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M-PHIL in Library Science at Bishop Heber College
Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is Library Science at Bishop Heber College Tiruchirappalli?
This M.Phil Library Science program at Bishop Heber College focuses on advanced theoretical and practical aspects of library and information management. It emphasizes research methodologies, information systems, and service delivery, preparing professionals to address the evolving demands of information access and organization in the Indian context, particularly with the growth of digital information infrastructure and institutional repositories.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for postgraduate students with an M.L.I.S. or M.L.I.Sc. degree seeking to delve deeper into academic research in Library and Information Science. It suits aspiring academics, research scholars, and senior information professionals who aim to contribute to the body of knowledge, develop specialized skills in information technology application, and enhance their leadership capabilities in university, public, or corporate library settings within India.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect to pursue careers as research associates, academic librarians, information analysts, or consultants in India''''s burgeoning education and information sectors. They are well-positioned for roles requiring advanced research skills and expertise in digital library initiatives. While specific salary ranges vary, an M.Phil can provide a significant advantage for higher-paying positions in universities and specialized information centers, ranging from INR 4-8 LPA for entry-level researchers to higher for experienced professionals.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Advanced Information Retrieval Techniques- (Semester 1)
Focus on deeply understanding and practicing advanced search strategies, database management, and evaluation of diverse information sources, including specialized databases and digital repositories. Actively participate in workshops on scholarly databases like Scopus, Web of Science, and Indian-specific platforms like Shodhganga.
Tools & Resources
IEEE Xplore, ACM Digital Library, Shodhganga, Google Scholar, Subject-specific databases
Career Connection
Essential for research, academic librarianship, and roles as information analysts where efficient and accurate information discovery is critical for institutional research support.
Develop Proficiency in Library Automation Software- (Semester 1)
Gain hands-on expertise with open-source and proprietary library management systems. Actively engage in practical sessions to implement cataloging, circulation, and acquisition modules using software like KOHA or similar Indian-developed solutions, and explore cloud-based library services.
Tools & Resources
KOHA, Evergreen, DSpace (for digital repositories), Proprietary LMS demos
Career Connection
Directly prepares for roles in library technical services, systems librarianship, and digital library development in modern Indian academic and research institutions.
Cultivate Strong Research Ethics and Writing Skills- (Semester 1)
Attend workshops on academic integrity, plagiarism prevention, and effective scholarly writing. Practice structuring research papers, citing sources correctly (e.g., APA, MLA, Chicago styles), and presenting findings clearly, which is crucial for the M.Phil dissertation and future publications.
Tools & Resources
Turnitin, Grammarly, Mendeley/Zotero, University writing centers
Career Connection
Forms the bedrock for successful dissertation completion, publication in peer-reviewed journals, and a career in academia or research, upholding ethical standards valued in Indian research.
Intermediate Stage
Initiate and Structure Your Dissertation Research- (Semester 2)
Begin defining your research problem, conducting an exhaustive literature review, and developing a robust research design. Engage regularly with your supervisor, attend department research seminars, and present preliminary findings to peers for constructive feedback.
Tools & Resources
Research proposal templates, Statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R), Comprehensive bibliographic databases
Career Connection
This is the core of the M.Phil, directly leading to the qualification. Strong dissertation work opens doors to PhD programs and specialized research positions.
Engage in Advanced Data Analysis and Interpretation- (Semester 2)
Learn and apply appropriate quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods relevant to Library Science research. This includes mastering survey tools, interview techniques, and statistical interpretation. Focus on drawing meaningful conclusions from collected data for your dissertation.
Tools & Resources
SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, NVivo, SPSS, Advanced Excel
Career Connection
Equips you for roles requiring data-driven decision-making, research project management, and analytical positions within information organizations.
Network and Present Research at Academic Forums- (Semester 2)
Actively seek opportunities to present your research work (even preliminary findings) at college-level seminars, state-level conferences, or national workshops in Library and Information Science. Network with established scholars and practitioners to gain insights and potential collaborations.
Tools & Resources
Conference proceedings, Academic journals, Professional associations (e.g., ILA, IASLIC)
Career Connection
Builds professional visibility, refines presentation skills, and creates valuable academic and professional contacts crucial for career advancement and future research opportunities in India.
Advanced Stage
Prepare for Publication and Further Academic Pursuits- (Post-M.Phil completion)
Refine your dissertation into publishable articles for peer-reviewed journals. Explore opportunities for presenting at national/international conferences. Begin planning for a PhD if that is your goal, including identifying potential supervisors and research areas.
Tools & Resources
Scopus/Web of Science for journal identification, Academic writing workshops, PhD application guidelines
Career Connection
Publishing establishes your scholarly presence, critical for academic career progression and gaining recognition in the LIS research community.
Develop Specialized Skills for Information Leadership- (Post-M.Phil completion)
Post-M.Phil, focus on acquiring leadership and management skills relevant to large library systems or information centers. This could involve short courses in project management, digital curation, or information policy, aligning with higher-level roles.
Tools & Resources
Online courses (e.g., Coursera, NPTEL) on management, Specific workshops by professional bodies
Career Connection
Positions graduates for leadership roles such as Chief Librarian, Head of Information Services, or Archival Manager in prominent Indian institutions.
Engage in Continuous Professional Development- (Ongoing, post-M.Phil completion)
Stay updated with emerging trends in Library and Information Science, such as AI in libraries, data analytics, and evolving copyright laws. Participate in webinars, online forums, and professional association activities to ensure skills remain current and relevant in a dynamic information landscape.
Tools & Resources
Professional LIS association memberships (e.g., ILA, IASLIC), NPTEL courses, MOOCs relevant to LIS
Career Connection
Ensures long-term career viability, adaptability to new technologies, and continuous growth, making graduates highly sought after in the evolving Indian information industry.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Master''''s degree in Library and Information Science (M.L.I.S. / M.L.I.Sc.) or equivalent with not less than 55% marks or ''''B'''' in the 7 point UGC scale.
Duration: 1 year (2 semesters)
Credits: 30 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 25%, External: 75%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P19LIS1C1 | Advanced Information Sources and Services | Core | 6 | Information Sources and Systems, Information Needs and Seeking Behavior, Reference and Information Services, Current Awareness Services (CAS) and Selective Dissemination of Information (SDI), Document Delivery Service, Evaluation of Information Services |
| P19LIS1C2 | Library Automation and Networking | Core | 6 | Basics of Library Automation, Library Software Packages, Computer Networks and Internet, Digital Libraries and Institutional Repositories, Cloud Computing in Libraries, Emerging Technologies (RFID, Mobile Libraries) |
| P19LIS1C3 | Research Methodology | Core | 6 | Fundamentals of Research, Types of Research and Research Design, Sampling Techniques and Data Collection Methods, Data Analysis and Interpretation, Statistical Tools for Research, Research Report Writing and Ethics in Research |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| P19LIS2C4 | Dissertation | Project | 12 | Research Proposal Development, Extensive Literature Review, Data Collection and Analysis, Thesis Writing and Formatting, Viva-Voce Examination |
