Whether you’re a student exploring tech skills or a professional looking to advance your career, learning SQL (Structured Query Language) is one of the most useful steps you can take today. Codecademy’s “Learn SQL” course is a beginner-friendly, online course designed to help you understand how to manage and analyze data using SQL — all at your own pace.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this free SQL course with certificate, including what you’ll learn, who can take it, how to enroll, and how it can help your career.
What you’ll learn in this SQL course #
This course is structured to help complete beginners get comfortable with SQL, even if you have no prior programming experience. Here’s a summary of the key topics covered:
- SQL Manipulation: Learn how to create, read, update, and delete data in tables.
- Writing Queries: Understand how to build SQL queries using essential commands and keywords.
- Using Aggregate Functions: Learn functions that help summarize data, like COUNT, AVG, MAX, etc.
- Working with Multiple Tables: Discover how to connect and analyze data from different tables using JOINs.
The course also includes 5 real-world projects such as analyzing Hacker News data and managing restaurant information, which help you apply your skills practically.
Who can take this course? #
This course is open to anyone who wants to learn SQL. It’s especially helpful for:
- Students in computer science, business, or data-related fields
- Freshers preparing for data analyst or software development roles
- Working professionals in marketing, product, operations, or sales who deal with data
- Anyone switching to tech or data careers
No prior experience or technical background is needed.
Course format and duration #
- Mode: 100% Online
- Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
- Total Time Required: Around 5 hours (self-paced)
- Includes: 4 lessons, 5 projects, 4 quizzes
You can learn anytime, anywhere. You can pause, revisit, or speed through topics based on your pace.
Will you get a certificate? #
Yes. Upon completing the course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion, but only if you are subscribed to Codecademy’s “Plus” or “Pro” plan.
The course itself is free to access, but the certificate feature is part of their premium plans. However, many learners use the free version for skill-building, and upgrade only if they need a verified certificate for job applications or LinkedIn.
How this course helps your career #
SQL is one of the most in-demand skills across tech and non-tech industries. Here’s how it can benefit your job prospects:
- Makes you eligible for roles like Data Analyst, Business Analyst, Backend Developer, or Database Administrator
- Adds a valuable skill to your resume or LinkedIn profile
- Helps you work with large datasets in Excel, Google Sheets, or database tools
- Gives you the foundation to learn other data tools like Python, R, or Power BI
Whether you’re preparing for interviews or handling real-world data tasks, SQL gives you a strong advantage.
How to join this free SQL course step-by-step #
You can start learning in just a few minutes. Here’s how:
- Visit Codecademy’s Learn SQL course page: https://www.codecademy.com/learn/learn-sql
- Sign up or log in to your Codecademy account (free).
- Click “Start” to begin the course.
- If you want a certificate, consider subscribing to the Pro plan after finishing the lessons.
No software installation is required — everything runs in the browser.
Is the course really free? Any hidden costs? #
Yes, the entire SQL course content is free, including lessons, projects, and quizzes. You only need to pay if you want a certificate of completion or access to other Pro-exclusive features like personalized feedback, career paths, or interview prep.
So, if your goal is to learn SQL skills for free, you can do that without spending anything.
Tips to complete the course successfully #
- Set small daily goals – For example, complete one lesson each day.
- Practice regularly – Use the projects to apply your knowledge.
- Review mistakes – Don’t skip quizzes; they reinforce learning.
- Take notes – Writing key commands and logic will help in revision.
- Use external resources – Combine this course with short YouTube videos or blog tutorials if you’re stuck.
Completing the course in 7 days or less is realistic even for beginners.
