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M-A in Library Information Science at Panjab University
Chandigarh, Chandigarh
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About the Specialization
What is Library & Information Science at Panjab University Chandigarh?
This Library & Information Science program at Panjab University, Chandigarh focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and practical skills for managing diverse information resources and services. Rooted in traditional librarianship, it heavily integrates modern information and communication technologies (ICTs) to address contemporary information needs. The program emphasizes information organization, retrieval, digital library management, and information literacy, crucial for India''''s evolving knowledge economy and digital initiatives.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.L.I.S.) graduates seeking to deepen their expertise and advance their careers in the information sector. It also appeals to professionals already working in libraries or information centers who wish to update their skills in digital information management, research, and emerging LIS technologies. Individuals passionate about knowledge organization, data curation, and fostering information literacy are well-suited.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in academic institutions, public libraries, corporate information centers, and digital archives across India. Roles include Digital Librarian, Information Scientist, Archivist, Knowledge Manager, and LIS Consultant. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program provides a strong foundation for higher research (Ph.D.) and aligns with national initiatives for digital India and knowledge sharing.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core LIS Concepts- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intensely on fundamental principles of knowledge organization (classification, cataloging), information retrieval, and the societal role of information. Regularly review and apply theoretical concepts to practical examples, engaging with both textual and practical aspects.
Tools & Resources
University Library resources, Departmental lab software for classification/cataloging, NPTEL courses on LIS fundamentals, Online tutorials for DDC/CC
Career Connection
A strong theoretical base is crucial for roles in cataloging, indexing, and information organization across various library and information centers, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Develop ICT Proficiency- (Semester 1-2)
Acquire hands-on skills in basic computer operations, office productivity suites, networking, and internet technologies, which are foundational for modern librarianship and digital information management.
Tools & Resources
University computer labs, Online courses (Coursera, edX) on IT basics, Official MS Office tutorials, NASSCOM Foundation initiatives for digital literacy
Career Connection
Essential for daily operations in automated libraries, managing digital resources, providing tech-enabled services, and adapting to evolving information landscapes.
Engage in Peer Learning & Discussion- (Semester 1-2)
Form study groups to discuss complex theories, share insights on practical assignments, and prepare for examinations collectively. Collaborative learning enhances comprehension and problem-solving abilities.
Tools & Resources
Departmental common rooms, Online collaboration tools (Google Meet, Zoom), Academic discussion forums on LIS topics, Previous year question papers for group practice
Career Connection
Enhances understanding of concepts, develops communication and teamwork skills, and builds a professional network critical for future collaborations and knowledge sharing.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize in Digital Library Technologies- (Semester 3)
Gain in-depth practical experience with digital library software, content digitization processes, and metadata management, vital for building and maintaining digital collections and institutional repositories.
Tools & Resources
Digital library software platforms (DSpace, Greenstone), Online tutorials for metadata creation (Dublin Core), Institutional repository documentation, Workshops on digitization techniques
Career Connection
Prepares for specialized roles such as Digital Archivist, Digital Content Manager, or Repository Manager in academic, research, and cultural heritage institutions.
Undertake Industry Internships/Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Seek out internships or departmental projects within established libraries or information centers to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting, gaining practical exposure and professional skills.
Tools & Resources
University Career Services, Departmental faculty contacts for placements, Professional LIS forums (ILA, IASLIC) for opportunities, LinkedIn for connecting with industry professionals
Career Connection
Provides invaluable practical experience, industry exposure, networking opportunities, and significantly strengthens the resume for future placements and career growth.
Develop Research & Writing Skills- (Semester 2-4)
Refine research methodology, data analysis, and academic writing abilities, which are crucial for the dissertation, scholarly publications, and future professional reports and presentations.
Tools & Resources
SPSS for statistical analysis, Zotero/Mendeley for reference management, Academic writing workshops offered by the university, Library''''s research support services
Career Connection
Essential for conducting independent research, contributing to LIS knowledge, writing professional reports, and pursuing higher academic degrees (Ph.D.) in India or abroad.
Advanced Stage
Focus on Dissertation/Project Excellence- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to the final dissertation or project, identifying a relevant and impactful research problem, conducting rigorous investigation, and producing a high-quality, publishable report.
Tools & Resources
University library databases for comprehensive literature review, Statistical software and qualitative analysis tools, Academic writing guides and peer feedback, Regular consultations with the faculty supervisor
Career Connection
Demonstrates advanced analytical and independent work capabilities, which are highly valued by employers for research-oriented roles and for academic advancement.
Network with LIS Professionals- (Semester 3-4)
Actively attend conferences, workshops, and seminars organized by professional bodies to connect with experts, gain insights into emerging trends, and build a valuable professional network.
Tools & Resources
Professional association websites (Indian Library Association, IASLIC), LinkedIn for connecting with alumni and industry leaders, University events calendar for guest lectures and workshops
Career Connection
Builds a strong professional network, opens doors to job opportunities, provides mentorship, and keeps you updated on the latest developments in the LIS field in India.
Prepare for Career Opportunities- (Semester 4)
Actively engage in placement activities, mock interviews, and resume building workshops offered by the university or department to enhance employability and secure desired positions.
