The Wayne State University School of Information Sciences (SIS) has been granted renewed accreditation from the Committee on Accreditation of the American Library Association (ALA). The school's master of library and information science (MLIS) degree has been accredited continuously by the ALA since 1967, with the most recent continuing accreditation granted in 2017.
"The MLIS degree plays an important role in providing professional librarians for all types of libraries," said Paul Bracke, dean of the School of Information Sciences and University Libraries. "Our online program offers students the flexibility to choose from multiple paths and concentrations while pursuing their master's degree at their own pace.
"I can't stress how important it is to receive the continued accreditation. It guarantees students in the program an education that meets the standards set by the American Library Association, while allowing us to remain accessible to students globally. This is important for graduates who seek employment because the ALA-accredited MLIS degree provides recognition to employers about the caliber of the graduates of accredited programs."
Wayne State’s School of Information Sciences is one of two library and information science programs in Michigan and the only one that provides a completely online program. It is also the major provider of the school media specialist credentialing to prepare students for full state endorsement as school librarians.
Accreditation is achieved through a self-evaluation, followed by a review process conducted by an external review panel of distinguished practitioners and scholars. Over two years of work in preparing for accreditation and in reviewing the curriculum, mission, goals and objectives resulted in recognition that SIS will continue to offer a quality program.
“While the accreditation process is lengthy, it is also an important opportunity to systematically review every aspect of the school. It helps us align with the emerging needs of the profession and provide an education that prepares students for successful careers,” said Bracke.
Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs Laurie M. Lauzon Clabo, Ph.D., said that continuous accreditation since 1967 is strong validation of the quality of the program.
“Accreditation for nearly 60 years is a testament to the outstanding work of the faculty, students and staff in our School of Information Sciences,” said Clabo. “Wayne State’s mission to share and advance knowledge is lived out every day as MLIS students prepare for critical careers in libraries, archives, schools, health care institutions, government and other organizations where they make a direct impact on our community.”
The next comprehensive review is scheduled for 2031.
The Wayne State University Library System consists of the university's five libraries: The David Adamany Undergraduate Library, the Purdy/Kresge Library, the Shiffman Medical Library, the Arthur Neef Law Library and the Reuther Library as well as the School of Information Sciences.
Wayne State University is a premier urban research institution offering approximately 375 academic programs through 13 schools and colleges to nearly 24,000 students.