In this course, you will learn about the basic models and capabilities of standard database management systems (DBMS) packages. Included in the course is an overview of database principles, file-level models, data-level models, operation. The course also emphasizes implementation, maintenance and security considerations. You will will study and use methods of DBMS selection and evaluation to implement the design for your proposed database project solution.

Prerequisite : The prerequisite for the course is ITP 100, Software Design (formerly IST 153). Students must be able to read and write at the college level and must have a working knowledge of the WINDOWS environment.

Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Apply fundamental database concepts to an information systems problem
• Define and explain the importance of the terms 'data definition language' and 'data manipulation language' in relation to database management systems
• Explain and schematically draw data structures represented as trees and networks
• Describe and document the transformation of a conceptual database design into a logical database design
• List and explain the factors to be considered in physical database design Describe and document the data relationships and design characteristics of a relational database system
• Describe the techniques available for protecting databases against various types of failure
• List and explain the functions performed by the database administrator
• Explain how Structured Query Language (SQL) is used to implement a database design

Required

Database Design by Ryan K. Stephens and Ronald R. Plew. Published by Sams. ISBN: 0-672-31758-3.

Optional

Database Design for Mere Mortals by Michael J. Hernandez. Published by Addison-Wesley. ISBN: 0-201-75284-0.

For information on how to order your textbooks, go to http://eli.nvcc.edu/books/

Call before going to a campus bookstore to make sure the materials are in stock. If you don't see what you need, ask for assistance. Each bookstore has a separate section for ELI courses. Print this page and take it with you to avoid confusion.

Additional Materials

Web site resources will be provided by the instructor. See individual lessons where applicable.

Your final grade will be based on the following scale. Please note the midterm and final exams make up two thirds of your overall grade. In order to pass the course, you must pass both exams regardless of your scores on the other assignments.

There are 2 proctored exams in this course. You are expected to take your examinations at one of the NVCC campus Testing Centers. Be sure to allow enough time to complete your exam before the Testing Center closes; Testing Centers have specific policies relating to the administration of ELI exams. You will need to take a photo ID, your NovaConnect empl ID number, and the appropriate Exam Pass when you go to the Testing Center.  

For Testing Center locations, hours of operation and policies, click here.

For information on taking exams outside of the metropolitan area, click here.

You may contact me through regular email
at wmally@nvcc.edu

1. Use your web browser to connect to www. nvcc.edu/bbstart. Follow the directions to determine your email, Blackboard and VIVA account user names and passwords.
2. Log on to your email account and make sure you know how to use it; you will be required to use this account for all course-related email.
3. Log on to your Blackboard account.
4. Click on this course under "My Courses." Review the entire course to make sure you understand what will be required of you. Then start completing the assignments.

Please note that account generation takes approximately one week from the time of your paid registration. If you cannot log on after one week, contact the IT Help Desk.