Public History and Library and Information Science, M.A. & M.L.I.S.
Program Overview
Public History and Library and Information Science, M.A. & M.L.I.S.
McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
College of Information and Communications
Combine your interests in history, curation and information in this degree that prepares students for careers in education, communities, industries, businesses and more.
This program combines respected curriculum, alumni networks and faculty expertise from two colleges at USC. Both the Public History program and the School of Information rank nationally, with this combined program a perfect fit for students seeking specialized skills and career advancement in library and history fields.
Program Highlights
ALA Accreditation
Receive a quality education in library science certified by the American Library Association.
Storied History Program
Our Public History program is one of the oldest and best in the country. You’ll benefit from excellent scholarship and faculty support.
Top-Ranked
USC’s Library and Information School has been ranked in the top 20 of all ALA accredited schools by U.S. News.
Dual Preparation
Gain research skills and a core foundation of best practices in the profession to stand out to employers.
What You’ll Study
Students complete requirements for both degree programs, but with fewer credit hours than completing each program individually. Courses include Foundational Principles of Library and Information Science, Historical Research Methods and Archival Administration. Complete an internship and a portfolio of research and a thesis.
Building Skills
Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.
Analytical Reasoning
Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions
Writing
Creating professional written content for inclusion in scholarly journal articles, books and reports
Advocacy
Promoting or defending a cause or issue often using awareness, education and policy change
Database Management
Organizing and maintaining data in a computer system, including storage, retrieval and security
Interpersonal Skills
Communicating and interacting effectively in a variety of social and professional situations
Research
Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems
Using your degree
Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.
Potential Careers
- Reference Librarian
- Educator
- Policymaker
- Historian
- Archivist
- Database Manager
Workplace Settings
- Historic Sites
- Education
- Special Collections
- Public Organizations
- Nonprofits
- Museums
Advanced Degrees
Advance your career or options with post-graduate education.
Doctorate
- History, Ph.D.
- McCausland College of Arts and Sciences
- Library and Information Science, Ph.D.
- College of Information and Communications
- History, Ph.D.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Program Name: Public History and Library and Information Science, M.A. & M.L.I.S.
- Description: This program combines interests in history, curation, and information, preparing students for careers in education, communities, industries, businesses, and more. It leverages respected curriculum, alumni networks, and faculty expertise from two nationally ranked colleges at USC.
- Objectives: The program aims to provide students with specialized skills and career advancement in library and history fields.
- Accreditation: The program is ALA accredited, ensuring a quality education in library science.
- Program Highlights:
- Storied History Program: The Public History program is one of the oldest and best in the country, offering excellent scholarship and faculty support.
- Top-Ranked: USC's Library and Information School is ranked in the top 20 of all ALA accredited schools by U.S. News.
- Dual Preparation: Students gain research skills and a core foundation of best practices in the profession to stand out to employers.
Outline:
- Structure: Students complete requirements for both degree programs, but with fewer credit hours than completing each program individually.
- Course Examples:
- Foundational Principles of Library and Information Science
- Historical Research Methods
- Archival Administration
- Other Requirements:
- Internship
- Portfolio of research
Careers:
- Potential Career Paths:
- Reference Librarian
- Educator
- Policymaker
- Historian
- Archivist
- Database Manager
- Workplace Settings:
- Historic Sites
- Education
- Special Collections
- Public Organizations
- Nonprofits
- Museums
Other:
- Skills Developed:
- Analytical Reasoning
- Writing
- Advocacy
- Database Management
- Interpersonal Skills
- Research
- Advanced Degrees:
- Doctorate History, Ph.D. (College of Arts and Sciences)
Overview:
The University of South Carolina is a public research university with a rich history spanning over 200 years. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, fostering a welcoming community of scholars and leaders, and providing a diverse range of academic programs.
Services Offered:
The university offers a wide array of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Provides resources and assistance to help students succeed in their studies.Career Prep:
Offers guidance and support for students seeking internships, jobs, and career development.Study Abroad:
Facilitates opportunities for students to gain international experience and broaden their horizons.Dining:
Provides various dining options on campus, catering to diverse tastes and dietary needs.Clubs and Organizations:
Offers a vibrant student life with numerous clubs and organizations for students to join and pursue their interests.Sports and Outdoors:
Provides opportunities for students to engage in sports and outdoor activities, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle.Arts and Entertainment:
Offers a variety of cultural events, performances, and entertainment options for students to enjoy.Inclusive Excellence:
Promotes a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, regardless of their background or identity.University 101:
Provides resources and information for new students to navigate campus life and academic expectations.My USC Experience:
Offers a platform for students to connect with each other, engage in events, and access resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Students at the University of South Carolina can expect a vibrant and engaging campus experience. The university boasts a welcoming community, numerous clubs and organizations, diverse dining options, and opportunities for sports, arts, and entertainment. The campus is also home to a variety of traditions and events that create a sense of belonging and shared experience.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
The university is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and its commitment to research.Diverse Programs:
Offers over 350 bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees, as well as certificates and specialties.Welcoming Community:
Provides a supportive and inclusive environment for students from all backgrounds.Unrivaled Experience:
Offers a unique blend of academic rigor, student life, and opportunities for personal growth.Strong Alumni Network:
Provides graduates with a network of support and connections for their future careers.Academic Programs:
The University of South Carolina is home to 15 colleges and schools, offering a wide range of academic programs. Some of the key academic strengths include:
Arts and Sciences:
Offers a broad range of disciplines, including humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.Business:
The Darla Moore School of Business is renowned for its strong programs in finance, marketing, and management.Engineering and Computing:
Offers programs in various engineering disciplines, computer science, and information technology.Medicine:
The university has two medical schools, one in Columbia and one in Greenville, offering programs in medicine, nursing, and pharmacy.Law:
The Joseph F. Rice School of Law is known for its strong legal education and its commitment to public service.Other:
The university is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for its students. It offers various resources and services to support student safety and well-being, including a campus police department, emergency alert system, and counseling services.