By the end of this course, learners will be able to:

1. Understand the architecture, ecosystem, and evolution of IBM mainframes.
2. Write and troubleshoot Job Control Language (JCL) scripts for batch processing.
3. Build COBOL applications, handle files, and integrate them with DB2 databases.
4. Work with VSAM datasets and use tools like IDCAMS for file management.
5. Write SQL queries and connect DB2 to COBOL programs for data operations.
6. Develop and debug CICS applications for real-time transaction processing.
7. Deliver a full mainframe project using JCL, COBOL, DB2, VSAM, and CICS.

Course Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction to Mainframes

• Overview, architecture, z/OS introduction, batch/online processing, ecosystem, and vendors

Module 2: Job Control Language (JCL)

• JCL syntax, JOB/EXEC/DD statements, job submission, monitoring, error handling

Module 3: COBOL Programming

• COBOL structure, file handling, modular programming, debugging, integration with JCL

Module 4: Virtual Storage Access Method (VSAM)

• VSAM file types (KSDS, ESDS, RRDS), IDCAMS utility, VSAM file operations, tuning

Module 5: DB2 Database

• DB2 architecture, SQL programming, transactions, COBOL-DB2 integration

Module 6: Customer Information Control System (CICS)

• CICS basics, COBOL-CICS commands, transaction management, integration with DB2

Module 7: Capstone Project

• Hands-on project using all core technologies—design, development, presentation, peer review

Upon successful completion of the IBM Mainframes for Professionals course, learners will receive a Course Completion Certificate from Uplatz, validating their practical expertise in enterprise mainframe technologies and IBM systems.

This certification highlights your readiness to work on legacy systems in critical business environments. It demonstrates proficiency in key tools and languages such as COBOL, JCL, DB2, and CICS, making you a valuable asset for companies reliant on mainframe infrastructure.

The course also acts as a preparatory step toward formal certifications like the IBM z/OS Mainframe Practitioner, IBM Certified System Programmer, or COBOL programming certifications, which can further strengthen your credentials.

IBM Mainframe skills continue to power the backbone of the world’s largest corporations. This course opens up robust career opportunities in high-stakes environments such as finance, telecom, and government sectors.

Career Opportunities After This Course

1. Mainframe Application Developer (COBOL/JCL)
2. Mainframe Systems Programmer
3. IBM z/OS Systems Analyst
4. DB2 Database Administrator
5. CICS Developer or Support Engineer
6. VSAM/Data Storage Specialist
7. Legacy System Modernization Consultant

Industries Hiring Mainframe Professionals

• Banking & Financial Services
• Insurance & Reinsurance
• Government & Public Sector
• Retail & Manufacturing
• Telecom & Utilities
• Transportation & Airlines
• IT Services & Infrastructure Providers

1. What is a mainframe and why is it still used today?
Mainframes are powerful computers designed for high-volume, reliable transaction processing. They’re still used due to unmatched security, scalability, and legacy system dependency.

2. What is JCL and why is it important?
JCL (Job Control Language) is used to submit batch jobs in a mainframe environment. It controls which programs run and how resources are allocated.

3. What are the divisions in a COBOL program?
COBOL programs include the Identification, Environment, Data, and Procedure divisions—each serving a specific role in defining and executing the program.

4. What are the types of VSAM datasets?
Key types include KSDS (Key Sequenced), ESDS (Entry Sequenced), and RRDS (Relative Record). Each type serves different access and performance needs.

5. How do you connect DB2 with COBOL?
Using EXEC SQL statements in COBOL to embed SQL queries. The program is then precompiled and compiled using DB2-CICS compilers.

6. What is CICS used for?
CICS (Customer Information Control System) is IBM’s transaction server used for high-performance online transaction processing.

7. What are the components of DB2 architecture?
Main components include the Database Services Module, Buffer Manager, and System Services Module. Together they manage storage, processing, and access.

8. How do you handle file I/O in COBOL?
Using READ, WRITE, REWRITE, and DELETE statements, depending on file organization—sequential, indexed, or relative.

9. What is IDCAMS?
IDCAMS is a utility used to define and manage VSAM datasets, including creation, deletion, listing, and repro (copying) operations.

1. Is this course suitable for absolute beginners?
Yes, it starts from the fundamentals and builds up to advanced topics with hands-on examples.

2. Do I need access to a mainframe system?
Having access is beneficial for practice, but the course includes simulated walkthroughs and exercises.

3. Can I use this course to switch into a mainframe career?
Yes, it's ideal for career switchers, IT professionals, or graduates aiming for stable and well-paying legacy system roles.

4. Will I get a certificate upon completion?
Yes. A Uplatz Course Completion Certificate will be awarded after finishing all course modules.

5. Does this course cover real-world project work?
Yes. The capstone project allows you to apply all concepts—JCL, COBOL, DB2, VSAM, and CICS—in an integrated enterprise scenario.

6. Does this course prepare me for IBM certification?
It provides an excellent foundation for IBM certifications like z/OS Mainframe Practitioner and COBOL Programmer credentials.

7. How long will I have access to the course content?
Lifetime access is granted upon enrollment.