Certificate programs in library science are frequently used to supplement a master’s degree program in the field at a college or university. The curriculum focuses on preparing library science professionals for career advancement, depending on the school. Verify the school’s accreditation status to ensure you receive appropriate librarian training. The requirements for earning a certificate in library science vary, but they typically include following specific application guidelines, selecting a specialization, and enrolling in required courses to earn a certain number of credit hours.
Check the accreditation of the college or university, especially if it offers a master’s degree program in addition to the certificate program. The American Library Association has granted this status to the majority of library science certificate programs (ALA). The ALA awards accreditation to schools that provide a diverse curriculum delivered qualified faculty. To be accredited, the school must not only meet educational requirements, but also provide adequate financial aid and career placement services. Employers frequently prefer graduates of accredited libraries science programs.
After you’ve submitted an application, been accepted, and received financial aid, you’ll need to decide on a specialization. Some universities, for example, have programs for librarians and information scientists who want to learn more about digital libraries, information management, and information technology. Others, for example, offer programs in records and information management, library administration, and system design. Specific schools that offer these programs also offer an advanced library science certificate in digital libraries and digital preservation.
You must complete a certain number of course credit hours to earn a library science certificate. Some schools, for example, require you to take 18 semester hours of library and information science courses. Others require 18 credit hours of required and elective courses, plus three hours of internship related to librarianship, while others require 18 credit hours of required and elective courses, plus three hours of internship related to librarianship. You must also complete an additional nine to fifteen hours of study if you want to pursue a master’s degree in library and information sciences in addition to the certificate.
Other schools require students to complete longer programs, such as a certificate in library and information science that requires 40 credit hours. A student project examining issues in library and information sciences, as well as information management, would be required. After that, you’d take a final oral exam on librarianship-related topics.
In addition to professional experience, most programs expect you to earn a master’s degree before or after obtaining your library science certificate. Some schools also allow you to pursue both a certificate and a master’s degree at the same time. Finally, in order to receive the certificate in library studies, you must pass all of the courses with a 3.0 GPA or higher.