Academic Programs

Degree Programs

The UW iSchool offers a Bachelor of Science in Informatics, and three graduate degrees: Master of Library and Information Science, Master of Science in Information Management, and Ph.D. in Information Science.

Informatics

Informatics majors are game-changers, driving innovation as they explore the boundary where technology intersects with human values. Their passion for analyzing and solving problems is reflected in the creativity they bring to the design, creation and analysis of information systems, user interfaces, mobile technologies and social media.

Primary areas of study within the program include:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Information Architecture
• Networks and Information Assurance
• Social and Collaborative Computing

Informatics students develop skills and knowledge that allow them to design, build, implement, and secure information systems. As they explore rewarding careers as business analysts, user experience designers, information architects, and product managers they move organizations and society forward.

MLIS

MLIS graduates provide the vital link between information and people. Students develop a strong theoretical base that supports their emerging understanding of practice in knowledge-intensive organizations. Equipped with a keen understanding of the uses and users of information, graduates use their knowledge and determination to lead in a world where information is increasingly the most important commodity.

The Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program prepares students to become leaders in the library and information world through a curriculum that delivers:

• An integrated understanding of central underlying concepts, theories, processes, models and research in the field with a focus on users
• An appreciation of the varied roles, contexts, settings and values in which information work takes place and the inter-relationships among them
• An integrated understanding of the information lifecycle, from creation and publication of information through evaluation, selection, organization, retrieval, access and use in the creation of new knowledge
• Professional skills, experiences and orientation for preparing leaders and innovators in the field

Graduates apply this knowledge across a variety of professional settings, including public and academic libraries.

MSIM

The Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) program prepares students to organize information and build information systems to meet human needs. Graduates drive initiatives in areas critical to change, growth, and innovation. In the hands of MSIM students, information management challenges are transformed into effective solutions that improve the efficiency and effectiveness of any organization.

The MSIM curriculum integrates the areas of:

• Strategic Planning
• Systems Design
• Business Leadership
• Information Architecture and Management
• Information Assurance
• Networking and Information Technology

The Mid-Career MSIM program is a part-time option specifically designed for working professionals, and the School is committed to the unique needs of this student population.

The Full-Time MSIM program is a full-time option geared toward traditional students who are interested in opening new doors for career possibilities in many information fields.

Graduates of the MSIM program are ethically-aware leaders with the ability to apply their practical skills and solid conceptual understanding to find success in any professional setting.

Ph.D.

The Ph.D. in Information Science is a research-based, interdisciplinary program supporting the study of information. The program focuses on the broad areas of human-computer interaction and design, information management, information policy, information science, and library science.

The Ph.D. program's strong interdisciplinary approach to scholarship helps recipients to turn their creativity and curiosity into inspired high-level research, teaching and service to their communities. As students become experts in the origins, methods, key concepts and variables, issues and theoretical frameworks that characterize information science, they gain a rewarding career in a field ripe with possibility.

Non-degree Options

Professional development and continuing education opportunities are a priority at the Information School.

The Information School partners with UW Extension to provide a gateway for professional development and career advancement. Offerings are available for students seeking:

• Continuing Education for LIS Professional Development

  The iSchool provides students interested in Continuing Education (CE) with options for graduate-level electives. These offerings are for those working in the library and information science field who are looking for professional development opportunities.

• Certificate Programs

  Programs offered by UW Extension for information professionals include both classroom-based and online options.

• Taking Individual Courses as a Non-Degree Seeking Student

  Some Master of Library and Information Science courses and Master of Science in Information Management courses are open to students with non-matriculated or graduate non-matriculated status.