MongoDB is one of the most popular NoSQL database platforms in use today, and it has become one of the most important database systems to learn about for software development. Unlike a relational database management system (DBMS) that rigorously structures data in rows and columns, document-oriented NoSQL databases like MongoDB store information as collections of fields or ‘objects’ within a flexible data model that can evolve to meet changing schema requirements.

The agility of MongoDB is critical in the big data era, as developers must be able to iterate constantly to manage high-volume, fast-changing data inputs. MongoDB’s system of Documents and Collections makes basic CRUD (Create, Read, Update, and Delete) operations easy, and tools like aggregation frameworks greatly simplify the creation of data pipelines and other critical pieces of infrastructure that data science applications rely upon.

Because of the industry-leading flexibility of the MongoDB platform, a background in this DBMS has become increasingly essential to pursuing a career as a data engineer, data scientist, or software developer. Building applications that effectively harness big data is exciting but challenging work, and the ability of MongoDB’s data model to evolve alongside developer needs is an ideal fit for agile software development processes that emphasize constant iteration.

MongoDB expertise can also be invaluable for a career as a database administrator (DBA). While many DBAs have traditionally worked with relational database models, the ability to ensure a MongoDB database operates efficiently and securely can be an important differentiator for hiring at many tech companies. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, DBAs make a median salary of $83,750 per year, and their expected job growth is faster than average due to the increasing use of data across all industries.

Absolutely. Computer science and data science courses are some of the most popular learning opportunities on the Coursera platform, and you have a range of options to learn about MongoDB. If you need to add MongoDB skills to your resume specifically, Coursera lets you learn from the source through courses offered by MongoDB itself. You can also learn by completing hands-on, step-by-step MongoDB tutorials from experienced instructors as part of the Coursera Project Network.

Alternatively, if you want to learn about MongoDB within the context of a broader education in computer science and big data, you can take individual courses or even Specializations spanning multiple courses provided by top-ranked universities from all over the world. Coursera offers terrific learning opportunities in this field from the University of California San Diego, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, and more - all at a lower tuition price than on-campus students.