Introduction

The Graph Databases and Neo4j for Developers Training Course delivers comprehensive, hands-on training in designing, querying, and optimizing graph-based data models for real-world applications. As organizations manage increasingly complex and interconnected data, graph databases like Neo4j have become the go-to solution for developers seeking to uncover hidden patterns, improve recommendation engines, streamline fraud detection, and enhance network analysis. This course equips participants with practical skills to model data naturally, traverse relationships efficiently, and write Cypher queries for dynamic graph interactions.

Designed for software engineers, data professionals, and technical architects, the course covers the full lifecycle of building scalable, query-optimized graph applications. Learners will explore the power of graph algorithms, integrate Neo4j with popular programming languages, and deploy high-performance applications backed by modern graph data structures. Whether used in fintech, social networks, healthcare, or logistics, the techniques gained in this course empower developers to move beyond rigid tabular databases to unlock the full potential of connected data.

Target Audience

• Backend Developers and Full-Stack Engineers
• Data Scientists and Data Engineers
• Software Architects and Systems Designers
• Database Administrators and Analysts
• AI/ML Engineers integrating data graphs
• Developers working on recommendation engines
• Professionals transitioning from relational databases

Course Objectives

• Understand the fundamentals and advantages of graph databases
• Model real-world scenarios using graph structures
• Master Cypher query language for data retrieval and manipulation
• Design performant graph schemas and indexing strategies
• Explore graph algorithms for pattern recognition and clustering
• Integrate Neo4j with applications using Python, JavaScript, or Java
• Implement CRUD operations and transaction management
• Visualize data relationships and graph traversals
• Manage graph data imports and exports using CSV and APIs
• Deploy, monitor, and scale Neo4j databases for production environments

Duration

10 Days

Course content

Module 1: Introduction to Graph Databases and Use Cases

• Difference between graph, relational, and NoSQL databases
• Core concepts: nodes, relationships, properties
• Real-world use cases: social graphs, fraud detection, network management
• Industry adoption trends and scalability benefits
• Overview of Neo4j ecosystem and tools

Module 2: Graph Data Modeling and Design Patterns

• Identifying entities and relationships in business scenarios
• Converting ER models into graph schemas
• Graph modeling best practices and anti-patterns
• Use of labels, relationship types, and property keys
• Schema-less modeling and evolving structures

Module 3: Cypher Query Language Essentials

• Syntax and structure of Cypher queries
• Matching patterns and traversing relationships
• Filtering, sorting, and pagination techniques
• Creating and deleting nodes and relationships
• Working with variables and path patterns

Module 4: Advanced Cypher and Query Optimization

• Aggregations and subqueries
• UNWIND, WITH, and CASE clauses
• Query planning and profiling with EXPLAIN
• Using indexes and constraints for performance
• Transaction control and error handling

Module 5: Graph Algorithms and Analytics

• PageRank, centrality, and community detection
• Shortest path and pathfinding algorithms
• Similarity algorithms for recommendation systems
• Practical applications in marketing and cybersecurity
• Integrating algorithms into workflows

Module 6: Application Development with Neo4j

• Using Neo4j drivers for Python, JavaScript, and Java
• Building API layers with Flask, Node.js, or Spring Boot
• Performing CRUD operations in application code
• Secure authentication and access control
• Real-time updates and event handling

Module 7: Data Import, Export, and ETL

• Importing data from CSV and relational databases
• Using Neo4j Data Importer and LOAD CSV command
• Data export techniques for reporting
• Working with REST API and GraphQL endpoints
• ETL best practices for graph transformations

Module 8: Visualization and User Interfaces

• Visualizing graphs with Neo4j Bloom and Browser
• Integrating with third-party visualization tools
• Building custom dashboards using D3.js or GraphXR
• Highlighting relationships and metrics in real time
• Design strategies for end-user graph interaction

Module 9: Neo4j Deployment and Scaling

• Local vs cloud-based deployment strategies
• Neo4j Aura and clustering options
• Backups, failover, and data replication
• Monitoring performance and resource usage
• Best practices for scaling graph databases

Module 10: Security and Access Management

• Role-based access controls (RBAC)
• Authentication methods and user provisioning
• Securing Cypher endpoints and APIs
• Encryption at rest and in transit
• Auditing and compliance considerations

Module 11: Graph Data in Machine Learning Pipelines

• Feature extraction using graph metrics
• Feeding graph data into ML models
• Embedding generation for node classification
• Integrating with tools like scikit-learn and TensorFlow
• Use cases in AI-powered recommendation systems

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Skills for Africa Training Institute Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Skills for Africa Training Institute certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: info@skillsforafrica.org, training@skillsforafrica.org Tel: +254 702 249 449

Terms of Payment: Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties’ payment of the course fee should be done 10 working days before commencement of the training.