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 SQL course is one of the fastest ways to get the advanced knowledge you need.
In this article, you will 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 online SQL classes, 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 today 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.
Questions to Ask Yourself Before Attending an Online SQL Course
Which Aspects of SQL Would You Like to Learn
In order to find the best SQL courses available online, it’s important to decide which aspects of SQL interest you. For beginners, it is important to focus on the basic fundamentals of SQL. Experienced programmers may be interested in understanding joins, subqueries, and PHP.
In either case, you should identify your goals, determine your level of knowledge, and research the different aspects of SQL before enrolling in online SQL courses. Identifying your needs and expectations will help you choose the best online SQL course.
Should You Attend a Coding Bootcamp to Learn SQL?
Yes, you should attend an SQL bootcamp online. 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.
The Best Online SQL Courses: An Overview
The table below contains the top 20 online SQL classes available from universities and online course providers. 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 |
| Coursera | Introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL) | $49 | 16 hours | Yes |
| Codecademy | Introduction to SQL | $15.99 | 8 hours | Yes |
| Coursera | Postgre SQL for Everbody | $39 monthly | 4 months | Yes |
| eCornell | Data Science with SQL and Tableau | $3,600 | 13 weeks | Yes |
| General Assembly | SQL Bootcamp | $250 | 6 hours | Yes |
| Kenzie Academy | Software Engineering Program with Amazon Technical Academy | $16,000 | 39 weeks | Yes |
| Nucamp | Back End, SQL, and DevOps with Python | $1,821 | 16 weeks | Yes |
| Pluralsight | Introduction to SQL | $29 monthly | 3h 1m | Yes |
| Springboard | Full Stack Web Development: HTML/CSS, JavaScript, Python, Django, and SQL | $9,900 | 74 hours | Yes |
| Temple University | SQL Certificate | $595 | 48 hours | Yes |
| Thinkful | Data Science Bootcamp | $9,500 | 6 months | Yes |
| Udemy | The Ultimate MySQL Bootcamp: Go from SQL Beginner to Expert | $149.99 | 20h 33m | 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 |
| Codecademy | Learn SQL | Free | 8 hours | Yes, for an additional fee |
| Datacamp | Introduction to SQL | Free | 4 hours | Yes |
| edX | Introduction to SQL | Free | 5 weeks | Yes, for an additional fee |
| Khan Academy | Intro to SQL: Querying and managing data | Free | Self-paced | No |
| W3school | SQL Tutorial | Free | Self-paced | No |
The Best Online Classes, Courses, or Training
There are hundreds of online SQL courses available on the Internet. This can make it hard to sift through and decipher which SQL online courses are the best. We’ve comprised a list of SQL classes that are highly rated by students, universities, and course providers. Keep reading below to learn which courses are truly the best SQL courses online.
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 | 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 more than 1.2 million people have completed 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.
PostgreSQL for Everybody | Coursera
- Learning Format: Certificate course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Databases, SQL, Natural language processing, JSON
During this course, students will learn how to use the PostgreSQL database as well as how to design and implement a database architecture. The difference between SQL and NoSQL approaches to database design is also covered. Students looking to learn how to conduct data mining or application development are most likely to find this course beneficial.c
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: Students will gain a basic understanding of how to build and differentiate relationships within PostgreSQL.
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.
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.
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.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
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Key Takeaway: Graduates are eligible to apply for a software engineering role at Amazon even if they don’t have a four-year degree.
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.
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.
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 their software engineering track.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Best Free Online SQL Courses
If you are just discovering SQL and wish to enroll in an online SQL course to determine whether or not it is the right coding language for you, a free course is a great alternative. Many free online SQL courses are just as comprehensive as their paid counterparts. Below is a list of five free SQL online classes that prior students highly rate.
Learn SQL | Codecademy
- Learning Format: Certificate course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Manipulation, queries, aggregate functions, multiple tables
The SQL language will be used to teach students how to use relational databases. During the course, students will learn how to manipulate data, link data to multiple tables, and build queries.
Key Takeaway: This online SQL course teaches students the fundamental concepts of SQL in less than one day.
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 offers as much value as premium courses.
Introduction to SQL |edX
- Learning Format: Standalone Course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Create basic SQL operations, use SELECT, INSERT, and UPDATE and DELETE statements
This course serves as an introduction to relational databases for students who have never worked with SQL. Students will learn the fundamentals of SQL through different operations, statements, and filters. Students will understand basic queries and complex queries at the end of this program.
Key Takeaway: This self-paced online SQL course provides students with practical learning through hands-on exercises.
Intro to SQL: Querying and managing data | Khan Academy
- Learning Format: Online course
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: Databases, queries, data aggregation, database design, statements
This online SQL course provides students with comprehensive knowledge to complete SQL queries and manipulate data. Additionally, it introduces students to the concept of relational database management and app organization.
Key Takeaway: This online SQL course provides SQL basics to absolute beginners through hands-on tutorials.
SQL Tutorial | W3school
- Learning Format: Online tutorial
- Level: Beginner
- Subjects Covered: SQL, MySQL, SQL Server, MS Access, Oracle, Sybase, Informix, Postgres
This comprehensive online SQL course teaches users the basic concepts of SQL through hands-on tutorials. After the basics of SQL are introduced, the course ramps up and provides students with a deep dive into complex queries, relational databases, and operators.
Key Takeaway: This free online SQL course is extremely comprehensive and completely self-paced, allowing for a perfect balance.
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.
The best 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.
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 theoretical knowledge of SQL and are looking for hands-on practice.
How to Choose the Right Online SQL Course, Class, or Training Program
Not every online SQL course is created equally. Since there are so many online SQL classes, research key aspects of each course before finalizing your decision. If you are not sure where to start, we’ve compiled a short list of some of the most important aspects to research before enrolling in an online SQL course below.
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 SQL syllabus is relevant for beginners. This will prevent you from enrolling in a more advanced program which can be detrimental to your learning experience.
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 will 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.
Cost
Every online SQL course comes with a different price point. When researching SQL classes, ensure that you look into the SQL training cost associated with the program. The cost will range drastically based on the course provider, university, and type of program on offer. Some programs are absolutely free. Continue your search until you find a course that fits your budget.
Instructor
Every online SQL course also comes with a different instructor or professor. Every professor has a different teaching style, and every student has a different learning style. Keeping this in mind, research the instructor and read student reviews. This will give you insight as to whether or not the instructor curates a comprehensive class that matches your needs and learning style.
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.
Online SQL Courses FAQ
According to ZipRecruiter, a SQL developer makes an average of $94,155 annually. It is much higher than the average American worker’s salary. The skillsets of SQL developers are highly sought after by large tech companies, and they are well compensated and rewarded.
How long will it take to learn basic SQL skills?
It can take between two weeks and six months to learn basic SQL skills. Each course will teach students the basic fundamentals of SQL at a different pace. As each student learns at a different pace, how long it takes you to comprehend SQL basics will vary.
Are free SQL courses worth It?
Free SQL courses are worth it. These courses provide comprehensive lessons to introduce students to the fundamentals of SQL and how to utilize it. Free courses are a great way to test a new skill set, determine if SQL is appropriate for your interests, and refresh your knowledge of the query language.
Are online SQL courses 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.
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