Graduate Programs
Goals and Objectives of the M.L.S. Program
To meet the goal of educating students for effective and satisfying professional careers in libraries an d other information centers, the M.L.S. curriculum has been designed to prepare graduates to identify and analyze the information needs of diverse user groups distinguished by age, education, and economic and social standing; to apply appropriate search strategies for effective and efficient information retrieval in any situation; to educate users of information systems in the location and evaluation of information resources; and to evaluate the provision of information systems and services in a variety of library and information settings. Accordingly, the M.L.S. curriculum has been tailored to address specific educational objectives in seven major areas of librarianship.
Developing and managing library collections. Graduates should be able to prepare and apply policies and procedures that support the selection and acquisition of information resources according to the information needs of the organization, institution, or community with which they work. In addition, they should be able to manage, evaluate, and preserve collections of information resources in a range of formats.
Representing and organizing information resources. Graduates should understand and be able to apply the basic principles of rrepresentation and organization to provide effective access to resources in a variety of library and information environments.
Applying management and leadership skills. Graduates should understand a wide range of organizational structures and management and leadership styles and should demonstrate positive attitudes and constructive actions that characterize innovative leadership. They should also be able to recognize the value of collaborative planning and project management and to apply the interpersonal and organizational skills necessary to manage and evaluate projects and personnel successfully.
Working effectively within a range of organizations. Graduates should be able to work effectively within and across a range of organizational structures, to communicate an organization’s values and contributions and to identify resources that will support the organization’s activities.
Conducting and analyzing research. Graduates should be able to understand and apply research and evaluation methods in the investigation of questions related to the acquisition, representation, organization, use, and dissemination of information. They should also be able to analyze, interpret, and evaluate the findings of research conducted by others.
Demonstrating basic technical expertise. Graduates should understand basic applications of modern technology in libraries and in other information environments.
Approaching professional issues with understanding. Graduates should be able to comprehend the social, political, and legal aspects of information creation, access, and ownership. They should recognize their professional obligation to engage in continuing learning through participation in personal educational endeavors and in professional organizations in library and information science.