10 Best Online SQL Courses Of 2024

If you are an individual seeking to acquire or enhance your skills in Structured Query Language (SQL), the best online SQL courses are designed just for you. This includes aspiring database administrators, data analysts, software developers, and anyone keen on working with databases and efficiently managing data.

The rise of artificial intelligence has reduced the need for SQL expertise in the computer industry. However, certain duties can only be completed by people. It provides people with the possibility to get jobs. If you’re seeking the greatest online SQL classes, you’ve come to the correct spot. 

In our exploration, we carefully considered various SQL courses and specifically included some of the Best Online SQL Courses in our post.

Why should I study SQL?

If you want to succeed in data-related technological positions, particularly when dealing with relational databases, you must first master SQL. SQL is a strong language used all around the globe to obtain and alter data in databases easily.

Learning SQL has several advantages, including the ability to do fundamental computer activities such as adding, updating, reading, and deleting data (CRUD). SQL assures that these activities will be completed promptly and properly.

Also, understanding SQL provides individuals greater power in data analysis since they can create and execute both basic and complex queries that show important insights or patterns. For example, understanding what your clients want might help you develop stronger marketing strategies.

SQL skills may also be used in other fields and serve as a solid foundation for learning about NoSQL databases, which are becoming more popular. If you understand SQL, you may work in data science, statistics, software engineering, web development, and a variety of other industries.

Taking an online SQL Bootcamp or SQL programming program will help you increase your technical understanding of database architecture and query optimization, allowing you to develop a successful and flexible career.

Why is studying SQL online beneficial?

Exploring the field of beginner-level SQL courses demands an evaluation of the important factors that contribute to their effectiveness. Our selection approach is based on five crucial parameters:

1. Content: The course content is the most significant criterion. Good SQL training should cover all of the fundamental concepts required to create a strong foundation when dealing with data. 
2. Practice Questions and Exercises: Hands-on experience, such as query writing, is necessary for successful technical learning. We evaluated courses based on the quantity and quality of exercises offered, with an emphasis on practical application.
3. Ease of Learning: Content delivery, such as graphics, videos, narration, and the ability to create a practice environment, is crucial. Courses with reduced entry barriers, such as those that need just a browser instead of installing a database on the user’s workstation, are seen to be more conducive to learning.
4. Enrollment and Student Ratings: We appreciate our research and analysis. Enrollment counts and positive assessments give insight into the course’s popularity and performance. Online testimonials might assist you in grasping the true worth of the course.
5. Value for money: The overall value for money is a crucial criterion, determined by the balance between the course cost and the quality of the content delivered. A solid SQL education should deliver excellent value for the money spent.

What is the purpose of SQL?

The history of SQL may be traced back to the 1970s when it was created at IBM to edit and retrieve data stored in databases. It was originally known as SEQUEL (Structured English Query Language) because of its ability to write database queries in plain English, which was revolutionary then. 

This invention paved the way for relational databases, which have subsequently become essential in modern computing. SQL has evolved throughout time, but its core objective has stayed the same: to handle enormous amounts of data efficiently and effectively.

SQL is the principal means of managing and altering databases. It serves as a command center for gathering and arranging data that companies rely on every day. SQL is the basis for managing customer information, tracking sales, and doing complex data analyses.

SQL is equally vital for developers. It allows users to develop and maintain database structures that support websites, applications, and software systems. SQL allows developers to ensure that the data utilized by their applications is accurate, secure, and easily retrievable, which is crucial for offering an excellent user experience.

SQL is helpful not just for technical professionals, but for everybody who deals with data in their job. Marketing teams use it to better understand customer behavior, finance teams to monitor transactions, and human resources to manage employee data. Learning SQL opens up opportunities in a multitude of industries, making it a versatile and valuable skill to have.

List of 10 Best Online SQL Courses For Beginners

1. SQL for Data Science

Start your data science SQL journey with the Best Online SQL Courses. There is no better way to begin studying SQL for data science than with this excellent course. This is one of the greatest SQL courses on Coursera, taught by Sadie St. Lawrence of the University of California, Davis. It is a critical component of the Learn SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization. You will get a significant reward after you have completed all of your lessons and the final assignment.

