Where does the programme belong?

School of Social Sciences Faculty of Sociology, Anthropology and Folkloristics

Information Science, Micro-credential

Language skills

required, minimum level of B2

Programme length

One year.

Study mode

Distance learning

Application status

International students:

Students with Icelandic or Nordic citizenship:

Do you want to be part of the information society of the future?
Are you looking for a short but useful programme?
Are you interested in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, the digital revolution and automation?
Do you want to learn about the different systems used to organise, store, manage and share various kinds of data?

A micro-credential in Information Science is founded on three pillars: people, information, and technology. The programme is both theoretical and practical, offering not only a strong academic foundation but also the essential skills to play a key role in a variety of industries driven by information and knowledge. The focus is on developing the ability to analyse diverse information needs, manage information and data in line with workplace requirements, communicate content via social media and the web, and shape the future of libraries as cultural institutions that support social participation, democracy, and civic engagement.

A micro-credential is a short course that enables individuals to gain knowledge in a specific area. It is structured like other university-level education and adheres to the same quality standards. A micro-credential does not lead to a degree, but students receive a certificate confirming completion. The programme's 30 ECTS credits can be applied towards a Master's degree in Information Science.

Programme structure

The programme is 30 ECTS credits and is structured as part-time study over one year. Students may also choose to complete the programme over a more extended period.

Organisation of teaching

This programme is taught in Icelandic, but most books are in English or other foreign languages.

Information science courses are taught through distance learning, face-to-face learning or a mix of the two. Many students study alongside work.

Other

Students who complete the micro-credential with a first-class grade may apply for the Master's programme.

See the MA in information science for those without a background in Information Science.
See the MIS in information science for those with a background in Information Science."

BA, BS, B.Ed. degree or equivalent qualification.

Micro-credential in Information Science: 30 ECTS credits have to be completed for the qualification in specialisation. Student can choose between two specialisations: Information behaviour or Information management.

The following documents must accompany an application for this programme:

Certified copies of diplomas and transcripts

Proof of English proficiency

Further information on supporting documents can be found here

Programme structure

Check below to see how the programme is structured.

Information Management
Information behaviour

Year unspecified

Year unspecified
Fall
Information and records management
Foundations of Library, Archive, and Information Professions
Spring 1
Web Management and Information Architecture

Year unspecified | Fall

Information and records management (UPP105F)

A mandatory (required) course for the programme

10 ECTS, credits

Course Description

This course is designed to enhance students' competence in information and records management, also known as information management, as well as in electronic and digital governance. The course addresses the methods, purpose, and objectives of information and records management. Icelandic legislation, regulations, and rules on information, records, and archives are reviewed. The interplay between information and records management and quality management will be examined in accordance with the quality standard for records management ÍST ISO 15489-1:2016. Emphasis will be placed on the organisation of data regardless of format. Various types of software will be discussed that can be utilised for data organization, registration, storage, and retrieval. The course will cover needs assessment and the implementation of records management and recordkeeping systems in workplace settings. Students must be able to design classification systems for information and records. Students will practise the mapping of information and records in organisations and the development of records retention schedules will be discussed. Long-term preservation of electronic and digital data will be examined, along with the preparation and processing of electronic archival versions, including process descriptions and procedural guidelines. Study visits to various archives will be conducted, and a workshop on classification schemes will be held. Students will complete both group projects and individual assignments during the semester.

Language of instruction: Icelandic

Distance learning

Further information about the course

Year unspecified | Fall

Foundations of Library, Archive, and Information Professions (UPP113F)

A mandatory (required) course for the programme

10 ECTS, credits

Course Description

Contemporary societies depend on trusted information, transparent documentation, and citizens’ ability to navigate complex information landscapes. This course introduces the democratic and social roles of libraries, archives/records management, and related knowledge institutions across the public, cultural, governmental, and private sectors, as key infrastructures underpinning democratic life in a time of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and widespread misinformation. The course brings together policy, professional practice, and theory to examine how libraries, archives, and information services support citizens’ engagement with information across different phases and spheres of life. It explores how governance frameworks, institutional practices, and professional roles shape public trust, social inclusion, accountability, and democratic processes. Drawing on interdisciplinary and Nordic research, the course provides a shared conceptual foundation in library and information science and archives/records management, preparing them for advanced study and professional practice.

