In this graduate database course, we focus on the systematic design of databases and interfaces for commercial and industrial applications. We focus on the relational database model, where a given set of data attributes can be arranged into many alternative designs. We use Chen's Entity-Relationship model to represent these alternatives and Normalization Theory to evaluate and improve designs. We also cover query languages such as relational algebra and SQL. As time permits, we will also investigate current research topics in the field, such as methods for referencing geometric data.

In the Lab, students will experiment with commercial Database Management Systems and design their own systems.

NOTE: Due to the size of our laboratory, the class is limited to 40 grad students. Since it's difficult to determine the numbers at registration time, we will give a simple entrance exam to all interested students. Don't worry about studying for this, it's not a test of knowledge but of eligibility and enthusiasm.

If you can't make the first week of classes, due to the CUE strike, we will give the entrance exam again on Wed Sept 4. After we review the entrance exams I'll give out course entry codes in class on Sept 9. I realize this is inconvenient but it's the only fair solution to a very stressful situation.

For general information please contact Jennifer Vorih, the IEOR Student Affairs Officer, at: jvorih@ieor.berkeley.edu.

Tentative Syllabus

Team Projects Info

MS Access Lab Handouts in .pdf format

Related Links

Database Security Presentation (.ppt)

XML Presentation (.ppt)

Object Oriented Database Presentation (.ppt)

Spatial Databases Presentation (.ppt)

Database Transactions and Recovery Presentation (.ppt)