When you are searching for master’s degree programs in library science, you will inevitably come across some with titles such as Master of Science in Library and Information Science. What, exactly, is information science? According to the Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T), information science deals with the researching or learning about information in any form. Information science professionals work with the storage, retrieval, description, organization, representation, and provision of information to others. It is clear to see how information science is so intricately entwined with library science.
Getting a Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MLIS) will open the doors to many different types of careers in the information science realm, not just that of a librarian. We will now take a closer look at some of the careers that you may find under the heading of Information Science.
Education in Information Science
Many information science careers can be entered into with a bachelor’s degree. However, it is recommended that you obtain an MLIS degree from an American Library Association (ALA)- accredited institution. This will enhance your job opportunities and chances of advancement in the field. There are MLIS programs all across the country. You can search the ALA’s database here for degree programs in information science.
Information Science Certifications
You will find that there are endless certifications available within information science and technology. It can be hard to determine which, if any, you need to succeed professionally. Some of the more common certifications for those working in careers in information science include:
- Database administrators: Microsoft Certified Azure Database Administrator Associate, Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert, Oracle Database SQL Certified Associate
- Enterprise architect: AWS Certified Solution Architect, Red Hat Certified Architect, CISSP Information Systems Security Architecture Professional
- Records analysts/manage: Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM) Certified Records Analyst (CRA) and Certified Records Manager (CRM)
- User experience (UX) designer: Google UX Design Certificate
Settings In Which You Can Find Careers in Information Science
Information science jobs abound, and not just in libraries. Other places in which you can find careers in information science include, but are not limited to:
- Universities and colleges
- Libraries
- Government agencies
- Private companies
- Insurance companies
- Banks
- Hospitals and medical facilities
- Cultural institutions
Information Science Job Descriptions
Getting an MLIS degree opens possibilities for careers other than working within libraries. Some of the career options available within information science, and for those who have an MLIS degree, besides that of librarian, include:
- Database administrator– Database administrators use software to store and organize data. This data varies depending upon the setting, but could be things like customer shipping records or financial information. Database administrators must ensure that data is available to users and is secure from unauthorized access.
- SEO analyst– SEO analysts work to increase the number of users visiting a website or series of websites. They analyze websites and social media to make recommendations for improvement, perform competitor analysis to see where content gaps lie, and look for improvements in website design. They may also help to integrate new products or services into a website, making it easy for search engines and users to find and use.
- Archives and records management– Based upon the job setting, this position’s duties vary. However, in general, the archives and records manager is responsible for access to, care, management and maintenance of archives and records. This includes their organization, preservation, storage, and distribution or sharing with others if applicable.
- Information or enterprise architecture – Enterprise architects are responsible for the infrastructure of a company’s information technology platform. They ensure that the platform meets the company’s needs. An information architect creates and manipulates content and information to enhance impact, understanding and readability.
- User experience designer– Also known as a UX designer, a user experience designer strives to optimize the interaction between users and products. They make products or services usable, accessible and enjoyable.
Examples of Current Job Openings in Information Science
Finding information science jobs is as easy as searching on the Internet. These types of jobs abound across the country and, indeed, around the globe. ASIS&T also hosts an online Career Center in which you can search for jobs in information science in certain areas. Some of the recent openings in information science that we found are:
- Lead Database Administrator, The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco – San Francisco, CA
- Salary: $105,000 to $132,000/year
- Requires minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information science or mathematics, and seven or more years of database administration experience
- Facilities Information Technology Coordinator, Pomona College – Claremont, CA
- Salary: not specified
- Requires bachelor’s degree in information or computer science and two or more years of experience as an IT coordinator, as well as five years of experience with Microsoft and iOS applications and services
- Information Security Analyst, Christiana Care, Union Hospital – Elkton, MD
- Salary: $80,300 to $102,000/year
- Requires minimum of bachelor’s degree in information or computer science, and three years of information services experience
- Intelligence Analyst, National Security Agency – Fort Meade, MD
- Salary: $66,214 to $103,176/year
- Requires minimum of a bachelor’s degree and nine years of experience
- Information Architect, Rockwell Automation – Milwaukee, WI
- Salary: not specified
- Requires minimum of bachelor’s degree in information science or related field, or relevant work experience
Information Science Organizations and Resources
Those who are interested in working in information science should check out the following organizations and resources pertaining to information science:
Association for Information Science and Technology (ASIS&T)— This is the professional association for information professionals involved in information science practice and research.
REFORMA– This is a national association designed to promote library and information services to Latinos and the Spanish-speaking.
Association for Educational Communications & Technology (AECT)– This is a professional association of instructional designers, educators and professionals who advise policy makers and provide leadership in an effort to enhance teaching and learning.
Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA)- This is the world’s leading information management membership organization, advocating for information management professionals worldwide.
