What Are the Courses in a Bachelor's of Library Science Degree Program?

Information About Library Science Degree Programs

Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)

Library Science Core Courses

Core courses might cover library logistics, reference and database searching; library information technology; and library materials archiving. These and other courses provide aspiring library science professionals with the tools they need to manage libraries and effectively assist patrons. Students must complete core courses such as:

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  Research methods
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  Electronic information resources
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  Indexing and abstracting
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  Library organization
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  Records management

Special Topics in Library Science

In addition to core courses, most colleges and universities also require students to complete elective courses in order to explore the ethical issues facing libraries today. This includes First Amendment rights and censorship. Electives may also cover the history and traditions of libraries and literacy. Library science program students might explore elective course topics such as:

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  Information ethics
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  Issues within public libraries
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  Function within the school library
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  Special collections

Cooperative Education

Some schools that offer bachelor's degree programs in library science require students to complete cooperative education credits. Students could earn these credits while gaining hands-on experience. Cooperative education programs can provide valuable training, as well as an opportunity to meet experienced professionals within the library industry.

Career Information

Individuals who earn this degree might go on to pursue careers in libraries, schools, publishing companies and local government. They might possess the qualifications necessary to work with computers, networked computer laboratories and library automation systems.