SQL Fundamentals

PROGRAM LENGTH:
50 WEEKS | 1000 HOURS
THEORY | LAB | CAPSTONE
Program Overview
The SQL Fundamentals Diploma at Oxford College equips students with comprehensive skills in database querying, design, and optimization, preparing them for careers in data analytics, business intelligence, and software development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning with relational database systems, structured query language (SQL), and the latest enterprise tools. Students learn how to manipulate data, structure databases, and derive meaningful insights through real-world business scenarios. By the end of the program, graduates will have a strong foundation in both the theory and practical application of SQL in modern data environments. This program prepares students for the following certifications:
- Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate
- Google Data Analytics Professional Certificate
- Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals (DP-900)
Course Descriptions
Module Name
Introduction to Databases
SQL Queries and Joins
Advanced SQL Functions
Database Design Principles
Intermediate Querying & Data Analysis
Database Design & Optimization
Cloud and Enterprise Tools
Stored Procedures and Triggers
Data Warehousing and ETL Concepts
SQL for Business Intelligence and Reporting
Certification Preparation – Oracle/Google/Microsoft
Capstone Project – SQL Application
Total
Module Hours
100
80
80
80
80
80
80
80
80
80
100
80
1000
Areas of Focus
- Relational database theory and data normalization
- SQL query development, joins, and nested queries
- Advanced SQL functions, procedures, and triggers
- Data analysis and reporting using SQL
- Database design, indexing, and performance optimization
- Data warehousing and ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) processes
- Integration with business intelligence tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau)
- SQL in cloud environments (Azure SQL, Amazon RDS, Google Cloud)
Job Profile
Graduates of this program are equipped to work as SQL Developers, Database Analysts, or Business Intelligence Specialists in data-driven environments. They design, query, and maintain relational databases while supporting analytics, reporting, and enterprise decision-making. Professionals in this field work in industries such as finance, healthcare, retail, and technology, often as part of IT or business intelligence teams. Employers value their ability to write queries, automate workflows, and deliver insights from large datasets.
Potential Employers
Course Topics
Introduction to Databases
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of database systems and relational database management. Topics include data modeling, normalization, primary and foreign keys, and entity-relationship diagrams. Learners will gain hands-on experience using tools to create, modify, and query databases. The course also introduces popular database platforms such as MySQL and SQL Server. By the end, students will understand how structured data is stored, accessed, and managed in real-world environments. This foundational course lays the groundwork for all advanced SQL work that follows.
SQL Queries and Joins
Students will learn how to write basic to intermediate SQL queries, including SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE statements. Emphasis is placed on mastering INNER, OUTER, LEFT, and RIGHT joins to combine data from multiple tables. The course explores filtering techniques, sorting, and the use of aliases. Students will complete exercises in query building using actual datasets. By the end of the course, they will be able to retrieve complex data using structured and nested queries. Practical assignments help reinforce best practices in query logic.
Advanced SQL Functions
This course explores advanced features of SQL including aggregate functions, subqueries, CASE statements, and common table expressions (CTEs). Students will learn to manipulate data more efficiently through functions like RANK(), DENSE_RANK(), and ROW_NUMBER(). Emphasis is placed on optimization, performance tuning, and best practices for maintaining query efficiency. Through hands-on labs, learners will explore practical applications in business reporting and data transformation. By course completion, students will be proficient in writing robust SQL queries for analytical use cases. These skills are essential for success in data-heavy environments.
Database Design Principles
This course provides students with a strong foundation in relational database design. Key topics include normalization techniques, indexing strategies, data integrity, and schema creation. Students will learn to translate business requirements into logical and physical database structures. Tools such as Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs) design software will be used to model and implement real-world databases. The course culminates in the development of a complete database schema from scratch. By mastering these concepts, students will be prepared to build efficient and scalable databases.
Intermediate Querying & Data Analysis
Building on prior knowledge, this course focuses on writing multi-step queries and interpreting large datasets. Students will learn to use grouping, window functions, and conditional logic to uncover patterns in data. Emphasis is placed on using SQL as a data analysis tool to support decision-making. Students will also explore the basics of creating dashboards and integrating SQL outputs into reports. By the end of this course, learners will be comfortable handling analytical tasks using SQL. The course prepares students for real-world problem solving using data.
Database Design & Optimization
This course addresses how to build efficient, scalable databases through performance-focused design. Students will learn indexing strategies, query plan analysis, denormalization techniques, and caching. Real-world cases are used to evaluate performance bottlenecks and apply tuning strategies. Learners will also explore partitioning and concurrency control. By the end of this course, students will be able to assess and improve the efficiency of any SQL database. This course emphasizes measurable improvements in system performance.
