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    Culture & Society pathway

    Culture & Society

    Library & Information Studies

    Library Information

    The Library and Information Studies Department at Laney College equips students with essential skills in research, information management, and digital literacy. Through hands-on learning and a comprehensive curriculum, students are prepared for dynamic careers in libraries, archives, and information centers.

    Link To Courses

    Department Overview

    The Library and Information Studies Department at Laney College offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in the ever-evolving field of information management. Our curriculum emphasizes the critical skills needed to navigate and manage information in today’s digital age, including research methodologies, information organization, and data curation.

    Students will learn about the role of libraries and information centers in society, focusing on how to provide access to information, promote literacy, and support lifelong learning. The program includes hands-on training in digital tools and technologies, cataloging, and reference services, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work in various settings such as public libraries, academic institutions, archives, and specialized information centers.

    Career Opportunities

    A Certificate of Competency in Research Skills validates your ability to gather, analyze, and interpret data effectively, opening doors to various career paths. This certification demonstrates proficiency in critical thinking, data organization, and presenting findings, making it a valuable asset in multiple industries. Here are some career opportunities:

    1. Research Assistant

    • Support academic, corporate, or scientific research projects by collecting data, reviewing literature, and preparing reports.
    • Industries: Academia, healthcare, corporate research.

    2. Market Research Assistant

    • Conduct surveys, analyze market trends, and help businesses understand consumer behavior.
    • Industries: Marketing, advertising, product development.

    3. Data Entry Specialist

    • Handle and organize large datasets with accuracy, supporting research and analysis teams.
    • Industries: Healthcare, finance, education.

    4. Library or Archive Assistant

    • Assist in organizing research materials, managing digital archives, and facilitating access to information.
    • Industries: Libraries, museums, academic institutions.

    5. Policy Research Assistant

    • Help evaluate policies by gathering and analyzing data to inform decisions.
    • Industries: Government, nonprofits, think tanks.

    6. Grant Researcher

    • Identify funding opportunities and provide background research to support grant applications.
    • Industries: Nonprofits, education, research organizations.

    7. Social Media Analyst

    • Use research skills to gather insights from social media data and report on audience trends.
    • Industries: Marketing, public relations, tech startups.

    8. Environmental Research Assistant

    • Collect and analyze environmental data to assist in conservation projects or policy creation.
    • Industries: Environmental organizations, government, sustainability.

    9. Community Program Researcher

    • Conduct community needs assessments and analyze program outcomes to improve services.
    • Industries: Nonprofits, public health, education.

    10. Administrative Support in Research Departments

    • Assist with managing research projects, tracking data, and organizing findings.
    • Industries: Corporate, medical, and government sectors.

    This Certificate of Competency provides a foundation for entry-level roles that can grow into specialized research positions as you gain experience and pursue additional education. It's a versatile credential applicable to many fields requiring strong analytical and organizational skills.

    Contact Us

    Department Chair
    YiPing Wang
    Email: ywang@peralta.edu

    Dean
    Tarek ElJarrari
    Email: teljarrari@peralta.edu

    Area of Interest
    Culture & Society

    Division
    Humanities, Social Sciences, & Library

    Campus Map

    Certificate

    Research skills certificate
    Research Skills - Certificate of Competency

    This Certificate is designed to provide students with a foundation in information literacy, critical thinking, ethical use of information, and research.

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    Laney College's AA-T and AS-T degrees guarantee junior standing admission to the CSU system, with priority for local CSU campuses in similar programs. Consult a counselor or transfer specialist for details.

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    Counselors can help you create a Student Educational Plan (SEP) to outline the courses needed for an Associate’s degree, transfer, or certificate, even if you're unsure of your educational goals.

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    We provide support with career exploration, self-assessment as well as the major and career decision making process to help all Laney students achieve career satisfaction and success.

     

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