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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to complete the Master of Science in Library and Information Science program?

Most students take from 18 months to two years, taking 6 credits per semester, to finish the degree. It is not unusual for students to take more credits per semester, as well as take advantage of Winter and Summer Sessions, to complete the degree requirements in less time.

If I take courses as a non-matriculating student, will the credits count toward the degree?

As long as you receive a grade of B of better the courses will count toward the degree.

How many credits can I take as a non-matriculating student?

You can take up to 6 credits before matriculating in the program.

I have approval to transfer 6 credits to my Long Island University academic record from another university, but they do not appear on my transcript.

Approved transfer credits will appear on your transcript, once you have successfully completed 15 credits at Long Island University.

Are there admissions deadlines? If so, what are they?

There are no admissions deadlines, however if you qualify for Graduate Scholarships & Grant Programs, based on an undergraduate or graduate GPA, the following deadlines apply: August 1 for Fall, December 1 for Spring and April 1 for Summer.

I want to start the program as a non-matriculating student to see if it’s what I want. Can I do that?

Yes, you can start by completing a Personal Enrichment application and you take up to 6 credits.

Do I need to take the GRE’s to be admitted?

If your undergraduate GPA is below a 3.0, either the GRE or Miller Analogies Test may be required.

Are there any awards or scholarships offered for graduates of C.W. Post?

Incoming graduate students applying for their first master’s degree who graduated with their bachelor’s degree from any Long Island University campus may be considered for a limited number of one-time, one semester $1,000 Graduate Alumni Awards.

I applied through C.W. Post; can I also take classes at the Palmer Manhattan program?

Yes, we encourage students to take classes at any of sites: C.W. Post, Brentwood, NYU and the Westchester Graduate Campus.

I would like to take classes at the Brentwood or Westchester Campus of Long Island University. Can I complete the entire program there?

You will be required to take 3 residency credits at the C.W. Post Campus. However, we sometimes offer hybrid classes which means you may only have to come to the C.W. Post Campus for 3 or 4 sessions. The rest will be online. Westchester students can fulfill their 3 credit residency requirements at C.W. Post or NYU sites.

It is too late to apply for scholarships, is there some other kind of financial assistance available besides applying for financial aid?

Paid Academic Assistantships are available through the Palmer School Library Director’s office. In addition to earning money, Academic Assistantships afford our students valuable hands-on experience in an academic setting.

I understand we are required to complete an internship? Can I use my work experience or do it at my place of employment?

Work experience cannot be used as an internship. The internship is intended to provide students with a professional experience in the field. In some cases, the internship can be waived, depending on the student’s extensive professional experience. A master’s project will be required in its place. You may complete the internship at your place of employment, provided it is a totally different work experience, library related with professional (library) supervision.

Will I have an opportunity to speak with a professional in the field?

All students are assigned a faculty advisor as well as an academic advisor. Faculty advisors have specific office hours to meet with students and can help you with any questions or concerns about your career and academic goals.

Is there any career counseling available?

The C.W. Post Campus has a Career Services office, available to all students, which can assist you with resume writing and interviewing skills. In addition, the Palmer School posts jobs, with descriptions, on the students’ list serv KIOSK. Students are encouraged to check their e-mail from KIOSK at least once a day. In addition to job postings, information about classes, workshops, scholarships are posted immediately. It’s also an excellent source of information in terms of offering job descriptions and skills required for a number of librarian and information specialist careers.

What is the current job situation?

Palmer School graduates enjoy among the highest job placement rates, and top salaries, of all graduate Library and Information Science schools. We encourage students to be proactive in their search and their career by joining professional organizations, networking and attending meetings. The internship experience often leads to career opportunities. With the assistance of Palmer School faculty many students begin their career while still attending school by securing part-time or training positions in library organizations.