undergraduate
Information science
Best schools with information science
What is an information science major?
Information science programs focus on the theory, organization, and process of information collection, transmission, and utilization in traditional and electronic forms. This includes instruction in information classification and organization, information storage and processing, transmission, transfer, and signaling, communications and networking, systems planning and design, human interfacing and use analysis, database development, information policy analysis, and related aspects of hardware, software, economics, social factors, and capacity.
of students said interesting challenges were a highlight of this major.
of students found this major to be difficult.
of students said they were motivated to select this major because it fit their passion & interest.
of students and alumni plan on being or are currently employed in an occupation related to this major.
of students said balancing many projects & deadlines was a challenging aspect of the major.
How much do information science majors make?
median average salary
$90,000/yr
The national average salary for information science graduates in the United States is $90,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $186,600 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $34,000 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, information science graduates typically make between $56,000 and $130,000 per year.
How popular is information science as a major?
Each year, around 30,400 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 6,230 students obtain an associate degree in information science. In 2021, 35,680 students received a bachelor's degree and 6,547 students received an associate degree. This is 5% more information science majors than there were in 2020. Information science is one of the most popular majors within computer science.
Advice from information science majors
Share your experienceStart early ! And always seek help if it becomes overwhelming.
Information Science is a field that is constantly evolving. Cultivate a natural curiosity to explore new technologies, methodologies, and trends in the field. Ask questions and seek to understand the "why" behind concepts. Commit to continuous learning and stay updated on the latest industry developments through online courses, workshops, and conferences. Develop a solid foundation in technical skills to be competitive in the job market. Build a strong professional network early in your career. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums or communities, and connect with professors, classmates, and professionals in the field. Networking can open opportunities and provide valuable insights. Seek internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs in your field of interest. Practical experience is invaluable and can help you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.
I recommend taking this major in at a school that has a specialization or has courses that cater to what you want to major/pursue when you graduate. This program most of the time requires you are aware of professional field and are doing a lot of work outside of classes. Preparing interview materials and other similar resources (portfolio, github, etc) require this knowledge, and the career development offices at certain schools, may not 100% prepare students for the reality of what they're developing.
Prepare your papiers on time, pay attention, get an internship
Being attentive to new ideas and having an open mindset to keep updating new knowledge in the industry
