CS 430/630 Database Management Systems

Syllabus for Fall, 2019
Class meets MW 7:00-8:15 in W-1-0031

Course Objectives

The course will introduce fundamental concepts in relational databases, such as: the relational model and relational algebra; the Standard Query Language (SQL); database design theory; conceptual design; database application development; database security.

Prerequisites

Students registering for CS430/630 must have previously completed courses in data structures and discrete mathematics. Also, they are required to have working knowledge of Java and C programming languages, as well as familiarity in using the UNIX/Linux operating system.

Topics Covered

Topics in More Detail: see the class home page at www.cs.umb.edu/cs630.

Textbooks

R. Ramakrishnan, J. Gehrke (R&G), "Database Management Systems", 3rd edition. Available in .pdf.
J. Murach (M), "Oracle SQL and PL/SQL for Developers", 2nd edition. Please purchase a print copy (under $50).
Note: No electronic devices are allowed in open-book exams, so be prepared to print out parts of online books

Grading

Simple point system. Midterm exam: 100 points, Final exam: 150 points, Assignments: various, about 100 points total. The exams are open-print-books, posted solutions, your own assignment papers, closed electronic devices.

Attendance Policy

Class attendance is strongly encouraged, and students are expected to participate actively in class by asking and answering questions. Occasional classes will have "labs", i.e., practice work in class, with credit for completed papers (completed in that class period). In case of missed class, students are responsible to get up-to-date with course materials and announcements available at the class web page www.cs.umb.edu/cs630.

Accommodations

The University of Massachusetts Boston is committed to providing reasonable academic accommodations for all students with disabilities.  This syllabus is available in alternate format upon request. Students with disabilities who need accommodations in this course must contact the instructor to discuss needed accommodations. Accommodations will be provided after the student has met with the instructor to request accommodations. Students must be registered with the Ross Center for Disability Services, UL 211, www.ross.center@umb.edu , 617.287.7430 before requesting accommodations from the instructor.

Academic Conduct

It is the expressed policy of the University that every aspect of academic life—not only formal coursework situations, but all relationships and interactions connected to the educational process—shall be conducted in an absolutely and uncompromisingly honest manner. The University presupposes that any submission of work for academic credit indicates that the work is the student’s own and is in compliance with University policies. In cases where academic dishonesty is discovered after completion of a course or degree program, sanctions may be imposed retroactively, up to and including revocation of the degree. Students are required to adhere to the Code of Student Conduct, including requirements for academic honesty, delineated in the University of Massachusetts Boston Bulletin, found at:  http://www.umb.edu/life on_campus/policies/community/code.

Instructor: Prof. Betty O'Neil

TA: TBA

NOTE: Get a Linux account for cs430/630 by running apply for cs630, even if you already have a UNIX/Linux account here. See detailed directions at  https://www.cs.umb.edu/sp/resources/other/faqs/#FAQ02, reachable from www.cs.umb.edu by clicking RESOURCES, looking for the Common section, and clicking Answers to Frequently Asked Questions, then selecting FAQ02. You can get help in S/3/158. This should be done by the end of the first week to list your username for an Oracle account. See the class web page at http://www.cs.umb.edu/cs630. Also read Access to cs.umb.edu systems from offsite.