Information science explores technology and the way people use it. The discipline examines information systems in their social, cultural, economic, historical, legal, and political contexts.
B.S. IN INFORMATION SCIENCE FROM THE COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE AND LIFE SCIENCES
The BS in Information Science (IS) allows students to study the design and use of information systems in a social context. The field studies the creation, representation, organization, application, and analysis of information in digital form. The focus of Information Science is on technological systems and their use, approached through an interdisciplinary approach with a variety of methodologies. The Information Science major organizes its courses into three area-based tracks: human-centered systems, information systems and social systems.
B.A. IN INFORMATION SCIENCE FROM THE COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
The BA in Information Science (IS) allows students to study the design and use of information systems in a social context. The field studies the creation, representation, organization, application, and analysis of information in digital form. The focus of Information Science is on technological systems and their use, approached through an interdisciplinary approach with a variety of methodologies. The Information Science major organizes its courses into three area-based tracks: human-centered systems, information systems and social systems.
Learn more about all the majors and minors offered in Cornell Bowers CIS, including the Information Science, Systems, and Technology (ISST) major.
Ideal for students interested in:
The human-centered aspects of computing and information, such as algorithmic fairness; ethics, law, and policy; digital humanities; human-computer and human-robot interaction; machine learning; natural language processing; network analysis; market and mechanism design, science and technology studies; and user-experience and design.
Degree paths
College of Agriculture & Life Sciences (CALS) and College of Arts & Sciences (A&S) students can major in Information Science (IS). CALS students earn a BS degree; A&S students earn a B.A.
Are there any key differences in degree?
The B.A. and B.S. in IS share the same requirements and elective course options.
Where should I apply?
Students should apply to the admitting college that best fits their overall academic interests and strengths. Students applying to CALS should indicate they are applying as an Information Science major.
For more information about the major, please contact Information Science by phone, 607.255.9837, email, visit the undergraduate program office located in 520 Rhodes Hall, or visit https://infosci.cornell.edu/undergraduate.