Bachelor of Science in Information
Study data and design with people in mind.
The Bachelor of Science in Information program prepares undergraduate students to analyze data and design technology in ways that work for real people. UMSI was the first iSchool in the world to offer this integrated degree, which meets the evolving demands of industry. Whether you hail from U-M or another school or college, you can enter the program as early as your sophomore year. For application advice, invitations to special events and deadline reminders, join the interest list.
What is information science?
It’s an interdisciplinary field that combines technology and data with an understanding of human behavior. Unlike computer science, which focuses on how software and systems work, information science focuses on how people interact with technology. Information experts create solutions that make it easier for people to access information — whether that’s an iPhone app, a data visualization for business insights, or the latest car infotainment system.
What can I do with it?
BSI graduates go on to pursue dynamic careers as UX designers and researchers, data analysts, product managers, business consultants and more. Their skills are in demand across industries — from top tech, finance and gaming companies to health care organizations, start-ups and government agencies.
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Pursue what you love. Build what society needs.
Whether you get deep satisfaction from sifting through data, find yourself thinking about how an app could be made more user-friendly, or hope to leverage your coding skills to tackle organizational and societal challenges, you’ll find a home for your interests at UMSI.
As a BSI student, you'll develop technical skills in programming and data manipulation. But you'll also take courses that incorporate disciplines like psychology, business, communications and ethics. This makes it an ideal degree for anyone interested in harnessing technology and data to solve real-world problems.
The BSI offers two pathways: information analysis and user experience design. Both prepare students with sought-after skills for careers of the future.
User experience design
If you choose user experience design, you’ll take courses that teach you to design and evaluate interactive products and services, making them enjoyable to use. The philosophy of the pathway is human-centered design — that designers should prioritize the needs and experiences of users. Instead of building systems that people work to use, UX designers build systems that work for people.
“When you’re designing, you have to think about where everything goes and what the user sees. It’s a combination of my creative brain and also the logical side.”
—Allison He, BSI ’25
Hometown: Queens, NYC
Career goal: Return to her favorite city to work as a UX designer
Information analysis
If you choose information analysis, you’ll take courses that teach you how to sift through the mess of data and make meaning from it. You’ll also learn how to translate this information for others, often speaking the language of multiple industries. IA graduates have the sociotechnical skills to serve as a bridge between the technical and non-technical people in an organization, telling compelling stories with data and finding solutions grounded in evidence.
“I didn't anticipate really doing anything with technology. But then I learned that all of political science research — the way that people understand political science — it's all data science. That really spurred my interest in studying information. I wanted to have the tools to understand data.”
—Julia Kassab, BSI ’25
Hometown: Wixom, MI
Career goal: Data scientist
Program highlights
Hands-on experience
If you want to get meaningful experience while earning your degree, UMSI’s curriculum might be a good fit. We emphasize engaged learning — meaning 100% of BSI students complete projects for real-world clients as part of their curriculum. UMSI partners with industry, nonprofit and educational organizations to provide students with these opportunities.
Faculty who are changing the game
UMSI faculty conduct leading research on issues like data privacy, algorithmic bias, the LGBTQ+ experience online and digital health inequities. They drive policy change, partner with communities in Michigan and beyond, and work to expand access to technology and information. You’ll find that they bring this same level of commitment to their teaching and mentorship.
“University of Michigan students are so driven. It’s exciting to see their journeys, especially because so many undergraduate and graduate students here are asking critical questions about the impact of tech on society.”
—Matthew Bui, assistant professor of information
Research focus: Using data to further racial and social justice
Fun fact: Once played basketball with Adam Sandler
“My research focuses on how older people and people with disabilities can be represented in technology design. I think a lot of my interest with aging populations and older adults comes from my experience of seeing my own family interact with technology.”
—Robin Brewer, assistant professor of information
Research focus: Designing conversational, voice and AI-powered technologies that enable expression and care for older adults, disabled people and caregivers
Fun fact: Has competed in an Olympic weightlifting meet
Stellar support for building your career
UMSI has a team of career development experts devoted to supporting students from orientation to commencement. The Career Development Office offers personalized career coaching, internship courses, workshops on effective job search skills, interview preparation and a robust on-campus recruiting program.
Next steps
> Attend an information session
> Explore prerequisites and more
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