Master of Library and Information Science

Master of Library and Information Science
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