The Principles of SQL course provides students with a practical and thorough introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL), the standard language for relational database management. Using Shellman, Afyouni, Pratt, and Last’s A Guide to SQL, 10th Edition, students will develop the skills to design, query, and manage databases across multiple platforms, including MySQL, Oracle PL/SQL, and SQL Server T-SQL.
The course begins with relational database concepts, normalization, and entity-relationship diagrams before progressing to table creation, single- and multi-table queries, and data manipulation tasks. Learners will practice working with real-world case databases, applying SQL commands to build, query, and maintain data structures. Advanced topics such as stored procedures, triggers, functions, and transaction control prepare students for complex database environments.
Designed for students pursuing careers in database management, data analysis, or software development, this course emphasizes hands-on practice with real-world scenarios. By the end of the course, learners will be able to design normalized databases, write efficient SQL queries, update and secure relational data, and implement administrative tasks that support organizational decision-making and application development.