Learn SQL: Why You Should Attend a SQL Bootcamp

The tech world has been getting a lot of attention since tech careers have become more popular. If you want to get a job in tech, there are a few skills you need to know. These include a variety of popular coding languages, including Python, Java, and HTML. Another important coding tool is SQL.

If you want to learn SQL, joining a SQL bootcamp is the best way to get intensive, professional SQL training. Though you can not learn SQL for free through coding bootcamps, these short programs are the best way to start your tech career and learn the skills you need to thrive.

What Is an SQL Coding Bootcamp?

An SQL coding bootcamp is a platform that teaches different tech skills such as programming languages and coding techniques. Bootcamps are short-term compared to university programs, and they can sometimes even replace four-year degrees. Although coding bootcamps are intensive, they are less expensive and still provide quality education.

Learning how to use SQL at a bootcamp can give you an advantage in the field. An SQL bootcamp training program has a lot to offer beyond just learning programming skills through hands-on projects. The online SQL classes that bootcamps offer also let you build a professional network, learn career skills to land a good job and communicate with mentors and instructors. Plus, they offer a wide range of financing options.

Benefits of Learning SQL at a Bootcamp

1. SQL bootcamps offer structured learning. Students learn all about technical skills using a tested syllabus and course structure. You can choose an immersive bootcamp program and access organized classes, which is much easier than learning SQL on your own.
2. SQL bootcamps are more affordable than college. Bootcamps are open to both people who can and cannot afford college degrees. Typically bootcamps cost a lot less than public colleges and they also offer flexible financing options and payment plans.
3. You can choose a flexible schedule. Many bootcamps are offered online, and students can choose between self-paced, part-time, or full-time learning. This makes it easy to learn according to your needs. Students can even receive hands-on training through a part-time program while they are working. The flexible scheduling options of bootcamps are a major advantage.
4. They can help you build your portfolio. Bootcamps teach in-demand skills through a project-based learning path. After graduation, students will have a portfolio to show potential employers. Building a portfolio through hands-on experience is the best way to showcase essential skills.
5. Most bootcamps include career services. Bootcamps teach SQL and important database concepts, but they also include other necessary skills for job hunting. You can learn how to write a resume, construct a cover letter, and ace your job interview. Some of the best SQL bootcamps also give students the chance to connect with industry experts.

How Much Does a SQL Bootcamp Cost?

An SQL bootcamp can cost anywhere from $1,500 to over $20,000. In 2020, coding bootcamps, in general, had an average price of $11,272, according to Career Karma’s Bootcamp Market Report. Though the SQL bootcamp price may seem high for some students, there are a variety of financing options available. Plus, students often get lifetime access to the program.

In addition, a SQL bootcamp’s cost provides students with more than just hands-on training. Students in an intensive program will gain a deeper understanding of SQL and develop analytical skills. Further, to help students reach their career aspirations, bootcamps offer a wide range of career coaching services such as mock interviews and resume reviews. Additional resources for students may also include access to hiring partners and salary negotiation strategies.

What Is the SQL Bootcamp Application Process?

Students can complete the SQL bootcamp application process in several simple steps. Though every program may have its own exact application process, nearly all SQL bootcamps will let students complete their application online. Here are the most common steps to apply for an SQL bootcamp:

1. Once students have selected the exact SQL courses they would like to enroll in, they can submit an online application form. This is usually a simple, fast form that asks for your personal and contact details.
2. The next step in the application process is to complete the interview process. Prospective students may need to go through both a behavioral and technical interview during this stage. If the SQL course is meant for complete beginners, then there will likely be no technical interview.
3. If a program is geared towards advanced students or requires students to be familiar with the major topics regarding SQL, then there will likely also be an assessment test. This test may evaluate an applicant's database skills and basic knowledge as well as verify that they have the necessary programming experience.

How Long Are SQL Bootcamps?

On average, SQL bootcamps can last anywhere from three to nine months. While you can find bootcamps that are both shorter and longer than that timeframe, that is the common duration across coding bootcamps. Students can opt for courses in-person or through an online learning platform. With this, students can also choose between flexible scheduling options such as a full-time or part-time program.

In a full-time SQL bootcamp, students can expect to spend upwards of 40 hours per week on their online SQL courses. A part-time program is an excellent option for students with prior time commitments, as these programs may only require around 20 hours per week of learning.

