Career opportunities
People with Information Science skills are in high demand because of the vital role that information and information systems play in modern organisations. There are many and varied career opportunities in fields such as business management and analytics, science and data science, education, research, finance, health, manufacturing and automation, media production and user experience technology, music and entertainment, and engineering.
Tech, data and big ideas
Hear from a student and lecturer about studying Information Science at Otago—how it challenges your thinking, unlocks career opportunities, and helps solve real-world problems with technology and data.
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Thirza Smith:
Hi, I’m Thirza, and I’m studying Information Science at the University of Otago. I decided to study this because I was taking DigiTech at school, and I kind of didn’t really know what was going on, but I knew that there were some really good job opportunities in the Information Science sector. So I decided to give it a crack at university.
My first year was so confusing, and I didn’t really know what was going on, but after the first couple of lectures, I realised that everything kind of has a reason for the way it works and that so many things are interjoined together. Before, I had been looking at things and just kind of accepting that they worked, whereas now I’m able to see how things work together and why, which is really cool.
I feel like before, I just thought that things worked and accepted them, but now I can see that there are much more analytical things. I’d really recommend this subject.
Dr Daniel Alencar da Costa:
Hi, my name is Daniel da Costa. I’m a lecturer in the Information Science department, and I’d like to talk about Information Science. It is the science of using information to solve real-world problems.
As an information scientist, you should ask questions such as: Can we use social media posts to automatically identify abusive content and filter results? Or can we actually use information from our bodies to invent better technology to help people with disabilities?
There are several pathways that you can take when you are studying Information Science. You can become, for example, a software engineer, so you can create apps that are robust and do not crash all the time. I know it’s very annoying when apps crash, so it’s very important for us to have software engineers.
You can be a data scientist, analysing data and visualising patterns to create insights for people using data they already have but might not fully understand the potential of. For example, you can analyse the growth rates and trends of companies and help them take the best decisions possible.
Actually, the possibilities are endless. As an information scientist, you can also become a software tester, an IT consultant, a network manager, or a database expert. This is something very nice about Information Science because it empowers you with the flexibility you need when tailoring your own career.
When you are studying Information Science at Otago, you have access to the top researchers in New Zealand in Information Science and Computing. This will also give you an advantage because you will gain leading-edge knowledge when learning from the lecturers here. It will also give you a competitive advantage.
So, I hope you can come to Otago and have fun while improving the world!
The first year
The Information Science programme is available in the Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Arts (BA) and the Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) degrees.
During the first year of your Information Science degree you will study COMP 101 and one of COMP 161 or 162:
COMP 101 Foundations of Information Systems
In this course, you will learn about the fundamentals of our information and computer science disciplines, which include topics like computability, data analysis, information storage and processing, and database management techniques. There are no prerequisites for this course, but a basic mathematical understanding will be needed – you might want to consider MATH 151 before or alongside COMP 101.
COMP 161 Computer Programming
An introduction to computer programming suitable for beginners with little or no prior experience. Introduces the Java programming language, basic object oriented concepts and simple graphical applications.
COMP 162 Foundations of Computer Science
An introduction to computer programming suitable for beginners with some prior experience. Builds on and extends basic Java and object oriented programming. Introduces broader programming concepts and other languages.
(Students are exempt from COMP 161 if they have gained entry to COMP 162 by passing COMP 151 with a grade of at least B or via an Advanced Placement Test.)
Teaching style
Your classes will consist of lectures, tutorials and practical laboratories. In the third year you will work on a team project with an industry partner. We have award-winning teaching staff who are recognised experts in their fields and who are considering technological, ethical, professional, societal and behavioural factors of our discipline.
Information systems are complex in terms of scale and changing dynamics, so our teaching focuses on practical skills and complex problem solving usually found in real-world tasks. Through practical lab work, our teaching will prepare you for the ever-changing world of Information and Communication Technology.
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Recommended high school subjects for undergraduate study
There are no formal prerequisites for studying Information Science. You do not need to have studied digital technologies at school. However, it is advantageous if you are interested in and have taken background subjects in Digital Technology, Science, Mathematics, Accounting or English.
Choose a study option
Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Undergraduate qualifications
For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.
Note: this subject can also be studied as a minor.
