| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Information program at the Information School prepares graduates to develop, provide, and assess information and data services in various fields. The program offers concentrations in User Experience/Interaction Design and Analytics and Data Management, equipping students with skills in user experience design, data analytics, and data and information management. Graduates are prepared for careers in diverse areas such as user experience design, data analysis, and data and information management.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Master of Science in Information degree at the Information School (iSchool) prepares graduates to develop, provide, and assess information and data services within a diverse, technological, and global society. The program equips information professionals to work in three broad and overlapping areas:
- User Experience Design: Graduates pursue careers in user experience design, interaction design, usability testing, systems analysis and project management, IT training, educational technology support, digital asset management and curation, and content management.
- Data Analytics: Graduates work as data analysts in various fields, utilizing their expertise in analyzing data to support organizational decision-making, planning and managing data-driven projects, visualizing and communicating analysis and results, addressing data policy issues, and ensuring that organizational data practices support analysis activities.
- Data and Information Management: Graduates specialize in managing data and information in various organizations, applying their expertise in knowledge management, digital asset management, data and information governance, prospect research, systems analysis, records management and compliance, research data management and project management, and database development and management.
Outline:
The Master of Science in Information program consists of coursework in three categories: core required courses, breadth requirement in ethics, and concentrations.
Core Required Courses:
- Systems Analysis and Project Management for Information Professionals
- Database Design for Information Professionals
- Introductory Analytics for Decision Making
- Field Project in Library and Information Agencies
- Strategic Information Services
Breadth Requirement in Ethics:
Students must complete at least three credits in ethics from the following list:
- Data and Algorithms: Ethics and Policy
- Information Ethics and Policy
Concentrations:
Students must choose one of two concentrations and complete at least 9 credits from the approved courses within that concentration area.
Concentration Area: User Experience/Interaction Design
- User Experience Design 1
- User Experience Design 2
- User Experience Design 3
- User Experience Design Capstone
Concentration Area: Analytics and Data Management
- Data Mining Planning and Management
- Data Visualization and Communication for Decision Making
- Data Management for Information Professionals
Assessment:
Assessment methods and criteria vary depending on the specific course; however, the program generally employs a combination of the following:
- Exams
- Projects
- Presentations
- Papers
- Class participation
Teaching:
The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are actively engaged in research and industry. The teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Discussions
- Hands-on projects
- Case studies
- Simulations
Careers:
Graduates of the Master of Science in Information program are prepared for a wide range of careers in the information field, including:
- User experience designer
- Interaction designer
- Usability tester
- Systems analyst
- Project manager
- IT trainer
- Data analyst
- Knowledge manager
- Digital asset manager
- Data and information governance specialist
- Records manager
- Research data manager
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Overview:
University of Wisconsin–Madison is a public research university located in Madison, Wisconsin. It is known for its strong academic programs, extensive research enterprise, and vibrant campus life. The university is guided by the Wisconsin Idea, a philosophy that emphasizes the importance of using knowledge to improve the lives of people beyond the campus.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide range of services to students, including:
Academic Support:
Academic advising, tutoring, writing centers, and career services.Student Life:
Student organizations, recreational facilities, cultural events, and health services.Technology:
Access to computer labs, online resources, and software.Housing:
On-campus residence halls and off-campus housing options.Financial Aid:
Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at UW–Madison can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a lively social scene. The city of Madison offers a variety of cultural attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Strong Academic Programs:
UW–Madison is home to a wide range of academic programs, including highly ranked programs in engineering, business, medicine, and the humanities.Research Opportunities:
The university is a leading research institution, offering students opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research projects.Wisconsin Idea:
The university's commitment to public service provides students with opportunities to make a positive impact on the world.Vibrant Campus Life:
UW–Madison offers a lively and engaging campus experience with a diverse student body, a wide range of student organizations, and a variety of cultural events.Location:
Madison is a beautiful and vibrant city with a strong sense of community.Academic Programs:
UW–Madison offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Engineering:
The College of Engineering is highly ranked and offers programs in areas such as computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.Business:
The Wisconsin School of Business is known for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and entrepreneurship.Medicine:
The School of Medicine and Public Health is a leading institution in medical research and education.Humanities:
The university offers a wide range of programs in the humanities, including English, history, philosophy, and art history.Other:
Athletics:
UW–Madison is a member of the Big Ten Conference and has a strong athletic tradition.Alumni Network:
The university has a large and active alumni network, providing students with valuable connections after graduation.Sustainability:
UW–Madison is committed to sustainability and has a number of initiatives to reduce its environmental impact.Language Proficiency Requirements:
Every applicant whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English must provide an English proficiency test score and meet the Graduate School minimum requirements.