Cloud and Enterprise Tools
Students will explore how SQL integrates into cloud environments and enterprise ecosystems. Topics include using SQL with cloud services like Amazon RDS, Azure SQL, and Google Cloud Platform. The course covers cloud-specific challenges such as latency, redundancy, and scaling. Learners will also examine how SQL supports enterprise data warehouses and data lakes. Students will complete labs simulating business workflows in a cloud-native context. This course is essential for understanding modern enterprise IT infrastructure.
Stored Procedures and Triggers
This course focuses on automating database operations using stored procedures, functions, and triggers. Students will learn how to encapsulate business logic inside SQL objects and automate routine tasks. Topics include transaction handling, error management, and modular code development. Practical labs demonstrate how to enforce rules and integrity at the database level. This course prepares students to implement advanced automation in real-world systems. Students will leave with confidence in managing complex SQL workflows.
Data Warehousing and ETL Concepts
Students will explore the structure and function of data warehouses and the ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) process. Topics include star and snowflake schemas, staging tables, and data transformation pipelines. Students will learn how SQL is used to integrate data from multiple sources for reporting and analytics. The course includes practical labs simulating ETL jobs. By the end of the course, students will understand how warehousing supports business intelligence initiatives. This course bridges the gap between data storage and data strategy.
SQL for Business Intelligence and Reporting
This course focuses on using SQL to support business intelligence activities. Students will write analytical queries for KPI monitoring, trend analysis, and performance reporting. The course covers query optimization for dashboards and integration with BI tools like Power BI and Tableau. Students will learn to translate business questions into data queries. By the end of the course, learners will be able to use SQL to create high-value data summaries and visualizations.
Certification Preparation – Oracle/Google/Microsoft
This course prepares students for certifications such as the Oracle SQL Associate, Google Data Analytics, and Microsoft DP-900. Exam content, sample questions, and practice labs are reviewed in detail. Learners will reinforce key SQL skills while focusing on test-taking strategy. The course includes diagnostic assessments to identify and improve weak areas. Students will leave the course confident and well-prepared for their chosen certification path.
Capstone Project – SQL Application
In this final course, students will design and implement a comprehensive SQL-based solution to solve a real-world problem. The capstone involves creating a normalized database, building complex queries, and generating reports or dashboards. Emphasis is placed on showcasing a full workflow from requirements gathering to implementation. Students will be expected to document and present their project professionally. This course serves as both a culmination of learning and a portfolio piece for employment. Feedback from instructors simulates industry review processes.
Why Choose Oxford College?
Career-Focused Education
All of the diploma programs are designed for long-term careers in high-growth industries, offering you a superior fast-track education.
Expert Instructors
Our faculty consists of experienced and well-trained staff, who will give you industry-relevant knowledge along with your career training.
Modern Facilities
The state-of-the-art classrooms and labs are compliant with industry standards and allow for an emphasis on practical training.
Easy Campus Access
All our six campuses are located along transit hubs making travel easy and conveniences accessible.
Flexible Start Dates
Flexible program start dates allow you to plan and begin your new career training at any time.
Financial Aid
Financial Aid may be available to those who qualify. We have dedicated staff who can assist you with the Financial Aid process.
Employment Outlook
Graduates of the SQL Fundamentals diploma will be positioned to pursue roles in data analytics, database administration, software development, and business intelligence. These positions are in high demand across a wide range of industries including finance, healthcare, government, and e-commerce. As organizations increasingly rely on data-driven decision-making, skilled SQL professionals are crucial for transforming raw data into actionable insights. Employers seek candidates who can design efficient databases, build complex queries, and create performance-optimized reports.
Admission Requirements
OSSD or Equivalent
OR
Mature Student Status with Wonderlic SLE – 17
Delivery Format
This program is available in four delivery format options: in-person, hybrid, online, or asynchronous. Students may participate in scheduled instructor-led classes or complete the program through self-paced online modules, offering flexibility for different learning styles and schedules
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Joining Oxford College was one of the greatest decisions I have made and I feel so fortunate to be one of your students. I’m really enjoying your virtual classes, you are an amazing and inspiring mentor. The style and method of your teaching tells me that I’m on the right track towards my potential career.
Personalized, Lifelong Career Counselling Services

At Oxford College, our support does not end after you graduate. Even after you earn your Diploma, our Career Service Advisors will continue working with you and help you build your career path together, for the long term.
Financial Aid
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