The Texas A&M International University (TAMIU) online Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Science program prepares graduates to develop, enhance and optimize computer-based and information systems within various organizational settings.
The STEM-certified program covers a wide range of business and IT topics, such as web applications, networking, database design, advanced systems analysis design and development, information security, data mining, business analytics and project management. Graduates are prepared with the technical, business and soft skills to develop and support programs that address specific technological and organizational challenges.
The more professionals know about the primary responsibilities of key roles in information science, the easier they can make an informed decision about pursuing a career in this field. Below are some of the most sought-after positions and how TAMIU’s program prepares graduates with the skills information science roles demand.
Career Outlook
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 21% (much faster than average) between 2021 and 2031, with 7,100 new jobs expected to result.
A degree in information science provides preparation for many of the challenging and lucrative leadership positions in related occupational areas, including computer network architects, systems analysts, security analysts and software developers — all of which have similarly bright outlooks.
The rapid growth in information science careers is being driven primarily by the following factors:
- Advancements in digital transformation technologies: As organizations shift to digital operations, there is a greater need for professionals who can manage and secure digital assets, including data, networks and software. This has created new opportunities for information science professionals to develop and implement new technologies.
- Explosion of data: In recent years, the amount of data generated has increased exponentially due to the widespread use of technology and the internet. This development has created a need for professionals who can manage, analyze and protect this data.
- Increased demand for data-driven insights: Organizations across industries increasingly rely on data-driven insights to make strategic decisions. This has led to a growing demand for professionals who can interpret and communicate data insights effectively.
- Need to replace aging workers: Industry growth is occurring in tandem with one of the greatest generational workforce shifts, from Baby Boomers and Generation X to Millennials and Generation Z. This creates opportunities for well-trained professionals with leadership capabilities.
Career Options in Information Science
Each of the following roles is common across a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, technology and marketing. Each plays a critical role in helping organizations gain a competitive edge by leveraging their digital information assets.
Data Project Manager:National average salary of $107,254
The role of data project managers involves supervising projects related to a company’s data. They are responsible for developing project plans that align with the organization’s objectives, overseeing staff to ensure task completion and informing higher-ups of progress. These projects aim to enable data analysis that can identify opportunities to boost sales, cut expenses and implement more effective procedures.
Usability Engineer: National average salary of $114,682
This position focuses on ensuring that data is usable and accessible to those who need it. This may include cleaning and processing data, designing and implementing data models and systems, developing user-friendly interfaces for accessing and visualizing data, and other tasks. A data usability engineer may also conduct surveys and usability testing on data-related applications or tools to ensure that they meet users’ needs.
Data Scientist: National average salary of $122,305
A data scientist collects, organizes and analyzes large and complex data sets using advanced statistical and computational techniques. These professionals aim to derive meaningful insights and knowledge from the data that can help organizations make data-driven decisions. This involves a range of tasks, such as data cleaning and preprocessing, developing predictive models, visualizing data, collaborating with stakeholders, developing data infrastructures, conducting experiments, considering ethical implications and communicating insights to stakeholders.
Information Architect: National average salary of $135,498
This role focuses on improving the user experience of digital applications, websites and other digital assets. The information architect analyzes data related to customer experiences to determine what information users require and how they interact with it. Using this information, they design web page layouts and other digital products to be user-friendly and effective. This position also creates prototypes of digital assets to test proposed designs and changes, ensuring that they meet the needs of users and align with the organization’s goals.
A Portal to an Information Science Career
The TAMIU M.S. in Information Science online program is AACSB-accredited and affordable. Students with a 3.0 GPA or higher in the last 60 hours of completed work get a GRE/GMAT waiver, and applicants with a GPA below 3.0 are considered with submission of one of these scores, a personal statement and two reference letters. Seven-week courses are delivered in an online format ideal for working professionals, so students can balance personal and professional obligations while earning their degree.
Those interested in pursuing a career in this fast-growing, dynamic and rewarding field should consider TAMIU’s M.S. in Information Science online program. Graduates will be prepared to utilize organizational management and problem-solving skills for a wide range of businesses across a span of challenging and rewarding roles.
Learn more about TAMIU’s M.S. in Information Science online program.
