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Library Science, MLS

The master's degree in library science from the School of Library and Information Sciences is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), which requires that accredited institutions provide evidence of assessment and evaluation of student achievement. This data can be found in the SLIS Achievement and Assessment Document.

Program Overview

The Library Science MLS program gives students the chance to see how libraries today are information centers where users come to collaborate and build as well as investigate sources of knowledge. The program includes specializations in public libraries, academic libraries, digital libraries, school media and other areas.

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Program Objectives

The following are the student learning outcomes of the Master of Library Science program:

Objective 1: Students will be able to meet professional and intellectual goals as reflected in course objectives for the student’s program. The students study the foundations and principal ideas of the discipline, and they are introduced to the values and expectations of the profession. The SLIS faculty has earned doctoral degrees from highly ranked graduate programs with strong traditions in research, providing a strong framework to help students understand both the theory and the practice of library and information sciences effectively.
Objective 2: SLIS fosters and sustains innovative and quality teaching to enhance student learning. We encourage critical thinking about the literature of library science, information studies, computer science, social science and related fields, and we inculcate high standards of professionalism and service. The SLIS will demonstrate continued innovation and sustained quality by means of student feedback forms and shared learning experiences
Objective 3: SLIS provides an environment that enhances the professional and intellectual growth and development of faculty and students. Faculty development is strongly encouraged and supported within SLIS through the Office of the Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. The University and the SLIS will provide material support for scholarly and creative endeavors by the faculty who will make documented contributions to the profession.
Objective 4: In keeping with NCCU’s mission, the SLIS promotes literacy and informed communities. Graduates are prepared to develop and evaluate resources and programs, and to understand the needs of many different kinds of users. Students who have completed our program are equipped to anticipate social and technological changes, and to promote change that advances the profession, improves technology, and encourages transformation in our communities.

Admission Requirements

The requirements for all applicants are as follows:

Online graduate admission application
$50 non-refundable application fee
GPA/grades: Cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 (“A”= 4.0) on all undergraduate work (exceptions to the 2.75 GPA requirement may be made for applicants with relevant professional experience)
Official transcripts: Official copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (must be received in sealed university envelopes)
Letters of recommendation: At least two relevant professional or academic letters of recommendation (access forms through the online application; recommenders need to upload letters of recommendation)
Statement of purpose: This statement should be approximately 700–800 words (2–3 pages) long. Please discuss the following in the statement:
- How your personal, academic and work experiences have influenced you to apply for this program
- What your professional objectives are and how you want to arrive at them
- How you hope to contribute to positive change in the field, especially in light of the School’s mission “to prepare professionals to become leaders who can advance the library and information sciences in a diverse and global society"
Resume or curriculum vitae (CV): should include work experience related to the library and information professions, as well as other types of employment experience, and volunteer or community activities; should be less than 2 pages long
The GRE is not required (submitted scores are not considered)

Additional Requirements for International Applicants

Application Deadline Dates

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents

Fall: July 1
Spring: November 1
Summer: April 1

International Applicants

Fall: April 1
Spring: September 1
Summer: no admission

Contact Us

Graduate Contact Form

How to Apply

All individuals who would like to apply to an NCCU graduate program (except the law program) must apply using the correct online graduate admission application.

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