Tools & Resources
University Placement Cell services, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn, government job sites), Career counseling services, Practice interview questions and scenario-based responses
Career Connection
Directly impacts success in securing employment post-graduation, aligning skills with industry demands, and navigating the competitive job market effectively.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor of Library & Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc./B.L.I.S.) or its equivalent examination with at least 50% marks in the aggregate (45% for SC/ST/BC/PWD candidates)
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 72 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 30%, External: 70%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLIS-101 | Information, Communication & Society | Core | 4 | Information as a Resource, Information Society, Communication Models, Social & Ethical Aspects of Information, Knowledge Management |
| MLIS-102 | Knowledge Organization: Classification (Theory & Practice) | Core | 4 | Universe of Knowledge, Normative Principles of Classification, General Theory of Classification, Dewey Decimal Classification (DDC), Colon Classification (CC) |
| MLIS-103 | Knowledge Organization: Cataloguing (Theory & Practice) | Core | 4 | Normative Principles of Cataloguing, Library Catalogue: Forms and Types, Cataloguing Codes (AACR-2R, RDA), Subject Cataloguing, Metadata Standards |
| MLIS-104 | Information & Communication Technology: Basics (Theory) | Core | 4 | Computer Fundamentals, Operating Systems, Networking Concepts, Internet & Web Technologies, Information Security |
| MLIS-105 | Information & Communication Technology: Basics (Practical) | Lab | 2 | Windows & MS-Office Applications, Internet Browsing & Search Techniques, E-mail Communication, Basic Hardware & Software Installation, Open Source Software |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLIS-201 | Information Sources, Products & Services | Core | 4 | Information Sources: Types & Evaluation, Information Products, Information Services: Reference, Referral, Current Awareness Services (CAS), Information Literacy |
| MLIS-202 | Information Retrieval (Theory) | Core | 4 | Information Retrieval Systems, Subject Indexing Languages, Abstracting Techniques, Search Strategies, Evaluation of IR Systems |
| MLIS-203 | Information & Communication Technology: Applications (Theory) | Core | 4 | Library Automation, Open Source Software in LIS, Web 2.0 & Social Media Tools, Institutional Repositories, Library Websites & Portals |
| MLIS-204 | Information & Communication Technology: Applications (Practical) | Lab | 2 | Library Automation Software (Koha), Digital Library Software (DSpace/Greenstone), Web 2.0 Tools for LIS, Content Management Systems, E-resource Management |
| MLIS-205 | Research Methodology & Statistical Techniques | Core | 4 | Research Methods & Types, Research Design, Data Collection Tools & Techniques, Statistical Analysis for LIS, Research Report Writing |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLIS-301 | Management of Library & Information Centres (Theory) | Core | 4 | Principles of Management, Library Management Concepts, Financial Management in Libraries, Human Resource Management in Libraries, Quality Management in LIS |
| MLIS-302 | Management of Library & Information Centres (Practical) | Lab | 2 | Library Housekeeping Operations, Planning & Budgeting Exercises, Library Marketing Strategies, Performance Evaluation Techniques, User Studies Implementation |
| MLIS-303 | Digital Libraries (Theory) | Core | 4 | Digital Library Concepts & Evolution, Architecture of Digital Libraries, Standards & Protocols for Digital Libraries, Digital Preservation & Archiving, Access & Usability of Digital Resources |
| MLIS-304 | Digital Libraries (Practical) | Lab | 2 | Content Digitization Techniques, Metadata Creation for Digital Objects, Digital Library Management Software, Institutional Repository Configuration, Copyright & IPR Issues |
| MLIS-305A | Academic Library System | Elective | 4 | University Libraries, College Libraries, Library Services in Academic Settings, Consortia & Resource Sharing, Challenges & Future Trends |
| MLIS-305B | Public Library System | Elective | 4 | Public Library Legislation in India, Public Library Services, Extension Activities & Outreach, Funding & Governance of Public Libraries, Role in Community Development |
| MLIS-305C | Special Library System | Elective | 4 | Corporate Libraries & Information Centres, Research Libraries, Health Science Libraries, Information Brokering, Services & Management of Special Libraries |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MLIS-401 | Library & Information Science Education (Theory) | Core | 4 | LIS Education in India, Curriculum Development, Teaching Methods in LIS, Professional Associations & Ethics, Accreditation & Quality Assurance |
| MLIS-402 | Information Literacy (Theory) | Core | 4 | Concepts of Information Literacy, Models & Standards of Information Literacy, Information Literacy Programs & Strategies, Assessment of Information Literacy, Role of Librarians in Information Literacy |
| MLIS-403 | Information Entrepreneurship (Theory) | Core | 4 | Entrepreneurship Concepts, Information Industry Landscape, Business Planning for Information Ventures, Marketing Information Products & Services, Funding & Legal Aspects of Startups |
| MLIS-404 | Dissertation/Project | Project | 8 | Research Problem Identification, Literature Review & Gap Analysis, Methodology & Data Collection, Data Analysis & Interpretation, Report Writing & Presentation |
