Structured Query Language (SQL) using SAS from Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Overview and Data Setup

In this module you get an overview of what you learn in this course and you set up the software and data you use for activities and practices in the course.

Essentials

In this module, you learn about the Structured Query Language (SQL) and begin exploring data using the SQL procedure in SAS.

PROC SQL Fundamentals

In this module, you learn the fundamentals of SQL by using the SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, HAVING, and ORDER BY clauses. You generate simple queries, group and summarize data, create and manage tables, and retrieve information about your SAS session using DICTIONARY tables.

SQL Joins

In this module, you learn about joining data horizontally from multiple tables using the Cartesian product. You learn how to perform INNER, OUTER and complex joins.

Subqueries

In this module, you learn about using subqueries, or a query within a query. You begin by using a subquery in the WHERE or HAVING clause to dynamically subset your data, then you use a query in the FROM clause (In-Line view) to act as a virtual table. Finally, you use a subquery in the SELECT clause to perform dynamic calculations.

Set Operators

In this module, you learn to concatenate tables vertically using the INTERSECT, EXCEPT, UNION and OUTER UNION set operators. You learn the difference between the set operators, as well as how to use modifiers to adjust the default behavior.

Using and Creating Macro Variables in SQL

In this module, you learn about creating and utilizing user-defined macro variables to dynamically write programs that are easily maintained. In addition, you learn to create data-driven macro variables using the SQL procedure, and how to apply the newly created macro variables to your program.

Accessing DBMS Data with SAS/ACCESS

In this module, you learn about SAS/ACCESS technology to retrieve data from third party database management systems (DBMS). You learn about accessing data from a DBMS through the SQL Pass-Through Facility, which allows you to use the specific DBMS implementation of SQL, and the SAS/ACCESS LIBNAME statement, which translates SAS SQL to native DBMS SQL. Finally, you learn about the FEDSQL procedure to use vendor neutral SQL to push as much processing into the DBMS as possible.

Case Study (Honors) and Certification Practice Exam

In this case study, you solve a real-world business problem by applying concepts that you learned in this course.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Teaches Structured Query Language (SQL), which is widely used across industries for reporting and data analysis

Provides a comprehensive overview of data querying and subsetting using SQL, ideal for beginners and those new to data analysis

Introduces data summarization and presentation techniques, enabling learners to create informative reports and dashboards

Covers advanced concepts such as joins and set operators, essential for working with complex datasets and extracting meaningful insights

Demonstrates how to create and modify tables and views, providing learners with hands-on experience in data management

Suitable for SAS programmers looking to enhance their data manipulation and reporting capabilities

Reviews summary

Well-received sas for sql course

Learners say Structured Query Language (SQL) using SAS is well structured and a good choice for beginners as it provides practical learning, engaging assignments, and plenty of practice to reinforce learning. It covers foundational SQL concepts including using SAS code to write queries. The video lectures are praised for being clear and concise. Students particularly appreciate the well-organized course materials that make learning easy and the prompt feedback from instructors.

Course is appropriate for beginners.

"Awesome class for beginning like me."

"This class was a good introduction or refresher for proc sql."

"Every SQL novice should try this, start right here!"

Course is well organized.

"The SQL using SAS this course is an introductory course."

"Many thanks to Peter and SAS for this amazing course offering."

"Every Week and module works together to increase and enhance your understanding of SQL and SAS."

Instructors explain concepts well.

"Clear explanation! This course can help me to understand the concept of SQL in SAS."

"The instructor is also taught very well."

"Every SQL novice should try this, start right here!"

Exercises reinforce material.

"The practice questions and assignments were structured nicely to check the learning pattern."

"This course nearly covered all the basic areas which are required in the real working."

"Quizzes and practice tests enhanced my focus and discipline while perfecting the real-classroom experience!"

Course provides practical learning.

"Awesome course with practical learning."

"I currently work as a Financial Analyst in Risk Analytics domain."

"One of the things i adore in this course that you have free SAS on Demand for Academics free cloud based programme that you can practice everything you learned and use it whenever you want."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Structured Query Language (SQL) using SAS with these activities:

Learn SAS Online

Show steps

Explore additional resources to strengthen your understanding of Structured Query Language (SQL).

Browse courses on Structured Query Language

Show steps

Identify a reputable online tutorial or course on SQL.
Review the syllabus or course outline to ensure alignment with your learning objectives.
Set aside dedicated time for completing the online tutorials or course.
Take notes, ask questions, and actively engage with the learning materials.
Practice writing and executing SQL queries to reinforce your understanding.

Review fundamental concepts of relational databases and SQL

Show steps

Refreshes prior knowledge and ensures a strong foundation for the course material, reducing the need for remedial learning during the course.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Revisit concepts of data modeling, normalization, and SQL syntax.
Solve practice problems or complete online quizzes to test understanding.

