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University of Washington Information School

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What is Informatics?

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  3. What Is Informatics?

The term “informatics” broadly describes the study, design, and development of information technology for the good of people, organizations, and society.

When the iSchool chose "informatics" as the name of its bachelor of science degree in 1999, the term was not widely used in the U.S.  The name was chosen because it spoke to the opportunities that are available to students with the strong technical background needed to develop solutions to the world’s information challenges.

The Informatics major was designed to be conceptual and practical, academic and professional, and focused on the human and humanistic dimensions of the design and use of information systems. The vision remains intact: the Informatics major at UW speaks directly to the need for trained and skilled professionals in every sector of society who can turn information into actionable knowledge.

The Classification of Instructural Programs (CIP) describes Informatics as:

"A program that focuses on computer systems from a user-centered perspective and studies the structure, behavior and interactions of natural and artificial systems that store, process and communicate information. Includes instruction in information sciences, human computer interaction, information system analysis and design, telecommunications structure and information architecture and management."

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News

A graduate smiles as she approaches the stage to receive her degree.

Convocation celebrates iSchool's largest class of graduates

Friday, June 13, 2025
More than 700 graduates crossed the stage to be recognized at the University of Washington Information School’s 2025 Convocation ceremony on June 7 at Hec Edmundson Pavilion.It was the iSchool’s largest class yet, honoring graduates of...
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Student presents their project

Annual iSchool Showcase celebrates student achievements

Wednesday, June 11, 2025
The Information School gathered on June 4 to celebrate student milestones from the academic year with more than 100 projects on display at the 2025 iSchool Showcase. Students from all five iSchool degree programs had the opportunity to...
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Events

Jun 28
 
3:00-5:00PM

iSchool Alumni Social at ALA Conference 2025

Pennsylvania Convention Center
Jul 9
 
7:00-7:45PM

iSchool Read-Alongs Series: July

Online
Aug 5
 
8:30-9:30AM

MSIM Conversation with Professor Sara Sanford - Career Outcomes

Zoom / Online
Aug 7
 
7:00-7:45PM

iSchool Read-Alongs Series: August

Online
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Box 352840 - Mary Gates Hall, Ste. 370
Seattle, WA 98195-2840
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