Library & Information Science Programs

Programs Offered Through CWU Libraries

Minor in Library and Information Science

Certificate in Library and Information Science

Both programs are online.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What can I do with a minor or certificate in Library & Information Science?

  Having a background in library science can prepare you for positions as a library paraprofessional in public, school, or special libraries—depending on your track. However, the types of skills that you will learn through the program focus on research, public service, organization, library technology, archives, and general information management that could be applied to many disciplines. Some of the career directions you could pursue with a background in library science include:

  • Archives
  • Information management
  • Public library technician
  • Publisher representative
  • Academic library para-professional
  • Records management
  • Research management
  • School library aide
  • Technical writer
• Is this program online?

  Yes. There are some course choices that are offered in person, but these are electives and optional. All required courses are offered online.

• How long will the minor or certificate take me to complete?

  The LIS Minor can be completed over the course of 2 or 3 years.

  The Type B Certificate can be completed in 1 year (~2 courses a quarter), or over a number of years. You do not need to be enrolled full-time in courses for the certificate track.

• When can I start the program?

  You do not have to join the program at a particular quarter. However, the two prerequisite courses for any of the program tracks are LIS110 and LIS201. LIS110 is offered every quarter. LIS201 is offered fall quarter.

  Take a look at the academic calendars to find quarter start dates.

• How do I enroll?

  For current CWU students wishing to declare a minor in Library and Information Science, follow these steps in MyCWU:

  1. Navigate to MyCWU Student tab   
  2. Select Records   
  3. Select Request to Apply/Drop Program from the Records menu   
  4. Select Request to apply to an academic program radial button   
  5. Enter program code, use the magnifying glass to search for a program, or use the "Click here if you don't know your program code"   
  6. Click Submit

  The Certificate Program welcomes students who are currently attending CWU and students pursuing only the LIS classes and interested in attending as non-matriculated students. If you are not already a student at CWU, the admissions process for the LIS Certificate is a little different and you can use the online Non-Matriculated Application Form to submit to the Registrar.

• What major or background is required for these programs?

  The LIS Minor and the LIS Type B Certificate do not require a particular major or background. These are appropriate for people with a wide variety of backgrounds and experience. Many people who pursue librarianship also happen to have a background in the humanities, but you can have a background in pretty much anything.

  If you are interested in pursuing an online degree through CWU, explore some of the online programs to learn more.

• Do I need to already have an associates degree or additional education for the LIS certificate?

  You do not need to have an associates degree to take classes toward the LIS Certificate. You can apply as a non-matriculated student to start enrolling in courses. Students pursuing the LIS Minor need to also pursue a Major.

• What does it cost?

  Tuition and cost per credit for the LIS Minor and LIS Certificate programs is the same. Check the current CWU tuition rates to see cost per credit.

• What do students in the LIS Programs do after they graduate?

  While what you do with your LIS degree is up to you, prior students in the program have worked in the following areas:

  • Public libraries
  • Pursuing a Masters in Library and Information Science
  • Data analyst
  • Industry records manager
  • Academic libraries

  Check out the research guide for guidance on finding positions in the field.

Program Faculty & Sample Syllabi

For more information, contact:

Elizabeth Brown
Associate Professor & Department Chair | Instruction Coordinator

James E. Brooks Library
Central Washington University
400 East University Way
Ellensburg, WA 98926-7548