The goals and objectives of the M.S. in L.S. program in the School of Library and Information Science are threefold.

Graduate education. To offer a master's degree program that prepares graduates to provide high-quality services and to assume leadership roles in a variety of libraries, archives, and other information agencies. The specific education objectives are:

• To provide through the core curriculum education in the theories, principles, and practices that form the foundation of library and information science.
• To offer a variety of elective courses, including practicums and independent study, that allow curricular specialization.
• To cooperate with other academic units in specialized joint degree programs.
• To promote through course work and by example professional attitudes regarding scholarship, professional ethics, intellectual freedom, and access to information in a democratic society.
• To maintain supportive and collegian ties among students and faculty through consultation, extracurricular activities, and advising that promotes informed program and career choices.
• To draw upon the people and resources of the libraries and information agencies in the nation's capital to enrich the curriculum.
• To offer continuing education courses, workshops and institutes, designed by faculty and experienced practitioners.

Research and publication. To advance knowledge in library and information science, disseminate research developments to the profession, and facilitate cross disciplinary research. The specific research objectives are:

• To conduct original research and disseminate findings.
• To interpret and disseminate current research developments and technological advances for the benefit of the field.
• To apply research method and ideas from other disciplines to the problems of library and information science.

Service. To address the needs of the university and the profession, and indirectly, the needs of the communities they serve. The specific service objectives are:

• To participate in the university governance activities.
• To assist alumni and other information professionals in keeping abreast of developments in the field.
• To maintain regular communication with alumni and employers.
• To participate in professional and scholarly organizations and activities.
• To respond to the needs of the profession and the public for research, facilitation, evaluation, and consultation.

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