Learn about how information is used by people and organisations
Information Science is central to most jobs in today’s workplace – transforming traditional roles and growing new possibilities. There is huge demand for young people to become involved in this exciting and fast-evolving field.
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BA, BCom, BSc, BASc or BAppSc – it’s your choice!
Enjoy one of Otago’s most versatile majors. Study for an Information Science major in the BA, BCom, BSc, BASc; a Software Engineering major in the BAppSc degree; or combine Information Science with other subjects.
Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom), Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Major Subject Requirements
100-level
Note:
- COMP101 is a prerequisite for three second year papers (INFO201, INFO203 and INFO204) and one third year paper (INFO302)
- COMP160 is a prerequisite for INFO201
200-level
- INFO201 Developing Information Systems 1
- INFO202 Developing Information Systems 2
- INFO203 Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience
- INFO204 Introduction to Data Science
300-level
- INFO301 Applied Project
- INFO302 Information Systems and Governance
- INFO303 Enterprise Information Systems Infrastructure
- INFO304 Advanced Data Science
- INFO305 Pervasive Computer and Interactive Technologies
- INFO310 Software Management Project
Bachelor of Arts and Science (BASc)
Graduate with real expertise in both the sciences and the humanities.
The BASc enables you to complete both a humanities major and a science major within a single degree, which is not possible with a BA or BSc. It also requires fewer papers than a double degree – and takes less time to complete.
Major subject requirements
These are identical to the requirements for a BA or BSc (please see previous section).
The only difference is that students will need to take two additional papers in either Arts or Sciences, as appropriate.
Find out more about the BASc on the main University website.
Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc)
Earn a highly specialised, professional degree.
The Bachelor of Applied Science degree is a three-year programme that combines both the principles and applications of scientific technology. It also includes study concerning the business applications and processes of applied science.
The Department of Information Science collaborates with other university departments, to offer the Bachelor in Applied Science majoring in Software Engineering.
Software Engineering
The need for skilled software engineers is increasing at a rate that far outstrips the supply.
The discipline of Software Engineering is dedicated to the principles and techniques required for the sound construction of the computer systems that will underpin our new knowledge-based society. Countries like Japan and the United States are currently relaxing their immigration laws in order to address their critical shortages in this area.
Career opportunities
There is a vast range of career opportunities for software engineers in areas such as government, telecommunications, the chemical and bio-medical industries, financial institutions, agribusiness, pharmaceuticals, the healthcare sector, engineering and manufacturing.
Find out more about studying Software Engineering at Otago.
Visit the Applied Science Programme website for more information.
Minor in Information Science
Chosen to major in another field? Add real, practical value to your degree with a minor in Information Science.
Minor subject requirements
100-level
- COMP 101 Foundations of Information Systems AND
- Any COMP 100-level paper
200-level
- Any two 200-level papers from INFO, COMP, or COSC 212
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
Combine Information Science with other subjects
Information Science is compatible with a diverse range of subjects.
There are several ways in which you can combine your Information Science qualification with study of another subject. You may decide to complete a Double Major, a Double Degree or a Minor in another subject.
Students are able to complete a minor in Information Science as part of a:
