Informatics at the UW
Informatics students drive 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 and creation of information systems, user interfaces, mobile technologies, and social media.
The Informatics major's user-centered approach to designing and building novel applications of technology empowers you to pursue a rewarding career in the information and technology fields. Our graduates can be found in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. The emphasis of the major is on understanding the relationships among people, information, and technology. This "information perspective" is a powerful lens through which to view the world.
Areas of strength in the Information School include:
Human-Computer Interaction and Information Architecture are offered as degree options. A degree option is an area of study recognized by the University of Washington. On completion of their degree, students will see Bachelor of Science in Informatics as well as the designation "Human-Computer Interaction" or "Information Architecture" on their UW transcript.
Informatics: An Emerging Field
The term Informatics is broadly used throughout much of the world to describe the study and practice of creating, storing, finding, manipulating and sharing information. Informatics at the UW elaborates on this approach by focusing on the skills students must have to explore and pursue their passions upon graduation, in whatever area they may lie.
As a result, undergraduates who choose Informatics out of more than 140 majors at the University of Washington find the choice is less about narrowing options than expanding possibilities—in their careers and in their lives. The major draws upon areas such as computer science, information science, sociology, psychology, design, and information management. As a result, graduates are well-rounded information and technology professionals with the ability to apply their knowledge to positively impact organizations, their communities, and society.
In the informatics program, students learn how to:
- Design and build systems that are effective and easy to use
- Design the information architecture necessary to store and access repositories of information
- Analyze national and global information policy
- Assure the security and integrity of information systems
Informatics students make a difference.