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Certificate of Advanced Study

Library and Information Science

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Take Your LIS Career in a New Direction

Update your knowledge and technical skills and move your career into a more specialized area with 30 credits of advanced graduate study in library and information science.

Completing this certificate enables you to develop new expertise in archival methods, information analysis, data collection, classification and indexing, reference management, and digital media storage and retrieval without having to complete a dissertation.

The interdisciplinary program meets the needs of mid-career professionals with a previous master's degree in information science or library science who want to learn about current trends, computing applications, and emerging technologies relevant to their work in the field.

 
Program of Study

Core Courses

  • ProSeminar in Information Science and Technology
  • Directed Readings in Information Science and Policy
     

Specialization Courses

Choose classes in your self-designated area of interest.
 

Supporting Courses

Take relevant classes in departments across the University.
 

Advanced Internship

Work toward your career goals with new experience in a library or information agency.
 

Major Research Seminar

Write a publishable research paper in your area of specialization.
 

Comprehensive Exam

To complete the program, you must demonstrate:

  • Mastery of your area of specialization.
  • Knowledge of major trends and issues in the field.
  • Familiarity with research methodologies and priorities.
Design Your Own Specialization

If you're passionate about a specific topic in library and information science, this program provides you with the opportunity to pursue it as a specialization.

Work with your advisor to identify your area of specialization and develop a program of study that supports it. 

Past examples of self-designed specializations include:

  • Information systems development
  • Information resource management for decision making
  • Reference and information services
  • School media information program administration
  • Records and archives management
  • Services for special groups
  • Indexing and abstracting
  • Government information resource management

 

See graduate bulletin for details.

Admissions Requirements

Deadlines

Departmental Assistantship Consideration

Fall: March 1
Spring: November 1
Summer: Not Available
 

No Departmental Assistantship Consideration

Fall: August 1
Spring: January 1
Summer: Not Available

Required Application Materials
  • Transcripts from all schools attended
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official GRE scores
  • Resume

The GRE will be waived as a requirement for admission to the CAS Library and Information Science program for Spring 2021 and Fall 2021 applicants.

Available information for International Applicants.

Special Notes

This program requires an internship, field experience, study abroad component, or clinical experience requirement. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions.  If applicants have concerns about this matter please contact the Dean’s Office of the intended academic program.