Introduction to Database Management, 7.5 Credits

Contents

The course consists of two parts:
Part 1, principles, 4.5 credits
This part covers the following topics: the relational model of data; the use of SQL, as both a stand-alone language and via ODBC with C or Python as the host language, to express queries and updates as well as to declare schemata,; the relational algebra and calculus; ER-based schema design; and the normalization of relational schemata.

Part 2, practice, 3 credits.
In the prectice part some of the theories and techniques discussed in the principles part are put into practice. This part consists of a series of mandatory practical assignments.

Expected learning outcomes

After having completed the course the student will be able to:
* describe the relational model of data;

* display skill in declaring relational schemata using SQL;

* display broad competence in expressing queries and updates in SQL;

* develop interfaces to database-management systems using ODBC with one of C or Python as the host language;

* describe security problems such as SQL injection and explain how they can be avoided;

* express queries in the relational algebra and relational calculus;

* explain what conceptual modeling is and how it is used in the development of database schemata;

* translate ER specifications to relational schemata;

* display sterling understanding of normal forms for relational schemata and describe algorithms to realize them.

Required Knowledge

To be admitted to the course, 60 ECTS credits in Computing Science or two years of completed studies are required, in both cases including the courses (or equivalent):
1) Either CS2: Algorithms and problemsolving (5DV161) or Data Structures and Algorithms (5DV127/5DV128/5DV149/5DV150) and
2) CS4: Logic for computer science (5DV163) or 5DV102 Fundations of Logic and Model Theory or Mathematics courses comprising of 22.5 ECTS-credits.
3) Proficiency in English equivalent to Swedish upper secondary course English A (IELTS (Academic) with a minimum overall score of 5.5 and no individual score below 5.0. TOEFL PBT (Paper-based Test) with a minimum total score of 530 and a minimum TWE score of 4. TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test) with a minimum total score of 72 and a minimum score of 17 on the Writing Section).
Where the language of instruction is Swedish, applicants must prove proficiency in Swedish to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies.

Form of instruction

Instruction consists of lectures and mandatory assignments. In addition to scheduled activities, individual work with the material is also required.

Examination modes

The examination consists of a written exam in Part 1 and by grading the mandatory assignments in Part 2. In Part 1, the grades given are Fail (U), Pass (3) or Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5). In Part 2 the grades given are Fail (U) or Pass (G). On the course as a whole, the grades given are Fail (U), Pass (3) or Pass with Mark (4), or Pass with Distinction (5). In order to pass the course completely all mandatory parts must be passed as well. The final grade of the course is a summary assessment of the results and decided only after all mandatory parts are passed.
A student who has passed an examination may not be re-examined.

For all students who do not pass the regular examination there there are additional opportunities to do the examination. A student who has taken two tests for a course or segment of a course, without passing, has the right to have another examiner appointed, unless there exist special reasons (Higher Education Ordinance Chapter 6, section 22). Requests for new examiners are made to the head of the Department of Computing Science.

TRANSFER OF CREDITS
This course may not be used towards a degree, in whole or in part, simultaneously with another course of similar content. If in doubt, consult the student counselors at the Department of Computing Science and / or program director of your program.

At most one of the courses Introduction to Database Management (5DV119), Principles of Database Systems (5DV021), and Database Systems in Biotechnology (5DV030) may be included in the courses used to meet the requirements for a degree.

Transfer of credits is considered individually (see the University Code of Rules and regulations for transfer of credits). An application for transfer of credits is made on a special form and should be submitted to the Faculty of Science and Technology, Umeå University.