in a few days’ time.

SQL Course Certificates vs Certifications

SQL certificates are given to students after they complete their course in SQL. They are given out by the course provider as proof that the student took the course and completed all the required classes. 

On the other hand, SQL certifications demonstrate that the student has mastered a specific aspect of this language. They are only awarded after passing an exam. Certifications are issued by the same companies that created the technologies covered in the exam or by neutral, standard-setting institutions. 

Importance of SQL Certifications

An SQL certification gives you a significant resume boost, increases your earning potential, and opens the door to new job opportunities. Currently, the best SQL certifications are offered by Microsoft, Azure, Oracle, and IBM. These companies provide different types of certification that can be more generic or specific in nature. Choose one appropriate to your level of expertise and in line with your career goals. 

Why You Should Take Online SQL Courses or Classes

Online SQL classes allow you to expand your knowledge base and learn everything you need to know about a specific aspect of SQL from the comfort of your home. In a matter of weeks or months, you can become a database administrator, data scientist, or business analyst.

SQL is currently the go-to programming language for data experts across the globe. Getting SQL skills gives you an edge in the job market and puts you ahead of your peers. If you are considering a data-related career, then taking an SQL course, class, or training is the way to go.