Bachelor of Library and Information Studies (BLIS)

Bachelor of Library and Information Studies (BLIS)

This is a three-year programme consisting of 2 semesters each year, with a minimum of 60 credits per semester. The BLIS programme will be completed in three years. This will give students time to grasp the various concepts, skills, and knowledge needed for a librarian and information specialist. In particular, students shall be expected to participate in practical training in the first and second years in different libraries, information centres, documentation centres, and other resource centres in different ministries, institutions, and organizations for gaining work experience.

Year I

The courses in the first year lay a foundation and background in library and information science. Therefore, at the end of Year I, the students shall be able to:

  • Participate in library operations, activities, and services
  • Search, retrieve, and utilize different kinds of information
  • Apply ICTs in information handling
  • Apply theories, principles, and practices of bibliographic description
  • Classify different library resources and services
  • Organize library and information centre resources

Year II

The courses in the second year intend to broaden and strengthen students' skills and knowledge in the library and information profession. At the end of Year II, the students shall be able to:

  • Apply the principles governing records and archives management
  • Design, analyze, and evaluate information systems
  • Explain the concepts, principles, and models of human communication
  • Describe the principles and standards in cataloguing library materials
  • Demonstrate skills and knowledge to develop and manage library and information centre collections
  • Market library and information resources and services

Year III

Courses in the third year will increase and deepen students' insights into the library and information science discipline. Students are equipped with advanced skills and knowledge for strengthening their career in the library and information environment. At the end of Year III, students should be able to:

  • Manage libraries and information centres
  • Apply laws and policies governing the use of information in Tanzania
  • Create and manage different kinds of information and knowledge
  • Plan, develop, and manage public/community libraries
  • Apply techniques and skills to develop digital libraries
  • Handle information needs of users with special needs
  • Automate library and information centres