Information and Library Science University at Buffalo

Overview

The Information and Library Science programme at University at Buffalo provides a comprehensive foundation for professionals aiming to manage, preserve, and innovate within the global information landscape. This Master of Science degree is designed to empower students to lead in traditional libraries, archives, and modern data-centric environments.

Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are ready for the evolving demands of the field. The flexible online delivery allows learners to engage with high-quality academic content from any location while maintaining professional or personal commitments.

Why Information and Library Science at University at Buffalo?

The Graduate School of Education at University at Buffalo holds a prestigious accreditation from the American Library Association, a mark of quality highly valued by global employers. This designation ensures that the degree meets rigorous professional standards and enhances the career prospects of every graduate.

The institution offers eight specialised concentrations, including unique joint-degree options in law and music librarianship. Students have access to experiential learning through practicums, directed study programmes, and special projects that bridge the gap between classroom theory and professional practice.

Despite the online format, the university fosters a vibrant academic community through departmental seminars, student groups, and committee involvement. These platforms provide essential networking opportunities and allow students to collaborate with faculty members who are international leaders in information science research.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 565 per credit
• National fee: USD 565 per credit
• Local fee: USD 471 per credit

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum requires the completion of 36 credits, including core foundational subjects and specialised electives. Modules may include:

• Information Life Cycle
• Information Users and Uses
• Research Methods

Students can further tailor their degree by selecting courses within specific concentrations. These areas of study may include:

• Information management
• Information organisation
• Information services
• Information storage and retrieval
• Law librarianship
• Music librarianship
• Public or academic libraries
• Special libraries

Careers with Information and Library Science

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles across the public and private sectors. The skills acquired during the course are applicable to a wide range of information-intensive organisations and traditional library settings.

Common career paths include working as professional librarians in academic, public, or school environments. Additionally, alumni find success as archivists, information managers, and specialists within museums, business firms, and legal institutions where expert knowledge of information systems is required.