With digitization and new forms of information technology emerging, students are on the lookout for the best information science bachelor’s degrees. A lot of money is being invested in developing this sector, which includes financially investing in the professionals developing and maintaining the information science field. Fortunately, there is a wide variety of Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Science to match this spike in demand.
Information science bachelor’s degree jobs aren’t exclusive to software development and cyber security. This field encompasses the complete intersection of technology, information, and people. Knowing the range of education options available will help you choose the program that best fits your needs. Read on to learn about the best information science bachelor’s degrees, schools, and jobs.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
Some of the best schools to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science are University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Robert Morris University, and Michigan State University. Missouri University of Science and Technology and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee are also very popular options.
What Schools Offer the Best Information Science Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Lamar University
- Missouri University of Science and Technology
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Michigan State University
- University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science program usually include having a high school diploma or the equivalent, official or unofficial transcripts, an acceptable GPA score, and good standardized test scores. You may also be required to write a statement of purpose, send recommendation letters, and provide a resume with your academic and professional experiences. However, admission requirements vary depending on the school.
Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Official or unofficial transcripts
- Minimum GPA score (determined by the school)
- SAT/ACT scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- Resume
How to Get a Information Science Bachelor’s Degree
You can get an information science bachelor’s degree by complying with all the graduation requirements. These requirements usually include completing a minimum of 120 credits, maintaining a GPA or 2.0 or higher, and completing your capstone project.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
You need around 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science, which should include major, elective, and general education courses. The major courses often include system analysis, web technology, advanced networking, and network design. General education courses include English composition, advanced algebra, foreign languages, and more. Elective courses vary because they’re chosen by students, unlike the major and general education courses that are required.
Information Science Degree Requirements
- Completing 50-70 credits of core coursework
- Completing 15-20 credits of general education courses
- Taking at least 9 credits of elective courses
- Maintaining a cumulative GPA above 2.0
- Completing your capstone
Best Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis | Bachelor of Science in Applied Information Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| Lamar University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Sciences | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Michigan State University | Bachelor of Arts in Information Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| Missouri University of Science and Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| Robert Morris University | Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Michigan-Dearborn | Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Pittsburgh | Bachelor of Science in Information Science | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of South Carolina Beaufort | Bachelor of Science in Information Science & Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Bachelor of Science in Information Science and Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Information Science: Top Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs
There are several options when it comes to choosing the best schools for information science bachelor’s degree programs. Below is a list of the best programs and schools you should consider.
What Is an Information Science Bachelor’s Degree?
An information science bachelor’s degree is awarded to its holder’s capacity to manage, preserve, and analyze information. To earn this degree, students undergo a four-year program that teaches them the management and creation of information content.
Students are taught to analyze complex computational problems by applying principles of computing. They are also expected to be able to implement, design, and evaluate a computation-based solution to meet requirements for different contexts. Upon completion of this program, students must demonstrate an understanding of how people consume, create, and utilize information.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science is very important because STEM fields are highly competitive and practical experience simply does not hold the same authority as an official credential. Professionals with this degree help organizations make sound decisions since they know how to organize, implement, and transfer information. This in turn helps said organizations reach their goals faster and more efficiently by improving their technology and technological processes.
Information science bachelor’s degrees, in particular, are in high demand because they not only help students gain technical skills when it comes to data but also teach them to see the bigger picture and apply that to any industry. Such skills are highly valued by organizations.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Information Science?
The types of bachelor’s degrees you can get in information science are a bachelor of science (BS) and a bachelor of arts (BA). A BA in Information Science provides a broader education and requires students to study more liberal arts subjects like humanities and social sciences. On the other hand, a BS in Information Science contains more technical subjects that deal with handling data, rather than its impact on society.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Information Science?
A Bachelor of Arts in Information Science is better than a bachelor of science since the salary of graduates is higher. According to PayScale, students with a BA in information science earn an average of $73,000 a year, whereas BS graduates earn an average of $69,000 a year. So, if you’re prioritizing salary, then getting a BA would be advisable. However, a BS provides more extensive coursework which is beneficial for job growth.
What Is the Difference Between an Information Science Bachelor’s Degree and an Information Science Certificate?
The main difference between an information science bachelor’s degree and an information science certificate is the time frame and the range of topics you’ll go through. An information science bachelor’s degree requires the completion of 120 credits, typically over four years. The course work involves a major specialization, core courses, general education requirements, elective courses, and a capstone project.
