Our Master of Science in Library and Information Science (M.S.L.I.S.) program at The Catholic University of America offers a unique approach that blends excellent grounding in the theory of librarianship with practical experience. Our exceptional full-time faculty are complemented by instructors who bring their real-world knowledge into the classroom. Practicums and field projects give our students the opportunity to explore the practical side of whatever branch of librarianship they want to pursue.
Our M.S.L.I.S. program has been continuously accredited by the American Library Association since 1946. With ten courses of study under the M.S.L.I.S. degree option, our students can find their own place in the information profession through our program.
Being located in and serving the nation's capital for 100 years has given us unmatched professional connections with riches of institutions such as the Library of Congress, Government Publishing Office, Smithsonian Institution, and many other federal and nonprofit organizations.
Vision
The Department of Information Sciences aspires to be a center of excellence that transforms the roles of libraries and information professionals for the betterment of human society.
Stakeholders - We Serve:
- Students, by providing excellent education in the theory and practice of library and information science, instilling the library and information science and Catholic University core values of reason, faith and service, collaboration, community, innovation and excellence while preparing them for lifelong learning.
- The university, by collaborating with other academic units to educate students in all disciplines about information literacy, IT competency and research skills.
- The profession and the discipline, through interdisciplinary research and collaboration with practitioners in teaching and research.
- Employers and society, by producing innovative leaders who have high professional ethics, excellent knowledge of the theory and practice of library and information science and technical expertise.
Program Objectives
The M.S.L.I.S. program develops graduates who:
- Are skilled in organizing, disseminating, managing and preserving information;
- Are skilled in the use of information technologies and can articulate in the role of information technology in facilitating information management;
- Demonstrate a commitment to the philosophy, principles and legal and ethical responsibilities of the field;
- Are capable of serving information seekers in a global society;
- Appreciate education and service as integral to the role of the information professional in society;
- Interpret and apply research results from library and information science and related fields;
- Articulate the economic, political, cultural, and social importance of the information profession;
- Are dedicated to professional growth, continuous learning, and applying new knowledge to improve information systems and services to meet the needs of information users in society.
The faculty have adopted a statement of Professional Competencies for Graduates of the Master in Library Science Degree Program.