By Alex Wilson,
April 28, 2021
WARRENSBURG, MO – has ranked the Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services at the University of Central Missouri as second in the nation among other Masters
in Library Science degree programs. Being recognized as one of the best and as the
program with the most flexible admissions, the program was ranked highly due to its
low cost, academic quality, and its 100% online delivery format.
The program at UCM teaches students about pedagogical processes, different library
applications, and current technologies. Students enrolled in the program can expect
to develop their leadership, writing, and computer skills to a higher degree. Furthermore,
graduates of the program will take the skills they have learned at UCM and apply them
to be effective librarians, better promoters, and examples of following high ethical
standards in the field of library science.
The UCM Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services is the longest
continuously accredited public university program in Missouri by the Council for the
Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP). It also offers opportunities for students
to achieve the requirements needed to achieve initial teacher certification. The requirements
for certification in school librarianship can be fulfilled by courses available online
at UCM.
This cutting-edge program takes a dynamic approach to its curriculum by teaching students
modern and viable approaches to library science, according to Dr. Rene Burress, assistant
professor and coordinator of library science and information services.
“My colleague, Dr. Jenna Kammer, and I have worked very hard to keep the library science
program current and practical. Our 100% online master's degree program is focused
on being responsive to students and the unique learning needs of adults with families
and careers,” Burress said, “UCM keeps the tuition affordable and this has let us
become leaders not only in Missouri but also around the nation and world. Students
in our program live not only in Missouri but Iowa, California, Germany, and China.”
Library science is a growing field of study with more than 150,000 jobs expected to
be available by 2029. For graduate students, the average income of librarians with
a master’s degree is $29,000 more than non-degree library technicians and assistants.
The field of library science is also diverse with opportunities present in public
services, academia, as well as medical and corporate industries.
Students wanting to enroll in the program must possess an undergraduate degree from
an accredited institution and have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 2.75, in addition
to participating in a personal interview. The program curriculum features a diverse
course catalog that enables students to become experts in their field including research
classes, foundational classes, and practicum opportunities.
For more information, contact Dr. Rene Burress at burress@ucmo.edu.