Preparing librarians to work with children & teens

The Post-Master's Specialist Program in Youth Services focuses on the information needs of children and teens and on the design and provision of information services to meet those needs. 

The iSchool at Drexel, College of Information Science and Technology, and the greater Philadelphia community provide excellent resources, support, and opportunities for students seeking to specialize in Youth Services.  Since 1963, Drexel University and The Free Library of Philadelphia have awarded the Children's Literature Citation to outstanding local contributors to the field of children's literature.

Students who complete this program will learn to:

• Assist children and teens with the use and evaluation of information resources
• Collaborate with teachers and parents to support the developmental and educational needs of children and teens
• Organize and manage libraries
• Develop Web pages and portals to make resources available to youth and their caregivers
• Create information environments that are supportive of youths' diverse backgrounds
• Partner with community organizations that serve children and teens
• Provide leadership in the field
• Advocate for improved library programs and services for children and teens
• Act as change agents, leaders and resource guides
• Actively participate in professional organizations

Applicants to the Post-Master's Specialist Program must have a master’s degree from an ALA-accredited program and have completed all prerequisites for individual courses within their area of specialization.
 
Students who complete the five courses (15 credits) will receive a credential entitled Youth Services Specialist.

Degree Features and Benefits

• Accredited: Fully Accredited by Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools
• Quality: MS in Library & Information Science ranked #9 in the nation, U.S.News & World Report
• Convenience: A flexible, completely online program that fits easily into your busy work and personal schedule
• Interactivity: Drexel’s highly interactive e-learning method allows extensive interaction with faculty and other classmates

Interested in learning more? View the curriculum for our Post-Master’s Youth Services Specialist Program.

This program consists of five 3-credit courses that can be completed online in 6-9 months. The program must be completed in three years.  Apply today.

Learn more about Drexel's MS in Library & Information Science with a concentration in Youth Services.

Download Program Info as PDF