Ranked the #11 program in the nation for machine learning by TechGuide, the University of Arizona Master of Science in Information Science is a transformative, interdisciplinary journey that gives students the advanced skills they need to implement information methods across organizations and industries.
The STEM-designated degree offered on our main campus in Tucson, Arizona requires 30 total units and can typically be completed in 18 months for full-time students.
Students select one of two subplans:
HUMAN-CENTERED COMPUTING
Human-centered computing courses explore topics like simulations, virtual reality, human-computer interaction, user experience and personal data-collection. The subplan includes an additional core course in human-centered computing and a variety of focused electives.
MACHINE LEARNING
Machine learning focuses on the interpretation and management of large amounts of data by automating the processes by which models of data are built. The subplan includes an additional core course in machine learning and a variety of focused electives.
MSIS Student Competencies
Students who graduate from the University of Arizona MS in Information Science will have the following competencies:
Competency 1
Students will establish the ability to exercise the four key techniques of computational thinking: decomposition, pattern recognition, abstraction, and algorithms.
Competency 2
Students will obtain the skills of collecting, manipulating, and analyzing different types of data at different scales, and interpreting the results properly.
Competency 3
Students will acquire the skills to communicate the results of their work to interdisciplinary teams, using appropriate visualizations, multi-media, or artistic performance.
Competency 4
Students will demonstrate an understanding of information and data ethics, including ethical and legal requirements of data privacy and security, and the values of the information fields to serve diverse user groups.
Master’s Plan of Study
As an MSIS student, you will work with your faculty advisor to develop a Master’s Plan of Study during your first few months in the program. The Plan of Study, which must be submitted to the Graduate College no later than your second semester in the program, identifies:
- Courses you intend to transfer from other institutions (if any)
- Courses already completed at the University of Arizona which you intend to apply toward the graduate degree (if any)
- Additional coursework to be completed to fulfill degree requirements
The Plan of Study must have the approval of the director of graduate studies before it can be submitted to the Graduate College.
Questions about GradPath should be directed to Holly Brown, director of graduate programs and global student services, at brownhb@arizona.edu.
Course Transfers
A maximum of 6 units can be transferred toward your MSIS from other institutions. Please reach out to the program advisor over email and provide (1) the list of courses that you’d like to transfer, (2) the closest course to each of the potential transfers in the list of pre-approved courses and (3) the syllabus for each of the courses that you are intending to transfer.
Human-Centered Computing Subplan
Human-centered computing courses explore topics like simulations, virtual reality, human-computer interaction, user experience and personal data-collection. The subplan includes an additional core course in human-centered computing and a variety of focused electives.
Click a link below to view course information:
Choose three courses (minimum 9 units) from the following:
- Choose three elective courses with the INFO prefix
- Up to two elective courses may be substituted from other academic units with advisor approval
Complete a total of 3 units for the required internship and capstone project:
Machine Learning Subplan
Machine learning focuses on the interpretation and management of large amounts of data by automating the processes by which models of data are built. The emphasis prepares graduates—who understand the complexities of machine learning as a particular kind of data science—to be scientific leaders across sectors. The subplan includes an additional core course in machine learning and a variety of focused electives. The Machine Learning Subplan is ranked the #11 program in the nation by TechGuide.
Click a link below to view course information.
Choose three courses (minimum 9 units) from the following:
- Choose three elective courses.
- Up to two elective courses may be substituted from other academic units with advisor approval.
Complete a total of 3 units for the required internship and capstone project:
Internship or Capstone Project
An internship or capstone project of 1 to 3 units is required as part of the MSIS.
Internship
Capstone Project
The 1- to 3-unit MSIS capstone project is an opportunity for students to showcase what they have mastered in the program. It is based on a project plan that includes project goals, master's competencies addressed by the project, system design, implementation schedule, assessment plan and milestones. The project contributes to the development and enforcement of the student's knowledge and skill sets in the field of information science.
The capstone project must exercise all competencies required for the MSIS and must also have a software development component. Students will deposit capstone project code in GitHub or another source code repository.
View recent capstone project summaries, including keywords and faculty advisors.
Curriculum & Courses for Students
Admitted Prior to Spring 2023
For students admitted prior to Spring 2023, view the MSIS curriculum and courses: