UAlbany Launches New Graduate Certificate in Information Science

By Mike Nolan

ALBANY, N.Y. (Sept. 8, 2026) — The University at Albany has launched a new advanced certificate in Information Science, designed to give working professionals a competitive edge in a rapidly shifting digital economy.  

Housed within the Information Sciences and Technology Department in UAlbany's College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (CEHC), the 18-credit graduate program offers working adults a fast, flexible pathway to build high-demand skills.  

Students can tailor their coursework to one of four specialized concentrations: Library and Information Services, Archives and Records Administration, Information Management and Technology, or Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics.  

Offered both fully online and on campus, the program is currently accepting applications for upcoming semesters.  

"Every industry is looking for people who can turn complex data into smart, practical decisions," said CEHC Vice Dean Jennifer Goodall. "We built this certificate to give working professionals a flexible, direct way to gain those skills, whether they want to focus on AI, information management, or build toward a full master's degree down the road."  

"Along with creating a clear route into the master’s program, the certificates also enhance one's professional credentials," added Carol Anne Germain, chair of the Information Sciences and Technology Department. "Many practitioners working in one information domain, such as libraries, frequently wish to move into another, such as archives. The certificate supports this hyphenation by offering targeted coursework that facilitates professional transition and expansion."

Growing Demand for Data Professionals

As organizations navigate today’s digital world, the demand for information science professionals has grown across nearly every sector.  

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in data science is projected to grow by 34 percent through 2034, roughly 11 times faster than the national average for all occupations.  

The surge is being fueled by the rapid integration of emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud infrastructure, and advanced analytics.  

From healthcare and financial services to government and tech, employers are actively seeking experts skilled in archival management, information technology systems, and data-driven decision-making to maintain a competitive edge and secure digital assets.  

"Current students and working professionals can both benefit from the certificate," said Norman Gervais, professor of practice in the Information Sciences and Technology Department. "It is interdisciplinary and regardless of the program that you are enrolled in or the industry that you work in, the certificate can be a nice bonus that adds to your existing skillset and resume."

Flexible Pathways and Future Degrees

The new graduate certificate can be completed on a full- or part-time basis. Full-time students will finish in two semesters by taking nine credits each in fall and spring.  

All students take a foundational course before choosing one of the four concentrations:  

• Library and Information Services: Focuses on knowledge organization, information sources and services, and academic or public library administration.  
• Archives and Records Administration: Focuses on records management, archival representation, and digital curation or preservation.  
• Information Management and Technology: Focuses on information systems, storage and retrieval, and information policy.  
• Artificial Intelligence and Data Analytics: Focuses on database systems, predictive modeling, and data visualization and analysis.