Skip to Content

College of Information and Communications

Certificate in Specialized Study in Information Science

Interested in a specific career in the field of library and information science? Our Certificate of Graduate Study is a 12-hour program offering specialization in areas such as library administration, information science, technical services, information and records management, information systems design or social work.

Students planning careers in school libraries might choose to enroll in this program to complete state certification requirements. In some areas of specialization, all course work will be taken within the library school. In others, there will be an interdisciplinary educational approach in which the student takes elective courses in other USC departments, such as computer science, business administration or education.

Admission Guidelines

Start by gathering your materials and information. You can apply here. The School of Information Science Supplemental Application is accessible through the Graduate School application

Admission to the Certificate program is selective and based on the faculty’s assessment of the applicant’s aptitude for graduate study and potential contribution to the profession.  The faculty take a holistic approach to the admissions process.  Consequently, an applicant’s entire file and interview are taken into consideration before an admission decision is made.  The following materials are required for full consideration: 

  1. The School of Information Science Supplemental Application (accessible through the Graduate School application), where applicants respond to statement provided.
  2. Official transcripts from all other colleges or universities attended (whether or not a degree was earned).
  3. Two letters of recommendation attending to your academic performance and/or job performance — letters from friends and relatives addressing personal attributes do not qualify.
  4. International students whose native language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. View international applicant requirements»

Certificate Requirements

For the Certificate of Specialized Study in Information Science, an approved program of study with 12 semester hours of graduate courses, all work must be completed with a minimum grade point ratio of 3.00 (B) overall. In partial fulfillment of the requirements for graduation, each student will submit an electronic portfolio documenting learning and professional growth during the Certificate program.

Challenge the conventional. Create the exceptional. No Limits.

©