Obtaining a Master of Library and Information Science degree from San José State University requires demonstrating competency in 14 core areas.
Competency A: Demonstrate awareness of the ethics, values, and foundational principles of one of the information professions, and discuss the importance of those principles within that profession.
Competency B: Describe and compare different organizational settings in which information professionals practice.
Competency C: Articulate the importance of designing programs and services supportive of diversity, inclusion, and equity for clientele and employees.
Competency D: Apply the fundamental principles of planning, management, marketing, and advocacy.
Competency E: Design, query, and evaluate information retrieval systems.
Competency F: Use the basic concepts and principles related to the selection, evaluation, organization, and preservation of physical and digital information items.
Competency G: Demonstrate understanding of basic principles and standards involved in organizing information such as classification and controlled vocabulary systems, cataloging systems, metadata schemas or other systems for making information accessible to a particular clientele.
Competency H: Demonstrate proficiency in identifying, using, and evaluating current and emerging information and communication technologies.
Competency J: Describe the fundamental concepts of information-seeking behaviors and how they should be considered when connecting individuals or groups with accurate, relevant and appropriate information.
Competency K: Design collaborative or individual learning experiences based on learning principles and theories.
Competency L: Demonstrate understanding of quantitative and qualitative research methods, the ability to design a research project, and the ability to evaluate and synthesize research literature.
Competency M: Demonstrate professional leadership and communication skills.
Competency N: Evaluate programs and services using measurable criteria.
Competency O: Understand global perspectives on effective information practices that are supportive of cultural, economic, educational, or social well-being.