
Course Description:
This introductory course covers the fundamentals of modern databases and data storage systems, using accessible language to introduce core database ideas, inspired by topics from Cornell’s CS 4320 course. The course aims to span over various data models (including relational and nonrelational), basic query languages (SQL and NoSQL), core database design principles, how data is stored and retrieved, and the essentials of transaction management and recovery. No prior experience in databases is assumed—only a willingness to learn the concepts that power today’s data-driven world.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand what databases are and why they matter.
- Explore different data models and their applications.
- Learn the basics of query languages, with an introduction to SQL.
- Discover principles of database design and storage structure.
- Gain insight into query processing and the importance of optimization.
- Get introduced to transaction management and recovery mechanisms.
- Briefly survey nonrelational (NoSQL) data storage systems.
Upon successfully completing the course and passing the exam, participants receive:
- A Database Foundations Certificate.
- A digital badge for LinkedIn, GitHub, resumes, and more.