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What is Information Science?

Information science is a field of study emphasizing the collection, analysis, manipulation, storage, classification, movement, dissemination, and protection of information.  Information science is the broad disciplinary study that includes subsets that include: computer science, cognitive science, archival science, commerce, communications, law, management, math, philosophy, library science, social science, and public policy.

Information science professionals and practitioners spend time performing an array of activities that may include developing models to understand the:

  • Usage of information
  • Application of information
  • Group dynamics of information exchanges
  • Organizational flow of information
  • Creation of information
  • Replacement of information
  • Ways information is improved or augmented
  • Nature of information systems

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Information Science Degree

Harvard University is known for its groundbreaking research facilities, opportunities, and academic curriculum. The university has launched a variety of courses that aim to help students seek knowledge and skills through its various educational curriculum. The university also allows students to get both a degree and experience that they can use once they graduate. It is also recognized as one of the most prestigious universities in the nation by offering the best arts, engineering, finance, technology, and science degree programs that are designed to give an in-depth understanding and emphasize the field. The information science degree program will allow students the opportunity to learn how to analyze and process data as well as its classifications. The students are guided by professionals and practitioners who are highly experienced in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Columbia University in New York City ranks as one of the finest institutions that offer a top-rated degree in information science in the United States. Since 1919, the university has been allowing students to experience an excellent and unique curriculum in various fields in terms of function and content. In addition, they offer a degree in information science that is committed to providing flexible courses wherein students can obtain information on how to use various digital forms.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

California Institute of Technology is a prestigious science and technology university that ranks as one of the best universities in the world.  CalTech is well-known for its rigorous science and engineering-oriented curriculum while its Information Science major is also recognized for its excellent training and courses. Furthermore, the program is also focused to provide a broad understanding of forces that govern information flow, principles to solve information-based problems, and other properties of information.

Acceptance Rate

6.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

3:1

Northwestern University is a world-leading university that prepares and shaped students to become the next generation of leaders. It offers an interdisciplinary curriculum and a variety of programs that will develop the professionalism and knowledge of the students. It also provides numerous opportunities where students can participate in experiential learning programs. In addition, the university offers a top ranked Information Science degree program on some relevant websites online.

Acceptance Rate

9.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Johns Hopkins University has the most renowned faculty members, instructors, and staff that will help the students to build their career and educational goals. In fact, the university has been recognized for being the first university in the united states. Throughout the years, it has produced a lot of leaders and notable people that help the growth of society. Information Science is also one of the programs offered by the university that is designed to provide outstanding training and knowledge imparted by the most qualified professors in the world. Graduates of the program have acquired skills to become professional adults that fulfill their potential in life.

Acceptance Rate

11.17

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Averett University has provided various non-traditional programs for more than 30 years. It has proved its quality of education by being accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and other educational commissions. One of the programs offered by the university is the Information Science degree wherein students can broaden their knowledge in technology, science, and today's rapidly-changing industry. The program places as one of the top accredited schools on the best information science technology study in the nation this year.

Acceptance Rate

23.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

5:1

University of California – Los Angeles offers an advanced education curriculum that addresses societal needs. The diverse learning environment enriches and flourished the student’s individuality. Another, the university offers a variety of programs in different areas of study. Including Information Science that tackles high technical information technology. And because of that, the university’s program ranked 7 as the Best Information Science degree in all universities in the United States. Aside from that, the university opens a lot of opportunities to let students gain relevant experience.

Acceptance Rate

12.32

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of California Berkeley is a prestigious university that offers a high learning program. It offers a variety of programs that enhance the student’s knowledge and skills. Another, the university is also popular in Computer and Information Science degree programs. The program is designed to offer a four-year degree course that will train the student's critical-thinking skills, business skills, communication, and computer information knowledge, and other required aspects that they could acquire later on. With the coursework that the university offered, the graduates can compete with others in the job market industry without doubting themselves.

