Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

This programme is typically completed over four years and emphasises both technical skills and the study of information behaviour, systems and policy. Coursework blends programming and database work with courses on information organisation, privacy, ethics and user-centred design. Students complete practical lab exercises, project-based modules and a senior capstone or internship.

• Foundations: Introduction to information science, computing fundamentals, discrete mathematics or statistics for computing.
• Programming and Systems: Object-oriented programming, web development, systems analysis, operating systems concepts.
• Data and Information Management: Database design and administration, data modelling, data analytics and visualization.
• User Experience and Interaction: Human–computer interaction, usability testing, information architecture and web/user interface design.
• Information Policy and Ethics: Privacy, information law, digital ethics, records management.
• Research and Methods: Information retrieval, research methods, applied statistics for information professionals.
• Experiential Learning: Internship opportunities, hands-on lab projects, collaborative team projects and a senior capstone integrating technical and organisational perspectives.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical offer conditions include successful completion of college-preparatory mathematics; prior study in computer science or introductory programming is recommended but not always required. Transfer applicants are evaluated on previous college coursework in computing, mathematics or related fields. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. Admissions decisions also consider letters of recommendation, personal statements and relevant extracurricular or work experience when available.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in both public and private sectors where managing, analysing and designing information systems is required. Common entry-level job titles include information systems analyst, data analyst, database administrator, web developer, user experience (UX) designer, records or digital asset manager, and systems support specialist. The programme also provides a foundation for graduate study in information science, library and information science, data science or related fields. Internship experiences and career services at Slippery Rock help students develop professional networks and practical experience to support job placement.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock University offers small class sizes with close faculty interaction and hands-on learning in computing and information labs. The campus places emphasis on applied learning through internships, community-engaged projects and a capstone experience that connects technical training to organisational needs. Students benefit from career services, student computing organisations and links with regional employers, while the university’s location provides access to internship and employment opportunities in nearby metropolitan areas. The programme’s interdisciplinary approach prepares students to adapt to evolving information technologies and workplace demands.