About This Program
This information architecture program is designed to expand your career options, as students who earn their Master of Science in Library and Information Science at the Pratt Institute find themselves highly qualified for a variety of careers. More than 90% of responding graduates landed a job within 9 months of graduation, with jobs titles such as Digital Archivist, UX/UI Designer, Digital Asset Specialist, Metadata Specialist, and more.
This information architecture program uses a well-rounded perspective to educate its students rather than a more specialized tactic. At the same time, it is a flexible program, allowing for students to keep their studies more general or allowing them to decide on a track of concentration. In other words, while it isn’t specifically an IA program, it can be focused in a way that allows the student to get a true information architecture education.
Four of the courses are required: one foundation course (Information Professions) and three core courses (Information Services & Sources, Knowledge Organization, and Information Technologies). The remaining eight courses (totaling 24 credits) are to be chosen by the student. Those most interested in an Information Architecture program could take information architecture classes primarily, for example.
In addition to taking these 12 classes, students must also create an MSLIS e-Portfolio to graduate. The purpose of the portfolio is to prove that the main learning outcomes have been achieved. Those learning outcomes are research, communication, technology, user-centered focus (especially important for an IA program), and reflective practice.
To graduate from this program, students will have to achieve 36 credit hours (each class is worth 3 credit hours). A full-time student should take two years to complete the degree, although summer courses could decrease the duration of the program. Classes are offered at specific time – with three potential times during the day: 11:30, 3:00, and 6:30pm.
If they so choose, students can choose one concentration to focus their elective classes around. The 5 possible concentration areas are Data Analytics, Research, and Assessment; Digital Cultural Heritage; Libraries and Academic/Research Contexts; Literacy, Education, and Outreach; and Rare Books and Special Collections. Students can also earn a User Experience advanced certificate, as well as several others.
The MSLIS program at Pratt Institute received its accreditation from the ALA (American Library Association) in 1924, making it one of the oldest ALA-accredited library schools in the country. This opportunity does come at a cost because the Pratt Institute is not cheap; in the 2018/2019 school year, it costs $25,704 per 18 credits (one year). That does not include additional fees, room, board, etc. Of course, there are always financial aid options available, as well as student employment opportunities.
