Best Online Master’s in Database Management Programs

Browse our ranking of the best online master’s in database management programs, and learn more about the discipline and the career opportunities.

Edited by

Reviewed by

Updated February 14, 2024

Why Trust BestColleges

3,700+ Nonprofit, accredited colleges analyzed
6,000+ Users connected with programs every month
300+ College and university partners
40+ Expert reviewers

Learn more about our Editorial Policy and Standards and Advertising Disclosure.

As organizations increasingly collect, store, and use information, the demand for database managers grows. These professionals help protect and put data to better use, a priority for most organizations in the ever-advancing technological landscape. A master’s in database management prepares learners to oversee complex databases, along with other information technology systems.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 13% growth for computer occupations between 2020 and 2030, 5% faster than the rate for all occupations. Many of the top online schools have developed various computer science specializations to capitalize on this growth. The often accelerated and flexible schedules of online learning even allows graduate students to complete their two-year programs while still working.

The promising growth outlook and salary potential of the data management field helps prospective learners justify high training costs when choosing to attend graduate school. Here, we examine this program more closely. In addition to ranking the best online master’s in database management, we explore common courses and popular career paths.

Best Accredited Online Master’s in Database Management Programs

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

How We Rank Schools

To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.

To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:

Affordability (30%)
Student outcomes (30%)
Reputation (20%)
Diversity and social mobility (20%)

In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online

$13,035

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$34,347

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

91%

Acceptance Rate

78%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $965
Out-of-State | $965

Credits to Graduate: 30

Mason's MS in data analytics engineering can prepare you for a career in data engineering, architecture, or analysis. This 100% online degree has a distance education fee of $35.

The curriculum includes courses such as big data information, applied machine learning, and decision and risk analysis. Your program concludes with a data analytics project.

To apply, you need a strong background in math and, ideally, an undergraduate major in business, engineering, statistics, or computer science. You also should hold a 3.0 or better in your last 60 credits.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$9,510

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,970

Retention Rate

84%

Students Enrolled

38,628

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$13,035

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,347

George Mason University

Fairfax, VA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$13,035

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$34,347

Acceptance Rate

91%

Online Enrollment

78%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$9,510

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$32,970

Retention Rate

84%

Students Enrolled

38,628

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $965
Out-of-State | $965

Credits to Graduate: 30

Mason's MS in data analytics engineering can prepare you for a career in data engineering, architecture, or analysis. This 100% online degree has a distance education fee of $35.

The curriculum includes courses such as big data information, applied machine learning, and decision and risk analysis. Your program concludes with a data analytics project.

Regis University

Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online

$14,063

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,063

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

81%

Acceptance Rate

64%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $976
Out-of-State | $976

Credits to Graduate: 36-54

Regis' master of science in data science can help you develop your data analytics and engineering skills. This multidisciplinary degree can have you taking courses in data visualization, statistical methods, and the ethics of data science. You also complete a practicum and an optional data engineering specialization.

Each course lasts eight weeks, and you can study fully online. The program takes 12-24 months, and new start dates open six times a year. If you need to complete any prerequisite courses, you may do so through Regis.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$39,260

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$39,260

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

5,566

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,063

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,063

Regis University

Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,063

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,063

Acceptance Rate

81%

Online Enrollment

64%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$39,260

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$39,260

Retention Rate

79%

Students Enrolled

5,566

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $976
Out-of-State | $976

Credits to Graduate: 36-54

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL4 yearCampus + Online

$14,760

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,760

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

71%

Acceptance Rate

77%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $860
Out-of-State | $860

Credits to Graduate: 33-42

Lewis' online master of science in data science can prepare you to apply data science skills and concepts across a wide variety of disciplines. You can concentrate in data engineering, cybersecurity data science, data science research, cognitive and prescriptive analytics, or computational biology and bioinformatics.

You can apply if you hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have completed undergraduate coursework in calculus. If you need to brush up on math, you can take two foundational math courses through Lewis.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$35,262

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$35,262

Retention Rate

75%

Students Enrolled

6,183

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,760

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,760

Lewis University

Romeoville, IL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$14,760

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$14,760

Acceptance Rate

71%

Online Enrollment

77%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$35,262

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$35,262

Retention Rate

75%

Students Enrolled

6,183

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $860
Out-of-State | $860

Credits to Graduate: 33-42

University of Denver

Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online

$53,640

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$53,640

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

64%

Acceptance Rate

40%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $598
Out-of-State | $598

Credits to Graduate: 48

DU's master's in database design and administration can equip you to develop data architecture or perform data warehousing and modeling. This evening or online degree requires four core courses, four electives, and four concentration courses. Your eight concentration options include cybersecurity management, project management, and geographic information systems.

