Wildcat in front of UK's School of Information Science
The University of Kentucky School of Information Science is proud to announce that its Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS) program has been granted continued accreditation by the American Library Association (ALA).
ALA accreditation signifies that a program has successfully completed a rigorous self-evaluation process, undergone external review, and demonstrated compliance with the Standards for Accreditation of Master's Programs in Library and Information Studies. Established by the ALA Committee on Accreditation and adopted by the ALA Council, these standards evaluate programs across key areas including mission and goals, curriculum, faculty, students, administration and financial support, and physical resources and facilities.
Accreditation is significant for library and information science programs. Many employers require candidates for professional-level library positions to hold a degree from an ALA-accredited program, and some states require an ALA-accredited degree for professional librarian positions in public and school libraries.
"This achievement is a testament to the strength, quality, and enduring contributions of the University of Kentucky's MSLS program to the library and information science profession," said Youngok Choi, Director of the University of Kentucky School of Information Science. "It also reflects the legacy of more than 100 years of excellence in library science education at the University of Kentucky."
The MSLS program has maintained accreditation since 1949 and is the only ALA-accredited library and information science program in Kentucky. The continued accreditation is proof that the University of Kentucky's MSLS degree meets the highest standards of quality in library and information science education, preparing students for successful careers across libraries and other information organizations.
"This accomplishment is a collective effort, made possible by the commitment and contributions of our entire LIS faculty, staff, current students, alumni, advisory board members, university administration, and friends," Choi said. "We are proud of the MSLS program's long-standing tradition of excellence and look forward to continuing to educate and prepare the next generation of library and information professionals."