Library and Information Science - M.L.I.S. Download to print

The Master of Library and Information Science prepares students for positions of leadership in librarianship and the information professions. The program emphasizes the preparation of students for professional service in academic, public, special and school libraries and other types of information agencies. Kent State offers the only American Library Association-accredited M.L.I.S. degree program in Ohio. An M.L.I.S. degree is the basic requirement for professional employment in most libraries and information centers.

This degree program is also available online.

Students seeking School Library Media licensure have three pathway options in the School of Library and Information Science:
 

1. For students who have a teaching credential: M.L.I.S degree with K-12 School Library Media Licensure is a 39-credit-hour course of study that prepares students to work in all types of libraries, including school libraries. The program includes library science and instructional technology courses.
2. For students who do not have a teaching credential: Dual Degree M.Ed./M.L.I.S. degrees with K-12 School Library Media Licensure is a 57-credit-hour course of study, offered in cooperation with the College of Education, Health and Human Services. It prepares students to work in all types of libraries including school libraries and confers initial teaching license. The program includes professional educational requirements, library science and instructional technology courses.
3. K-12 School Library Media Licensure is a 29-credit-hour non-degree course of study that prepares students to work in school libraries only. The program includes library science and instructional technology courses.

Note: Conferral of a school library media license requires successful completion of the Praxis exam in library media (#0311) and a practicum.

Dual Degree Option in the School of Library and Information Science
A desirable credential for a number of positions, especially in large research institutions, is that of a master’s degree in a subject area in addition to the master’s degree in library/information science. It is possible to work on two master’s degrees concurrently at Kent State University.

Master of Library and Information Science and Master of Business Administration
The Master of Library and Information Science and Master of Business Administration (M.L.I.S.-M.B.A.) Dual Degree Program is designed for students planning careers in library or information center administration. Individuals in these positions need knowledge pertaining to planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling. Advanced education to obtain knowledge and learn skills related to these management functions enables students to take advantage of career opportunities in library settings and other information settings in the profit and nonprofit sectors.

The Dual Degree with the Master of Business Administration is for managers of large libraries and information centers. Individuals in these positions need knowledge pertaining to planning, organizing, staffing, directing and controlling. Advanced education to obtain knowledge and learn skills related to these management functions enables students to take advantage of career opportunities both in library settings and other information settings, in the profit and non-profit sectors.

Master of Library and Information Science and Master of Science in Information Architecture and Knowledge Management
Those students interested in a multidisciplinary approach to graduate studies in the information-related disciplines and professions may also consider pursuing the Master of Library and Information Science and Master of Science in Information Architecture and Knowledge Management multiple degrees option. For further information about the Master of Science in Information Architecture and Knowledge Management or the multiple degrees option, please consult the program Web site at http://iakm.kent.edu.

Master of Library and Information Science/Master of Education Dual Degree plus K-12 School Library Media Licensure
Those students intending to be licensed as school librarians by the state of Ohio must complete a required sequence of courses as established by the School of Library and Information Science and the information technology program within the College of Education, Health, and Human Services. In addition, they must successfully complete the Praxis II exam for Library Media Specialists, administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Students who select this option must already hold a valid Ohio teaching license.

Official transcript(s), three letters of recommendation, GRE if GPA is below 3.0 in highest completed degree, TOEFL for international students, goal statement and biographical sketch. Prospective students should complete the application process no later than September 15 for spring admission, January 15 for summer admission and March 15 for the fall semester. For further details on admission procedures and deadlines, prospective students should consult the school's web site.
 

The Master of Library and Information Science degree requires a minimum of 36 hours.
 

Students must choose between a 3-hour culminating experience (LIS 60670) or a 6-hour master’s thesis to meet degree requirements.

American Library Association