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MLISC in General at University of Kerala
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
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About the Specialization
What is General at University of Kerala Thiruvananthapuram?
This Master of Library and Information Science MLISc program at University of Kerala focuses on equipping students with advanced knowledge and skills in managing information, knowledge, and library services in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. It emphasizes traditional library science principles alongside modern information technology applications, crucial for India''''s growing demand for skilled information professionals across various sectors. The program''''s blend of theory and practice prepares graduates for leadership roles in information dissemination and organization.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for Bachelor of Library and Information Science graduates seeking to deepen their expertise and advance their careers. It also caters to individuals with a strong interest in information management, knowledge organization, and digital archiving, looking for entry into a dynamic professional field. Working professionals in related domains seeking to upskill with modern LIS practices, especially those from government institutions, educational sectors, and research organizations, would also find this program beneficial.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in academic institutions, public libraries, corporate information centers, archives, and government organizations throughout India. Roles include Digital Librarian, Information Scientist, Knowledge Manager, Archivist, Information Analyst, and Research Officer. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing to INR 8-15 LPA with experience. The program provides a strong foundation for professional certifications in library automation and information management, enhancing career growth in the Indian market.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build a Strong Core in LIS Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Focus intently on understanding the theoretical foundations of library science, information organization, and communication models. Actively participate in practical sessions for classification (DDC, UDC, Colon) and cataloguing to master the basics. Form study groups to discuss complex concepts and share practical application insights.
Tools & Resources
Official classification schedules, AACR2R, RDA manuals, University library''''s physical and digital collections
Career Connection
A solid foundation ensures competence in core library operations, essential for any LIS professional role, making you a reliable candidate for entry-level positions.
Develop Essential Digital Literacy and IT Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Beyond coursework, proactively learn and experiment with various operating systems, office suites, and basic database concepts. Attend workshops on information technology tools relevant to LIS, such as basic web design principles or open-source software applications. This will complement the LIS 105 and LIS 205 courses.
Tools & Resources
NPTEL courses on IT fundamentals, Free online tutorials for Linux/Windows basics, W3Schools for web basics, University computer labs
Career Connection
Proficiency in IT is non-negotiable for modern information professionals; strong digital skills enhance employability in digital libraries and information systems roles.
Cultivate Research and Statistical Thinking- (Semester 1-2)
Begin to understand research methodologies and statistical concepts introduced in LIS 106 and LIS 204. Practice data interpretation and basic statistical analysis using available software. Read research papers in LIS to grasp different research designs and analytical approaches, even before starting your dissertation.
Tools & Resources
SPSS/R tutorials, Basic statistical textbooks, Research papers from LIS journals like DESIDOC Journal of Library & Information Technology
Career Connection
Critical for understanding user studies, evaluating library services, and for future roles in research and academic libraries. Essential for dissertation success.
Intermediate Stage
Engage with Library Automation and Information Systems- (Semester 3-4)
Actively seek opportunities to work with Integrated Library Systems (ILS) like Koha or SOUL. Participate in library workshops on digital library creation (LIS 304, LIS 305.4 elective). Explore and understand the architecture and functionalities of various national and international information systems.
Tools & Resources
University library''''s automation system, DSpace/Greenstone for digital library practice, NDL India, Shodhganga
Career Connection
Expertise in ILS and digital library platforms is highly sought after for positions in modern academic and special libraries.
Pursue Specialization through Electives and Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Carefully choose electives (LIS 305 and LIS 405 series) that align with your career interests, such as Digital Libraries, Scientometrics, or Health Information. Use these courses as opportunities for deeper exploration and to develop specialized skills. Start thinking about your dissertation topic early, linking it to your chosen specialization.
Tools & Resources
Department faculty for guidance, Professional LIS associations, Online webinars related to specialized areas
Career Connection
Specialization enhances your profile, making you a more competitive candidate for niche roles in information analysis, digital curation, or specific industry libraries.
Gain Practical Experience through Internship and Projects- (Semester 3-4)
Approach the mandatory Internship/Project Work (LIS 403) as a crucial learning and networking opportunity. Take initiative, ask questions, and contribute meaningfully to the host institution. Document your experiences thoroughly and build a portfolio of your work.
Tools & Resources
Internship host institution, Project report guidelines, Professional networking platforms like LinkedIn
Career Connection
Direct industry experience is invaluable for placements. A strong internship performance often leads to job offers or strong professional references.
Advanced Stage
Master Academic Writing and Presentation Skills- (Final Semester and Post-Graduation)
Hone your academic writing and presentation skills through the Dissertation (LIS 404) and related coursework (e.g., LIS 405.1 if chosen). Participate in department seminars, present your research findings confidently, and meticulously refine your thesis. Focus on clear, concise, and impactful communication.
Tools & Resources
University writing center, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides), Feedback from faculty and peers
Career Connection
Strong communication skills are critical for professional success, whether in report writing, presenting proposals, or conducting training sessions, making you a well-rounded professional.
Build a Professional Network and Personal Brand- (Final Semester and Post-Graduation)
Actively engage with LIS professionals through conferences, webinars, and alumni events. Utilize platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential employers and mentors. Start building an online professional presence, perhaps by contributing to LIS blogs or showcasing relevant projects from your coursework and internship.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, LIS professional associations (ILA, IASLIC), University alumni network, Professional portfolios (e.g., Google Sites, WordPress)
Career Connection
Networking is crucial for job opportunities and career advancement in the competitive LIS field. A strong professional brand makes you visible and attractive to employers.
Prepare for Placements and Professional Interviews- (Final Semester and Post-Graduation)
Actively participate in campus placement drives. Prepare a compelling resume and cover letter tailored for specific LIS roles. Practice mock interviews, focusing on behavioral questions and demonstrating your knowledge of LIS concepts and practical skills. Be ready to articulate your dissertation and internship experiences clearly.
