Master of Library Science

General Program Information

A solid theoretical base + current practical skills = Dynamic curriculum

The goal of the online Master of Library Science program is to prepare creative problem solvers who will provide proactive client-centered services in information agencies. To meet this goal, the curriculum is designed to provide the following dynamic mix of courses:

Core theory courses provide the foundation from which students learn the skill sets necessary for the library and information management profession.

Tools courses provide instruction on how to catalog and classify information, retrieve and repackage information, diagnose information needs, plan and evaluate information services, and use print and electronic information sources.

Applications courses amplify and extend the themes identified in the theory courses and focus on information transfer, global information infrastructure, management, and technology.

Elective courses are devoted to current issues in the profession and a capstone experience provides an opportunity to synthesize the educational experience in preparation for entering the field.

SLIM faculty teach all the required theory courses in the curriculum and most of the elective offerings. SLIM hires qualified practitioners to teach certain elective courses that match their areas of expertise. In this way, SLIM students receive a quality education experience grounded in theory and in touch with the latest and best practices in the field.

Since many of their classes involve working with practitioners in the field, SLIM students benefit from outstanding opportunities for professional networking. More than 3,300 alumni across the country and around the world make a great job search network.

Accreditation

The online Master of Library Science program is a 36-credit hour degree program fully accredited by the American Library Association.

Program delivery designed for non-traditional students

Many students are drawn to SLIM because it offers a unique opportunity for non-traditional students. To meet the needs of its students, SLIM offers all of its MLS courses fully online.

General Curriculum

Course Requirements: Required Core Courses (22 Hours)
LI801 Foundations of Library and Information Science (3 hours)
LI802 Information-Seeking Behavior and Reference Services (3 hours)
LI804 Organization of Information (3 hours)
LI805 Management in Information Organizations (3 hours) or LI851 Managing the School Library Media Center (3 hours)
LI810 Research in Library and Information Science (3 hours)
LI855 Collection Development (3 hours)
LI880 Capstone Course: Assessing the MLS Experience (1 hour)
Technology Requirement- select one:
LI815 Information Technology (3 hours)
LI843 Web Design and Development (3 hours)
LI844 Database Design (3 hours)
Or another approved technology course (3 hours)
Elective Course Credit Hours (14 Hours)
To complete their MLS degree, students are required to enroll in 14 elective credit hours from the SLIM MLS catalog. A 9 credit hour concentration would apply towards the 14 credit hours of electives.
Total Hours for MLS degree: 36