Acceptance Rate

16.25

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor is a top-ranked university worldwide. One of the most prestigious universities that offer a variety of programs with a rigorous academic curriculum. Also, the university is known for its delicate and excellent Computer and Information Science major program. Where the program is designed to offer interdisciplinary and experiential learning and other philosophy studies they can outlive. Moreover, the program offers a master’s degree and Ph.D. to continue advanced high-learning coursework. Internships are also offered to integrate the application of the student’s knowledge and other graduates ended up with job offers from where they interned.

Acceptance Rate

22.91

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Boston College is the first institution of higher education that operates in its area. Over the years, it offers a variety of delicate programs that prepares the students to become the next generation leaders. In addition, the college offers Information Science that ranked as one of the Best Information Science degrees in the nation that provides great opportunities, experience, and most importantly outstanding courses, which will truly train the students to become professional information science and technology experts.

Acceptance Rate

27.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Northwestern University offers an immersive experience through its rigorous programs and quality academic curriculum that is approved by the higher learning institution. In addition, they are offering a variety of programs for undergraduate, graduate, and professional study in different areas of study including a related program of Information Science and Information System. The program offers 2-year coursework combining technological advances and business practice expertise. The flexible degree will enhance the students learning about engineering paradigm and socio-technical needs.

Acceptance Rate

18.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Georgia Institute of Technology offers career-focused and technological programs. It offers many programs that will gradually enhance the students' working skills. The institute is known for its rigorous curriculum in Engineering and computing college programs. It offers an outstanding Information Science degree that placed a spot on the Best Information Science in all universities, community colleges, and technical schools in the United States. The program prepares the students for the great future ahead of them in the industry they chose to work with.

Acceptance Rate

20.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Known as a prestigious university, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill provides higher education that is globally competitive by offering various courses including information science that aims to provide in-depth knowledge to understand the information needed for research on emerging technologies. In fact, this program is ranked as one of the best degrees in information science among all accredited colleges and universities in the United States. In addition, the university also offers a master's degree accredited by the American Library Association since 2000.

Acceptance Rate

22.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Boston University is one of the leading private universities in the United States. It offers delicate programs that prepare students to become the next generation of leaders and professionals. Aside from that, the programs are designed to be a student-centered curriculum yet offer enrolled students a rigorous academic format. As a result, the  Information Science degree program at Boston University is ranked as one of the best degrees in the United States. In addition, the university provides financial support for the students who are in need and deserving to have it.

Acceptance Rate

18.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

New York University is known as a world-leading university that has a rich culture of learning. Over the years, it has offered an outstanding program and organized it in 10 undergraduate college, graduate degree programs, and professional study. The delicate academic curriculum of the university is also nationally recognized through its excellent courses that provide a wide variety of topics. Moreover, the program also allows students to earn an MS degree.

Acceptance Rate

16.2

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Lehigh University is recognized as one of the nation's premier universities. It provides a rigorous academic curriculum plan for undergraduate and graduate students. In addition, the university’s major in information science aims to provide students with the best education in computer science, mathematics, philosophy, and other information science sub-disciplines. With these, the graduate is able to compete in the industry.

Acceptance Rate

32.1

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

The University of Richmond has been offering exquisite courses since 1830. It provides complete general education requirements in the liberal arts curriculum. With approximately 100 majors, concentrations, and minor programs, the university conquers greatness upon its existence. Moreover, the Information Science of the university is designed to provide rigorous coursework with traditional liberal arts that will empower students. In addition, it also prepares graduates who wish to obtain general job certificates for learning information systems.

Acceptance Rate

28.33

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

The University of California in Irvine continues to support students who pursue and seek knowledge. Since 1960, the youngest university established by the Association of American /universities has been offering a variety of programs in different areas of study. The university’s Information Science major has continued to impress academic institutions and students which now is recognized as a leading information technology education across the world.

Acceptance Rate

26.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of Texas at Austin provides students with the education they deserve. It is a public university that offers first-class quality education and equipment for research. Furthermore, the university also provides information science to provide innovative learning and proper training experience for students to expand their knowledge and skills through interdisciplinary professional programs.