This course will help you improve your skills in the following areas:

• Learn the fundamentals of SQL.
• Data Analysis: Learn how to rapidly and properly analyze data.
• Look at how SQL may be used in data science.
• Work with SQLite: SQLite is a well-known database management system that you should get experience with.

This course has significant social proof: over 39% of students indicate they were able to successfully change jobs, 34% say they had actual employment benefits and more than 10% claim they received a raise or promotion after completion.

If you like Coursera’s courses, you may wish to subscribe to Coursera Plus, which costs $399 per year. This membership allows you to access all of their most popular programs, disciplines, professional credentials, and guided projects at any time. You can buy as many tickets as you like, so it’s a wonderful deal.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: Intermediate level SQL
• Instructor: Sadie St. Lawrence, University of California, Davis.
• Level: Beginner.
• Free or Paid: Paid (Part of the Learn SQL Basics for Data Science Specialization).
• Certificate: Yes, upon completion of all lessons and the final assignment.
• Duration: 18 hours 
• Apply Now: Link

2. Introduction to Structured Query Language

The University of Michigan offers this course, which costs USD 39 per month and consists of four weekly courses that give an in-depth introduction to SQL. Dr. Charles Russell Severance, a well-known scholar and prolific author on the subject of programming and technology, will deliver the course.

The application offers a quick introduction to installing text editors and configuring your MySQL database. The course covers essential concepts such as table creation, SELECT statements, managing numerous tables, and comprehending foreign keys. Aside from the installation portion, the course material is consistent with other beginning SQL courses for novices.

This course focuses on the MySQL dialect of SQL. Although it might seem too lengthy at times, it is typically favorably appreciated. With over 160,000 enrollments, it is one of the most popular online SQL courses.

After completing the course, all participants get a certificate of achievement that may be used on CVs and resumes. 

Key Information

• Prerequisites:  Suitable for beginners.
• Instructor: Dr. Charles Russell Severance.
• Level: Beginner.
• Free or Paid: Paid, USD 39 per month.
• Certificate: Certificate of achievement provided upon completion.
• Duration: Consists of four weekly courses, with a self-paced structure.
• Apply Now: Link

3. SQL for Beginners

David Kim and Peter Sefton are the professors for this $85 course, which includes unlimited access. It has a good rating of 4.3/5. This course, designed for anybody who wants to learn more about data analysis or utilize it in their work, is unusual in that it takes a hands-on, practical approach.

Unlike typical courses, the curriculum is based on business case studies. David and Pete guide participants through the difficulties of data analysis in the context of launching a new company, creating a unique and fun learning experience. The approach of training is akin to buddies in college sharing valuable information. Throughout the course, you will learn how to perform queries that are critical for a startup firm, as well as a full comprehension of a range of SQL concepts.

Keep in mind that for those who want to learn things rapidly, the pace may seem a bit sluggish. If you learn rapidly, other courses on the list may be more suitable for you.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: PostgreSQL, SQL Server, etc.
• Instructor: David Kim and Peter Sefton.
• Level: Suitable for anybody interested in data analysis or its application in their work.
• Free or Paid: Paid ($85 course fee).
• Certificate: Yes
• Duration: Course offers unlimited access, self-paced 
• Apply Now: Link

4. W3Schools: SQL Tutorial

Some argue that W3Schools’ SQL Tutorial is not a legitimate course since it does not include any lessons or an instructor. However, the purpose of this article is to show you some excellent online SQL resources, even if they do not follow standard course forms.

W3Schools is an excellent resource for those who prefer self-directed learning via books and practice. Its comprehensive covering of SQL foundations makes it interesting. Even if it is not an excellent main dish, it may be a valuable supplement. 

