Library Science, Special Libraries Concentration, MLS

Program Overview

The Special Libraries concentration (Library Science MLS) teaches students to organize and classify information according to the specific needs of a specialized user clientele and to critically evaluate and consume research results. In addition, students learn to recognize diverse technologies and social forces as well as their importance in the development of knowledge and information processes.

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Program Objectives

The objectives for the special library area of concentration are to provide opportunities for the students to develop competencies that will enable them to:

Demonstrate the ability to organize and classify information according to the specific needs of a specialized user clientele
Recognize the many technologies and social forces and their importance in the development of knowledge and information processes
Understand what it means to be aurally and visually literate and how these types of literacy relate to the organization and use of all media
Be critical evaluators and consumers of research results
Be sensitive to the role and function of information management in an organization

Admission Requirements

The requirements for all applicants are as follows:

Online graduate admission application
$50 non-refundable application fee
GPA/grades: Cumulative grade-point average (GPA) of at least 2.75 (“A”= 4.0) on all undergraduate work (exceptions to the 2.75 GPA requirement may be made for applicants with relevant professional experience)
Official transcripts: Official copies of transcripts from all colleges and universities attended (must be received in sealed university envelopes)
Letters of recommendation: At least two relevant professional or academic letters of recommendation (access forms through the online application; recommenders need to upload letters of recommendation)
Statement of purpose: This statement should be approximately 700–800 words (2–3 pages) long. Please discuss the following in the statement:
- How your personal, academic and work experiences have influenced you to apply for this program
- What your professional objectives are and how you want to arrive at them
- How you hope to contribute to positive change in the field, especially in light of the School’s mission “to prepare professionals to become leaders who can advance the library and information sciences in a diverse and global society"
Resume or curriculum vitae (CV): should include work experience related to the library and information professions, as well as other types of employment experience, and volunteer or community activities; should be less than 2 pages long
The GRE is not required (submitted scores are not considered)

Additional Requirements for International Applicants

Application Deadline Dates

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents

Fall: July 1
Spring: November 1
Summer: April 1

International Applicants

Fall: April 1
Spring: September 1
Summer: no admission

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Graduate Contact Form

How to Apply

All individuals who would like to apply to an NC Central graduate program (except the law program) must apply using the correct online graduate admission application.

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