School of Library and Information Science
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 Zoom classrooms where students may see, hear, and interact with the professors (scroll midway down the page to view class schedules, course descriptions).
LIS Bachelor of Science Degree Requirements
Master of Library and Information Science Degree Requirements
SLIS Connecting e-journal
LIS Resources @USM Libraries
- Pricing per Semester or Credit Hour
- Textbook Information (choose Hattiesburg campus)
- Financial Aid Office
Mission/Vision/Values
Mission (Updated 5/24)
The mission of the School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) is to prepare a diverse population of qualified professionals for roles in libraries, archives, and other information environments. Through evidence-based active learning, students gain appropriate knowledge, applied scholarship, and skills to serve the information needs of their diverse communities.
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: We recognize and value the diversity of modern society and support an inclusive learning environment. We ensure principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion are cultivated to create advocacy for marginalized groups in the pursuit of social justice.
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 that 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 that research is an essential part of scholarship, not just for the creation of new knowledge but also for the support of teaching and learning and the sharing of new knowledge with multiple communities of interest.
Assessment: We embrace a culture of assessment and evaluation that drives continuous improvement in course delivery, curriculum, and life-long learning.
Check out the current SLIS Graduate Student Handbook, Policies and Procedures. (PDF)
SLIS Undergraduate 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)
Spring 2025 Undergraduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Spring 2025 Graduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Fall 2025 Undergraduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Fall 2025 Graduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Summer 2025 Undergraduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Summer 2025 Graduate Course Schedule (PDF)
Course Descriptions
Undergraduate Course Descriptions (PDF)
Graduate Course Descriptions (PDF)
Course Rotations
Graduate Course Rotation (PDF)
Undergraduate Course Rotation (PDF)
Need a computer for our online classes? Using www.dell.com/usm will show you recommended laptops and provides the following benefits:
- Discounted pricing for USM students (and faculty/staff personal purchases). It also comes with Dell credits (E-Gift cards) for peripherals.
- 4-Year accidental damage extended warranty.
a. Covers ANY damage to the device for 4 years and allows complete replacement once per year.
b. They will send technicians on site to make repairs within one or two days. - Custom configurations available by program.
- The USM student configurations that we have as of this point can be found here: www.dell.com/usm and clicking on the "Shop Recommended Laptops" link.
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)
