An information sciences degree teaches students to collect, manage, and evaluate information resources to solve real-world problems. Graduates with an information science degree can pursue careers like information security analyst, computer systems analyst, and computer and information systems manager.<\/p>\r\n
The information sciences field offers higher-than-average salaries and a positive career outlook. The National Center for Education Statistics<\/a> reports steady growth in the number of bachelor's degrees in computer and information sciences awarded since 2009. In the 2018-19 school year, 88,633 students received an information sciences bachelor's degree, up 11.4% from 2017-18.<\/p>\r\n This page discusses how to find the best schools for information sciences. We explain what to expect from a typical program and the benefits of getting an information sciences degree. Explore our lists of the best bachelor's and master's in information sciences programs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Earning a degree in information sciences can prepare students for various computing and information technology (IT) careers. This field continues to grow as more organizations digitize their operations and rely on tools like cloud computing. The shift to online technologies also leads to an increased focus on information security and big data collection.<\/p>\r\n The Bureau of Labor Statistics<\/a> (BLS) projects a 13% growth for all computer and information technology occupations between 2020 and 2030, a total of 667,600 new computing and IT jobs. These careers also offer higher-than-average wages, as all professionals in this broad category earned a median annual salary of $97,430 as of 2021.<\/p>\r\n Typical employers for graduates with an information science degree include industries like computer systems design, finance and insurance, and government. Types of jobs available in this field include information security analyst<\/a>, computer and information research scientist, and computer and information systems manager.<\/p>\r\n Other reasons to pursue this degree include:<\/p>\r\n\r\n Though information science and cybersecurity programs share commonalities, they differ in key ways. Both include a foundation in computer science<\/a> and require tech skills. Although information science covers aspects of computing security, it is a broader field than cybersecurity.<\/p>\r\n Because of this breadth of knowledge, information sciences degrees can provide multiple skill sets to students who aren't sure about their career goals. The versatile outcomes of these programs can lead to multiple job opportunities and further education.<\/p>\r\n A student may want to choose a cybersecurity degree over an information sciences program if they want a specialized career in information security<\/a>. Cybersecurity programs typically develop specific, in-demand skills relevant for careers like information security analyst and help prepare students for professional cybersecurity certifications<\/a>.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Information science and data science degree programs often overlap, but they also differ in key ways.<\/p>\r\n Data science is an interdisciplinary field that explores how to extract meaningful information from data. Data science programs focus on computing, statistics, and math to explore artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data, and algorithms. The best schools for data science can prepare students for roles like data scientist, data analyst, and data manager.<\/p>\r\n Information science, on the other hand, concerns itself with the storage, retrieval, and management of information. Information science programs typically explore topics like human-computer interaction, data management, and programming. Some information science programs offer minors or concentrations in data science.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n The best schools for information science teach students to research, evaluate, and manage information from digital sources. Common courses for information science programs at all levels include programming, databases, and information retrieval.<\/p>\r\n Applicants should investigate if programs offer specializations in areas that align with their career goals. For example, some institutions include options for minors or concentrations in areas like cybersecurity, computer science, and data science.<\/p>\r\n Below, we explain the different types of information science degrees that schools offer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Schools offer various levels of information sciences degrees. Below, we describe what to expect from an associate degree in information sciences, bachelor's degree in information sciences, master's degree in information sciences, and Ph.D. in information sciences.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Most schools do not offer information sciences associate degrees. Students can find associate degree programs in related fields like computer information systems or information technology. A typical information sciences-adjacent associate program provides an introduction to computing and a foundation in basic computer skills, programming, and databases.<\/p>\r\n Many associate degrees require 60 semester credits and take two full-time years to complete. Common courses include introduction to PC applications, database design and development, software development concepts, and information technology concepts. After completing associate degrees in information science, students transfer to four-year programs, complete internships, or take entry-level IT jobs.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n A bachelor's degree in information sciences covers topics like information organization, knowledge management, information-seeking behavior, and information architecture. Graduates can qualify for many jobs, including computer and information system manager, software engineer<\/a>, and IT project manager.<\/p>\r\n A typical information sciences bachelor's degree requires 120 credits and four full-time years to complete. Classes include programming for information sciences, information ecosystems, database concepts and applications, and information systems analysis and design. Potential concentrations include data science, project and knowledge management, human-computer interaction design, and web design.<\/p>\r\n Common admission requirements include a high school diploma or GED certificate, a minimum GPA, and completion of prerequisite courses. Many universities accept applicants through the Common App<\/a> website, which lets students apply for multiple programs by submitting one general application.