The Master of Library and Information Science Degree (M.L.I.S.)

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The M.L.I.S. degree program at Kent State University's School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) has a history of excellence. As the only American Library Association accredited master's program in Ohio, Kent State University is the center of library and information science scholarship, education, and training in the state. The School plays a crucial role in support of the state's libraries and information centers. The M.L.I.S. degree prepares graduates for professional careers in all types of libraries and information centers as well as for positions within the information industry.

1. Analyze the changing cultural, educational, and societal roles of librarians and information professionals and the place of the library and information in society.
2. Select, acquire, and process information resources for libraries and other information agencies.
3. Interpret and effectively utilize general and specialized information sources and bibliographic tools.
4. Organize and describe information materials in a manner that will facilitate and enhance utilization of resources.
5. Interpret and apply basic management principles to decision making in librarianship.
6. Describe advances in technology pertinent to the acquisition, organization, and dissemination of information and apply this knowledge to libraries and other information agencies.
7. Analyze, evaluate, and conduct research in the field of librarianship and relate findings to the solution of problems in the profession.
8. Analyze the information needs and use patterns of specific user populations, describe the place of the library in the information transfer process, and the design of information services to meet user needs.

Requirements for Graduation

The M.L.I.S. degree requires 36 semester credit hours. Students earning the M.L.I.S. with K-12 school library media licensure complete 36 semester hours or coursework. This option is available only to students who have current standard teaching credentials in the State of Ohio.

Required Courses. All library and information science students working toward the master's degree must take the following courses:

• LIS 60001 Access to Information
• LIS 60002 Organization of Information
• LIS 60003 Information Technology for Library and Information Professionals
  
• LIS 60600 Foundations of Library and Information Science
• LIS 60610 Management for Library and Information Professionals
  
• LIS 60670 Culminating Experience OR LIS 60199/60299 Thesis

Students are expected to complete all requirements for the master's degree within six consecutive years from the date of initial enrollment. Students who exceed this time limit may petition for a one-year extension.