Dual B.S./M.S. Programs
SILS Dual Degree Program
While a Bachelor of Science in Information Science (BSIS) provides sound preparation for entry into the information professions, a master’s degree provides a distinct advantage to those who want to advance to leadership positions.
BSIS students can complete their master’s degree at an accelerated pace through the BS/MS pathway, which allows them to enroll in up to 12 credit hours of graduate-level coursework that will apply towards either a Master of Science in Information Science (MSIS) or Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS).
How to Apply
Step 1: Apply and be admitted to the BSIS program at SILS. We strongly recommend students indicate their intent to pursue the dual degree as early as possible. The BSIS application opens twice each year, from February 1–March 1 and September 1–October 1.
Step 2: Submit the Dual BS-MS Statement of Intent form.
Step 3: During your undergraduate studies, you will take 12 hours of courses that will count towards both the BS and the MS degree. These classes must be numbered 400 and up.
Step 4: Apply for the MS program at SILS in the first semester of your senior year
Dual BS/MS Curriculum
Students may begin taking courses at the master’s level as early as their third year as an undergraduate. They will complete 120 credit hours as an undergraduate that includes 12 hours of graduate-level courses taken for dual credit.
After completing the undergraduate degree, students will complete an additional 36 hours of graduate-level coursework to satisfy all requirements for the MSIS or MSLS.
What courses will dual count?
- INLS 523 (already a required BSIS course, permission not required)
- Choice of 3 additional INLS courses (9 credits) in the 400-799 range (INLS 700+ requires instructor permission)
*INLS 697, the undergraduate senior capstone, cannot double-count in the Dual BS-MS pathway
Gap semesters (apart from summer) are not permitted.
Graduate Curriculums
Questions?
Contact Benjamin Levine
Assistant Director of Undergraduate Programs and Advising
bjlevine@unc.edu or 919-962-8366
Environmental Informatics
B.S. in Environmental Science & M.S. in Information Science
The dual BS-MSIS is a joint initiative offered by the Environment, Ecology and Energy Program (E3P) and the School of Information and Library Science. Students gain thorough knowledge of environmental science and the skills and preparation for managing data in a variety of applications. This degree is particularly compelling in an age where data management and smart grid technology industries depend on a knowledgeable workforce to meet their needs.
The program will prepare students for a variety of careers in a number of institutions, including the government, not for profit organizations, businesses and corporations, and research organizations. The MSIS will provide graduates with a unique advantage when entering the job market or applying for doctoral work in natural science, information science, or other fields.