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Cornell’s Bachelor of Science in Information Science (offered through the College of Engineering, Arts & Sciences, or Agriculture & Life Sciences, depending on focus) blends computing, data, behavior, and design. The curriculum is highly interdisciplinary, emphasizing the technical, social, and ethical aspects of information systems.
Core Curriculum Components
Mathematical & Statistical Foundations
CS 1110: Introduction to Computing Using Python
CS 2800: Discrete Structures
MATH 1110/1120: Calculus I & II
STSCI 2150: Introduction to Statistics for Data Science
Information Systems & Data Core
INFO 2040: Networks
INFO 2950: Introduction to Data Science
INFO 3300: Data-Driven Web Applications
INFO 3350: Text Mining and Computational Linguistics
Behavior, Design & Society
INFO 2450: Communication and Technology
INFO 3450: Human-Computer Interaction Design
INFO 1200: Information Ethics, Law, and Policy
INFO 4240: Designing Technology for Social Impact
Advanced Electives (Choose Focus Area)
Students customize their pathway by specializing in one or more of the following:
UX Design & HCI
Data Science & Modeling
Information Ethics & Policy
Interactive Systems
Behavioral Analytics
Networks & Systems Thinking
Capstone & Integration
INFO 4900: Capstone Project in Information Science
A team-based design or research project combining computing, user analysis, and social impact.
WIM (Writing in the Major) requirement is satisfied through a combination of INFO courses with formal writing and presentation components.
The Cornell Information Science program integrates hands-on opportunities across campus, industry, and research domains:
Undergraduate Research
Students work alongside faculty on NSF-funded projects, contributing to studies in areas like social computing, algorithmic fairness, and human-robot interaction. Participation is encouraged through the Cornell Bowers CIS Research Program.
Capstone Design Studios
In the capstone experience, students collaborate with community organizations or tech companies to build products or conduct applied research that addresses real-world problems using data and human-centered design.
Hackathons, Labs & Competitions
Students frequently engage in:
Big Red Hacks
Cornell Design & Tech Initiative
Data Science Bowl, NYC Media Lab Challenges
HCI Design Studios and InfoSci Design Sprints
Internships & Industry Engagement
Cornell’s vast network and reputation lead to high-quality internships with:
Tech firms (e.g., Google, Meta, Amazon, Microsoft)
Social innovation orgs (e.g., UNICEF Innovation Fund, Civic Hall)
Design agencies, media platforms, and consulting firms
Internships often span roles in UX, software engineering, product strategy, and digital transformation.
Global Experiences & Interdisciplinary Projects
Cornell encourages students to engage in:
International study and research programs
Interdisciplinary minors (e.g., Data Science, Design + Environmental Analysis)
Tech and ethics collaborations through the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science
Graduates of Cornell’s Information Science program are known for their ability to think systemically, design ethically, and act technically. Their skills sit at the intersection of design, computation, and human needs—making them leaders in emerging, complex, and fast-changing environments.
Career Outcomes
UX/UI Designer → Design Lead → Head of User Experience
Data Analyst → Data Product Manager → Director of Analytics
Software Engineer → Systems Architect → CTO
Information Policy Researcher → Think Tank Fellow → AI Ethics Strategist
Tech Consultant → Digital Transformation Lead → Innovation Director
Graduate & Professional Pathways
Many students pursue further studies at top institutions in:
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI)
Data Science and Machine Learning
Public Policy and Law (AI governance, tech ethics)
MBA and Design Management
Digital Media & Communications
SAT/ACT Update: Cornell University will require standardized test scores (SAT/ACT) for undergraduate applicants starting with the Fall 2026 admission cycle. Cornell University’s SAT code is 2098, and our ACT code is 2726.English Language Proficiency Requirements (ELP) – All students must demonstrate strong English proficiency through one of the following: U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident Native English speaker English as the primary language of instruction in secondary school Applicants who do not meet these criteria must submit TOEFL (100+), IELTS (7.5+), or Duolingo (130+) scores. Self-reported scores are accepted via the Common App or Cornell’s ELP Form. Official scores are required upon enrollment.SAT Score Reporting: If you plan to apply to one of our test-recommended colleges/schools, you are welcome to submit unofficial test scores to Cornell University. Should you be admitted to and enrolled at Cornell, we will require official test scores sent from the testing agency at that time.SAT Superscore: Applicant results will be superscored to combine your highest subsections. For the SAT, you can use Score Choice, but Cornell recommends sending all SAT scores.Recommendations: School Report Required, Counselor Recommendation- Required, Mid Year Report- Required, Final Report- Required, Teacher Evaluation(s): 2 Required, 1 Optional, Other Evaluation(s): 0 Required, 3 OptionalWriting Requirements: Common App personal essay- Required, Writing Supplement- 1 Required Question (Based on your selection of a College or School in the Academics section you will be required to complete additional writing question(s)). Applications are done through the Common App. Graduates of Cornell’s Bachelor of Science in Information Science are at the forefront of understanding how people and technology interactWith strong foundations in computingdata scienceuser-centered designethicsand communicationthey pursue impactful careers across techconsultingpolicyand innovation ecosystemsTechnology & Data
Software Engineer: Designing and developing robustuser-centric software systemsData Scientist: Analyzing structured and unstructured data to extract insightsUX/UI Designer: Creating intuitive and meaningful user experiencesFull Stack Developer: Building front-end and back-end systems for scalable applicationsMachine Learning Engineer: Developing intelligent systems that learn and adaptBusiness & Consulting
Product Manager: Leading cross-functional teams to develop information-based productsTechnology Consultant: Advising clients on tech strategy and information systemsBusiness Analyst: Using data and systems thinking to drive business performanceInformation Architect: Designing frameworks for complex digital environmentsPolicy & Ethics
Digital Policy Analyst: Shaping regulations around data privacyaccessand AI governanceCybersecurity Analyst: Managing and securing digital information infrastructuresTechnology & Ethics Researcher: Evaluating the social impact of emerging technologiesInformation Governance Specialist: Crafting ethical frameworks for data use and ownershipDesignMedia & Communication
Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Specialist: Enhancing how people interact with systemsInformation Designer: Visualizing data for clarityimpactand engagementDigital Media Analyst: Studying media behavior using analytics and algorithmic toolsEntrepreneurship & Innovation
Startup Founder (Tech/EdTech/Social Platforms): Building ventures with a user-first mindsetInnovation Strategist: Integrating human and technological systems for value creationTech-for-Good Innovator: Launching solutions with civiceducationalor sustainability focus
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