A Comparative Analysis of Library and Information Science Master’s Degree Programmes in Uganda and USA

Abstract

In the wake of technological developments, taking a pragmatic approach towards continual library and information science (LIS) curricula revision becomes inevitable.  This paper analyses the existing LIS curricula both in the United States of America (USA) and Uganda. Specific focus is on a comparison between the master’s programme in library and information science (MLIS) at the Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS), University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (USA) and the master’s programme in information science (MIS) at the East African School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS), Makerere University (Uganda). Both programmes are aimed at training librarians and information professionals to meet society developmental needs. This paper does not only focus on an analysis of the courses being taught at GSLIS and EASLIS in USA and Uganda respectively but also proposes a model for effective LIS curriculum revision in Uganda in the changing job market.