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
A three-year degree offering flexibility to explore a major in Science along with other subjects
Bachelor of Arts (BA)
A three-year degree offering flexibility to explore a major in Arts along with other subjects
Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
A three-year degree offering flexibility to explore a major in Commerce along with other subjects
Bachelor of Arts and Commerce (BACom)
Combine two majors, one in Arts and one in Commerce, into a four-year degree and expand your future career prospects
Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
Combine two majors, one in Arts and one in Science, into a four-year degree and expand your future career prospects
Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc)
Combine two majors, one in Commerce and one in Science, into a four-year degree and expand your future career prospects
Bachelor of Entrepreneurship (BEntr)
A three-year degree that equips you to change the world as you create new products, services and ideas
Ready to apply?
Take the first step towards your future in this subject.
Further study opportunities
Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.
Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad)
The Diploma for Graduates (DipGrad), requiring study of at least seven papers (at least four of which are at 300-level o...
Postgraduate Study in Information Science
Explore postgraduate study in Information Science at Otago. Gain advanced knowledge, skills, and research opportunities ...
Related subject areas
Explore all subject areasBusiness, accounting and finance
Study business and prepare yourself for a career in the fast-paced corporate world – or even launch your own start-up
Technology, maths and computing
Study technology, mathematics, or computing to solve real-life problems – harnessing the power of information and data
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | COMP 101 Foundations of Information Systems | 18 |
| COMP 161 Computer Programming or COMP 162 Foundations of Computer Science | 18 | |
| Note: Students are exempt from COMP 161 if they have gained entry to COMP 162 by passing COMP 151 with a grade of at least B or via an Advanced Placement Test. | ||
| 200-level | COSC 202 Software Development | 18 |
| COSC 203 Web, Databases, and Networks | 18 | |
| INFO 203 Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience | 18 | |
| INFO 204 Introduction to Data Science | 18 | |
| 300-level | COSC 345 Software Engineering | 18 |
| INFO 302 Information Systems Strategy and Governance | 18 | |
| Two further papers from 300-level INFO papers, COSC 344, COSC 349 | 36 | |
| Plus | 180 further points (it is recommended that BSNS 112 or STAT 110 be included); must include 36 points at 200-level or above. | 180 |
| Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Arts | ||
| Total | 360 |
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | COMP 101 Foundations of Information Systems | 18 |
| COMP 161 Computer Programming or COMP 162 Foundations of Computer Science | 18 | |
| BSNS 111 Business and Society, BSNS 112 Interpreting Business Data, BSNS 113 Economic Principles and Policy, BSNS 114 Financial Decision Making, BSNS 115 Accounting and Information Systems – must normally be taken in first year of study. | 90 | |
| Note: Students are exempt from COMP 161 if they have gained entry to COMP 162 by passing COMP 151 with a grade of at least B or via an Advanced Placement Test. | ||
| 200-level | COSC 202 Software Development | 18 |
| COSC 203 Web, Databases, and Networks | 18 | |
| INFO 203 Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience | 18 | |
| INFO 204 Introduction to Data Science | 18 | |
| 300-level | COSC 345 Software Engineering | 18 |
| INFO 302 Information Systems Strategy and Governance | 18 | |
| Two further papers from 300-level INFO papers, COSC 344, COSC 349 | 36 | |
| Plus | 90 further points; must include 36 points at 200-level or above. May be taken from outside Commerce. | 90 |
| Every programme must include BSNS 111-115. At least three of these papers must be passed before enrolling in any 200-level Commerce paper, and all must normally be passed before enrolling in any 300-level Commerce paper. For single-degree BCom students, all five must be attempted in the first year of study or equivalent. STAT 110 or STAT 115 will be accepted as an alternative to BSNS 112 as a required paper or as part of the major subject requirements or as a prerequisite when: Any student who completed PTWY 111 before enrolling in the BCom degree shall be exempt from the requirement to complete BSNS 113. Any student who has completed PTWY 112 before enrolling in the BCom degree shall be exempt from the requirement to complete BSNS 114. A candidate completing the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws is able to satisfy the CPA/CAANZ accreditation requirements by substituting:a) LAWS 202, LAWS 203, LAWS 204, LAWS 301 and LAWS 407 in place of BLAW 211 and BLAW 212 b) LAWS 416 in place of ACTP 312. | ||
| Total | 360 |
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | COMP 101 Foundations of Information Systems | 18 |
| COMP 161 Computer Programming or COMP 162 Foundations of Computer Science | 18 | |
| Note: Students are exempt from COMP 161 if they have gained entry to COMP 162 by passing COMP 151 with a grade of at least B or via an Advanced Placement Test. | ||
| 200-level | COSC 202 Software Development | 18 |
| COSC 203 Web, Databases, and Networks | 18 | |
| INFO 203 Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience | 18 | |
| INFO 204 Introduction to Data Science | 18 | |
| 300-level | COSC 345 Software Engineering | 18 |
| INFO 302 Information Systems Strategy and Governance | 18 | |
| Two further papers from 300-level INFO papers, COSC 344, COSC 349 | 36 | |
| Plus |
180 further points (it is recommended that BSNS 112 or STAT 110 be included); must include 36 points at 200-level or above. Up to 90 points may be taken from outside Science. | 180 |
| Total | 360 |
A minor subject can be included in many of our undergraduate degrees. To earn a minor, you typically must complete a minimum of 90 points in that subject, with at least 18 points at the 300-level.
