SQL for researchers: demystifying databases - online

Many organisations store their data in relational databases rather than spreadsheets or CSV files, requiring SQL (Structured Query Language) to access, extract and analyse data. This hands-on course introduces researchers to essential database concepts and fundamental SQL skills for data extraction and analysis, empowering participants to confidently engage with data providers and collaborate effectively with technical teams. Through practical workshops, participants will learn how to write queries, combine data from multiple tables, and integrate SQL into their research workflows. No prior database or SQL experience is required.

This one day (10am - 4:30pm) online course covers: 

• Database concepts and why organisations use relational databases

• Writing SQL queries to extract, filter and sort data

• Connecting data from multiple tables using joins

• Summarising and aggregating data

• Integrating SQL with statistical software (e.g. R, Stata, Python, Excel)

• Resources and tools for continued learning

By the end of the course participants will:

• Understand what distinguishes relational databases from other data storage methods, and why organisations choose them over spreadsheets or flat files
• Be aware of the four main types of SQL operations (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, and DELETE) and their purposes
• Be able to write SELECT queries to extract, filter and sort data
• Be able to use aggregate functions and GROUP BY to summarise data
• Be able to combine data from related tables using INNER JOIN and LEFT JOIN
• Be able to extract data from a database for further analysis using statistical software
• Be aware of tools and methods for connecting to databases relevant to their own fields
• Understand how SQL skills fit into typical research and data analysis workflows, and know where to find resources for continued learning

Payment using the Online Store can only be completed via Visa and Mastercard Credit/Debit Card or PayPal.  AMEX is not accepted.
If you have not previously created an account for the Online Store, you will need to create an account to make a booking.