How Do SQL Bootcamps Compare to SQL MOOCs?

When comparing SQL bootcamps to SQL MOOCs, one key difference is that bootcamps give students everything they need to become SQL and database professionals. Though both types of online SQL courses cover major topics, SQL bootcamps are much more in-depth and focus on real-world projects.

However, students will need much more than just basic computer skills to navigate a bootcamp program. Unlike MOOCs, SQL bootcamps are intensive that will move students from beginner level terminology to advanced SQL concepts through hands-on training.

What Is SQL?

SQL is an abbreviation for Structured Query Language, which is a standardized programming language used to communicate with relational databases. It is also used to perform a variety of operations on the data contained within relational databases. SQL was developed in the 1970s, but it did not reach the market until the 1980s.

It is frequently used by data administrators and developers. SQL is primarily used for writing data integration scripts and running analytical queries. SQL is a fourth-generation language, which means it is more advanced than third-generation languages like Java and C++. SQL allows you to store, retrieve, and manipulate data in relational databases.

Can Anyone Learn SQL?

Yes, anyone can learn SQL. That being said, it helps to have experience with a relational database management system as well as prior programming experience. To become an SQL developer, you will need to master advanced concepts and be able to make complex queries. The best way to do this is to attend a SQL bootcamp.

Benefits of Learning SQL

1. Learning SQL makes it easy to learn other languages. Some SQL skills can be translated into a variety of areas, which can help you learn different types of coding languages. SQL can be adapted and optimized by developers to run any query.
2. Learning SQL increases your marketability as a developer. SQL is considered a difficult language to learn, so developers who have mastered it are highly valued. This can increase your job prospects.
3. SQL is a universal language. When you’re working with SQL, you’re using the language of computers. It is one of the techniques that seeps into numerous other disciplines. This means it is applicable in many different situations.
4. SQL is an open source language. SQL has a large community of developers. Many topics that relate to SQL are posted on Stack Overflow consistently. You can communicate with other developers and learn from your peers.
5. Learning SQL will be useful in years to come. SQL has been in existence for a long time and has remained popular ever since. It has changed over the years, but many parts of the language remain the same. It is reliable and will not become obsolete anytime soon. Therefore, learning SQL is a good investment for your future.

What Jobs Can You Get with SQL?

With SQL skills, you can qualify for jobs in data science or computer programming. With the right knowledge, many job opportunities are awaiting those in the tech industry. Many of those opportunities come with high-paying salaries. Below are five of the top SQL jobs you can look for after graduating from an SQL bootcamp.

Big Data Engineer

Salary: $130,674

A big data engineer works to create and maintain databases. In addition to database design, a big data engineer is also in charge of gathering large amounts of data and making sure it is both secure and accessible. They will frequently work with both data scientists and data analysts.

Database Administrator

Salary: $73,331

A database administrator supervises one or more databases. They make sure that data in all databases are safe, robust, and stable. They must know computer programming, software engineering, and data architecture. To become a database admin, you should have at least a bachelor’s degree or bootcamp certificate.

QA Tester

Salary: $70,679

A quality assurance (QA) tester is responsible for checking new software products, web applications, gaming systems, and mobile apps for defects or issues. Knowledge of SQL is important for this job because you may need to organize data or use it to fix problems. If you have an eye for detail, this is the SQL job for you.

Senior Data Analyst

Salary: $84,339

Senior data analysts collect and refine information to improve business decisions and overall business intelligence. Data analysts need to be able to identify patterns in large quantities of data. They need to have a high understanding of mathematics, algorithms, and statistics. This SQL job also requires leadership and organization skills.

Software Developer

Salary: $73,441

Software developers work on building and maintaining a wide variety of software programs. On any given day they make work on updating, debugging, testing, or simply creating a software program. Software developers need to be comfortable with complex code.

Is an SQL Coding Bootcamp Worth It?

Yes, an SQL coding bootcamp is worth it if you want to get a tech job that involves relational database management. These online SQL classes provide professional knowledge so that you can become a data analyst, database administrator, and more. SQL knowledge is the best way to up your skills and your salary.

Coding bootcamps are short-term and much more affordable than degrees. There are even some free coding bootcamps available. Through an SQL bootcamp, you can access job placement services, industry mentors, and career development assistance. If you want to reach your career aspirations and start a great career in tech, you should learn SQL at a bootcamp.