The Division of Library and Information Science (DLIS) of St.
John’s University offers a program of study leading to the Master
of Library Science degree at the University’s Oakdale Graduate
center. Founded in 1937, the DLIS has sponsored the ALA-accredited
MLS program in Oakdale since the Fall 2001 semester. Our
student-centered curriculum is taught by dedicated faculty active
in the profession and committed to the University’s tradition of
academic excellence close to home. As a vibrant learning community
for students, faculty and alumni, colloquia are scheduled each
semester featuring speakers from the profession. Student contact
with professionals is an important component of the graduate school
experience. Graduates have secured professional positions in a
variety of institutions on Long Island.
Academic Program
- Students may complete 30 of the 36 credits required for the
program (i.e., 10 of 12 courses) at Oakdale.
- The remaining six credits may be satisfied by enrollment in
courses offered in mixed-mode or condensed schedule formats.
- Classes are offered on weekday evenings and Saturday
mornings—usually for seven four-hour sessions—during the academic
year and summer session.
- Required core courses cover introductions to the profession,
organization of information, information sources/services,
collection development and management, as well as an advanced
offering in information sources/services.
- Electives are available in children’s sources and services,
technology applications, discipline-specific reference work and
information ethics. Courses specifically focused on school and
public library service are regularly offered.
- Students are eligible for internships in public, school,
academic and special libraries.
- A student with appropriate academic credentials may pursue a
sequence of study leading to eligibility for New York State
Education Department (NYSED) certification as school library media
specialist (K-12).
- All graduates are automatically eligible for New York State
public librarian certification.
Resources
- The DLIS classrooms, lounge and office are housed in the
Benilde Library at Oakdale, located on 175 acres of scenic grounds
overlooking the Great South Bay.
- Students enjoy access to the St. John's University Library
databases, e-reserves and full-text electronic journals from the
Oakdale location and compatible home computers.
- Document delivery of print materials to the Oakdale library may
be arranged. Students enjoy full borrowing privileges at the main
campus library if choosing to visit in person.
- A computer laboratory is available for class and individual
use.
- The DLIS office at Oakdale makes the Division's administration
available to students and prospective students in person for
advisement and registration. All advisement sessions take place at
Oakdale and students complete registration online.
- The DLIS listserv (for students and alumni) announces full- and
part-time trainee and professional job openings, internships and
scholarship opportunities.
Financing
- Rev. Brian O'Connell, C.M., Library Studies Scholarships are
available for incoming matriculated students based upon superior
academic achievement in the previous earned degree.
- Deferred and monthly tuition payment plans
- Tuition discount for full-time Catholic school educators
- Other financial aid available for eligible students
Further Information
Elizabeth B. Pollicino, Ed.D.
Associate Director
Division of Library and Information Science
(631) 218-7807
pollicie@stjohns.edu
www.stjohns.edu/libraryscience