Database Design and Basic SQL in PostgreSQL Syllabus

This course offers a comprehensive introduction to PostgreSQL and foundational database design, structured over four weeks of engaging content and hands-on practice. Learners will gain practical experience using the psql console, writing SQL queries, and modeling relational data structures. Each module builds progressively from basic operations to advanced schema design, with realistic exercises that reinforce core concepts. The course requires approximately 16–20 hours to complete, making it ideal for beginners or professionals seeking to solidify their SQL and database modeling skills. Lifetime access ensures flexibility for all learners.

Module 1: Introduction to SQL & CRUD

Estimated time: 4 hours

• History of relational databases
• Basic SQL syntax and structure
• Implementing INSERT, SELECT, UPDATE, DELETE operations
• Using psql console and CLI commands for table manipulation

Module 2: Single-Table SQL & Data Retrieval

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Filtering data with WHERE clause
• Sorting results using ORDER BY
• Removing duplicates with SELECT DISTINCT
• Basic grouping and aggregation concepts

Module 3: Relational Modeling: One-to-Many & Many-to-Many

Estimated time: 5 hours

• Understanding entity relationships
• Implementing primary and foreign keys
• Join logic and referential integrity enforcement
• Querying related tables using INNER JOINs

Module 4: Advanced Relationships, Indexing & Design Reflection

Estimated time: 6 hours

• Designing schemas for many-to-many relationships
• Applying normalization principles (1NF, 2NF, 3NF)
• Indexing strategies for performance improvement
• Comparing SQL and NoSQL paradigms and use cases

Module 5: Final Project

Estimated time: 4 hours

• Design a complete relational schema based on a real-world scenario
• Implement tables and relationships in PostgreSQL using psql
• Execute CRUD operations and complex queries to validate design

Prerequisites

• Familiarity with basic computer operations
• No prior database experience required
• Basic understanding of command-line interfaces helpful but not required

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Write and execute SQL queries in PostgreSQL using psql
• Design normalized database schemas using relational modeling principles
• Implement one-to-many and many-to-many relationships effectively
• Apply normalization techniques to reduce data redundancy
• Differentiate between SQL and NoSQL approaches based on use case