San Jose State University College of Information, Data and Society

Situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, San José State University's College of Information, Data and Society stands at the intersection of technology, information science, and human-centered innovation. The college represents a bold vision for education in the digital age, preparing students to navigate and shape the complex landscape where data, information systems, and societal needs converge.

The college comprises two distinct yet complementary academic units: the School of Information (iSchool) and the Department of Applied Data Science. This unique structure reflects a comprehensive approach to modern information challenges, combining theoretical foundations with practical applications. Recently renamed to better reflect its mission and the critical role its disciplines play in contemporary society, the college has evolved from its previous identity as the College of Professional and Global Education into a focused center of excellence for information and data-related fields.

Academic Excellence and Innovation

The college's interdisciplinary programs address some of the most pressing challenges facing organizations and communities worldwide. Students learn to analyze, manage, protect, secure, design, organize, and preserve data, information, records, and archives through technology-oriented, user-focused approaches. This comprehensive skill set prepares graduates to become leaders in an increasingly data-driven world where information literacy and technological competence are essential.

The School of Information has established itself as a premier destination for aspiring information professionals. Offering a diverse portfolio of bachelor's and master's degree programs, doctoral partnerships, certifications, and credential programs, the iSchool prepares students for careers in librarianship, informatics, archives and records management, data analysis, information science, and teacher librarianship. The school's commitment to accessibility and inclusion is demonstrated through initiatives like the Bridging Knowledge Scholars program, which supports Indigenous students pursuing careers in libraries, archives, and museums, fostering diverse leadership in the information profession.

The Department of Applied Data Science takes a distinctly hands-on approach to education, offering programs specifically designed to meet workforce demands for interdisciplinary talent in data science and artificial intelligence. Students gain practical experience in designing and deploying intelligent solutions to real-world data challenges, positioning them at the forefront of technological innovation.

Industry Connections and Career Outcomes

Location matters, and the college leverages its position in Silicon Valley to provide students with unparalleled industry access and career opportunities. The Department of Applied Data Science boasts an impressive network of over 150 Silicon Valley companies that actively recruit students for internships and permanent positions. Industry leaders including Amazon, Tesla, Meta Platforms, and Uber regularly hire graduates from the Master of Science in Applied Data Intelligence (MSADI) program, providing students with direct pathways into dynamic technology careers.

These industry partnerships extend beyond recruitment, creating opportunities for collaborative research, guest lectures, and real-world project work that enriches the educational experience and ensures curriculum relevance in rapidly evolving fields.

Community and Impact

Beyond academic programs, the college fosters a vibrant community of scholars, practitioners, and students united by their commitment to using information and data for positive societal impact. The emphasis on user-focused practices and solutions ensures that graduates are not merely technically proficient but also socially conscious and equipped to address equity, access, and ethical considerations in their professional work.

For students seeking to make their mark in fields that are reshaping how society creates, shares, preserves, and uses information, San José State University's College of Information, Data and Society offers a rigorous education, industry connections, and a supportive community that prepare them to lead in the information age.