University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The MS in Information Science combines core coursework in information theory and methods with electives that allow specialisation in areas such as data science, human–computer interaction, information policy, and digital curation. The curriculum balances technical skills (programming, databases, machine learning) with social science approaches (research methods, ethics, usability) and practical experience.

• Core topics: information retrieval, database design, research methods for information science, information organisation and metadata, information policy and ethics.
• Technical skills: programming for data analysis (Python or R), applied machine learning, data visualisation, systems design and databases.
• Human-centred topics: user experience research and design, human–computer interaction, usability testing, qualitative methods.
• Applied components: practicum or capstone project working with an external partner or faculty lab, internships and collaborative team projects.
• Electives and specialisms: digital libraries and curation, health informatics, information security and governance, social computing, advanced data analytics.

Students can expect a mix of lectures, seminars, lab work and team-based projects. Depending on the pathway chosen, there are options for a project-based capstone or a research thesis under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised undergraduate degree in any discipline. A strong academic record is expected (typically the equivalent of a UK 2:1 or higher), and admissions committees look for evidence of analytical ability and clear motivation for studying information science.

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• A personal statement or statement of purpose explaining interests, experience and goals in information science.
• Two to three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees.
• A current CV or résumé outlining relevant technical, research or professional experience.
• Applicants without a computing background are welcome but may be advised to complete preparatory coursework in programming or statistics; some prior experience with quantitative or technical coursework strengthens an application.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent evidence, where applicable.

Standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) and other admissions policies can vary; prospective applicants should consult the programme admissions page for current guidance.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MS in Information Science go on to roles that draw on both technical and human-centred skills. Typical career paths include:

• Data analyst, data scientist or business intelligence specialist in industry and government.
• User experience (UX) researcher or UX designer, working on product design and usability.
• Information architect or product manager focused on information-rich systems and services.
• Digital curator, librarian or archives specialist managing digital collections and metadata.
• Information governance, privacy and policy roles in corporate or public-sector organisations.
• Research positions or continued doctoral study in information science, human–computer interaction, or related fields.

Graduates find employment across technology companies, healthcare organisations, academic libraries, start-ups, non-profits and government agencies, benefiting from the programme's emphasis on practical projects and employer engagement.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

The School of Information and Library Science at UNC Chapel Hill is known for its interdisciplinary approach, bringing together computing, social science and domain-specific expertise. Students benefit from faculty research across areas such as health informatics, data science, human–computer interaction and information policy, as well as access to research labs and collaborative centres on campus.

UNC's location provides connections to a broad regional network of technology, healthcare and public-sector organisations, supporting practicum placements and internships. The university offers career services, networking events and an active alumni community that assist graduates in transitioning into professional roles. Finally, the programme's combination of rigorous coursework and applied experiences prepares students to address real-world information challenges across sectors.