School of Library and Information Science
Library and Information Science
Our graduates are professional librarians, archivists, and information specialists who make a positive difference in their communities across the country and internationally. Our fully online programs include some unique features:
- No out-of-state fees - online students pay the same tuition as residents
- No required visits to campus (although we are happy to see students and graduates who drop by for a visit to our beautiful campus and offices)
- British Studies each summer in London, an optional study-abroad course where students may earn 6 elective credit hours
- Synchronous classes meet online once each week in virtual classrooms where students may see, hear, and interact with the professors.
LIS Bachelor of Science Degree Requirements
Master of Library and Information Science Degree Requirements
- Pricing per Semester or Credit Hour
- Financial Aid Office
- LIS General Scholarships
- LIS Minority Scholarships
Mission/Vision/Values
Mission
The mission of the School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) is to prepare
qualified individuals for professional roles in libraries, archives, and other information
environments with appropriate knowledge and skills to serve the information needs
of their communities.
Vision
The School of Library and Information Science aspires to promote student success,
improve information literacy, and serve diverse populations through excellence in
teaching, research, service, and the use of emergent technologies.
Values
The School of Library and Information Science is committed to:
Student-centered learning: We are committed to cultivating an active, student-centered learning community.
Diversity and Inclusion: We recognize and value the diversity of modern society and support inclusiveness
in learning.
Intellectual freedom: We embrace the ideals of intellectual and academic freedom and strive to nurture an
open, respectful learning environment for the free exchange of ideas.
Service: Because we believe it is a core of the profession, we support service at all levels
and encourage ongoing professional development as a means of enhancing skills and
knowledge.
Community: We believe in creating, fostering, and participating in learning and research communities
that span borders on state, national, and international levels.
Research: We believe research is an essential part of scholarship, not just for creation of
new knowledge but for support of teaching and learning and sharing of new knowledge
with multiple communities of interest.
Check out the current SLIS Graduate Student Handbook, Policies and Procedures. (PDF)
University of Southern Mississippi Policies (PDF)
Check out the Registrar's Office Academic Calendar for important dates.
Tentative Class Schedules (Subject to Change)
Summer 2021 Undergraduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Summer 2021 Graduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Fall 2021 Undergraduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Fall 2021 Graduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Undergraduate Course Descriptions (PDF)
Graduate Course Descriptions (PDF)
Undergraduate Course Rotation (tentative) 2020-2022 (PDF)
Graduate Course Rotation (tentative) 2021-2023 (PDF)
The University of Southern Mississippi is the only institution in the state with a program accredited by the American Library Association. The School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) offers a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), two graduate certificates, and a Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science (LIS) entirely online. Our graduates work in a wide variety of settings, including schools, colleges, universities, public libraries, government libraries, corporate libraries, hospitals, military, museums, archives and other information-related environments.
Graduate Programs (100% Online)
- Master of Library and Information Science
- Graduate Certificate in Archives and Special Collections
- Graduate Certificate in Youth Services and Literature
Undergraduate Program (100% Online)