Each term lasts 10 weeks, and your entire degree can take as little as 18 months. To apply, you need a bachelor's degree and a GPA of 2.5 or better.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$53,640

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$53,640

Retention Rate

84%

Students Enrolled

14,130

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$53,640

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$53,640

University of Denver

Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$53,640

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$53,640

Acceptance Rate

64%

Online Enrollment

40%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$53,640

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$53,640

Retention Rate

84%

Students Enrolled

14,130

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $598
Out-of-State | $598

Credits to Graduate: 48

Each term lasts 10 weeks, and your entire degree can take as little as 18 months. To apply, you need a bachelor's degree and a GPA of 2.5 or better.

DePaul University

Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online

$17,951

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$17,951

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

69%

Acceptance Rate

66%

Online Enrollment

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $918
Out-of-State | $918

Credits to Graduate: 48

DePaul's master of science in data science can prepare you to work with complex data formats to support decision-making. As an online learner, you get to choose from three concentrations: computational methods, healthcare, or marketing.

After graduation, you may join DePaul alumni working in healthcare, finance, retail, or other industries. To apply, you need a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 or better GPA and a grade of B- or higher in Calculus I and II. New courses begin each quarter.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$41,361

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,361

Retention Rate

84%

Students Enrolled

21,670

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$17,951

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$17,951

DePaul University

Chicago, IL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$17,951

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$17,951

Acceptance Rate

69%

Online Enrollment

66%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$41,361

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$41,361

Retention Rate

84%

Students Enrolled

21,670

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Programmatic Accreditation: N/A

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $918
Out-of-State | $918

Credits to Graduate: 48

Auburn University

Auburn, AL4 yearCampus + Online

$10,080

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$30,240

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

71%

Acceptance Rate

46%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $949
Out-of-State | $949

Credits to Graduate: 30

In Auburn's master of science - data science and engineering you can learn to manage raw data in the next generation of big data applications. As an Auburn student, you may concentrate in data engineering or data science. Both concentrations share the same six foundational courses, and both conclude with a capstone project.

If you hold a bachelor's degree in science or engineering, have taken at least one statistics course, and know a programming language, you may qualify for admission. For the data engineering concentration, you need to submit GRE scores.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,080

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,240

Retention Rate

93%

Students Enrolled

31,526

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,080

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,240

Auburn University

Auburn, AL4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,080

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,240

Acceptance Rate

71%

Online Enrollment

46%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,080

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,240

Retention Rate

93%

Students Enrolled

31,526

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $949
Out-of-State | $949

Credits to Graduate: 30

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI4 yearCampus + Online

$21,276

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,276

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

93%

Acceptance Rate

79%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $953
Out-of-State | $953

Credits to Graduate: 30

Detroit Mercy's master of science in applied data analytics is a 1-2 year online program with coursework in cybersecurity, information systems, computer science, and economics. As a student, you take eight required courses and two electives. The degree concludes with a capstone, which you can spread over several terms.

To apply, you need a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better, and Detroit Mercy may require prerequisites. You can start in the fall, winter, or summer.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$30,154

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,154

Retention Rate

83%

Students Enrolled

5,227

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,276

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,276

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$21,276

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$21,276

Acceptance Rate

93%

Online Enrollment

79%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$30,154

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$30,154

Retention Rate

83%

Students Enrolled

5,227

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $953
Out-of-State | $953

Credits to Graduate: 30

To apply, you need a bachelor's degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better, and Detroit Mercy may require prerequisites. You can start in the fall, winter, or summer.

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA4 yearCampus + Online

$60,446

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$60,446

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

13%

Acceptance Rate

46%

Online Enrollment

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,424
Out-of-State | $2,424

Credits to Graduate: 32

Offered through the Viterbi School of Engineering, USC's master of science in applied data science is a 100% online program that can prepare you for a career as a data scientist. You take three core courses, including machine learning for data science, and five electives, such as geospatial information management and fairness in artificial intelligence. You'll also complete a professional practicum.

To apply, you need a bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field or a related major. USC does not require GRE scores.

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$60,446

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$60,446

Retention Rate

96%

Students Enrolled

49,318

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$60,446

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$60,446

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$60,446

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$60,446

Acceptance Rate

13%

Online Enrollment

46%

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$60,446

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$60,446

Retention Rate

96%

Students Enrolled

49,318

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,424
Out-of-State | $2,424

Credits to Graduate: 32

To apply, you need a bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field or a related major. USC does not require GRE scores.

What Can I Expect From an Online Master’s in Database Management Program?

To best prepare for graduate school, prospective students should know what the typical online master’s in database management looks like. In general, these programs feature between 30-45 credits and run for 1-2 years. While every program format is different, many online programs offer flexible schedules and independent study options to accommodate all types of learners.

