Path to becoming a DBA (Questions from a student)

[plaguepoop]

Hello everyone,

I am currently a university student majoring in management information systems. My goal is to get involved with Oracle upon graduation, either as a developer or a DBA. From my research, it is abundantly clear that there are some difficulties with getting into the DBA scene. No employer really is interested in someone with no experience. This leaves people like me in a difficult situation, as all I can offer a potential employer is my education.

I do, however, intend on getting internships as a developer of some sort as soon as I am comfortable with SQL, Java, and C#.

My question to the people of this forum is in regards to certificate programs, and the OCP programs. I am debating to whether it is a good idea to invest my time and money into one of these programs before entering the job market.

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UCLA Extension offers the following certification: https://www.uclaextension.edu/r/Prog...aspx?reg=CF518

It costs about $10,000, and you can see the list of classes if you click on the link above.


UCI Extension offers the following certification, and they guarantee OCP certification after you complete the coursework. I also believe that this program is cheaper.

http://unex.uci.edu/certificates/it/...b/courses.aspx

I believe that the actual classes between the two programs are very similar, however in California UCLA is a more reputable/well known school. I do believe that the program offered by UCI is better, however I wanted to hear what you guys have to say as far what difference the reputation of the school might have.

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All in all, is this something I should consider starting before graduating university? I definitely have the time to complete the program, so it wouldn't be taking away from my education. Money wise, I would be taking out a student loan to pay for the certificate.


Thank you in advance.

[LKBrwn_DBA]

Why not directly with Oracle®?

[PAVB]

Think on a DBA position as the final stage of a technical career - not as an out of the college position.

In general, a DBA has several years of IT experience under his/hers belt before getting to be a DBA. In most cases the career starts on software development, in my particular case I started as an Assembly programmer, many, many moons ago.

If I was you I would focus on getting an entry level position in the IT industry then, after feeling comfortable - probably years from now - start thinking on your next move.

[plaguepoop]

Thank you for your responses.

You have convinced me to wait until after I am a developer of some sort before I start any administration programs.

On another note, it may be possible for me to do a minor in Computer Science. Would this be a good idea considering my goals? I am currently an MIS student (management information systems)

[PAVB]

I think it wouldn't hurt and will certainly give you a more strong fundation as well as a more interesting resume.