Preparation for your Master of Professional Studies (MPS) from Cornell Bowers CIS isn’t just about performing well during your degree—it’s about maximizing your investment and turning your degree into a practicable career credential.
The MPS in Information Science offers a prestigious and competitive education for those who want to excel in the information science industry. Whatever career trajectory you’re on, an information science MPS prepares you with in-demand skills that set you apart from other candidates.
If you’re pursuing an MPS degree, you understand the importance of building your skill set to match industry needs. However, to get the most out of your MPS education, it is essential to enter the program with the proper preparation and background to excel.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key skills prospective students should build to make the most of their MPS degree at Cornell Bowers CIS, including:
- Hands-on computing experience and proficiency in a high-level programming language
- Strong analytical thinking and clear writing skills
- A solid understanding of human and social systems
- A mathematical foundation in calculus, probability, statistics, and linear algebra
Keep reading for an insider’s look at what sets the MPS program apart—and discover what you’ll want to know before day one.
Inside the Master’s in Information Science
The MPS in Information Science is a one-year, interdisciplinary program offered at the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science. It’s designed for professionals who want to deepen their knowledge in information science and move confidently into industry roles.
With multiple focus areas, including User Experience, Data Science, Interactive Technologies, and Networks, Crowds, and Markets, the MPS degree is as dynamic as the field itself. There are no core course requirements, meaning you can design your own learning experience by selecting courses that match your background and information science career goals. Whether you’re pivoting to a new sector or sharpening your current expertise, you’ll be able to build your ideal information science master’s program.
Looking for a comprehensive breakdown of course options and credit requirements? Explore our course guide—Building Your Information Science Master’s Program
In addition to customizable coursework, the program centers on applied learning through the MPS Project. Students work with real client companies to solve real problems, gaining hands-on team experience that translates directly to the workplace. This practical focus is one of the reasons MPS graduates are positioned for success across a wide range of roles, from UX design and data analysis to software engineering and IT strategy.
Another strength of the MPS degree is its robust network of alumni and industry connections. MPS graduates go on to work at leading organizations like Amazon, Meta, Deloitte, and Wayfair, opening doors to connections and careers across the field.
To make the most of everything the Cornell MPS program has to offer, it’s essential to enter with a strong foundation. While your coursework will deepen your expertise, arriving with key skills already in place can set you up for success from day one.
From Classroom to Career: The Cornell Bowers CIS Information Science Degree
The Skills and Background You Need to Make the Most Out of Your Cornell MPS
Students entering the Cornell MPS in Information Science program come from a wide variety of academic and professional backgrounds. You don’t need an undergraduate degree in engineering or prior industry experience to apply, but succeeding in the program and maximizing what you gain from it requires more than just meeting the admissions criteria.
Before the program begins, it’s worth taking time to reflect on how your academic background, technical skills, and professional goals align with the approach of the MPS. While the curriculum is flexible, the graduation requirements are based on the assumption that students come in with foundational knowledge in several key areas.
Technical Skills
A basic background in computer science, whether through formal coursework or self-directed study, will be essential for navigating your degree. Students are expected to have experience with computing and some proficiency in a high-level programming language, such as Python, Java, C/C++, or R. Familiarity with web and mobile technologies will also be beneficial, particularly for those interested in user-facing applications.
Analytical and Mathematical Skills
Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities are essential, especially when working with data and system models. A solid foundation in calculus, probability, statistics, and linear algebra will help you with data-intensive courses and allow you to better understand the systems you’ll be studying and designing.
Understanding of Human-Centered Systems
Information science sits at the intersection of technology and people. Understanding the human and social dimensions of how technology is used—and how it should be designed—is key. Exposure to topics such as user experience, psychology, sociology, or human-computer interaction can provide valuable context for creating technology that’s effective and user-friendly.
Communication Skills
Whether you’re collaborating on a client-facing project, presenting for an assignment, or working with a team of peers, transparent and effective communication is essential. You should be comfortable conveying technical ideas to both specialist and non-specialist audiences and be able to express your thinking in writing and speech. These skills are especially valuable in the team-based and client-facing elements of any information science master’s program.
General Interest in Information Technology
Finally, a demonstrated curiosity about how technology shapes organizations and society, combined with a motivation to apply your skills to real-world challenges, will carry you far. The MPS degree thrives on interdisciplinary collaboration, so an openness to learning from others and working across boundaries will give you the foundation you need to excel.
Get Ready to Thrive in the Cornell Information Science Program
With the right starting point, your Cornell Bowers CIS MPS degree will create a lasting impact on your information science career, making it a sound investment both personally and professionally. This career-driven program, strengthened by thoughtful preparation, empowers you to thrive in your next chapter, wherever it leads.
By aligning your skills with the program’s focus areas and entering with a solid baseline, you’ll be well-positioned to make the most of Cornell Bowers CIS’ resources, industry connections, and hands-on learning opportunities. The more intentional your preparation, the more confident and capable you’ll feel as you transition from classroom to career.
Learn more about where your thoughtful preparation can lead you upon graduation:
Download the Guide—From Classroom to Career: The Cornell Bowers CIS Information Science Degree
Still need to apply? Explore our admissions page for application instructions.