Associate Degree in Database Administration: Career Options for Graduates

Associate's Degree in Database Administration Career Summary

The field of database administration focuses on the organization, management and storage of an organization's private data and information. Graduates of an associate's degree program in database administration are qualified for entry-level positions in private and government offices. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, www.bls.gov, many associate's degree programs prepare students for jobs in the local business community. Graduates may find jobs as database administrators, database analysts or administrative assistants.

Database Administrator: Job Duties and Outlook

The most logical job title for someone with an associate's degree in database administration is that of database administrator. Database administrators define an organization's needs and set up software applications based on those needs. In addition to using databases to catalog and retrieve information, database administrators ensure the integrity of their computer systems. They backup information on a regular basis and focus on database security. Database administrators with associate's degrees may have the best luck finding jobs with small or local companies.

As the use of technology expands throughout the economy, available positions in database administration are expected to grow 37% by 2016, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov). Although BLS reported that median annual earnings for database administrators were $64,670 in 2006, workers with just an associate's degree may earn salaries closer to $37,350, which was the median salary for those in the lowest ten percent.

Database Analyst: Job Duties and Salary Information

Database analyst also work with databases but focus on designing new databases rather than administering existing ones. Typical job duties include writing database code and troubleshooting and testing new or redesigned databases. According to Payscale.com, database analysts with less than one year of experience earn between $30,895 and $50,868.

Administrative Assistant for Database Administration: Job Duties and Salary Information

Graduates of associate's degree programs in database administration may be able to find jobs as administrative assistants for database administrators. They assist head database administrators and complete other clerical duties related to database administration. According to Indeed.com, administrative assistants involved in database administration, also known as database administration assistants, earn an average salary of $55,000 as of September 2009.