Database Schema Conversion

Hello all,

I am doing some research on database conversions. Currently, I am
interested in any information that would help me convert a database from
one schema to another. This could be changes as minimal as adding a
field to a table, or as large as deleting tables and changing
relationships. Unfortunately, my experience with SQL Server is minimal.
I know how to do a lot, but I do not know a lot of intricacies that
most experts know. I know how to add tables, delete them, alter
relationships, add fields, work with stored procedures, take care of
security, etc. I also know how to backup, restore, etc.

The type of information I am looking for could be:

1) Open source software that performs conversions
2) Tutorials/books/<any reference> that would assist me in learning
what I must to complete this task.
3) Third party software that could be used on a large scale and
wouldn't resort in unnecessary licensing cost if I was to deploy on this
large scale.

I greatly appreciate any information that could be provided me.

To give you guys an idea of my experience level:

I've been programming C# and .NET for a year now. I've also had
extensive experience in object-oriented design. I've worked with visual
basic, cobol (did I mention this? LOL), asp.net, php, javascript, and
several other programming languages on an extensive basis. While
programming is my speciality, I've strayed away from database work until
now. I would greatly appreciate any assistance in researching this matter.

Thanks ahead guys,

Shock