Open Letter to Students

An Open Letter to Prospective Master of Information Science Students

Thanks for your interest in Indiana University's MIS degree program!

Indiana University has a reputation for academic excellence and innovation, qualities that are embodied in our Master of Information Science (MIS) degree. The MIS program offers a unique way in which to build upon your undergraduate studies and to take part in shaping the rapidly changing world of Information Technology use. The program's human-centered focus on Information Technology and the workplace will prepare you for a dynamic professional career. Many people have an interest in information technology, but it takes special skills and insights to successfully face the necessary social, intellectual, and technological challenges of designing information environments that facilitate other people's work. Our students develop those complex skills, and our alumni are becoming leaders in the information professions.

There are a few types of programs that are similar to ours at other universities. Each program opens a door to a different kind of learning and somewhat different careers. Those that are based in business schools' Information Systems departments emphasize business organizations and economic analyses. Those that are based in Computer Science departments emphasize technology but tend to ignore human and organizational contexts. Those that are based in arts programs emphasize expressive designs through multimedia. 

Our MIS program is consistently ranked among the top Information Science programs in the nation. It emphasizes the analysis and design of information and systems that can be effectively used by people. We place a strong emphasis on the social and behavioral dimensions of information technology. Our MIS program appeals to people who are interested in careers in designing, managing, or consulting about information systems, Internet applications, and advanced information services.

If you're intellectually curious, willing to experiment, and capable of productive collaboration, you may be able to play a significant role in the information professions. In IU's MIS program, you'll be active in shaping your own education by teaming with your peers on group projects, and connecting with employers via internships and special ventures. We'll teach you the leading theoretical models and analytical skills -- the flexible foundations of your future -- along with the technical and professional competencies necessary for a dynamic career. You can connect with good job opportunities (or be able to continue for a Ph.D.) when you graduate. Most seriously, you can comprehend the social and technological foundations necessary to continue learning the best practices and theories throughout your career

But it's not all work and no play. Indiana University's flagship campus was founded more than 175 years ago in Bloomington. It is widely held to be one of the country's most beautiful and culturally well-endowed university settings. The scenic 1,860 acre campus lies in rolling, heavily wooded terrain, and truly is a place apart. Bloomington has a lively music scene that ranges from opera through blues to folk. You can also find intriguing art museums and collegiate sports teams that capture national attention. Here, all the best features of small town life combine with the cultural variety and vitality associated with major cities. Bloomington is a truly great university town. 

We believe that what we have to offer is special. Please read the materials on our web site. Then, write and tell us how you can contribute to this emerging field. If you're interested and capable of developing a significant career in the information professions, we're waiting to hear from you.

Sincerely,

Howard Rosenbaum, MIS Program Advisor