One of the previously discussed courses should be your primary source of learning, with W3Schools serving as a reference for reviewing the fundamentals and doing short searches using simple SQL expressions. This two-pronged approach helps individuals comprehend SQL principles more thoroughly.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: Suitable for beginners.
• Instructor: Self-directed learning; no specific instructor mentioned.
• Level: Beginner; serves as a supplementary resource for reviewing fundamentals.
• Free or Paid: Free.
• Certificate: No certificate mentioned.
• Duration: Self-paced and no specified duration.
• Apply Now: Link

5. The Complete SQL Bootcamp: Go from Zero to Hero!

Learn SQL from the renowned instructor Jose Portilla through one of the Best Online SQL Courses, The Complete SQL Bootcamp. Priced at $85 with unlimited access, this course, boasting a 4.7/5 rating, stands among the top SQL courses on Udemy.

The course is designed for beginners and focuses on PostgreSQL, a popular SQL dialect. It covers important subjects such as SQL syntax, the GROUP BY clause, and table joins. It goes above and beyond the fundamentals, delivering insights into real SQL data analysis.

What distinguishes this course is its teacher, Jose Portilla, who has previously trained Fortune 500 firms. His experience is clear in the course material, which includes pertinent examples and a well-organized presentation. Overall, The Complete SQL Bootcamp is regarded as a worthy investment due to its extensive covering, practical approach, and fair cost.

Apply Now: Link

6. LearnSQL.com: SQL Basics

The SQL Basics course costs $29 for unlimited access and has a great rating of 4.82/5. What distinguishes this course is its extraordinary simplicity, combined with significant effect. The course, which includes 129 interactive tasks, provides a solid mastery of key SQL topics in about 10 hours.

One of the most noticeable benefits is the simplicity of use; all that is necessary is a browser and an internet connection, making it accessible to anybody who wants to construct their own SQL queries. The first two classes are free, allowing interested learners to assess the viability of the delivery modalities. However, the compelling material and practical approach are likely to persuade participants to continue.

The course is designed for those who have no prior IT experience. It avoids digging into complex SQL techniques, making it an excellent option for novices and those looking for entry-level data-related jobs. Its popularity is clear, with about 280,000 enrolled, cementing its position as the best course in this field.

The course promotes active learning by allowing students to create genuine SQL queries, complete exercises, and get quick feedback. This dynamic technique is a powerful and enjoyable strategy for quickly becoming comfortable with SQL, especially for beginners. Essentially, the course changes the learning experience into an interactive journey in which information is actively applied rather than just received.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: No prior IT experience required. Designed for beginners.
• Instructor: Not specified.
• Level: Entry-level, suitable for beginners.
• Free or Paid: The SQL Basics course is a paid course, costing $29 for unlimited access.
• Certificate: The course likely provides a certificate upon completion, but specific details are not provided.
• Duration: 10 hours to cover 129 interactive tasks and master key SQL topics. The first two classes are free for learners to assess the course’s suitability.
• Apply Now: Link

7. Excel to MySQL: Analytic Techniques for Business Specialization (Duke University)

This course guides you in solving business challenges by developing the skills to navigate and interpret data effectively. It covers the extraction and analysis of data and has a clear communication of interpretations. An additional benefit is gaining mastery in Tableau which enables you to visualize and communicate data, create forecasts, handle big data, and leverage data for profit-driven decision-making.

The course offers a comprehensive approach and allows you to delve into understanding business metrics and excel in data analysis using Excel. Moreover, you’ll acquire expertise in data visualization and communication using Tableau. The inclusion of MySQL in the curriculum equips you to manage large datasets efficiently.

The best part of the course is the hands-on experience provided through a capstone project. This project focuses on utilizing analytics to devise a strategy for enhancing profits in the context of a residential property management company. This practical application adds a valuable asset to your portfolio, showcasing your ability to apply learned concepts to real-world scenarios.