On the other hand, an information science certificate is usually just composed of 12 units. There are no general education requirements and the curriculum doesn’t cover a wide range of topics. The academic experience of students is very different because they only spend a few months completing the program.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
Across all American institutions, it costs an average of $16,647 to get a bachelor’s degree in information science, according to the National Center of Education Statistics (NCES). For public institutions, the average cost is $9,349, whereas for private institutions, the average cost is $32,769. However, resident and non-resident status can drastically affect how much undergraduate students end up having to pay for their degrees.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Science Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get an information science bachelor’s degree since it requires students to complete a total of 120 credits. These 120 credits are distributed across eight semesters at 15 credits per semester. The number of credits per semester may vary based on the coursework and the specific program, but the average works out to be the same.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
It is not very hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science if you are skilled or interested in digital content, data management, and information architecture. As long as you are able to earn passing grades in all your classes and complete 120 credits, you can definitely earn an information science bachelor’s degree.
At the same time, this doesn’t mean that you won’t be challenged if you pursue this degree. An information science undergraduate program includes core courses that cover technical skills in a wide range of industries. There will be times when you will have to work extra hard when dealing with new concepts.
Why Should You Get an Information Science Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get an information science bachelor’s degree because there are a lot of career opportunities for the graduates, especially in the intelligence and information security sectors. Graduates with bachelor’s degrees in this field earn well over the national average at $69,000 per year, as per PayScale statistics. These professionals also develop communication skills that help enhance their professional experience.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Information Science?
The courses you take in a bachelor’s degree program in information science include Computation in Information Science, Data Analysis, Networks and Information, Security and Privacy, and Database Management. It’s important to know that while these courses are generally included across most schools’ curricula, the course titles and descriptions may slightly vary, depending on the school.
Computation in Information Science
In this course, students learn about the computational and mathematical techniques used in information science. Students also learn about mathematical concepts relevant to information science. The topics included are statistical analysis of measurement data, probability, matrix methods, graph theory, and modeling techniques.
Data Analysis
In data analysis, students are introduced to data processing, data analytics, and data programming. The use of Python is the main focus of this course, including its applications in working with data, organizing and planning programs, and data management. Students will also be taught machine learning, data mining, and the fundamentals of computational modeling.
Networks and Information
This course helps students recognize how networks are present in people’s daily lives by teaching them the science of networking and how that affects what people do. Students will learn about the principal types of networks and the technologies used, as well as how network architecture impacts data transmission.
Security and Privacy
In this course, students will get a deeper understanding of informational threats and vulnerabilities, their detection, and corrective responses. In addition, they learn about different security terminologies like integrity, confidentiality, and authentication. Students also learn about the basics of security mechanics and the operational aspects of information networks.
Database Management
For database management, the students are introduced to practical methodologies of data design, storage, and management in the context of relational database management systems. Students will tackle essential concepts of effective database development processes like normalization and SQL.
Continuing Education Paths for Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Students who graduated with an information science bachelor’s degree can continue their education by pursuing a Master’s Degree in Information Science. Some of the best Master’s Degrees in Information Science are offered by College of Charleston, University of Washington, University of Pittsburgh, University of Maryland, and Temple University.
Related Information Science Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs
When it comes to choosing the best information science bachelor’s degree programs, the most important factors that you should consider are accreditation, cost, career services, curricular content, and faculty credentials. Below we’ll discuss why these factors are important.
Accreditation
Checking the accreditation status of a school is a good way to verify that the school meets the standard quality of education expected from universities and colleges. This means that you can trust that the school and the credits you’ll gain from that school will be recognized. Further, if you graduate from an accredited school, your future employer can also feel secure in their assessment of your skills and are thus more likely to hire you.
Cost
This factor is important to check because you want to make sure that the cost corresponds to the quality of education you’ll be getting from the school. It should also reflect the services that the school offers to students in support of their studies and in preparing students for their first job.
Career Services
The career services offered by a school can be highly beneficial to students preparing for their future employment or education opportunities. Such services include scheduling appointments for mock interviews and even guiding them on how to write strong resumes and cover letters. This factor is extremely important because navigating the job market can be very tricky and professional guidance will help you land a job that much faster.