Language of instruction: Icelandic/English

Distance learning

Further information about the course

Year unspecified | Spring 1

Web Management and Information Architecture (UPP110F)

A mandatory (required) course for the programme

10 ECTS, credits

Course Description

The course aims to provide insight into information architecture and the fundamentals of web management. Emphasis is placed on information architecture, including site structure, navigation systems, naming systems, labeling, and user information behavior. Methodologies for organizing information on websites are discussed, along with considerations for meeting user needs. The course also addresses other aspects of web management, such as needs analysis, user testing, and accessibility.

Language of instruction: Icelandic

Distance learning

Further information about the course

Year unspecified

Year unspecified
Fall
Foundations of Library, Archive, and Information Professions
Information Retrieval and Digital dissemination
Spring 1
Library Operations and Services

Year unspecified | Fall

Foundations of Library, Archive, and Information Professions (UPP113F)

A mandatory (required) course for the programme

10 ECTS, credits

Course Description

Language of instruction: Icelandic/English

Distance learning

Further information about the course

Year unspecified | Fall

Information Retrieval and Digital dissemination (UPP215F)

A mandatory (required) course for the programme

10 ECTS, credits

Course Description

The course is built on two interwoven pillars: information retrieval and digital dissemination. On the one hand, it addresses how to access, evaluate, and utilize information in a dynamic environment, with special emphasis on using artificial intelligence to refine searches and process text. On the other hand, the focus is on digital communication and strategy, where the use of social media for knowledge dissemination is at the forefront. The objective is for students to acquire comprehensive skills in finding reliable information and communicating it to diverse groups in a clear and responsible manner.

Language of instruction: Icelandic

Distance learning

Further information about the course

Year unspecified | Spring 1

Library Operations and Services (UPP223F)

A mandatory (required) course for the programme

10 ECTS, credits

Course Description

Libraries are entrusted with ensuring access to knowledge, supporting education and lifelong learning, and safeguarding cultural heritage as a core societal responsibility. This course explores how these responsibilities are translated into professional practice through the organization, management, and development of library services. It addresses core aspects of library operations, including leadership and strategic planning, policy-making, collections and service development, and technological innovation. Central to the course is knowledge mediation: the professional work through which libraries connect people with information, knowledge, and cultural resources. This includes mediated services such as reference and advisory work, learning and reading support, exhibitions, programmes, and other forms of user-facing interaction in physical and digital environments. The course examines professional practice across different library types—including public, academic, school, research, and special libraries—and considers how institutional mandates, user communities, and organizational contexts shape library work. Particular attention is given to libraries’ social and educational roles in fostering participation, inclusion, and equal access.

Please note that the course is taught biannually. Next taught in spring semester of 2026, 2028, 2030 etc.

Language of instruction: Icelandic/English

Distance learning

Further information about the course

Programme in Course Catalogue

Year unspecified

Fall
UPP105F
Information and records management
Mandatory (required) course
10
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description
This course is designed to enhance students' competence in information and records management, also known as information management, as well as in electronic and digital governance. The course addresses the methods, purpose, and objectives of information and records management. Icelandic legislation, regulations, and rules on information, records, and archives are reviewed. The interplay between information and records management and quality management will be examined in accordance with the quality standard for records management ÍST ISO 15489-1:2016. Emphasis will be placed on the organisation of data regardless of format. Various types of software will be discussed that can be utilised for data organization, registration, storage, and retrieval. The course will cover needs assessment and the implementation of records management and recordkeeping systems in workplace settings. Students must be able to design classification systems for information and records. Students will practise the mapping of information and records in organisations and the development of records retention schedules will be discussed. Long-term preservation of electronic and digital data will be examined, along with the preparation and processing of electronic archival versions, including process descriptions and procedural guidelines. Study visits to various archives will be conducted, and a workshop on classification schemes will be held. Students will complete both group projects and individual assignments during the semester.
Distance learning
Prerequisites
Further information
UPP113F
Foundations of Library, Archive, and Information Professions
Mandatory (required) course
10
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description
Contemporary societies depend on trusted information, transparent documentation, and citizens’ ability to navigate complex information landscapes. This course introduces the democratic and social roles of libraries, archives/records management, and related knowledge institutions across the public, cultural, governmental, and private sectors, as key infrastructures underpinning democratic life in a time of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and widespread misinformation. The course brings together policy, professional practice, and theory to examine how libraries, archives, and information services support citizens’ engagement with information across different phases and spheres of life. It explores how governance frameworks, institutional practices, and professional roles shape public trust, social inclusion, accountability, and democratic processes. Drawing on interdisciplinary and Nordic research, the course provides a shared conceptual foundation in library and information science and archives/records management, preparing them for advanced study and professional practice.
Distance learning
Prerequisites
Further information
Spring 2
UPP110F
Web Management and Information Architecture
Mandatory (required) course
10
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description
The course aims to provide insight into information architecture and the fundamentals of web management. Emphasis is placed on information architecture, including site structure, navigation systems, naming systems, labeling, and user information behavior. Methodologies for organizing information on websites are discussed, along with considerations for meeting user needs. The course also addresses other aspects of web management, such as needs analysis, user testing, and accessibility.
Distance learning
Prerequisites
Further information