Your minor can be a subject more commonly taken for a different degree. For example, a BCom majoring in Marketing can include Japanese as a minor subject. To include this subject as a minor in your application, first find a major subject through our Subject Search or Study Match.
You can check what’s required to receive the minor accreditation in the programme details below.
Available as a minor subject for a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Music (MusB), Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA), Bachelor of Theology (BTheol), Bachelor of Science (BSc), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Entrepreneurship (BEntr), Bachelor of Health Science (BHealSc), Bachelor of Arts and Commerce (BACom), Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc) or Bachelor of Commerce and Science (BComSc) degree
| Level | Papers | Points |
|---|---|---|
| 100-level | COMP 101 Foundations of Information Systems One further 100-level COMP paper | 18 18 |
| 200-level | Any two 200-level papers from INFO or COMP | 36 |
| 300-level | Any 300-level INFO paper or SENG 301 Software Project Management From 2018 the 300-level requirements will be: Any 300-level INFO paper | 18 |
| Total | 90 |
Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
INFO papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| INFO130 | 2025 | Fundamentals and practice of spreadsheets | 18 points | Semester 1, 1st Non standard period (10 November 2025 - 13 December 2025) |
| INFO203 | 2025 | Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| INFO204 | 2025 | Introduction to Data Science | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| INFO250 | 2025 | Special Topic | 18 points | Not offered in 2025, expected to be offered in 2026 |
| INFO302 | 2025 | Information Systems Strategy and Governance | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| INFO304 | 2025 | Advanced Data Science | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| INFO305 | 2025 | Advanced Human-Computer Interaction and Interactive Systems | 18 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO310 | 2025 | Software Project Management | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| INFO350 | 2025 | Topics in Information Science | 18 points | Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| INFO351 | 2025 | Special Topic | 18 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO352 | 2025 | Special Topic | 18 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO353 | 2025 | Special Topic | 18 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO390 | 2025 | Research Topics | 18 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO407 | 2025 | Agent-based Software Technologies | 20 points | Semester 2 |
| INFO408 | 2025 | Management of Large-Scale Data | 20 points | Semester 1 |
| INFO410 | 2025 | Interactive and Immersive Systems | 20 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO411 | 2025 | Machine Learning and Data Mining | 20 points | Semester 2 |
| INFO420 | 2025 | Statistical Techniques for Data Science | 20 points | Semester 2 |
| INFO424 | 2025 | Adaptive Business Intelligence | 20 points | Semester 1 |
| INFO451 | 2025 | Special Topic | 20 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO452 | 2025 | Special Topic | 20 points | Not offered in 2025 |
| INFO470 | 2025 | Advanced Topics in Information Science | 20 points | Semester 1, Semester 2 |
| INFO490 | 2025 | Dissertation | 40 points | Full Year |
| INFO501 | 2025 | Applied Project | 40 points | 1st Non standard period (24 February 2025 - 13 February 2026), 2nd Non standard period (14 July 2025 - 3 July 2026) |
| INFO580 | 2025 | Research Project | 40 points | 1st Non standard period (24 February 2025 - 13 February 2026), 2nd Non standard period (14 July 2025 - 3 July 2026), 3rd Non standard period (14 July 2025 - 3 July 2026) |
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