Curricular Content
Most curricular content of schools that have information science bachelor’s degree programs have very similar core courses. However, checking the curriculum will give you an idea of the program structure for your degree, as well as a sense of how your school handles the subject, which can be important when deciding on your next four years of education.
Faculty Credentials
Checking the faculty credentials can help you feel more confident about the quality of education you will receive from professors and teachers. Credentials are important as they often mirror the competence of the faculty to teach the information science programs.
What Is the Most Affordable Information Science Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable information science bachelor’s degree is from Lamar University which costs $249.49 per credit for in-state students and $667.49 per credit for out-of-state students. The total tuition for a resident student is around $30,438. There might, however, be other campus-related fees that you have to pay once you enroll.
Salary and Job Outlook for Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Right after getting the best academic experience, your next step should be to prepare for employment. This means planning and practicing how to answer possible questions and communicate your strengths. This is also the time to share your advanced skills and relevant experiences on networking platforms like LinkedIn. You also have to curate an eye-catching resume that helps you stand out from the crowd.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Science Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an information science bachelor’s degree. In STEM-focused careers like this, hands-on experience is often valued over high academic performance. The good thing about internships or research assistantships is that they allow students to develop their practical skills while also developing applicative acumen.
Most universities have career preparatory services for their students. University of Pittsburgh, for example, has internship prep programs wherein students receive support when it comes to their cover letters, resumes, and applications. Even if your university does not have such facilities, visiting job fairs and seeking help from upperclassmen can also be equally helpful.
What’s the Average Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science is around $69,000 per anum, according to PayScale. This annual salary will vary depending on factors like your job description, level of position, professional experience, organization, and location. However, the higher your level of education and the more experience you have, the higher your salary will be.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Information Science Bachelor’s Degree?
The types of jobs you can get with an information science bachelor’s degree include data analyst, database administrator, information architect, intelligence analyst, IT support specialist, and data mining specialist. Moreover, if you pursue opportunities that help you develop your management skills, you can also advance to higher-level jobs like information systems manager, chief information officer, or senior software developer.
Information Science Degree Jobs
- Data Analyst
- Information Architect
- Intelligence Analyst
- IT Support Specialist
- Data Mining Specialist
Potential Careers With an Information Science Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science?
You can make between $51,207 and $98,941 a year with an information science bachelor’s degree depending on the career path you chose. A higher-paying position like an information architect comes with an annual salary of $98,941, whereas being an IT support specialist only pays $51,207, per year.
Highest-Paying Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Data Analyst | $62,967 |
| Information Architect | $98,148 |
| Intelligence Analyst | $72,693 |
| IT Support Specialist | $51,208 |
| Data Mining Specialist | $65,000 |
Best Jobs for Information Science Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for information science bachelor’s degree grads include data analyst, information architect, intelligence analyst, IT support specialist, and data mining specialist, among many others. In the section below, we’ll look at the descriptions, salaries, and growth projections for the best information science bachelor’s degree jobs.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Science is worth it. Through this undergraduate degree program, you will develop skills in database management, data analysis, networks, and cyber security. These skills are in high demand in almost every industry. Moreover, an information science bachelor’s degree can earn between $51,207 to $98,942. If your career goals include having a fulfilling and well-paying job, then this degree will definitely be worth it for you.
Additional Reading About Information Science
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Information Science Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
A Bachelor of Science in Information Science deals with utilizing information technology in business. The relevant program includes courses like system analysis, computing intervals, electronic and mobile commerce, and network and communications. It also deals with subjects that help students gain analytical skills so that they can make decisions using big data.
The benefits of studying information science include the advantage of understanding the social context and policy implications of information on society. Further, you get a wider perspective of what privacy and information security entail, which is very important in the current digital age. You’ll also learn about cutting edge topics like computer forensics, user experience, and data mining.
There isn’t a big difference between information studies and information science. Information science focuses on how people interact with digital algorithms, software, and devices in order to make technological and social solutions for perceived efficiency problems. On the other hand, information studies focuses on teaching students how to build and design IT and data solutions with a user-centered approach.
Yes, information science requires coding, depending on the school you choose. You will not have to dive very deep into languages like C++, but you’ll definitely learn the basics of common programming languages like Java and Python. As an information science degree holder, coding might not be a part of your job description, but it is definitely helpful to have for this field.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
