The Master's in Library Science and Administration at St. John's University prepares graduates for professional roles in libraries, archives and information centres, combining core library science theory with practical administration and technology skills. It suits applicants who want to lead library services, manage collections and information systems, or specialise in areas such as digital curation, school librarianship or records management.
What you'll study
This programme combines traditional librarianship with contemporary information management and organisational leadership. You study foundations of library and information science alongside practical skills in cataloguing, metadata, digital content management and reference services, with a strong emphasis on administration, budgeting and strategic planning.
- Core subjects: information organisation and classification, cataloguing and metadata standards, reference and user services, information literacy instruction.
- Administration and management: library leadership, personnel and human resources for libraries, budgeting and finance, policy development and strategic planning.
- Digital and technical skills: digital libraries, digital preservation and curation, database systems, discovery tools, and emerging technologies for access and analytics.
- Specialist options: archival principles and records management, school and youth services, special libraries (business, law, health), community engagement and outreach.
- Practical experience: supervised practicum or internship placements with public, academic or special libraries and project-based coursework that applies administration skills to real-world cases.
- Research and professional practice: courses on ethics and legal issues in information, assessment and evaluation of services, and an option to complete a capstone project or thesis.
Entry requirements
Applicants are expected to hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. The admissions process looks for evidence of academic ability and potential for professional practice in libraries or related fields.
- Completed application form and official transcripts showing a bachelor's degree or equivalent.
- Personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in library science and administration.
- Letters of recommendation (typically from academic instructors or supervisors who can attest to readiness for graduate study).
- Relevant professional or volunteer experience is advantageous, especially for applicants seeking leadership or specialised roles.
- International applicants are required to demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or equivalent evidence where applicable.
- Some applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the assessment process.
Career prospects
Graduates move into a wide range of roles across public, academic, school and special libraries, as well as archives, museums and corporate information services. The programme prepares students for leadership and managerial positions as well as specialist professional posts.
- Public librarian, youth and community services librarian
- Academic librarian, subject liaison, collections specialist
- School librarian (note: some jurisdictions require additional teaching certification)
- Archivist, records manager, digital preservation specialist
- Special librarian in law, health, corporate or non-profit sectors
- Library director, operations manager or administrative roles overseeing budgeting, personnel and strategic initiatives
- Information architect, metadata specialist or digital curator in cultural heritage institutions and digital repositories
Why study at St. John's University
Studying at St. John's provides access to experienced faculty who combine academic expertise with professional practice in libraries and information organisations. The university's location offers strong opportunities for placement and collaboration with major libraries, archives and cultural institutions in the region.
- Practical, placement-focused curriculum that emphasises both service delivery and administrative leadership.
- Opportunities for internships and partnerships with local public, academic and special libraries and cultural organisations, enabling real-world experience and professional networking.
- Support for career development through workshops, employer contacts and alumni in library and information professions.
- Flexible delivery options to accommodate working professionals, with a mix of in-person and technology-enhanced learning.
Explore more on ScholarshipsAds