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Miami brings out the best version of every student. It helps students gain knowledge about technology while also obtaining many opportunities to enhance their knowledge of how to collaborate on strategic information systems. The university also promotes transparency, a culture of trust, and support for continuous improvement of tested and proven methods.

Acceptance Rate

27.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Florida State University is one of the preeminent schools that offers a delicate degree program for the students. The learning institution provides unended support for the students. In terms of students' financial support, academic program, and hands-on experience, the university gives a scholarship program for deserving students to lessen their financial problems while studying. The university's information science degree allows students to have knowledge and skills in emerging techniques and technologies, it is also accredited by the American Library Association.

Acceptance Rate

35.97

Student to Faculty Ratio

21:1

The University of Maryland is a preeminent public university that encourages students to pursue great academics and research opportunities. It offers an innovative curriculum blended with areas of the social sciences, leadership and the development of technical skills. In addition, the university also provides lots of opportunities for the graduates to extend their learning about the career in data science and database administration.

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

George Washington University offers an undergraduate degree in Information Science. It aims to provide continuous learning about data information, network security, and other technical skills for real-world training. In addition, it took more years for the university to offer students the most outstanding degree in information science. Various research opportunities and training have been offered to experience proper movement in the dissemination and protection of the information.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Union College - Schenectady is a private liberal arts college that was established in 1795. The school offers delicate programs that are ABET-accredited. It provides great opportunities and a diverse learning environment to motivate students to engage in meaningful projects and voluntary work to enhance their knowledge and skills. Information Science is one of the programs offered by the college that has garnered national attention with a growing reputation for quality and rigor.

Acceptance Rate

42.92

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

SUNY at Binghamton offers interdisciplinary education with a spice of international perspective. The coursework is designed to allow the students to pursue an understanding of programming and data administration that has a strong foundation of knowledge across all core areas of computer science. In addition, the program always values and maintains the high professional level of its graduates. These principles function effectively. And resulted in students acquiring relevant life-long learning.

Acceptance Rate

40.53

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

What Do Information Scientists Do?

Information scientists work to generate and enhance computer algorithms. An algorithm can be highly complex with millions of variables or a simple set of instructions. By simplifying and consolidating algorithms, computers are able to efficiently process information and events. Information science majors help design algorithms that become the backbone for technology such as counterintelligence software, cloud computing, and machine learning technology.

Information science jobs will differ by organization but will generally perform similar activities. Typical jobs in information science include the following duties:

  • Analyze data, reports, and findings and learn from information
  • Develop theories and computer models to enhance computation
  • Solve complex problems via computing solutions with engineers and scientists
  • Develop innovative computing tools and methods to enhance computer utilization
  • Improve software applications through experiments
  • Publish results of experiments in trade journals and academic publications

Difference Between Information Science, Computer Information Systems, and Information Technology Degrees?

It is easy to get confused by the various acronyms in the technology sector.  Students often confuse terms like business information systems with information technology.  Likewise, management information systems degree is similar to a computer information systems degree but substantially different from a health information technology degree.  Below you will learn the difference between information science and information technology.  We have also provided students with the difference between computer information systems and information science.

Information Science Degree

Information science is the study of the behavior, elements, and properties of information.  This includes the various forces that govern information flow and processing means for efficient access and use.  In other words, a information science degree blends theories, technologies, and principles to solve information-based problems.

Computer Information Systems Degree

Computer information systems has several divisions that often confuse students.  Information systems (IS) can be parsed into specialties such as Computer Information Systems (CIS), Management Information Systems (MIS), and Business Information Systems (BIS).  Computer information systems degrees, unlike computer science degrees, focus on big picture solutions.  Computer science majors work to solve granular issues through programming.  Meanwhile, computer information systems degree holders focus more on broad-based business issues.  As such, CIS degrees will include business courses such as business communications, project management, and finance management.