Tools & Resources
University placement cell, Career counseling services, Online interview preparation guides, Mock interview sessions with peers/mentors
Career Connection
Direct and thorough preparation significantly increases your chances of securing a desirable job right after graduation, kickstarting your career effectively in the LIS sector.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s Degree in Library and Information Science (BLISc/BLI) or equivalent degree with not less than 50% marks in optional subjects (or 2.0 GPA on a 4-point scale / 5.0 on a 10-point scale). SC/ST candidates need a pass in the qualifying examination.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 96 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 20%, External: 80%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIS 101 | Information, Communication and Society | Core | 4 | Information as a resource, Communication models, Information transfer cycle, Information society, National Information Policy, Knowledge economy |
| LIS 102 | Knowledge Organization – Theory | Core | 4 | Universe of knowledge, Subject indexing, Pre-coordinate indexing systems, Post-coordinate indexing systems, Abstracting |
| LIS 103 | Knowledge Organization – Practice (Classification) | Core | 4 | Library classification, DDC, UDC, Colon Classification, Web Dewey, Practical application of classification schemes |
| LIS 104 | Management of Information Centres | Core | 4 | Management principles, Human resource management, Financial management, Collection development, Marketing of LIS products |
| LIS 105 | Information Technology Theory and Practice – I | Core | 4 | Computer fundamentals, Operating systems, Programming languages, Database management systems, Networking basics, Digital literacy |
| LIS 106 | Statistical Methods | Core | 4 | Statistics basics, Measures of central tendency, Probability, Sampling, Hypothesis testing, Statistical software |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIS 201 | Information Sources, Products and Services | Core | 4 | Information sources, Reference sources, Electronic information resources, Information products, Current awareness services, Reference services |
| LIS 202 | Knowledge Organization – Practice (Cataloguing) | Core | 4 | Cataloguing principles, AACR2R, RDA, Machine Readable Cataloguing (MARC), Authority control, Practical cataloguing |
| LIS 203 | Information Systems and Programmes | Core | 4 | National information systems, International information systems, Digital libraries, Institutional repositories, Web-based information systems |
| LIS 204 | Research Methods | Core | 4 | Research process, Research design, Data collection methods, Questionnaire design, Data analysis, Research report writing |
| LIS 205 | Information Technology Theory and Practice – II | Core | 4 | Web technologies, Content management systems, Open source software, Digital preservation, Information security, Cloud computing |
| LIS 206 | Elective (Open Course) | Elective | 4 | Selected from the list of open courses offered by various Departments of the University |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIS 301 | Academic Library and Information Systems | Core | 4 | Academic library structure, Collection management, User services, Consortia, Accreditation, Quality assurance |
| LIS 302 | Public Library and Information Systems | Core | 4 | Public library acts, Public library services, Rural information, Community outreach, Library extension services, Digital inclusion |
| LIS 303 | Special Library and Information Systems | Core | 4 | Special libraries, Corporate libraries, Medical libraries, Government libraries, Information brokering, Specialized information services |
| LIS 304 | Information Technology Theory and Practice – III | Core | 4 | Library automation software (Koha, SOUL), Integrated Library Systems, RFID technology, Artificial Intelligence in LIS, Big Data |
| LIS 305.1 | Elective: Information Analysis and Consolidation | Elective | 4 | Information analysis techniques, Abstracting, Indexing, Technical writing, Information repackaging, User studies |
| LIS 305.2 | Elective: Scientometrics and Informetrics | Elective | 4 | Bibliometrics, Scientometrics, Informetrics, Citation analysis, Impact factor, Research evaluation |
| LIS 305.3 | Elective: Health Information Systems | Elective | 4 | Health information sources, Medical terminology, Health informatics, Hospital library management, Evidence-based medicine |
| LIS 305.4 | Elective: Digital Library Systems | Elective | 4 | Digital library concepts, Architecture, Metadata standards, Open access, Content creation, Preservation |
| LIS 305.5 | Elective: Library Building and Space Management | Elective | 4 | Library building planning, Space utilization, Furniture, Environmental control, Security, Library ergonomics |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LIS 401 | Information and Knowledge Management | Core | 4 | Knowledge management cycle, Knowledge creation, Knowledge sharing, Organizational learning, Tacit and explicit knowledge |
| LIS 402 | Archival, Conservation and Preservation | Core | 4 | Archives, Records management, Preservation techniques, Conservation, Digital preservation, Disaster management |
| LIS 403 | Internship / Project Work | Project | 4 | Practical training in libraries, Field experience, Report writing, Presentation skills, Project methodology |
| LIS 404 | Dissertation / Research Project | Project | 8 | Research topic selection, Literature review, Methodology, Data analysis, Thesis writing, Presentation, Viva Voce |
| LIS 405.1 | Elective: Academic Writing and Publishing | Elective | 4 | Academic writing styles, Research publication ethics, Plagiarism, Peer review process, Open access publishing, Impact factor |
| LIS 405.2 | Elective: Library Extension Services | Elective | 4 | Extension services concepts, Mobile libraries, Book clubs, Storytelling, Literacy programs, Community engagement |
| LIS 405.3 | Elective: Patent Information Systems | Elective | 4 | Intellectual property rights, Patents, Trademarks, Copyright, Patent searching, Patent databases |
| LIS 405.4 | Elective: Information Literacy | Elective | 4 | Information literacy models, Digital literacy, Media literacy, Critical thinking, Evaluating information, Information ethics |
| LIS 405.5 | Elective: User Studies | Elective | 4 | User needs assessment, User behavior, Information seeking behavior, Usability studies, User satisfaction, Marketing of LIS |
