COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Science in Information Science and Data Analytics (BS ISDA) at San José State University is a 120-unit program that integrates general education, foundational technical preparation, and specialized coursework to develop strong data and information management skills. The curriculum includes 28 units of lower division general education, 6 units of American Institutions, 9 units of upper division general education, a 2-unit physical education requirement, and a 3-unit writing requirement. Students also complete 5 units of major preparation, 48 units of major requirements, and 19 units of university electives, creating a well-rounded academic structure. Major preparation courses introduce essential technical skills such as query languages, Python programming, web development, and computer operating systems, all of which must be completed with a grade of C- or better. The major requirements emphasize hands-on, real-world learning through collaborative projects that help students build professional portfolios. Core courses cover a wide range of topics including technical writing, information science, cybersecurity, privacy and ethics, information assurance, user-centered interface design, information architecture, big data analytics, and data visualization. Students also explore emerging technology trends and societal impacts of information systems. The program provides access to virtual labs and industry tools such as cloud computing platforms and information security environments, enhancing practical experience. In addition, students complete 12 units of major electives, allowing them to specialize in areas such as health data analytics, digital curation, enterprise content management, digital forensics, and data-driven problem solving, often in consultation with an academic advisor. These electives offer flexibility to align studies with career interests while maintaining a strong technical foundation. Overall, the program prepares graduates with analytical, technical, and communication skills needed to manage, interpret, and present data effectively in diverse professional settings.