Seek Mentorship from Experienced SQL Practitioners

Show steps

Connect with individuals who can provide guidance and support in your SQL learning journey.

Browse courses on Mentorship

Show steps

Identify potential mentors within your network or through professional organizations.
Reach out to mentors and express your interest in learning from their experience.
Schedule regular meetings or discussions to discuss your progress and challenges.
Actively engage with your mentors, ask questions, and seek feedback.
Express gratitude for the guidance and support you receive from your mentors.

16 other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all 19 activities

Review SQL basics

Show steps

Ensure you have a strong foundation in SQL syntax and concepts before diving into the course materials.

Browse courses on Structured Query Language

Show steps

Review basic SQL commands such as SELECT, FROM, WHERE, GROUP BY, and ORDER BY.
Practice writing simple SQL queries to extract data from tables.
Review data types and how to use them in SQL statements.

Join or form a study group with peers to discuss course concepts and assignments

Show steps

Fosters collaboration and peer support, allowing learners to exchange ideas, clarify understanding, and learn from each other.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Identify or connect with classmates who are interested in forming a study group.
Establish regular meeting times and a communication platform.
Prepare for meetings by reviewing course material and identifying topics for discussion.
Engage in active discussions, share insights, ask questions, and provide support to peers.

Review various resources such as blogs, journals, and books to reinforce core concepts

Show steps

Exposes learners to different viewpoints and perspectives on the same core topics covered in the course, which can help solidify learning and deepen understanding.

View The Little SAS Book on Amazon

Show steps

Identify relevant resources from course materials, online repositories, databases, and libraries.
Read and synthesize information from various sources.
Summarize, annotate, and create notes to document key takeaways.

Practice SQL Queries

Show steps

Reinforce your SQL skills through regular practice and exercises.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Find online platforms or resources that provide SQL practice exercises.
Dedicate time to regularly solving SQL queries of varying difficulty levels.
Analyze your results and identify areas for improvement.
Seek feedback or assistance from peers or instructors when needed.
Persistently practice to enhance your proficiency in writing and executing SQL queries.

Follow tutorials on SAS SQL

Show steps

Supplement your understanding of SAS SQL by following tutorials that provide step-by-step guidance on using the language.

Browse courses on SAS Programming

Show steps

Find online tutorials or video courses that cover SAS SQL fundamentals.
Follow the tutorials and practice writing SAS SQL code.
Experiment with different SAS SQL features and functions.

Complete interactive tutorials and exercises on SQL and SAS programming

Show steps

Provides guided practice and hands-on experience, allowing learners to apply concepts and techniques in a structured environment.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Identify reputable online platforms or resources that provide interactive tutorials and exercises.
Choose tutorials and exercises that align with course objectives and topics.
Follow instructions and complete exercises, taking notes and seeking clarification when needed.
Review and debug code, identifying and correcting errors to improve understanding.

Attend an SQL Workshop or Training

Show steps

Enhance your SQL skills through interactive workshops or training sessions.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Research and identify reputable SQL workshops or training programs.
Register and attend the workshop or training.
Actively participate in the sessions, ask questions, and engage with instructors.
Apply the knowledge and techniques learned in the workshop to your own projects.
Follow up with the workshop organizers or instructors for continued support.

Solve practice problems and coding challenges related to SQL and SAS

Show steps

Reinforces understanding and develops problem-solving skills by providing opportunities to apply knowledge in different contexts.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Find online platforms or resources that offer practice problems and coding challenges.
Select problems and challenges that are relevant to the course material and difficulty level.
Solve problems and challenges independently or with peers.
Analyze solutions, identify errors, and learn from mistakes.

Complete SQL practice exercises

Show steps

Reinforce your grasp of SQL concepts by completing practice exercises that challenge you to solve data-related problems.

Browse courses on SQL Queries

Show steps

Find online platforms or textbooks that offer SQL practice exercises.
Start with easier exercises and gradually progress to more complex ones.
Review your answers and identify areas where you need improvement.

Attend industry meetups or conferences

Show steps

Expand your professional network and gain insights from experts by attending industry meetups or conferences related to data analysis and SAS SQL.

Browse courses on Networking

Show steps

Research upcoming industry events in your area.
Register for events that align with your interests.
Connect with professionals, share knowledge, and explore potential opportunities.

Create a data visualization project using SQL and SAS

Show steps

Encourages learners to apply their knowledge creatively by transforming data into visual representations, which can enhance understanding and communication.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Choose a dataset or scenario that lends itself to data visualization.
Design and create visualizations using appropriate SQL and SAS techniques.
Interpret and analyze the visualizations to draw insights and conclusions.
Present the visualizations and findings in a clear and compelling manner.

