Online Oracle Certification Programs

According to a 2007 report by the Software Top 100 Foundation, the Oracle Corporation was the third largest software company in the world behind Microsoft and IBM. Oracle is growing fast, as well, with a robust software revenue growth of 34 percent, compared to around 8 percent each for Microsoft and IBM. Oracle's impressive expansion and market presence means that Oracle-certified database professionals should enjoy a welcoming job market.

Available Oracle Certifications and Career Options

In an industry that is constantly evolving, adding proprietary certification to your college degree is proof positive that you are familiar with the latest technologies. Oracle certification shows employers that you have career training in Oracle's very popular line of software products. There are three levels of Oracle certification: associate, professional, and master. The certification follows exams that are administered by the company itself. However, there are several online and distance learning training programs to help you prepare.

Oracle certification is usually most helpful for database managers such as systems programmers and database administrators. In order to get started in either of these career tracks, you typically need at least a four-year college degree in computer science or a related field. Those with Oracle certification and career training should have the competitive edge with respect to hiring.

Employment Outlook and Potential Salary

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer scientists and database administrators held about 542,000 jobs as of May 2006; about 58,000 of those professionals were self-employed. Employment of computer scientists and database administrators is projected to increase by 37 percent over the decade through 2106; that's much faster than national average for all occupations.

With respect to salary potential, median annual earnings in 2007 for database administrators were $67,250. Computer and information scientists earned $97,970. As with most IT positions, advanced degrees and industry certification directly affect compensation.

Typical Oracle Coursework and Online Study Options

Because Oracle certification is delivered in a variety of modules and career tracks, coursework varies according to your particular specialization. For example, certification for Oracle10g Database: Administration I includes the following courses:

• Installing Oracle10g Database Software
• Creating an Oracle Database
• Managing Schema Objects
• Managing Data
• PL/SQL

Perhaps the most attractive characteristic of Oracle certification is the opportunity to earn career training via online study. Distance education degrees are fast becoming the choice of students looking for degrees with a rich technology component. Not only that, but rising gas prices and an unstable economy are further assurances that online study is a sensible and affordable route to certification.

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