What is FastTrack MLIS? 

The FastTrack MLIS is an ALA-accredited degree program (36 credits) designed to meet the needs of highly-motivated, independent learners seeking a career in the information professions. Through this online program, you can earn the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree in two years from one of the top-ranked programs in North America. It utilizes user-friendly distance learning technology to present the same courses offered on-campus at the University of Pittsburgh.  It is designed around the concepts of "cohorts", a community of students who travel through the program together which allows the virtual environment to mimic the "class" environment of the on-campus program.  Technology allows you to discuss coursework, to undertake projects, and to experience classes with a community of like-minded learners.

The FT/MLIS Program will be delivered to students using at least four methods of instruction:

• Web-based asynchronous course delivery;
• CD-ROM delivery of course-and program-related materials;
• synchronized, real-time conferencing for interactive sessions between instructor and students and among students;
• and an on-campus learning experience each term the student is registered for classes. This on-campus experience is limited to 5 days in your first semester and a weekend in each subsequent semester (scheduled for weekends to limit your absence from work).

Cohort from the University of the Virgin Islands @ The ALA Annual Conference Washington, DC June 2007

Asynchronous course delivery via the World Wide Web using Blackboard's CourseWeb will be the primary method of delivering instruction in the FastTrack MLIS Program. This method, based on the idea of the Web as an environment conducive to effective teaching and learning, is designed to reduce "transactional distance" between instructors and learners by building carefully on the interplay between learning structures and communication.  Even though the program is asynchronous, every effort is made to ensure that the communication flow between teacher and learner is seamless.

Through FastTrack MLIS, you can prepare yourself for a successful career as:

• Public, Academic, or Special Librarian
• Medical Librarian/Medical Informatics Specialist
• School Librarian/School Media Specialist

Cohorts are admitted each year in the Summer Session (May-July);  another cohort may be admitted for the Fall semester (September-December) if space allows.  Click on admissions for more information about the admissions process and deadlines.