Most students enter these graduate programs with a strong computer background. They build on their technical expertise and skills with significant research and practical training via virtual and on-campus labs. The programs often feature internships, which online students can usually complete virtually or at a location near them.

Though most master’s in database management programs award an MS degree, some MA options may be available. These programs likely differ very little in their core training, but they usually feature different electives. In some cases, MS degrees provide more technical-focused training, whereas MA degrees take more theoretical approaches.

Prospective students may also encounter concentrations in their programs. Typically, database management is a concentration of its own within a computer science degree. Yet some master’s in database management programs offer their own specializations, such as business intelligence or database architecture.

Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.

Best Online Masters in Computer Engineering Programs

Best Online Masters in Computer Forensics Programs

Best Online Masters in Computer Science Programs

Learn More

Visit Site

Learn More

Visit Site

Learn More

Visit Site

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master’s in Database Management Program?

Database Design

In this course, students learn how to design and implement databases for organizations. The training examines methods for identifying organizational needs and user requirements, along with how to design a model based on these demands.

Data Analytics

Students in this course learn how to gather and analyze various datasets. They also learn how this information can be used to improve business forecasting, evaluations, risk assessments, and decisions.

IT Strategy and Management

This course teaches students how to evaluate an organization’s IT needs, find solutions, and develop a realistic approach to reaching its goals. The training examines methods for connecting IT systems and strategies to the organization’s overall mission.

Information Systems Analysis

Students in this course learn how to analyze an organization’s information systems and needs. Learners look at ways of using this information to design, research, and provide solutions.

Database Backup and Recovery

In this course, students learn to design data backup and recovery systems and plans for organizations. Some training may delve into security measures for database managers as well.

What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Master’s in Database Management Program?

According to our graduate admissions guide, master’s program admission requirements may include a bachelor’s degree, professional experience, and a certain GPA minimum. Specific requirements for online master’s in database management programs will vary by school.

Below, we detail the most common elements of a database management application. Other requirements, such as an interview, may be possible.

Application

Prospective students provide their personal information and indicate their program of interest on the application. They also provide most, if not all, of the other application elements listed below. While graduate applicants can use various college application systems, they usually apply directly to the school of their choice.

Test Scores

Many schools require standardized test score results from applicants to help streamline the candidate comparison process. The specific tests and scores required vary by school and program. Though the COVID-19 pandemic has led many institutions to offer test waivers, prospective learners may still find value in a GMAT or GRE prep course to help boost their scores.

Letters of Recommendation

Most college applications require prospective students to ask for letters of recommendation from at least three current or former teachers and employers. These letters address the applicant’s preparedness and how well-suited they are for graduate training. The more relevant the referral is to the program of interest the better.

Resume and Work Experience

In addition to highlighting relevant work experience, a college application resume can provide information about an applicant’s personal drive and professional interests. While some programs require a specific amount of experience in the field, others just want to see demonstrations of work ethic and perseverance.

Essays

Writing a grad school essay can be one of the most important parts of an application. At the master’s level, prospective students usually use these essays to identify their research and study interests. They also address why they want to attend that particular school and study under that faculty.

Official Transcripts

All schools require applicants to submit official transcripts in their applications. These records show what courses the candidate has completed, the grades they received, what prerequisites they need, and if they qualify for any transfer credits. Our transfer guide can help prospective students maneuver through this process.

What Can I Do With an Online Master’s in Database Management Degree?

Career Outlook

Organizations use information to better understand customers and markets and improve their products and services. The growth in data applications has created a significant demand for specialists in this field. As a result, the BLS projects 8% growth for database administrators and architects between 2020 and 2030, along with more than 13,000 annual openings in the field.

Database administrators and architects also earn very competitive wages, making median annual salaries that more than double the median annual wage for all occupations. Changing and new technologies, such as cloud services, should continue stimulating growth in the field.

Database management professionals can also pursue several other promising computer-related occupations, such as management, networking, and analyst positions.

See what a master’s in database management can do for you. Learn more about database management careers.

Career Paths

Database Administrator and Architect

Database administrators and architects design and build systems to collect and store data. They protect, organize, and manage the information, while making it accessible when needed. These professionals also make upgrades to the system and ensure that all the information is accurate and untampered.

Median Annual Salary: $98,860

Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers take care of an organization’s computer-related activities. They help meet organizational goals, handle the department’s staffing and technological requirements, and design and implement system upgrades when needed. These professionals also provide input regarding the organization’s technological contributions, strategies, and budgets.

Median Annual Salary: $151,150

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts help organizations improve the effectiveness and performance of their computer systems. They evaluate system operations and then research, design, and implement improvements. These professionals incorporate projections, organizational requirements, and system demands when suggesting solutions.