The course is structured to adapt learners at various levels, providing in-depth content that caters to both beginners and those seeking mastery in the subject. With a self-paced learning approach, you have the flexibility to progress at a speed that suits your individual needs and schedule.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: None, suitable for all levels
• Instructor: Not specified
• Level: Beginner to Advanced
• Free or Paid: Paid
• Certificate: Provided upon completion
• Duration: Self-paced with flexible scheduling
• Apply Now: Link

8. [LearnSQL] SQL from A to Z

Learners go for the LearnSQL due to its dedicated focus on creating a beginner-friendly learning experience. The course comprises a complete track of seven courses that require no prior IT experience. Throughout these courses, participants delve into both basic and advanced aspects of SQL, with a specific emphasis on databases and data analysis.

Upon completing the interactive courses, LearnSQL awards SQL certificates. This course track not only provides valuable knowledge but also offers essential support elements such as a robust resource base, student-to-student support, mentoring, and technical support.

There are some Pros of the courses these are: 

• Beginner-Friendly: Tailored for those with no prior IT background.
• Task Guidance: Each task is accompanied by hints and examples, aiding the learning process.
• Free SQL Cheat Sheets: Access ready-to-use cheat sheets, enhancing the learning experience.
• Practice-Oriented: Featuring a real code editor and data sets derived from genuine business scenarios.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Beyond standard functions, the course covers working with multiple tables, data aggregation, subqueries, and complex reporting.

LearnSQL stands out as an ideal choice for beginners, offering a supportive and practical learning environment, ensuring participants gain a solid foundation in SQL with real-world applications.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: No prior IT experience required.
• Instructor: Self-paced courses with interactive content.
• Level: Beginner-friendly.
• Free or Paid: Both free and paid courses are available.
• Certificate: SQL certificates are awarded upon course completion.
• Duration: Self-paced; duration varies based on individual learning speed.
• Apply Now: Link

9. [Codecademy] Learn SQL

“Learn SQL” emerges as an excellent online course designed for a swift grasp of SQL fundamentals and effective database management. The creators influence professional-level database examples, such as the Startup Trends databases, providing learners with insights into authentic business challenges faced by companies today. The structured exercises and problems within the course contribute significantly to enhancing comprehension of core concepts.

This course is particularly well-suited for beginners aspiring to navigate complex databases. Its concise and direct approach ensures a focused journey through SQL basics, gradually progressing toward intricate queries and functions. What sets it apart is the incorporation of a hands-on project, allowing participants not only to practice their skills but also to enrich their portfolio with practical experience.

A distinctive feature is the practical, browser-based learning environment, facilitating hands-on engagement with the course content. “Learn SQL” stands out as a valuable resource for those looking to swiftly acquire a solid foundation in SQL and database management, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and those aiming to expand their skill set.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: None
• Instructor: Not specified
• Level: Beginner
• Free or Paid: Paid
• Certificate: Available upon completion
• Duration: Self-paced
• Apply Now: Link

10. [Udemy] The Complete Oracle SQL Bootcamp

If you are looking to acquire skills in Oracle SQL for application development or database administration then this SQL training course is an excellent choice for you. 

You will become an expert in creating tables and databases, mastering the art of writing SQL queries. The course teaches the Oracle SQL concepts, covering essential statements like ALTER, DELETE, SELECT, UPDATE, and INSERT.

The comprehensive training program provides hands-on experience in crafting SQL codes. Real-world challenges, quizzes, and examples embedded in the course will refine your abilities in composing, reading, and analyzing SQL queries. The course adopts a blended learning approach, incorporating lectures, articles, and downloadable resources to make your SQL learning journey effective and enjoyable.

Key Information

• Prerequisites: None, suitable for beginners.
• Instructor: Experienced instructors specializing in Oracle SQL.
• Level: Beginner to intermediate.
• Free or Paid: Paid.
• Certificate: Yes, upon course completion.
• Duration: Comprehensive training program with a flexible duration, accommodating self-paced learning.
• Apply Now: Link

FAQs

Conclusion 

Explore a variety of SQL courses, including both free and paid options. While some courses offer free content, for a certificate of completion, you might find it beneficial to consider enrolling in one of the Best Online SQL Courses, which may involve a fee.