COMP6240 Relational Databases

COMP6240 is only available under certain award programs.

Offered By	Research School of Computer Science
Academic Career	Graduate Coursework
Course Subject	Computer Science
Offered in	Second Semester, 2013 and Second Semester, 2014
Unit Value	6 units
Course Description	This course is an introduction to relational databases and the general skills for designing and using them. The topics include the relational data model, SQL, entity-relationship model, functional dependencies,(de-)normalisation, relational algebra, query processing and optimisation, database transactions and security. To deepen the understanding of relational databases, the current industry development of database systems such as NoSQL databases will be introduced at the end of this course.
Learning Outcomes	On satisfying the requirements of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to: • describe the basic concepts of the relational model and understand the underlying math- ematical foundation; • use the SQL language to define, query and manipulate a relational database; • apply conceptual database modelling methods such as entity-relationship model to design a relational database; • apply database design methods on functional dependencies and normal forms to evaluate the quality of a relational database design; • understand query processing, transaction management and basic security issues in a relational database management system; • understand how to access relational databases using a programming language like Java.
Indicative Assessment	Lab Assessment (4%); Assignments (30%); SQL lab exam 16%; Final Exam (50%)
Workload	Thirty three one-hour lectures and seven two-hour laboratory sessions
Course Classification(s)	TransitionalTransitional courses are designed for students from a broad range of backgrounds and learning achievements, which provide for the acquisition of generic skills; or an informed understanding of contemporary issues; or fundamental knowledge for transition to Advanced or Specialist courses.
Areas of Interest	Information Technology
Prescribed Texts	Elmasri & Navathe Fundamentals of Database Systems, 6th edition, Addison-Wesley, 2011. (5th edition is OK, and earlier ones too.)
Programs	Graduate Certificate in Business Information Management, Graduate Certificate in Business Information Management, Master of Information Systems Studies, and Master of Information Systems Studies

The information published on the Study at ANU 2013 website applies to the 2013 academic year only. All information provided on this website replaces the information contained in the Study at ANU 2012 website.