Oracle SQL & PL-SQL Fundamentals

You’ll learn how to construct precise SQL queries to retrieve and analyse data from Oracle databases. Starting with the basic statements, you’ll apply filtering and group data using appropriate aggregate functions. You’ll work with column aliases for improved readability, master arithmetic expressions, and understand operator precedence. You’ll also develop the ability to combine data from multiple tables using inner, outer, and self-joins, as well as craft efficient subqueries, in-line views and top-N queries for complex reporting requirements. 

This course covers the creation and maintenance of essential Oracle database structures. You’ll learn to create and alter tables with constraints such as primary keys, foreign keys, and check conditions to enforce data integrity. You’ll manage data using relevant commands, apply transaction control and ensure accuracy with constraints and verification methods. You’ll also work with views, indexes, sequences and synonyms, learning how these features optimise performance, streamline data access, and simplify database management in enterprise systems. 

You’ll gain a practical introduction to Oracle’s procedural extension to SQL. Beginning with PL/SQL block structure, you’ll declare and initialise variables, apply constants, and work with different data types. You’ll integrate SQL statements within PL/SQL code, apply conditional logic and loop constructs, then build nested and labelled loops for complex processing. You’ll handle exceptions using predefined and user-defined error handling, use cursors for controlled row-by-row processing, and explore advanced techniques such as parameterised cursors, records, and associative arrays. This foundation will enable you to automate tasks and create reusable, maintainable database programmes.