Median Annual Salary: $93,780

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts ensure that an organization’s information and systems are secured. They evaluate the system protections and look for vulnerabilities. They then research and implement possible solutions. Analysts may also develop security best practices for organizations to follow and provide training or advice to in-house information technology administrators.

Median Annual Salary: $103,590

Computer Network Architects

Computer network architects design and build networks for organizations based on their specific communication requirements. These professionals may perform various tests to determine the current system’s weaknesses before looking for an upgrade or redesign solution. They incorporate traffic and user needs into their designs, along with any budgetary and equipment limitations.

Median Annual Salary: $116,780

Database Management Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers.

Computer Programming Careers

Information Systems Careers

Network Security Careers

Continuing Education

For graduates who do not wish to enter the workforce after graduation, several realistic continuing education pathways are available. One pathway is a doctorate in database administration. Professionals with this level of training can pursue postsecondary teaching and advanced research and development positions.

Graduates can also pursue a doctorate in various other computer-related disciplines, such as cybersecurity, software development, and computer engineering. They might also tackle an industry or vendor certification to enhance their skills in the field or with a specific technology.

How Do I Choose an Online Master’s in Database Management Program?

Cost

Most prospective students consider cost when choosing a program, but the true program cost will provide the most accurate picture. This takes into consideration all fees associated with the training, along with any lost income. They should also think about comparing costs of online and on-campus programs, in-state and out-of-state programs, and private and public schools.

Program Format

Prospective students need to find a program format that suits their lifestyle and scheduling needs. For example, learners who need a flexible study schedule might want to compare synchronous vs. asynchronous delivery. Moreover, busy students or those who need to graduate within a specific time frame may want to compare full-time vs. part-time programs.

Location

For prospective students choosing between online or on-campus studies, location might only seem important for the latter. Yet, online learners may still need to satisfy on-campus requirements for their degree. They may also qualify for in-state tuition rates in some out-of-state schools.

Accreditation

Accreditation is one of the most important elements in a school decision. According to our online college accreditation guide, accreditation can impact federal financial aid, postgraduate certifications, and employment.

Some employers may view programs with accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology favorably, though program accreditation isn’t mandatory for master’s database management programs.

Student Support

Prospective students should also investigate the type of student services their potential school offers. Programs like internships and practicums, academic support services, and college mentors can lead to success for learners. Online degree-seekers should look for specific online student services and opportunities, such as online tutoring, wellness, and career services.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master’s in Database Management Programs

Is a master’s in database management worth it?

Yes. An online master’s in database management offers applicable in-demand training. Graduates can access many promising computer and information technology occupations, a sector that the BLS projects will add more than 665,000 new jobs between 2020 and 2030. This field also earned median annual wages of $91,250 in May 2020, nearly $50,000 more than the median annual wage for all occupations.

For many, the value of an online degree comes from the flexibility it gives students. Not only can learners study more easily around their schedule, but they can also access more school and program options. This added selection improves their chances of finding a strong match.

What can I do with a master’s in database management?

Graduates with a master’s in database management can pursue many careers within the computer and information technology sector. While the best-suited positions might be as database administrators and architects, graduates can also qualify for roles as information security analysts, computer and information systems managers, and computer systems analysts.

After completing the program, graduates also have the option to continue their training. They can pursue a doctorate in database management or in another computer-related field. Some learners might tackle a certification, which can help them with specific employers and organizations.

Are database management graduates in demand?

Yes. Database management graduates are in high demand with employers in many industries. The BLS projects the addition of more than 13,000 new data administrators and architects between 2020 and 2030. Database management graduates may also qualify for various other computer occupations, like information security analysts, a field in which the BLS projects 33% growth between 2020 and 2030.

Much of the demand stems from a growing number of applications for data in organizations around the world. Businesses store and use consumer and market data for many different uses, such as improving performance analysis, operational effectiveness, and forecasts.

How much money can I make with a master’s in database management?

A master’s in database management can lead to many high-paying occupations. According to the BLS, database administrators earned median annual wages of $98,860 in May 2020. The top 10% of earners in the field made more than $155,660 in that same period.

As in most fields, wages can vary considerably depending on the industry. In data processing organizations, for example, these professionals earned a median of $108,520 in May 2020. In comparison, they earned a median of $78,890 in educational services that year

What are the highest paying jobs with a master’s in database management?

While the actual salaries available to database management graduates depends on the specific employer and location, computer systems managers tend to earn the highest wages across the board.

According to the BLS, computer systems managers earned $151,150 in May 2020. During that period, the top 10% of earners in the field brought home more than $208,000.