JEONBUK NATIONAL UNIVERSITY
Introduction
Library and Information Science (LIS) is an interdisciplinary field that studies approaches related to the collection, organization, storage, retrieval, analysis, interpretation, and dissemination of information, based on an understanding of information users’ behaviors. Its main purpose is to facilitate knowledge creation and dissemination by enabling users to easily access and utilize information resources through information technologies. Consequently, LIS encompasses various areas including information services, information organization, information literacy education, information technology, informatics, library and information center management, data management and analysis, user studies, and user experience and interaction design.
The Department of Library and Information Science at Jeonbuk National University was established as the Department of Library Science in March 1980 and was renamed in 1990 to reflect the changes of the information society. The department aims to cultivate professional librarians for university, public, school, and specialized libraries, as well as information specialists equipped for the digital and data-driven era. Since June 2021, the department has been a member of the iSchool consortium, expanding its education and research activities on a global scale.
Career Paths and Prospects
1. Librarians and Library Teachers
Graduates earn a Bachelor’s degree in Library and Information Science and a Level-2 Librarian Certification. Those who complete the teacher training program can also acquire a Level-2 Library Teacher Certification. Career opportunities include national and public libraries, university libraries, specialized corporate or institutional libraries, and school libraries at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.
2. Graduate Studies
Many professional libraries operated by research institutes and public institutions require a Master’s or Doctoral degree. Graduate-level research experience is highly beneficial for developing expertise as a professional librarian at university libraries. Graduates may also pursue advanced degrees domestically or abroad to contribute academically to the field and train future scholars.
3. Information Industry, IT, and Data Analysis Specialists
Graduates acquire foundational skills as information professionals for the digital era. By completing an IT-convergent major or a double/minor major in a related field, students can pursue careers as web content planners, database managers, or UX designers. Additional training, such as a Big Data Curation Microdegree, can further prepare graduates for roles as data analysis specialists.
4. Records Management Specialists
Graduates may work in governmental or corporate records management offices, overseeing the entire lifecycle of records from creation to disposal. To become a certified records management specialist, one must either (1) obtain a Master’s degree or higher in Records Management, or (2) complete a records management education program and pass the certification exam administered by the Ministry of the Interior and Safety.