CIW Database Design Specialist

Career Smarter

Certificate of Completion

Digital certificate - Included

CIW Database Design Specialist Exam

£110

The CIW Database Design Specialist certification covers a wide range of database-related concepts and practical skills, enabling learners to understand and implement professional-level database solutions. The curriculum focuses on both the theoretical foundations and technical applications of database design, development, and maintenance.

The certification covers a broad range of database-related topics, including:

1. Relational Database Fundamentals

• Key characteristics of relational databases

• Database normalisation and its importance

• Entity Relationship Diagrams (ERDs) for database structure

• Understanding primary, foreign, and composite keys

2. Database Design Methodologies

• Gathering and analysing user and system requirements

• Creating logical and physical database designs

• Developing database schemas

• Applying use-case and scenario analysis

3. Structured Query Language (SQL)

• Writing SQL queries using basic and advanced syntax

• Executing core operations: SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE

• Performing JOIN operations: INNER, OUTER, and CROSS

• Creating and managing views, indexes, and stored procedures

4. Data Modelling and Design Tools

• Using ER modelling tools for schema visualisation

• Normalising data up to Third Normal Form (3NF)

• Leveraging CASE (Computer-Aided Software Engineering) tools

5. Database Security and Maintenance

• Managing user roles, privileges, and access control

• Implementing data integrity checks and validations

• Backup and recovery strategies for database continuity

• Maintaining secure and stable database environments

Skills Acquired

Upon completing the course, learners will gain:

• The ability to design secure, scalable, and efficient databases

• Proficiency in SQL for writing and managing complex queries

• Knowledge of data modelling, ERDs, and schema normalisation

• An understanding of database security best practices and maintenance procedures

Career Opportunities

The CIW Database Design Specialist certification supports entry and mid-level roles such as:

• Junior Database Developer

• Data Analyst

• SQL Developer

• Web Application Developer

• Information Systems Analyst

These roles typically offer salaries ranging from £30,000 to £60,000+ in the UK, depending on experience and technical expertise.

This certification is ideal for a wide range of learners and professionals looking to build or enhance their skills in database design and management.

1. Aspiring Database Professionals

• Perfect for individuals starting a career in database design, administration, or development

• Learn core concepts like data modelling, normalisation, and relational data management

2. Web and Software Developers

• For web designers and backend developers who need to integrate databases into their applications

• Helps improve SQL query writing and enhances interaction between the front end and database layers

3. IT and Network Professionals

• Ideal for IT or networking specialists wanting to expand into database systems

• Great for those seeking to broaden their full-stack or infrastructure knowledge

4. Data Analysts and Business Intelligence Professionals

• Learn how to structure and extract data using SQL

• Understand the foundation behind data organisation, reporting, and business intelligence workflows

5. Students and Career Changers

• Suitable for those studying IT, computer science, or shifting into tech from another field

• Offers a recognised credential to validate foundational database competencies and improve employability

Ideal for you if you want to:

• Design databases from the ground up or understand how existing ones are structured

• Master SQL to retrieve, update, and manipulate data effectively

• Support web and software projects with proper database integration

• Lay a foundation for advanced roles in data engineering, software development, or systems architecture

While no official prerequisites exist, learners will benefit from having:

• A basic understanding of computer systems and internet technologies

• Familiarity with HTML, web architecture, or general IT concepts

• Some exposure to logical thinking or programming

Entry-Level (£22,000 - £30,000)

• Junior Database Developer
• Database Assistant
• SQL Assistant
• Support Technician
• Junior Web Developer

Mid-Level (£32,000 - £48,000)

• Database Designer
• SQL Developer
• Data Analyst
• Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst

Senior-Level (£50,000 - £75,000+)

• Database Administrator
• Senior Database Developer
• Data Architect
• Data Engineering Specialist