Lewis-Clark State College

What you'll study

The programme combines core computing and information-management subjects with applied practice. You study fundamentals of programming and systems, data modelling and databases, information retrieval and organisation, networking and security, and the social and ethical context of information use. Typical modules include:

• Introduction to Information Science: principles of information lifecycle, metadata, cataloguing and taxonomy.
• Programming and Scripting: foundations in a contemporary programming language and automation techniques for information tasks.
• Database Design and Management: relational and non-relational databases, SQL, data modelling and data integrity.
• Data Analytics and Visualization: exploratory data analysis, basic statistics, and presentation of insights for non-technical audiences.
• Information Systems and Architecture: how information systems support organisational processes, system integration and APIs.
• Networking and Cybersecurity Fundamentals: network architectures, common threats, and basic security practices for protecting information assets.
• Human–Computer Interaction and Usability: user-centred design, information retrieval usability and interface evaluation.
• Legal, Ethical and Social Issues: privacy, intellectual property, accessibility and professional responsibility.
• Capstone Project or Internship: an applied project or workplace placement that brings together technical, analytical and communication skills.

Courses emphasise applied activities: hands-on labs, group projects, case studies and an extended capstone or practicum that connects theory to employer needs. Electives allow specialisation towards data analytics, information security or systems administration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions favour candidates with evidence of proficiency in mathematics and written communication; prior coursework in computer science or information technology is advantageous but not always required. Transfer students from community colleges with relevant credit or vocational experience in IT are welcomed.

Specific college admissions policies apply, including submission of transcripts and any required placement testing. Mature applicants with relevant work experience or professional certifications can often be considered through adult-admissions pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates of Information Science enter a broad range of roles where organising, protecting and interpreting information are central. Common career paths include:

• Information or Data Analyst — preparing, cleaning and visualising data to inform business decisions.
• Systems or Business Analyst — specifying and supporting information systems that meet organisational needs.
• Database Administrator or Developer — building and maintaining data stores and query interfaces.
• Systems Administrator / Network Technician — managing servers, networks and basic security operations.
• Records and Information Management Specialist — organising, preserving and ensuring access to organisational records.
• Technical or User Experience (UX) roles — designing interfaces and information flows that are usable and accessible.

Graduates work across public and private sectors including healthcare, education, government, manufacturing and small-to-medium enterprises. The degree also provides a foundation for postgraduate study in information science, data science, cybersecurity or library and information studies.

Why study at Lewis-Clark State College

Lewis-Clark State College offers a close-knit learning environment with small class sizes and direct access to instructors, which supports practical, project-based learning. The college maintains computing labs and applied-learning facilities suited to information science coursework and capstone projects.

Located in a region with a strong base of public agencies, healthcare providers and manufacturing firms, the college supports student internships and local employer partnerships that help bridge study and employment. LCSC emphasises affordability, clear transfer pathways from community colleges, and personalised academic advising to help students tailor the programme to their career goals.

Students also benefit from opportunities to engage in student organisations, regional tech events and faculty-guided applied research or community projects that build a professional portfolio before graduation.