The Department of Information and Library Science is committed to educating students to work in the growing global digital information environment. The department seeks to prepare you to access, evaluate, manage, communicate, create, and adapt the information environment to meet the needs of changing user groups. Through their diverse professional backgrounds and research expertise, the faculty can prepare you for a range of emerging careers in libraries and all types of information agencies.
The department offers a cooperative MSLS/JD program with Widener University School of Law's Harrisburg, PA., campus. Students must be admitted to both programs separately. Any six credits of coursework taken as part of a student's JD program may be applied to that student's MSLS program, and vice versa. These courses will be chosen in consultation with the student's faculty advisors.
The department also offers a cooperative program with Shippensburg University. Students must be accepted by each instruction through a separate applications process at each university. Students enrolled in these programs will receive a six-hour (two-course) reduction in total hours required for the two degrees.
American Library Association - The MSLS program is accredited by the American Library Association.
Prospects for the future are extremely positive for well-prepared new graduates guided by creative faculty advisors. Employment opportunities vary according to educational qualifications and the areas of specialization of the individual preparing to enter the information professions. The M.S.L.S. graduate who is flexible with respect to geographic location and willing to meet the challenge of serving special groups will have especially good opportunities for employment.
Provides an advanced pre-professional experience through work in a cooperating library or information center. Students are expected to apply and evaluate the theory and practice learned in the classroom; prepare an evaluative paper, and be observed and evaluated by the site supervisor. Accreditation assessments administered. Prerequisites: successful completion of at least 30 credit hours, including all other required courses; permission of advisor, internship coordinator, and the department chair. For students not seeking initial certification.
Intended as a capstone experience for students in the Masters of Science in Library Science program. Provides the opportunity to pursue a research project related to the student's area of specialization or interest and which is based on research strategies developed in LS550. Accreditation assessments administered. Prerequisites: LS550 and successful completion of at least 30 credit hours, including all other required courses; project approval by advisor, instructor, and the department chair. For students not seeking initial teacher certification.