For Students | Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Partners Program?
The Pitt Partners Program is an innovative program to match Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree students’ career interests, backgrounds and skills with the learning opportunities available at Pittsburgh’s regional libraries, archives, cultural institutions and corporations. The program provides students with real-world experience and financial support through tuition scholarships and a wage/stipend as they earn the Master of Library and Information Science degree.
How do I apply?
To apply, prospective students must complete the pertinent section in their application for admission on Apply Yourself. The deadline for applying to the Partners Program is January 15.
Is there any other type of financial aid available for MLIS students?
Available academic scholarships can be found at: http://www.ischool.pitt.edu/lis/degrees/financial-aid.php
How many terms is the placement and is it automatically renewable?
A Partners Program award is for three terms: fall, spring and summer. They are awarded in the fall term and are automatically renewed for the spring and summer terms provided eligibility requirements outlined in Student Policies and Procedures are met.
If I do not receive placement for fall, can I reapply for the spring or summer terms?
Placements are for three terms, therefore a student who is not placed in the fall cannot reapply for a subsequent term.
Do you have to be enrolled as a full-time, on-campus student to participate in the Program?
Yes, only full-time students attending classes on-campus are eligible for the Partners Program.
How many hours must I work each week and how much is the tuition scholarship?
Most Partners Program positions are for 10 hours per week with a few exceptions of 20 hours per week. A 10 hour/week placement earns a 3-credit (1/4) tuition scholarship/term; a 20 hour/week placement earns a 6-credit (1/2) tuition scholarship/term. The Partner determines the number of hours for a given position, but days and hours are set according to your class schedule by you and your supervisor.
When is the tuition credit applied to my Pitt account?
Once the scholarship award letter is signed and received in our financial aid office and you have registered for classes, the scholarship is posted to your account.
Who do I contact with questions about the financial aid aspect of the program?
Corey James at cjames@sis.pitt.edu or (412) 624-9388
Do all placements carry funding from the Partner institution in addition to the School scholarship?
At this time, approximately one-half of our Partners offer a salary or stipend. The remainder of placements carry the tuition scholarship only.
Can I work more than the set 10 hours per week if requested by a salaried Partner site?
Yes, as long as the additional hours are agreeable to both student and Partner. However, hours above 10 but below 20, earn the hourly wage only - there is no additional tuition benefit available per scholarship guidelines. Likewise, if employment is offered prior to the beginning of the fall term, there is no additional tuition benefit available. The award covers fall, spring and summer terms only.
If I am offered two 10 hour placements, can I accept them both?
No. Student applications are sent to as many Partners as they are qualified and there may be instances where selections overlap. However, in order to aid as many students as possible, once an offer is accepted, you are not eligible to accept a subsequent offer.
Are there Partners Program positions available for Information Science and/or Telecommunication students?
Not at this time.
