Information Studies

The University of Texas at Austin offers a comprehensive and innovative graduate program in Information Studies designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. This program provides a multidisciplinary approach, combining theoretical foundations with practical skills necessary to manage and analyze information across various domains. Students will explore critical topics such as data management, information architecture, human-computer interaction, digital preservation, and privacy and security, equipping them with a holistic understanding of information systems and services. The curriculum is thoughtfully structured to foster both technical proficiency and an understanding of social, ethical, and organizational implications of information technology. Students have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects, internships, and research activities that enhance their practical experience and prepare them for diverse careers in libraries, archives, corporate data management, health informatics, government agencies, and technology firms. The program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills, enabling graduates to innovate and adapt in a dynamic information environment. With access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and a vibrant academic community, students can personalize their educational journey through electives and specializations aligned with their career aspirations. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only proficient in the latest information technologies but also ethically responsible and socially aware professionals committed to advancing knowledge and serving society. Whether students aspire to direct information organizations, conduct research, or lead initiatives in digital transformation, this program provides the comprehensive education and professional preparation necessary to excel in the field of information studies.

The master's degree program entails 40 semester hours of coursework. All students must take nine semester credit hours of core courses during their first year of studies. Twenty-seven credit hours of electives are to be taken from the range of courses offered by the School of Information and/or a mix of courses within the School of Information and elsewhere at UT Austin1 . Finally, each student must complete his or her Capstone Experience under one of the Capstone Experience Courses.

Courses 

Courses in the Master of Science in Information Studies curriculum should be viewed in terms of three elements: 

1. Core - Required courses that all School of Information students must take early in their program (9 semester credit hours)
2. Electives - Elective courses (27 semester credit hours)*
3. Capstone Experience - A Capstone experience course plus concurrent registration in INF 181E (4 semester credit hours)

Core (9 semester credit hours)

All students must take the following courses during their first year of studies (9 semester credit hours):

• INF 380C Information in Social and Cultural Context
• INF 380E Perspectives on Information
• INF 397C Understanding Research 

Elective courses (27 credit hours)

Electives are to be taken from the range of courses offered by the School of Information, elsewhere at UT Austin, or via the WISE Consortium. Students may take up to twelve (12) graduate credits OR up to nine (9) upper-division undergraduate credits at UT-Austin outside the School with the permission of their advisors. No more than six (6) upper-division undergraduate credits may be from any one (1) department. Students may not count any iSchool undergraduate courses toward their iSchool graduate degrees. A student may also complete up to six (6) semester credit hours of Individual Studies without special permission of the GSC. 

Capstone Experience (4 semester credit hours) 

Each student must complete his or her Capstone Experience under one of the Capstone Experience Courses. The student must also be registered concurrently in INF 181E - Individual Studies in Electronic Portfolio. Students in the School Librarian Certification Program may meet the Capstone requirement by completing the Practicum in School Libraries course. 

• 181E - Individual Studies Electronic Portfolio

Requirements

• GIAC Application for admission. The electronic application is available at www.ApplyTexas.org.
• GIAC Application Fee. This can be submitted via www.ApplyTexas.org.
• One official transcript from each college or university attended. Submit electronic copies of your official transcripts according to the GIAC website. Please avoid mailing paper copies to ensure a quicker processing of your application.
• An official report of Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Scores must be sent from the official testing agency to GIAC, using the codes for the University of Texas at Austin (GRE Code: 6882).
• Personal Statement. Once your application is submitted, electronically upload a personal statement reflecting your long-range career objectives and desired program of study.
• Three Letters of Recommendation.You will be asked to submit the names and contact information of three recommenders at the time of your online application. After submitting the application, each contact will receive an email with directions for submitting a recommendation letter online.
• A score of 550 (paper test), 213 (computer-based test), or 79 (internet-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) OR an overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is considered the minimum acceptable for admission to The University of Texas at Austin and the School of Information.

Scholarships

• Teaching & Graduate Research Assistantships
• Global Education

The University of Texas at Austin offers a comprehensive program in Information Studies through the School of Information. This program is designed to prepare students to navigate, manage, and analyze information in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. It emphasizes the development of skills in information organization, retrieval, and ethical considerations, alongside technical proficiency and critical thinking. The curriculum includes a diverse array of courses that cover topics such as data management, digital archives, information architecture, user experience design, and information policy. Students have opportunities to engage in interdisciplinary projects, internships, and research activities that enhance practical experience and foster innovation in the field. The program aims to equip graduates with the abilities to work in various sectors including libraries, archives, data analysis, cybersecurity, information consultancy, and technology firms. With a focus on both theoretical foundations and applied skills, the program supports the cultivation of lifelong learning and adaptability, essential in the fast-changing information environment. Faculty members are distinguished scholars and industry experts who provide mentorship and insights into current challenges and emerging trends in information science. The program also emphasizes ethical, legal, and social issues related to information access and privacy, preparing students to become responsible professionals. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to contribute to advancements in information technology and services, support informed decision-making, and improve information access across communities. The University of Texas at Austin’s strong connections with industry partners, government agencies, and research institutions offer students valuable networking opportunities, research collaborations, and career pathways. Overall, the program's rigorous curriculum, diverse faculty, and vibrant academic community make it an excellent choice for individuals seeking a career in the dynamic field of information studies.