Learn to use hash tables
A hash table is a fundamental data structure that efficiently stores and retrieves information and is used prominently in a variety of careers, from engineers to software developers.
Learn more about what hash tables are, how to choose a learning path that works best for you, and what kinds of career options may be available to professionals with this skill set.
What is a hash table?
A hash table is a type of data structure that can help you quickly locate information. It utilizes a hash function to map specific keys to values, allowing for fast lookups and deletions of data. You can think of it like a card catalog used to find a library book by its unique identification number; the hash function allows you to quickly determine which catalog drawer contains the card for the book you are searching for.
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Choosing the right hash table program for you
Hash tables are used in a variety of jobs, such as data scientists, database administrators, and cybersecurity engineers. Online courses, certificates, and degrees are available that teach you what a hash table is and how to use it, and many can be completed within a few weeks to a few years.
Here's a closer look at some of your options for learning how to use hash tables:
Courses
You can learn about hash tables in a few weeks with online courses focusing on areas like the fundamentals of data structures and algorithms.
Certificates
Earning online professional certificates in areas like the Python programming language can provide a foundation in data structures and algorithms, including concepts that leverage hash tables.
Executive education programs
You can explore online executive education programs in subjects such as data analysis or business analytics that can teach about fast data retrieval utilizing hash tables.
Degrees
Many online degree programs in computer science are available, and they commonly include the study of hash tables as a fundamental data structure in their curriculum.
Jobs where you use hash tables
Using hash tables to accelerate data lookups is common in a number of computing jobs for various purposes, such as searching for words in a dictionary or securely storing passwords. You can apply them in fields like database administration, software development, and data science and across many industries, including technology, finance, and healthcare.
Here are a few positions that having experience with hash tables may help you qualify for, with each role's required education as well as salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):
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