Information Technology Degree

Information technology majors ask technical questions to understand how a technology works.  In other words, IT professionals will utilize computers, systems, and networks to generate, secure, and store electronic data.  Courses in information technology (IT) help students leverage technology and deploy that for commercial purposes.

Information Science Degree

Bachelor's in Information Science

A bachelor's degree in information science is a three to four year program that will result in a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree.  Students in a BIS program are generally highly technical and may already work in information technology.  Undergraduate information science degree programs help students integrate high-level business stratagem and problem solving.

With leading-edge technology, students will learn the constructs of building robust software systems and computer applications.  Training will also be provided to troubleshoot existing software and solve complex coding issues within a project-based learning system.  Classes you may take in an IS bachelor's degree include: C++, information technology, data modeling, human-centered design, discrete mathematics, problem solving, computer engineering, statistics, computer programming, and object-oriented computer applications.

Master's in Information Science

The master's degree in information science is conferred as a Master's in Professional Studies (MPS), Master's of Business Administration (MBA), or Master's of Science (MS).  Specialty programs exist at the master's degree level in domains such as information assurance, network security, risk management, cyber forensics, cybersecurity, and data management.

With cybersecurity issues at the forefront and intellectual property at risk, the demand for MIS majors continues to rapidly grow.  Graduate students will take upper-level science and technology classes associated with their area of concentration during their studies.   In addition to master's degrees, many schools are now offering post-baccalaureate certificates.  These certificates are designed to help current IT professionals upskill while working.

Master's in Library Information Science

Master's in Library Science online programs are niche degree programs available from a select number of universities.  MLIS programs may be offered as general degrees or specialized degree tracks.  Examples of specialized MLIS degree tracks include: information organization, information law, archival studies, information technology, and public library.  Each concentration will have its own unique set of curriculum, projects, and requirements.

Earning a library science degree online will provide students with key skills and knowledge in information science.   A master's degree in library science will impart skills to help majors create, gather, organize, store, and retrieve information.  MLIS majors will also learn about human behaviors that shape information usage and access.

PhD in Information Science

A select number of universities provide students the ability to earn a PhD in information science.  The practica and rigorous coursework in a PhD program is a highly specialized area of concentration.  Students will work to identify critical problems and analyze solutions to those problems.

In addition to the requisite theoretical framework of information science, graduate students will need to fully understand the scope, methods, and origins of information problems.  Earning a PhD in information science or PhD in library science will prepare students to step into challenging careers after graduation.  Common career opportunities include teaching, scholar, research, leader, and change agent in information science.

Employment & Information Science

Students earning a degree in information science will have quantifiable skills and knowledge about computing. These latent skills can be leveraged to step into a variety of careers in the technology sector or jobs using computing technology. Similar careers in IS include the following disciplines: computer architects, computer scientists, teachers, database administrators, software developers, statisticians, computer network managers, and computer hardware engineer.

Information Science Jobs & Career Outlook

Job growth in information science remains on a torrid pace. The BLS estimates a mammoth 19% increase in jobs within information science in the coming decade. In real terms, this translates to over 5,400 new jobs in information science alone. Similar trends are evident for database administrators and software developers which expect an 11% increase and 17% spike in jobs, respectively. Major sectors of growth for information scientists include fields such as healthcare, financial services, education, and government.

Information Scientist Salary

The current median salary for an information scientist is $114,520 a year.  This represents an average around 3 times the national average salary.  Combine the compensation with expected job growth and students have a recipe for career growth in vibrant sectors of our economy.  The largest employers of information scientists are the federal government and software publishers followed by colleges, research firms, and technology companies.  The highest paying states for information scientists include New York, Washington, New Mexico, District of Columbia, and Massachusetts.  In these 5 states, IS professionals average over $130,000 a year.

Additional Resources in Information Science

For additional resources in the field of information science considering visiting ASIST or ATIP.  ASIST stands for the Association for Information Science and Technology and ATIP is the Association of Information Technology Professionals.  Both organizations provide members with resources, tools, local chapters, membership benefits, and networking opportunities in information science.

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