COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Information Science is a 36-credit graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in data-driven decision-making, user experience design, programming, and information systems management. The curriculum includes 21 credits of required core courses and 15 credits of electives chosen from one of three focus areas: UX Design, Business Analytics, or Information Technology, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career paths. The program emphasizes both technical and applied skills needed to solve real-world problems by transforming information into actionable insights and usable digital solutions. Core coursework includes foundational information science principles, programming in C and C++, user experience and product research, leadership and entrepreneurship, data storytelling using Tableau, and a culminating capstone project that integrates knowledge across the program. Students develop the ability to design and implement technology-based solutions, analyze user needs, and communicate insights through data visualization and interactive dashboards. The UX Design focus area emphasizes human-centered design, usability, interface design, and ethical considerations in user experience, while integrating electives that strengthen analytical or technical capabilities. The Business Analytics focus area develops skills in data mining, machine learning, forecasting, and dashboarding tools, preparing students to work with complex datasets to support business decisions. The Information Technology focus area focuses on systems development, databases, programming, cybersecurity, networks, and operating systems, equipping students with strong technical foundations in computing infrastructure. Across all tracks, the program emphasizes ethical decision-making in information systems, leadership in digital environments, and the ability to structure and manage organizational information effectively. Graduates are prepared for roles in UX design, data analysis, software development, IT management, and analytics-driven decision support across industries.