Library Science

Overview

Library science programs include topics such as:

• Library management
• Information retrieval
• Storage of library materials

Concentrations

In library science programs, students may be able to specialize in:

• Children and youth library services
• Library science and administration
• Archives/archival administration
• School librarian

Schools

Many community colleges offer associate degree programs in library science. An associate degree program usually takes two years of full-time study. An associate degree prepares students to work as a library assistant.

A few colleges and universities offer bachelor's degrees in library science. A bachelor's degree usually takes about four years of full-time study.

Many universities offer a Master in Library Science (MLS) degree in library science. A master's degree typically requires two years of study beyond a bachelor's degree. Doctoral (PhD) degree programs usually require two or more years of study beyond the master's degree.

See schools that offer this program.

Graduate Admissions

Admission to graduate programs is competitive. You need a bachelor's degree, good grades, and good test scores. There is no recommended major for this program of study. Whatever major you choose, you may want to take a wide variety of courses to expand your knowledge of different types of information.

Additional requirements at some schools include:

• Graduate Record Exam (GRE) General
• Miller Analogies Test (MAT)
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal interview

Most programs also require that students have basic computer knowledge and skills. This knowledge includes a general understanding of computer hardware and software. Your skills should include the use of word processing, e-mail, and Internet-browsing programs.

Typical Course Work

Graduate Program Courses

This program typically includes courses in the following subjects:

• Acquisitions
• Cataloging and Classification
• Computer-Based Information Tools
• Fundamentals of Library and Information Science
• Libraries and Information in Society
• Library Management
• Information Sources and Services
• Media Technology and Resources
• Organization of Information
• Research Methodology
• Statistics
• Technology of Information

In all schools, you're likely to take courses similar to those listed above. However, some programs also offer and even encourage specialization in a certain area. Typical courses vary by specialty.

Many schools require practicums and internships. These are opportunities to work in a library or other information center under an experienced supervisor. You earn credit hours and gain valuable hands-on experience in a specific area that interests you.

Things to Know

Positions in academic libraries and some special or public libraries often require a second master's degree or more advanced training. Most library science programs offer the chance to complete a joint or dual degree combining library science and some other field. Examples of other fields include law, music, and art.

Schools

East Side Area

Central Washington University

• Library and Information Science
• Library Media--All Levels

King-Snohomish Area

Bellevue College

• Associate in Arts and Sciences Transfer Degree

Highline College

• Associate of Arts Transfer Programs
• Library and Information Services--K-12 Library Endorsement

South Seattle College

• Library Science (Transfer)

University of Washington - Seattle

• Informatics
• Law Librarianship
• Library and Information Science

Tacoma Area

Pierce College Puyallup

• Information Studies