CAS in Digital Libraries: FAQ

1. Can I earn a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries in conjunction with earning a Master of Science in Library and Information Science from Syracuse University?
2. What are digital libraries?
3. Are digital libraries connected with what we know of as libraries in the print world?
4. How will a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries help me if I want to work in this area?
5. How technical is this certificate?
6. I have a technology background, but not a library background. Is there something in this certificate for me?
7. I have a library degree and want to update my digital skills and work with digital applications in libraries. Is this a good program for me?
8. I have a computer science degree and am interested in building digital collections. Is this certificate a good choice for me?
9. Can I complete the certificate entirely online?
10. As a recent MSLIS graduate from Syracuse University, can I count the courses I have already taken toward the certificate?
11. I am a current MSLIS student and want to do the certificate. Do I have to apply or can I just take classes until I complete it?

1. Can I earn a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries in conjunction with earning a Master of Science in Library and Information Science from Syracuse University?
   Yes. The LIS degree plus the digital libraries certificate can be a dynamite combination for a career in modern libraries or for working with digital content in settings outside libraries. Earning both the degree and certificate involves 39 credits and some care in choosing electives. The iSchool has developed a course distribution that describes the courses needed to earn an MSLIS degree concurrently with the certificate. The certificate can also be earned in combination with the Master of Science in Information Management and the Master of Science in Telecommunications and Network Management.

2. What are digital libraries?
   The term digital libraries is used in many different ways. For the purposes of the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries program, the term digital libraries is an umbrella term that covers organized collections of digital content, whether that content is test, images, numbers, sounds or multimedia files.

3. Are digital libraries connected with what we know of as libraries in the print world?
   Yes. Many techniques and methods used in organizing print materials also applicable to digital resources, but the attributes of digital resources allow for more flexible, diversified ways to get the job done in processing, organizing, representation, and managing information. As the print world is becoming more digital (e.g., e-books, e-journals, and e-reference materials) than ever, digital libraries extend the print world with more convenience and functions that users have wished for but traditional libraries could not provide.

5. How will a Certificate of Advanced Studies in Digital Libraries help me if I want to work in this area?
   The CAS DL program offers three core courses that foster not only an understanding of digital libraries and major lines of work but also critical skills in initiating and implementing a digital library project. Students in the CAS DL program are required to take three elective courses in addition to the core. They can build their specialty area by choosing these electives of their own interest or by doing a practicum/independent study related to digital libraries through consultation with the program director.

6. How technical is this certificate?
   This certificate is designed to develop skills both in design and management of digital libraries. Students choose their electives and can make it more or less technical based on their needs and background.

7. I have a technology background, but not a library background. Is there something in this certificate for me?
   Yes, this certificate will help the individual with a technology background develop an understanding of digital library development, organization and population.

8. I have a library degree and want to update my digital skills and work with digital applications in libraries. Is this a good program for me?
   This program may be of interest to you if you would like to work with digital collections. However, you may also want to consider our Certificate of Advance Studies in Information Systems and Telecommunication Management to develop your skills with digital applications.

9. I have a computer science degree and am interested in building digital collections. Is this certificate a good choice for me?
   Yes, this certificate will help you understand the development and organization of digital collections.

10. Can I complete the certificate entirely online?
    Yes. The certificate can be completed entirely online. All of the Digital Libraries core courses as well as many of the electives are offered regularly in the online format.

11. As a recent MSLIS graduate from Syracuse University, can I count the courses I have already taken toward the certificate?
    Yes, recent graduates who have taken courses that are eligible may count them towards the certificate.

12. I am a current MSLIS student and want to do the certificate. Do I have to apply or can I just take classes until I complete it?
    Current MSLIS students must fill out a Graduate School Internal Application, complete a statement of academic plans and submit one letter of recommendation for entry into the program.