Exploring the core: An examination of required courses in ALA-accredited

This paper examines the required courses of ALA-accredited Library and Information Science programs as published on their websites. The study expands on previous research in this area. Findings show that the typical core curriculum has grown to include both research and information technology in addition to the more traditional subjects. The number of programs that require a secondary set of required courses (semi-core curriculum) in addition to the primary core curriculum increased. The paper concludes by suggesting that LIS programs keep a robust general core curriculum while considering the "career-track" model to help students best meet their professional objectives.