SQL for Data Analysis

Programme Summary

SQL enables analysts to retrieve and summarise business information directly from relational data. This programme develops practical querying skills with an emphasis on correct joins, meaningful aggregation and transparent validation. Participants analyse a training database, resolve common data quality traps and prepare reusable queries that answer business questions without altering operational records or exposing sensitive information.

Training Objectives

1 Build practical relational querying and analysis skills; 2 Strengthen correct filtering joining and aggregation; 3 Improve recognition of common query logic errors; 4 Support clear validation of analytical query results; 5 Develop reusable readable and responsible SQL workflows.

Learning Outcomes

1 Write queries that retrieve relevant business records; 2 Join tables using verified relationship assumptions; 3 Calculate grouped summaries and window based measures; 4 Validate query outputs against expected data behaviour; 5 Document reusable queries with clear analytical meaning.

Target Audience

Data Analysts; Reporting Analysts; Business Intelligence Analysts; Finance Analysts; Operations Analysts.

Target Industries

Retail Analytics; Financial Services; Manufacturing; Logistics; Telecommunications; Business Services.

Course Contents

• Module 1 Relational Data Foundations: Tables rows columns and relationships; Primary foreign and candidate keys; Data types nulls and schema interpretation.
• Module 2 Query Structure: Selecting columns and naming outputs; Ordering results and limiting rows; Readability aliases and query organisation.
• Module 3 Filtering Data: Comparison logical and range conditions; Text matching and case considerations; Null handling and three valued logic.
• Module 4 Calculated Fields: Arithmetic conditional expressions and conversions; Dates strings and common analytical functions; Precision rounding and division pitfalls.
• Module 5 Aggregation: Counts sums averages and grouping; Group filters and meaningful denominators; Duplicates nulls and aggregation traps.
• Module 6 Joining Tables: Inner left and other join concepts; Join cardinality and duplication risks; Checking unmatched and multiplied records.
• Module 7 Subqueries and Common Table Expressions: Breaking analysis into understandable stages; Correlated and independent subqueries; Reuse clarity and query scope.
• Module 8 Window Functions: Partition ordering and analytic calculations; Ranking running totals and comparisons; Distinguishing grouped from row level results.
• Module 9 Time and Cohort Analysis: Date ranges periods and business calendars; Trend comparisons and cohort definitions; Missing periods and changing population effects.
• Module 10 Data Quality and Validation: Uniqueness completeness and consistency queries; Reconciling totals and validating joins; Documenting assumptions and known limitations.
• Module 11 Responsible Query Execution: Read only access and least privilege; Sensitive fields and approved data use; Query cost awareness and safe execution limits.
• Module 12 SQL Analysis Workshop: Answering questions from a relational dataset; Testing queries for common logic errors; Delivering readable validated analysis queries.

Assessment

• 60 single best answer questions, including applied scenarios; one mark per question.
• 90 minute invigilated digital examination with identity verification. Approved accessibility adjustments preserve the assessed competence.
• Supplied reference pack permitted; external internet and AI assistance prohibited.
• Individual applied assessment (45 minutes): Write and validate queries against a training database, including joins, grouped summaries and a window calculation, then explain the business meaning of results.
• Assessment criteria: Correctness of query logic and relationship handling; Accuracy of output validation and reconciliation; Readability and responsible data access practices.
• Pass each component separately: 45/60 written marks (75%) and at least 70% on the applied task.
• All mandatory criteria must pass: Use read only training access and protect restricted data.
• Individual results and feedback are provided. One reassessment may follow coaching under the published enrolment terms.

Certification

• Successful learners receive a TQCSI Arabia digital Certificate of Successful Completion.
• The certificate records the learner name, exact programme title, teaching hours, completion date and unique verification reference.
• Verified identity, full attendance and separate written and applied passes are required; all mandatory critical criteria must be met.
• Proposed issue target: within 30 calendar days of approved results and settlement of applicable fees.
• Records assessed SQL analytical querying skills; it does not confer database administrator certification or production data access authority.
• Attendance confirmation may record completed hours for unsuccessful learners; it does not certify successful completion.

Programme Profile

Number of daysNumber of daysNumber of days

333

Total teaching hoursTotal teaching hoursTotal teaching hours

18 hours; breaks, pre course work and formal final assessments excluded.18 hours; breaks, pre course work and formal final assessments excluded.18 hours; breaks, pre course work and formal final assessments excluded.

Delegates allowedDelegates allowedDelegates allowed

Maximum 16 delegates.Maximum 16 delegates.Maximum 16 delegates.

Training prerequisitesTraining prerequisitesTraining prerequisites

Basic spreadsheet analysis and familiarity with tabular data are required. No previous SQL programming experience is necessary.Basic spreadsheet analysis and familiarity with tabular data are required. No previous SQL programming experience is necessary.Basic spreadsheet analysis and familiarity with tabular data are required. No previous SQL programming experience is necessary.

Pre course assignment and assessmentPre course assignment and assessmentPre course assignment and assessment

Review a training database diagram and complete a 25 minute diagnostic on tables, keys and business questions.Review a training database diagram and complete a 25 minute diagnostic on tables, keys and business questions.Review a training database diagram and complete a 25 minute diagnostic on tables, keys and business questions.

End of course assessmentEnd of course assessmentEnd of course assessment

60 question written exam (90 minutes) and individual applied task (45 minutes).60 question written exam (90 minutes) and individual applied task (45 minutes).60 question written exam (90 minutes) and individual applied task (45 minutes).

Passing criteriaPassing criteriaPassing criteria

75% written and 70% applied, passed separately; full attendance. All mandatory criteria must pass.75% written and 70% applied, passed separately; full attendance. All mandatory criteria must pass.75% written and 70% applied, passed separately; full attendance. All mandatory criteria must pass.