CPSC 310 Database Management Systems

Learn about data modeling, design, normalization, data dictionaries, client server architecture, SQL, relational databases, and MySQL in this foundational level course on databases and their management systems. Special focus is provided on understanding the critical nature of information resources and why they must be carefully managed. The course uses examples and project-based assignments to support learning.

Cross Listed Courses

None

Prerequisite

MATH 200 & CPSC 210

Corequisite

None

Washington Technology University

Syllabus

CPSC 310 : Database Management Systems

5 Credits

Approved: 7/19/2018 2:28:47 PM

Course Description

Learn about data modeling, design, normalization, data dictionaries, client server architecture, SQL, relational databases, and MySQL in this foundational level course on databases and their management systems. Special focus is provided on understanding the critical nature of information resources and why they must be carefully managed. The course uses examples and project-based assignments to support learning.

Course Required Resources

Ricardo, C. (2017). Databases Illuminated. Burlington: Jones and Bartlett.

Course Outcomes

Define and describe the components of a relational database.

Compare the advantages of a relational database over a traditional file-based system.

Develop and refine a conceptual data model, including entities, relationships, attributes, and business rules

Identify and define user requirements and how they are implemented in a database using tables and views

Understand database transactions and how to implement them.

Understand database performance-tuning concepts

Course Keywords

Database management system, flat files, entities, attributes, cardinality, tables, constraints, referential integrity, normalization, normal forms, SQL, requirements gathering, ER modeling, Chen notation, deadlocks, data warehouses, big data

Assignment Summary

Database Install Con

250

Assgn Coll Part

250

Midterm

250

Final

250

25% Project – Database System Installation, Configuration, Development and Maintenance

In this project, students will download and install mySQL, load a sample database provided by the instructor, update, modify, and execute a use case on the database using SQL from a set of customer tasks specified in the project.  The students will then analyze the sample database and describe its architecture.  A short one-page summary must accompany the final report detailing the experience.

25% Instructor Determined Assignments, Collaboration and Participation (attendance and online activities)

The instructor will evaluate participation in the course and in online discussions. The instructor may also include other assignments. The instructor-determined assignments and discussions will be distributed and evaluated such that the total point value reflects the weighting given in the rubrics. The instructor will provide the grading criteria, rubrics, and directions for completing these assignments. 

25% Mid Term Exam

Students should be prepared to answer a variety of types of questions pertinent to the concepts covered in or suggested by the course materials, assignments and activities. The instructor may provide additional information about the content, style, and grading criteria of this exam.  The test will cover all concepts covered since the first day of class.

25% Final Exam

Students should be prepared to answer a variety of types of questions pertinent to the concepts covered in or suggested by the course materials, assignments and activities. The instructor may provide additional information about the content, style, and grading criteria of this exam.  The exam will be limited to concepts covered since the mid-term.