Master of Science
Purpose
To prepare professionals, including librarians, for work in information services and systems in libraries, information centers, and other information-providing organizations such as database vendors and information resource producers. The program is accredited by the American Library Association, and thereby provides a credential recognized (and often required) by employers in information services.
It is now the second oldest program of its kind in America, and the only one in the Delaware Valley.
The Library Quarterly published a recent study evaluating the productivity of U.S. library and information science (LIS) programs and faculty. The College of Information Science and Technology was ranked among the most productive in the nation.
In addition, U.S. News & World Report's 1996 America's Best Graduate Schools ranked the College's library and information science program in the top ten nationwide.
Students come from a range of academic and professional backgrounds and often incorporate their individual expertise with their information services skills. Although a technical background is not required, students should be ready to explore the key role of computer-based resources. Many classes build or increase computer skills.
The standard requirement for completing the undesignated M.S. degree is 60 credits (or approximately 15 courses). Previous coursework in a related discipline or substantial professional experience in a curriculum-related field may allow a student to qualify for a master's with a minimum of 48 credits. Work experience concurrent with a student's program of study may also qualify for a reduction in requirements.
Students can combine "library" courses and "systems" courses. (The degree is an undesignated Master of Science; not a "Master of Library Science.")
The program begins with a required core of four courses, totalling 12 credits: Information Resources and Services; Quantitative Methods; Information Management Tools; and Introduction to Information Systems Analysis.
After the core is completed, a student's individual program of study will consist largely of elective coursework from the following functional groupings:
- Technology of Information Systems
- Principles of Information Systems
- Information Organizations
- Collection Management
- Information Resources and Services
- Research
- Additional Courses
An M.S. student may obtain certification as a school library media specialist, or in Judaica librarianship. The Medical Library Association offers certification as a medical information specialist. The College provides the coursework needed by students who wish to prepare for such certification.