Year unspecified

Fall
UPP113F
Foundations of Library, Archive, and Information Professions hide
Mandatory (required) course
10
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description
Contemporary societies depend on trusted information, transparent documentation, and citizens’ ability to navigate complex information landscapes. This course introduces the democratic and social roles of libraries, archives/records management, and related knowledge institutions across the public, cultural, governmental, and private sectors, as key infrastructures underpinning democratic life in a time of digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and widespread misinformation. The course brings together policy, professional practice, and theory to examine how libraries, archives, and information services support citizens’ engagement with information across different phases and spheres of life. It explores how governance frameworks, institutional practices, and professional roles shape public trust, social inclusion, accountability, and democratic processes. Drawing on interdisciplinary and Nordic research, the course provides a shared conceptual foundation in library and information science and archives/records management, preparing them for advanced study and professional practice.
Distance learning
Prerequisites
Further information
UPP215F
Information Retrieval and Digital dissemination hide
Mandatory (required) course
10
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description
The course is built on two interwoven pillars: information retrieval and digital dissemination. On the one hand, it addresses how to access, evaluate, and utilize information in a dynamic environment, with special emphasis on using artificial intelligence to refine searches and process text. On the other hand, the focus is on digital communication and strategy, where the use of social media for knowledge dissemination is at the forefront. The objective is for students to acquire comprehensive skills in finding reliable information and communicating it to diverse groups in a clear and responsible manner.
Distance learning
Prerequisites
Further information
Spring 2
UPP223F
Library Operations and Services hide
Mandatory (required) course
10
A mandatory (required) course for the programme
10 ECTS, credits
Course Description
Libraries are entrusted with ensuring access to knowledge, supporting education and lifelong learning, and safeguarding cultural heritage as a core societal responsibility. This course explores how these responsibilities are translated into professional practice through the organization, management, and development of library services. It addresses core aspects of library operations, including leadership and strategic planning, policy-making, collections and service development, and technological innovation. Central to the course is knowledge mediation: the professional work through which libraries connect people with information, knowledge, and cultural resources. This includes mediated services such as reference and advisory work, learning and reading support, exhibitions, programmes, and other forms of user-facing interaction in physical and digital environments. The course examines professional practice across different library types—including public, academic, school, research, and special libraries—and considers how institutional mandates, user communities, and organizational contexts shape library work. Particular attention is given to libraries’ social and educational roles in fostering participation, inclusion, and equal access.

Please note that the course is taught biannually. Next taught in spring semester of 2026, 2028, 2030 etc.
Distance learning
Prerequisites
Further information

Programme in Course Catalogue

The University of Iceland collaborates with over 400 universities worldwide. This provides a unique opportunity to pursue part of your studies at an international university thus gaining added experience and fresh insight into your field of study.

Students generally have the opportunity to join an exchange programme, internship, or summer courses. However, exchanges are always subject to faculty approval.

Students have the opportunity to have courses evaluated as part of their studies at the University of Iceland, so their stay does not have to affect the duration of their studies.

More about the possibility of exchange studies abroad.

Leadership and management in diverse workplaces
Quality and improvement projects
Cultural and literary communication
Organisation and cataloguing of information
Organisation of open science (open access and research data)
Digital information dissemination
Digitisation of data and information
Information management in the workplace
Web management and information architecture

This list is not exhaustive

There is no specific student organisation for this programme, but students meet frequently in the Student Cellar. The Student Cellar is a restaurant, café and bar and a good venue for gigs, meetings or other events. It is open all day and into the evening every day of the week. 