Master of Library and Information Science

Data management is an incredibly important part of countless corporations, nonprofits, and government agencies. That's why information architects who have graduated from this program are in such high demand. Students in the program pursue careers in data management, information architecture, librarianship, and web management.

The MLIS program at the University of South Carolina is an information architecture program that aims to make sure students can demonstrate a few core competencies. Students learn to organize information, provide information services, lead and manage teams, research, and apply technology well. They also learn strategies for professional development to continue their professional growth. These competencies are reflected in a portfolio that is created prior to graduation.

This information architecture program is part of the School of Library and Information Science. This school is top-ranked school for its role in educating future leaders in library and information science. Students in this IA program take at least three classes on basic library and information science, but the rest of their degree (8 or 9 classes) is tailored to their personal goals and interests.

While the focus of this program is librarianship, the offered electives allow students to specialize in knowledge management. Students choose from electives in storytelling, children's literature, government documents, and digital archives. When combined with computer science skills, students can build a strong base in information architecture.

Practical experience is also a part of this graduate level IA program. Throughout the two years of study, students create a portfolio that demonstrates their expertise in information architecture, leadership, research, and information services. The courses in this program will allow students to develop the knowledge and create a body of work, so that they will be in demand as information architecture professionals.

All students take 36 credit hours. They have the option of taking those courses on campus at the University of South Carolina's Columbia campus. They can also take those courses online. Most students complete the program in two years.

Interested students have the option of pursuing a school library certification. For this option, students need to be a certified teacher, and take an internship in librarianship and well as a capstone course in school library program development. Previous work in a library cannot count toward the internship requirement. As a school librarian, graduates have the opportunity to work with children of all ages and introduce them to literacy.

South Carolina residents pay $552.25 per credit hour. Online students pay $672.25. Non-resident students taking courses on campus pay $1,182 per credit hour. Certified teachers get a discount - $496.50 for South Carolina residents and $590.75 for non residents. All students can apply online and must apply by April 2 for the Summer and Fall semesters.

The School of Library and Information Science was founded in 1972. It was the smallest of the colleges on the USC main campus in Columbia until it merged with the College of Journalism and Mass Communications. Now, the College of Mass Communications and Information Studies offers a few of the 350 courses of study available at the University of South Carolina.