Introduction to Databases Geo874

Lectures, exercises and practical sessions in Fall Semester 2025

Registration and booking

Content and objectives

In this course we cover basics of database design (Entity-Relationship modeling, normalization) and database access through the Structured Query Language (SQL). We will introduce fundamentals of DB design from requirements analysis, through conceptual, logical to physical DB models. We will cover DB querying, transactions, and lifecycle. A open source system (PostgreSQL) will be used as the targeted relational database. Some advanced topics and non-relational database technologies will be covered at the end of the course, based on the level of interest and progress throughout the course.

In parallel to the theoretical stream, practical skills will be acquired by dealing with real-world data step-by-step from the creation of relational data models, through data import to querying and data analysis. The practical part will consist of exercises relating to selected parts of lectures.

The criteria listed in this document apply for the final evaluation of the entire module and the award of ECTS-points. The GIUZ AI guidelines apply for this course as well.

SQL Assignment (30% of the final grade, 70% is the written exam)

Time and place

Every Friday (from 19 Sep to 24 Oct 2025)
08:00-09:45 (Y25-H-79) - Lecture
10:15-12:00 (Y25-J-09/J-10) - Practical session / exercise

Timetable and deadlines