Computing

Databases

Module code: G6031
Level 5
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Laboratory
Assessment modes: Coursework

On this module, you’ll get an introduction to the concepts of database software, database design, management and programming. This includes:

  • conceptual database design using the entity-relationship approach
  • logical database design
  • physical database design.

The module focuses on the relational data model. You’ll learn to:

  • design and implement a relational database using Structured Query Language (SQL)
  • retrieve and manipulate data via SQL queries
  • normalise relational databases: normal forms, and the elimination of certain anomalies based on redundancy
  • tune database queries with security via permission rights and indexes
  • write stored procedures and triggers using procedural SQL
  • use Java Database Connectivity libraries (JDBC) to access databases in Java programs.


A series of examples helps you understand the theoretical principles. By implementing these examples in a database management system and a graphical query browser, you’ll gain practical experience.

Pre-requisite

Introduction to Programming

Module learning outcomes

  • Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of established principles for data modelling, management and security in the context of relational databases.
  • Demonstrate the ability to apply underlying database concepts outside the context in which they were first studied. This includes the design of a database from a specification, and writing SQL code to set up, maintain and query a database.
  • Show an understanding of the limits of the Entity-Relationship Model and the Relational Model, and an appreciation of alternative database models.