The Master of Arts in Library Science (MALS)

The Master of Arts in Library Science (MALS) degree is designed to prepare library and information professionals to conduct research in an information environment.

This preparation is achieved by:

1. The acquisition of knowledge in a set of courses basic to an understanding of library and information studies.
2. Advanced instruction in a set of research courses.
3. Completion of a thesis.
4. Experience in a research setting. As graduates conduct their professional research and / or move into doctoral programs in librarianship, they will make effective contributions to library research.

Goals of the MALS degree, in addition to goals for the MLS, are:

1. To contribute to the improvement of library and information services through research.
2. To produce graduates who can work in association with researchers in other disciplines.
3. To produce graduates with research expertise needed to work in academic libraries, government agencies, etc.

Core Courses:  24 hours

• LS 5083 Foundations of Library and Information Studies (formerly LS 5813)
• LS 5013 Information Organization and Retrieval
• LS 5043 Information and Communication Technology (formerly LS 5143)
• LS 5003 Collection Development
• LS 5263 Information Sources and Services
• LS 5383 Library Management
• LS 5753 Research Methods
• LS 5843 Practicum

Electives in Library Science and other disciplines:  6 hours

Research tool:  3 hours

Thesis:  6 hours

Total:  39 hours