What student support services are offered?
Depending on course load, freshmen students typically complete the program in 4-5 years. For transfer students, time to complete the degree is dependent on how many credits transfer into the IST program. Summer course offerings allow some students to complete the program at an accelerated pace. Call 414-229-4707 to speak with an advisor if you have any questions.
How do I apply?
Applications may be completed online at apply.wisconsin.edu/.
UWM’s priority application deadline is March 1 for Fall semester and Dec. 15 for Spring. However, applications will continue to be reviewed until enrollment capacity has been reached. To apply:
- Contact a SOIS advisor to discuss program options.
- Follow the appropriate UWM application procedures: uwm.edu/admission.
Can I transfer previous college credits into this program?
Yes, the School of Information Studies (SOIS) accepts transfer credits into the IST program. Due to the unique structure of the IST program, we often accept more credits than any other program at UWM.
SOIS also has a broad-based transfer credit policy for associate degree holders. The maximum number of credits that may be transferred from any two-year accredited institution is 72. To review transferable courses within the UW System and Wisconsin Technical College System, visit the UW System Transfer Information System Course Wizard at http://tis.uwsa.edu.
Will the SOIS advisors evaluate my transcript before I apply or am admitted?
Yes. Our advisors will provide you with a pre-admission transcript evaluation at any time. Call 414-229-4707 to set up an appointment with an advisor today.
What type of financial aid and scholarships are available?
The School of Information Studies provides assistance to undergraduate students with the following scholarships:
- Dean’s Information Science & Technology Scholarship* $1,000
- SOIS New Freshmen Scholarship* $1,000
- Dean’s Diversity Scholarship* $1,000
- SOIS Transfer Student Scholarship* $1,000
- Attitude & Aptitude Scholarship* $500
*No application necessary. Student must declare IST as major and be enrolled in at least one IST course in the awarded semester.
For more information on financial aid, military education opportunities and student employment, please visit the UWM Financial Aid office website http://uwm.edu/financialaid/.
Can the degree be completed online?
Yes, all IST core courses are available online during fall and spring semesters. Students can choose from a wide variety of electives available online every semester. UWM also offers a selection General Education Requirements (GER) online, however these selections may be limited. Students must also meet math, English and foreign language requirements for degree completion. Please contact a SOIS undergraduate advisor to determine if local courses in English, math or foreign language would be applicable to your program.
Is online for me?
Consider asking yourself these questions:
- Do you express yourself well in writing and have good reading skills?
- Are you comfortable using the Internet and other technology?
- Can you truthfully say you have self-discipline to managing your time wisely?
- Are you willing to take responsibility for your own learning as well as work collaboratively with your classmates and instructor?
For more information visit, the UWM Online Learning page or call 414-229-4707 to discuss online learning with an advisor.
Who teaches online courses?
Online courses at SOIS are taught by full-time, tenure track faculty and lecturers. To further expand our elective offerings, SOIS hires experienced professionals to teach in specialized subject areas. These are all the same instructors you would find in a traditional, onsite class.
How are online courses delivered?
SOIS online courses are delivered mostly asynchronously (in non-real time) using Desire2Learn, an intuitive course management software tool. Some courses may take advantage of live chat sessions; others may make use of streaming audio or video lectures. As new technologies for course delivery become available, we will make every effort to take advantage of those that are appropriate to our degree programs.
How much do online classes cost?
For the 2015-2016 school year, the cost of a 3 credit online course is $1,176. This is the only fee charged for an online course; no additional tuition is assessed. For tuition and fee information visit the Aid & Fees page. (For onsite tuition information please visit: www.bfs.uwm.edu/fees/ )
For an accurate picture of online course fees for students enrolled in both online and onsite courses, please contact an advisor.
Can I enroll in a study abroad program?
Absolutely! SOIS offers numerous study abroad opportunities during the summer and UWinteriM terms to South Africa, Korea and Scotland to name just a few. Enroll early, though, because they fill up quickly!