The Department of Information and Library Science (ILS) offers preparation for careers in all types of libraries and a range of information occupations. The undergraduate program of Information Management and Services (IMS) prepares students for careers in a broad range of evolving information-based fields, especially skills and knowledge in digital information. The IMS program also prepares students for support positions in libraries and information centers. The recently introduced Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program, which has a strong information science and technology focus, is intended for those seeking to develop or advance in professional librarian careers in libraries and information centers.
General Career Assistance
The ILS Department will prepare you for your career by providing a variety of services, including one-on-one faculty career advising, resources on resume building, networking, and interviewing, as well as job listings. Additionally, the Office of Career and Professional Development is available to provide you with various levels of focused career assistance.
Internship and Experiential Learning Opportunities
Internships
A professional field experience (internship) is central to the program for all ILS students. Internships offer you an opportunity to learn how the principles and techniques of library and information studies are applied in a structured setting. If you have not previously worked in a library, this experience will allow you to apply what you've learned in the classroom in a practical manner. If you presently work or have worked in a library, this will provide a well-rounded experience that can add value to your résumé. If you do have library experience, we'll strongly advise you to seek an internship that will broaden your experience, such as in a different type of library or in a specialized unit of a library. This internship provides experiential learning that contributes to creating and strengthening the “serving to learn and learning to serve” ethic that reflects the core responsibilities of the library and information science professions (ALA, 2006).
Independent Study
As an ILS student, you'll have the opportunity to explore in-depth study in topics outside current courses. An Independent Study allows you the opportunity to develop new knowledge and scholarly inquiries within a topical area of your choice under the guidance and supervision of faculty members.
Student Research
ILS students have the opportunity to work collaboratively with current faculty members within their areas of expertise. In ILS, you'll be able to learn and apply research knowledge and skills in a wide variety of research areas.
Sample Occupations of Recent Graduates
A degree from ILS opens doors to a broad range of careers. Our recent graduates’ job titles
include:
- Cataloger
- Children’s librarian
- Electronic resource librarian
- Information architect
- Information officer
- Internet trainer
- Knowledge management specialist
- Learning resource center librarian
- School library media specialist
- Program consultant
- Publisher
- Reference librarian
- Research analyst
- Senior program manager
- Subject specialist librarian
- Public library director
- Urban branch manager
- Web content strategist
- Youth services librarian