Library & Information Studies (M.L.I.S)
The purpose of the Master of Library and Information Studies is to prepare students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to become highly proficient librarians, media specialists, and information authorities. Students are advised through a 30-credit-hour plan of study completed with an advisor and filed with the program director in the semester when 12th credit hour is completed. Coursework may focus on a type of library: academic, public, or special or an area of library and information work such as youth services or evaluation & assessment. Coursework for the MLIS is offered asynchronously and online with two face to face requirements: attendance at the Summer Institute held on campus in Norfolk, VA and at a professional conference. Coursework is project-based and students are expected to spend time in a library for most courses. All students complete an internship.
Library & Information Studies (M.L.I.S)
Description
What is Library and Information Studies at ODU like?
The purpose of the Master of Library and Information Studies is to prepare students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills that will enable them to become highly proficient librarians, media specialists, and information authorities. Students are advised through a 30-credit-hour plan of study completed with an advisor and filed with the program director in the semester when 12th credit hour is completed. Coursework may focus on a type of library: academic, public, or special or an area of library and information work such as youth services or evaluation & assessment. Coursework for the MLIS is offered asynchronously and online with two face to face requirements: attendance at the Summer Institute held on campus in Norfolk, VA and at a professional conference. Coursework is project-based and students are expected to spend time in a library for most courses. All students complete an internship.
Program Highlights
What makes Library and Information Studies at ODU unique?
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Equips students with the knowledge, skills and dispositions they will need for careers in a complex information and technology-based society.
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Engages students with their communities by providing project-based learning and internships in real-world settings.
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Focuses on the preparation of culturally responsive librarians who can provide resources and services for increasingly diverse communities for the Commonwealth of Virginia, the nation, and the world.
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Connects students to library and information professions.
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The Master of Library and Information Studies Program at Old Dominion University is accredited by the American Library Association Committee on Accreditation, with the status of Initial accreditation. The next comprehensive review visit is scheduled for Fall 2028.
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Learn more about the Master of Library and Information Studies program by visiting: Library & Information Studies at ODU
Available Online only
AT A GLANCE
College / School:
Major:
Library & Information Studies
Degree Level:
Graduate
Delivery Mode(s):
Degree Earned:
Master of Library & Information Studies
Careers
What are some careers in this field?
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is the midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Librarians
$60,760
MEDIAN SALARY
Administer libraries and perform related library services. Work in a variety of settings, including public libraries, educational institutions, museums, corporations, government agencies, law firms, non-profit organizations, and healthcare providers. Tasks may include selecting, acquiring, cataloguing, classifying, circulating, and maintaining library materials; and furnishing reference, bibliographical, and readers
Audio-Visual and Multimedia Collections Specialists
$51,290
MEDIAN SALARY
Prepare, plan, and operate multimedia teaching aids for use in education. May record, catalogue, and file materials.
Courses
What are some courses offered in Library and Information Studies at ODU?
LIBS 608:
Foundations in Library and Information Science
This course provides social, cultural, and historical perspectives on libraries and librarianship. The purpose, functions, and processes of information and library science are explored. Current types of libraries and information agencies are explored including certification and licensure for various specialties. Legal, ethical, advocacy, and economic policies, trends, and positions are addressed.
LIBS 612:
Research Methods in Library and Information Studies
This course will introduce students to theoretical and applied research design, methodologies, and evaluation of research in library and information science |LIS). The course will include a review of existing research, allowing students to evaluate and assess the potential value of literature and research findings through critical analysis. Basic qualitative and quantitative research protocols will be learned through this class.
LIBS 680:
Culturally Responsive Librarianship
This course provides thought-provoking background and practical suggestions for engaging with a diverse population. Participants explore their own assumptions about race, class, and culture and learn strategies for creating environments and an open dialog that are culturally inviting to all.
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Library and Information Studies at ODU?
Students entering the MLIS program in Library and Information Studies should meet the minimum university admission requirements (Graduate Admission)
Applicants may hold a bachelor's degree in any field. Applicants to the School Library Concentration must have a teaching license. Students interested in school library licensure who do not have a teaching license may be advised into additional coursework and testing.
A 500-word essay addressing how this degree will forward your pursuit of lifelong learning.
Application to Graduate School
Current Resume
If the applicant's primary language is not English, submit a current score for the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) that meets the University's current standard.
Cost
Tuition and Fees
Estimated rates for the 2022-23 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Virginia Resident
Per Credit:
$ 571
Non-Resident
Per Credit:
$ 1,394
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Per Credit:
$ 595
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Next Steps
I like this program. What are the next steps?
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Department Website Explore our academics
Contact
Need help applying?
Meet Your Enrollment Team
Our enrollment coordinators are ready to help you through the admissions process.
PROFESSOR
Name:
Sue Kimmel
Location:
3108 EDUCATION BUILDING , NORFOLK, VA, 23529
Email:
Office:
757-683-5714
For General Inquiries:
Graduate Admissions
Location:
1000 Rollins Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3685
Fax:
757-683-6512
Email:
gradadmit@odu.edu
International Admissions
Location:
2101 Dragas Hall, Norfolk, VA 23529
Phone Office:
757-683-3701
Fax:
757-683-3651
Email:
intladm@odu.edu
Additional Programs
Are there other programs at ODU I may be interested in?
With over 120 undergraduate programs, 130 graduate programs at the master's, education specialist and doctoral levels plus a wealth of certificate and professional development programs, Old Dominion University has the program for you. Visit our academic program listing page to see other programs ODU has to offer.
How would you like to complete your program?
ODU commemorated the inauguration of President Brian O. Hemphill, Ph.D., during Homecoming Weekend 2022. Relive the historic weekend.
It's time to fall in love with ODU! Join us for our last Open House event of the semester on Saturday, November 19.
Visit the Commencement Office for information on event times, caps & gowns, tickets and more!