LIS FAQs
What degrees are offered in L&IS?
UMA offers a Certificate, an Associate of Science, and a Bachelor of Science in L&IS.
Is the L&IS program accredited?
UMA and its programs are accredited by the New England Association of Colleges and Schools. ALA currently only accredits Masters Level programs, it does not accredit undergraduate programs in library studies.
Where is UMA?
UMA has its major campus in Augusta, Maine, with another campus in Bangor, Maine. UMA also has instruction centers in over 100 locations statewide.
Will I have to attend classes in Maine?
No, classes are taught via the Internet and some recorded instruction. Of course, we'd be happy for you to come visit and march at Graduation, or visit us if you vacation to Maine.
What do classes in L&IS cost?
L&IS students pay in-state tuition rate for all courses with an ILS prefix. All other U.Maine System courses (including UMA) will be charged at the out-of-state rate, which varies by campus, for students residing outside Maine. Current tuition and fees.
What are costs for distance education courses?
UMA's Tuition and fees are described on the UMA Website at Money Matters and apply to all UMA courses with one exception. Be sure to check the link on this page. The exception to these fees applies to out of state students taking Library Information courses with an ILS prefix, e.g., ILS 101. Out of state students registering for UMA ILS courses enjoy Maine instate tuition rates. This is a Board of Trustee exception and applies only to UMA courses with the ILS prefix. If you live in New England, you might qualify for NEBHE.
Is Financial Aid available?
Yes, financial aid is available for students in the L&IS AS and BS degree programs for courses taken through UMA or our sister institutions in the U. Maine System. Contact the UMA Financial Aid Office by dialing 1-800-958-9936 and ask for the Financial Aid Office.
Can I get Financial Aid at a local college in my home state as well as at UMA?
You can receive financial aid from UMA and you can receive financial aid at a local college within your home state, but NOT at the same time. Students will typically take their general education requirements locally and receive financial aid through that local institution and then apply to UMA and receive financial aid for their LIB courses through UMA.
What about transferring credits from previous colleges and universities to UMA?
All prior transcripts will be evaluated when a student is admitted to the L&IS program. However, if a student is taking courses at their local college before being admitted to UMA, and they are unsure if a course will transfer in, it is recommended they call Advising (207) 621-3149 to make sure the course descriptions match the required course here at UMA.
What is involved in being an online learner?
We recommend that you test yourself to determine whether online learning is for you or not. Connect to http://www.learn.maine.edu/courses/ and check the links to "Learning Online." You will get a sample of how online learning works.
What do you mean by asynchronous distance education?
This means that you are going to be learning from home or office via the Internet and/or videotaped instruction. Class discussions will be accomplished using a threaded discussion board which is a component of the system UMA uses to delivery courses. For more information about our online course delivery mode (Blackboard) please see the University College website.
What type of computer skills do I need for distance education L&IS courses?
Familiarity with e-mail, Internet and word processing are important to take the classes. If you are new to computers, or have little experience, don't worry. Support is available to help get you started. One of the goals of the L&IS program is to familiarize you with tools common in today's libraries.
What type of computer do I need to participate?
If you have a PC, it should have a Pentium II or better processor with a minimum of 33.6 Kbps connectivity. It's also necessary to have a Java compliant web browser, either Internet Explorer (4.0+) or Netscape (4.05+). Windows 98 and above are ok. For Macintosh, you should have a system 8.0 or later. For more details, contact University College Technical Support at 1-800-696-HELP.
What is the job market for library technicians and paraprofessionals?
Employment is at its highest in 30 years. Job markets vary from region to region, but anyone who monitors listservs and job boards can tell you, there are plenty of jobs at all levels in libraries right now. If you want to know the job market is like in your state it is recommended you check your state library association website for jobline postings. This will give you an idea of qualifications and other important traits employers are looking for.
What is the difference between a librarian and a library technician or paraprofessional or support staff?
Library support staff, technicians and paraprofessionals, work alongside librarians providing access and services to library patrons. A professional librarian has a Master's degree in Library Science (MLS) or Library and Information Studies (MLIS). The difference between professional and paraprofessional work varies by library. For example, some libraries save all "ready reference" questions for the professional staff; others involve paraprofessionals with these inquiries.
If you have more questions, please call or write Jodi Williams, 1-877-UMA-1234 x3341 (in Maine) or 1-888-850-5379 (in North America) or e-mail, lnitcoord@maine.edu.