Program Overview

Introduction to Database Management

The Introduction to Database Management course covers the concepts and tools necessary to use database systems. This starts with introducing the relational and semi-structured models of data and then delving into the classic relational query languages (tuple calculus and relational algebra), normalization theory, and entity-relationship modeling. This is followed by an in-depth coverage of SQL, including its use in a server environment. The last part of the course covers semi-structured data models using XML and accessed via XPath/XQuery.

Course Structure

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 its use in applications with C, Java, or Python as the host language, to express queries and updates as well as to declare schemata
  • the relational algebra and calculus
  • Entity Relationship-based schema design
  • the normalization of relational schemata
  • the semi-structured data model as represented in XML and accessed in XPath/XQuery
• Part 2, practice, 3 credits: In the practice part, some of the theories and techniques discussed in the principles part are put into practice. This consists of a series of mandatory practical assignments.

Course Details

• Starts: 19 January 2026
• Ends: 23 March 2026
• Number of credits: 7.5 credits
• Type of studies: On site
• Study pace: 50%
• Teaching hours: Daytime
• Study location: Umeå
• Language: English
• Application code: UMU-57302

Eligibility

• At least 90 ECTS, including 60 ECTS Computing Science, or at least 120 ECTS within a study programme
• At least 7.5 ECTS programming; 7.5 ECTS data structures and algorithms; either (a) 22.5 ECTS mathematics or (b) 7.5 ECTS discrete mathematics and 7.5 ECTS logics
• Proficiency in English equivalent to the level required for basic eligibility for higher studies

Selection

• Academic credits

Application and Tuition Fees

• Application fee: SEK 900
• Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 19,038
• Total fee: SEK 19,038

About Umeå University

Umeå University is a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. The university is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being. It is also ranked #1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction for international students.