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n A master's degree in information sciences develops leadership skills in the design, administration, and evaluation of information systems. These programs prepare students for jobs like IT project manager<\/a>, computer systems analyst, and computer and information research scientists. A typical program takes two full-time years to complete.<\/p>\r\n Common classes include information retrieval, programming for information professionals, and theory of computation. Some programs offer specializations in areas like data governance or user experience. Information sciences master's students often complete a thesis or master's project to finish the degree.<\/p>\r\n Information sciences graduates sometimes enter a Ph.D. program. Others take advanced or management-level positions like computer and information systems manager or computer and information research scientist.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n A Ph.D. in information sciences develops specialized expertise in a narrow area of the field. Doctoral candidates must research, write, and defend a dissertation that addresses a current issue in information science. Graduates can teach information science in post-secondary schools or work as computer and information research scientists.<\/p>\r\n Common admission requirements include a bachelor's or master's degree, a minimum GPA, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and a CV or resume. Programs may welcome applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, but may require completion of prerequisite courses. Students typically take 5-7 years of full-time study to complete a Ph.D. in information sciences.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n Graduates of information sciences programs can apply for jobs like information security analyst, computer and information systems manager, and computer support specialists. The types of jobs you may qualify for varies depending on your level of education and previous experience.<\/p>\r\n According to BLS data, median salaries for professionals in this field range from $57,910 to $159,010 as of 2021. Salaries vary by experience, job title, and location.<\/p>\r\n\r\n Information security analysts<\/a> protect their organizations' information systems by planning and overseeing digital security measures. Frequent duties include researching IT security trends, making security upgrade recommendations to managers, and investigating security breaches. With experience, information security analysts can advance in their careers to become computer and information systems managers.<\/p>\r\n Required Education:<\/strong> Bachelor's degree Computer and information research scientists study computing problems and create new technologies to solve problems in fields like healthcare and business. Typical job tasks include creating new computer languages, conducting computer experiments, and writing about their research. Employing industries include the federal government, research and development, and computer systems design.<\/p>\r\n Required Education:<\/strong> Master's degree Computer and information systems managers oversee organizations' computer-related activities. These professionals usually need several years of related IT experience. Computer and information systems managers can advance to become IT directors or chief information officers. They need excellent analytical, leadership, and business skills.<\/p>\r\n Required Education:<\/strong> Bachelor's degree Computer systems analysts study computer systems and find ways to improve them. Industries employing these professionals include computer systems design, finance and insurance, and management. Computer systems analysts with experience can advance to become project managers, chief technology officers, and IT directors.<\/p>\r\n Required Education:<\/strong> Bachelor's degree Computer support specialists offer tech support to computer users. They also maintain computers. Education requirements for these positions vary, though many require at least an associate degree. Gaining experience and completing professional certifications qualify computer support specialists for advanced roles like information security analyst and software developer.<\/p>\r\n Required Education:<\/strong> Associate degree Many considerations go into choosing the right information sciences program. To find the best schools for information science, consider the factors below:<\/p>\r\n\r\n Some of the best schools for information sciences degrees offer fully online or hybrid (mixing online and in-person learning) programs. Benefits of online education include flexibility, convenience, and affordability. Full-time workers and students with other responsibilities may find it easier to complete an online degree because of less rigid course schedules.<\/p>\r\n Weigh whether or not the online experience is the right fit for you by thinking about personal learning style, time commitments, and career goals.<\/p>\r\n Some online programs offer synchronous classes, where learners use technologies like web conferencing to attend live virtual lectures with instructors and peers. Other distance programs take place asynchronously, letting students complete coursework on a more flexible schedule.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\nWhy Get a Degree in Information Sciences?<\/h2>\r\n
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Should You Get a Degree in Information Sciences or Cybersecurity?<\/h3>\r\n
Are Information Science and Data Science Degree Programs Similar?<\/h3>\r\n
What to Expect From the Best Schools for Information Sciences<\/h2>\r\n
Types of Information Sciences Degrees<\/h2>\r\n
Associate Degrees in Information Sciences<\/h3>\r\n
Bachelor's Degrees in Information Sciences<\/h3>\r\n
Master's Degrees in Information Sciences<\/h3>\r\n
Ph.D.s in Information Sciences<\/h3>\r\n
Jobs for Graduates of Information Sciences Programs<\/h2>\r\n
Information Security Analysts
\r\nJob Outlook (2020-30):<\/strong> +33%<\/a>
\r\nMedian Annual Salary:<\/strong> $102,600<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\nComputer and Information Research Scientists
\r\nJob Outlook (2020-30):<\/strong> +22%<\/a>
\r\nMedian Annual Salary:<\/strong> $131,490<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\nComputer and Information Systems Managers
\r\nJob Outlook (2020-30):<\/strong> +11%<\/a>
\r\nMedian Annual Salary:<\/strong> $159,010<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\nComputer Systems Analysts
\r\nJob Outlook (2020-30):<\/strong> +7%<\/a>
\r\nMedian Annual Salary:<\/strong> $99,270<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\nComputer Support Specialists
\r\nJob Outlook (2020-30):<\/strong> +9%<\/a>
\r\nMedian Annual Salary:<\/strong> $57,910<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n
How to Choose the Best College With Information Sciences Programs<\/h2>\r\n
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Should You Get Your Degree Online?<\/h3>\r\n