Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2026 - CMPT 354 D100

Database Systems I (3)

Class Number: 3065

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Mon, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Surrey

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Wed, 10:30–11:20 a.m.
    Surrey

  • Prerequisites:

    CMPT 225 and (MACM 101 or (ENSC 251 and ENSC 252)), all with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Logical representations of data records. Data models. Studies of some popular file and database systems. Document retrieval. Other related issues such as database administration, data dictionary and security.

COURSE DETAILS:

Almost all organizations maintain their data using a database management system (DBMS). This course provides an introduction to DBMS. We focus on the most widely used model: the relational data model. Students will become familiar with the design of database applications and use of databases. We study design tools, database modeling and query languages, including the Structured Query Language (SQL).

  • Introduction to Data Modelling and database management systems.
  • Relational data model, relational algebra.
  • Query language: SQL.
  • Relational calculus.
  • Constraints, triggers.
  • Functional dependencies. Normal forms.
  • Design theory. The entity-relationship model, E-R diagrams.
  • Transaction processing and concurrency control.
  • Deductive databases: Datalog and recursive queries.
  • Database access from applications: embedded SQL.
  • Storage and indexing: B-trees, hashing.
  • Query evaluation and optimization: join strategies, query plans.
  • Incomplete data: null values and certain answers.
  • Other topics may include some recent developments in databases, semistructured data.

Grading

  • Assignments & Mini Project 30%
  • Quizzes & Interactive Sessions 15%
  • Midterm 20%
  • Final 35%

NOTES:

Students must attain an overall passing grade (50%) on the weighted average of exams (Midterm and Final) in the course in order to obtain a clear pass (C- or better).

Further details will be discussed on the first day of classes.

REQUIREMENTS:

Students must have access to a computer with stable internet connection.
Some components of the course require real-time participation during the scheduled lecture and/or exam times.

Materials

RECOMMENDED READING:

Database Systems: The Complete Book, Hector Garcia-Molina, Jeffrey D. Ullman, Jennifer Widom
ISBN: 9780131873254

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

The following are default policies in the School of Computing Science. Please check your course syllabus whether the instructor has chosen a different policy for your class, otherwise the following policies apply.
 
  • Students must attain an overall passing grade on the weighted average of exams in the course in order to get a C- or higher.
  • All student requests for accommodations for their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes, or no later than one week after a student adds a course. After considering a request, an instructor may provide a concession or may decline to do so. Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability can contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca).

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.