Develop a SAS Data Analysis Project

Show steps

Apply your knowledge and skills to a practical data analysis project.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

Show steps

Identify a real-world dataset or problem that aligns with your learning objectives.
Design and develop a SAS program that uses SQL to query, manipulate, and analyze the data.
Create visualizations and reports to present your findings and insights.
Peer review or present your project to receive constructive feedback.
Reflect on your project and identify areas for improvement.

Build a mini data analysis project

Show steps

Apply your SAS SQL skills to a practical scenario by building a mini data analysis project that addresses a real-world problem.

Browse courses on Data Analysis

Show steps

Identify a small dataset and a specific problem or question you want to answer.
Use SAS SQL to extract, transform, and analyze the data.
Create visualizations or reports to present your findings.

Develop a SAS program to automate data processing tasks based on SQL queries

Show steps

Challenges learners to apply their knowledge in a practical and project-based setting, fostering problem-solving and critical thinking skills.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Identify a data processing task that can be automated using SAS and SQL.
Design and implement a SAS program that incorporates SQL queries to extract, manipulate, and transform data.
Test, debug, and refine the program to ensure efficient and accurate data processing.
Document the program and prepare user instructions for future use.

Mentor junior data analysts

Show steps

Solidify your understanding of SAS SQL by teaching and guiding junior data analysts, providing valuable insights and support.

Browse courses on Mentoring

Show steps

Identify opportunities to mentor junior data analysts.
Share your knowledge and experience, providing guidance and feedback.
Evaluate their progress and offer support to enhance their skills.

Volunteer at a local organization that utilizes SQL and SAS for data analysis

Show steps

Provides real-world experience in applying SQL and SAS skills, enhancing practical knowledge and making learning more meaningful.

Browse courses on SQL

Show steps

Identify local organizations that align with personal interests and utilize SQL and SAS.
Contact the organizations and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
Participate in projects and tasks that involve data analysis using SQL and SAS.
Collaborate with professionals and gain insights into industry applications.

Career center

Learners who complete Structured Query Language (SQL) using SAS will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Data Engineer

A Data Engineer designs and builds data pipelines and infrastructure. This course may be useful for aspiring Data Engineers as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Engineer

Database Administrator

A Database Administrator is responsible for the maintenance and performance of an organization's databases. This course may be useful for aspiring Database Administrators as it teaches how to create and modify tables and views, and how to access data from third party DBMS using SAS/ACCESS technology.

See salaries and explore the career path for Database Administrator

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst uses data to identify and solve business problems. This course may be useful for aspiring Business Analysts as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Business Analyst

Market Researcher

A Market Researcher conducts research to collect data about consumer behavior and trends. This course may be useful for aspiring Market Researchers as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Data Analyst

A Data Analyst processes large volumes of data to find meaningful insights and trends. These insights are used to make better decisions and improve business outcomes. This course may be useful for aspiring Data Analysts as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist uses advanced statistical methods and machine learning techniques to extract knowledge from data. This course may be useful for aspiring Data Scientists as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators. Additionally, this course provides an overview of SAS/ACCESS technology, which can be used to access data from third party database management systems (DBMS).

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Actuary

An Actuary uses mathematical and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty. This course may be useful for aspiring Actuaries as it teaches the fundamentals of SQL, which is used to store and retrieve data for actuarial calculations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Epidemiologist

An Epidemiologist investigates the causes and patterns of disease. This course may be useful for aspiring Epidemiologists as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Epidemiologist

Public Health Analyst

A Public Health Analyst uses data to improve public health outcomes. This course may be useful for aspiring Public Health Analysts as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Health Analyst

Health Services Researcher

A Health Services Researcher uses data to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare. This course may be useful for aspiring Health Services Researchers as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Health Services Researcher

Operations Research Analyst

An Operations Research Analyst uses mathematical and analytical techniques to solve complex business problems. This course may be useful for aspiring Operations Research Analysts as it teaches the fundamentals of SQL, which is used to store and retrieve data for analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Research Analyst

Statistician

A Statistician collects, analyzes, and interprets data to make informed decisions. This course may be useful for aspiring Statisticians as it teaches the fundamentals of SQL, which is used to store and retrieve data for statistical analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Statistician

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software systems. This course may be useful for aspiring Software Engineers as it teaches the fundamentals of SQL, which is a widely used database language.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Web Developer

A Web Developer designs and develops websites and web applications. This course may be useful for aspiring Web Developers as it teaches the fundamentals of SQL, which is used to store and retrieve data on the web.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Financial Analyst

A Financial Analyst analyzes financial data to make investment recommendations. This course may be useful for aspiring Financial Analysts as it teaches how to query and subset data, summarize and present data, and combine tables using joins and set operators.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst