Database administrator

Database administrators create, organise and look after computer systems that store data for commercial companies and public organisations.

In this guide

What you'll do

Day-to-day tasks

As a database administrator you'll:

  • speak to clients to understand what they want from a database
  • plan the design and how to organise and display data
  • identify other systems the database will link to
  • build a test version in stages and run checks to find issues or 'bugs'
  • refine the design after each stage until a working version is ready to use
  • fill the database with new information or transfer existing data into it
  • decide who will have access and put in security measures
  • plan how to update information, create back-up copies and report errors

Working environment

You could work in an office or at a client's business.

Career path and progression

With experience, you could become a:

You could also work as a consultant or become self-employed.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

  • to be thorough and pay attention to detail
  • analytical thinking skills
  • the ability to work well with others
  • maths knowledge
  • excellent verbal communication skills
  • persistence and determination
  • the ability to use your judgement and make decisions
  • complex problem-solving skills
  • to have a thorough understanding of computer systems and applications

Restrictions and Requirements

You'll need to know how to use structured query language (SQL) and database management systems (DBMS).

Most relevant

  • Computer Science - Database administrators work directly with structured query language (SQL), database management systems, and software architecture every day. They design, build, and troubleshoot databases, which requires a deep understanding of how data is structured, stored, and retrieved by computer systems.
  • Mathematics - Database administrators use mathematical logic and set theory when writing queries and organising data into efficient structures. They also apply statistical thinking when analysing data patterns, optimising performance, and planning how databases scale as they grow.

Also relevant

  • Business - Database administrators need to understand what organisations actually need from their data systems, which means grasping how businesses operate and make decisions. They speak to clients, gather requirements, and design databases that support real business processes like sales, inventory, or customer management.
  • Physics - Database administrators benefit from the logical reasoning and problem-solving approaches developed in physics. Understanding how systems interact and applying structured analytical thinking helps when diagnosing performance issues or planning how a database connects to other technical infrastructure.
  • English Language - Database administrators write technical documentation, explain complex systems to non-technical clients, and communicate clearly with development teams. Being able to translate technical concepts into plain language is important when gathering requirements and presenting database designs to stakeholders.

How to become

You could get into this job through:

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • applying directly

You could study for a higher national diploma, degree or postgraduate qualification before joining a company training scheme.

Useful subjects include:

  • computer science
  • business information systems
  • software engineering
  • information technology management
  • mathematics

You may have an advantage when you look for work if you do a degree that includes a work placement.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a higher national diploma
  • 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
  • a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course

More Information

You could get into this job by applying to do an apprenticeship, such as:

  • Data Engineer Level 5 Higher Apprenticeship
  • Digital and Technology Solutions Professional Level 6 Degree Apprenticeship

If you already have a degree or relevant experience, you may be able to do a Digital and Technology Solutions Specialist Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship.

These can take between 2 and 4 years to complete.

Entry requirements

You'll usually need:

  • 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship

More Information

You may be able to apply directly for a place on a graduate training scheme. You can usually apply if you have a degree related to computing or technology, though employers may accept other subjects.

Career tips

Experience in IT support, programming or web development will help.

Further information

The Chartered Institute for IT and techskills have more details about careers and training in computing.

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