Computer Science + Library and Information Science (3+1)
As a student in the 3+1 program you'll receive a Bachelor's of Science degree in Computer Science or Information Technology in three years. In the fourth year you'll apply these competencies and earn a Master's of Science degree in Library and Information Science.
The world of information work is evolving
This combined program introduces you to computing, data models and structure, hands-on competencies, and the issues surrounding the legal and ethical uses of computer technologies in contemporary information work.
The world of the "information professional" is not bound solely to libraries but embraces an expanding and inclusive computer-oriented world of the "information professions". These professions encompass artifacts and applications of the printed word, digital resources, cultural and scientific data, archives and informatics, systems and interfaces, and the people who need these resources. Opportunities await people bridging the traditional and opening forms of information services.
At home in the print world, today's librarian is also one of a spectrum of information professionals - working in libraries, museums, archives, records management, metadata designers, businesses and any information-rich environment to preserve the physical and digital resources fundamental to education, culture, business, the arts, and modern life. The modern information professional may be involved in preserving and assuring access to physical forms of knowledge, to cultural objects, and resources born digital, through training in the computer technologies that facilitate organization and access to fulfill people's need for information.
The School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) is ranked in the country's top 11 by U.S. News & World Report. Our faculty members are recognized leaders in their fields. Their experienced teaching, service, and research activities provide you an exciting realm of study and opportunities to apply your learning to real-world practices. And you'll connect with new colleagues. You'll enter this exciting, expanding field with a sophisticated skill set, eminently qualified to connect people to the information they need.
What Our Students Say
Computer science is a major that I never would have thought to pursue, but the unique accelerated program has prepared me for a field that relies on modern technology and a comprehensive understanding of systems. The accelerated program also has been of great financial benefit, and allowed me to already be in my second class toward my master’s degree before I even have my bachelor’s completed.
- Jenn Leishman ’26
Spotlight on LIS and Computer Science Students and Alums
Public Librarianship and Community Involvement
Sydney Villegas ’26MS reflects on how she was encouraged to bring her interests and passions to her coursework and create projects that she was genuinely excited to explore as a graduate student in library and information science.
SLIS Alumna Honored with ‘I Love My Librarian’ Award
Joanne Doucette ’01MS is a 2026 honoree of the "I Love My Librarian" Award. She is one of ten honorees selected from more than 1,300 nominations from library users nationwide.
Digitizing Local Archives and Reminiscing with Alumnae/i
Jenn Leishman ’26 reflects on choosing their major, an internship in the West End Museum in Boston, favorite courses, and how Simmons helped prepare them for a career as a library professional.
Six Students Selected for the 2026 Senior Scholar Award
Six graduating seniors have been selected for the prestigious Senior Scholar Award at Simmons University. Sponsored by the Provost’s Office and the Office of Research and Fellowships, the Senior Scholar Award recognizes outstanding scholarly research and creative works across a variety of disciplinary fields.
SLIS Graduate Named Director of Nantucket Atheneum
The Nantucket Atheneum is not only the island’s public library, but also the home of historic research and art collections. For Leslie Malcolm ’05MS, the Atheneum’s newest executive director and head librarian, her journey there began with service.
SLIS Alumna Named Library Director of the Year
Brittany Durgin ’17MS, director of the Moultonborough Public Library, has received the Library Director of the Year Award from the New Hampshire Library Trustees Association.
2025–26 Graduate Student Research Award Recipients
The Office of Research and Fellowships has announced the recipients of the 2025–2026 Graduate Student Research Award. This competitive, cross-disciplinary award provides up to $1,500 to five doctoral and master’s degree candidates to conduct research in the fields of mental health, social work, children’s literature, and archival preservation.
50 Years of Computer Science at Simmons: Breaking Glass Ceilings
This year, Simmons celebrates 50 years since the establishment of the Bachelor’s in Computer Science (BS). We spoke to faculty about how computer scientists shaped the computer science program at Simmons, and how a women-centered university can uniquely prepare students to enter a male-dominated field.
Our Faculty
Nanette Veilleux
Professor and Director of the Data Science Program
Margaret Menzin
Professor of Computer Science and Mathematics and Program Director of Mathematical Sciences
Amber Stubbs
Associate Professor and Chair of Computer, Data & Mathematical Sciences, and Undergraduate Computer Science & Informatics Program Director
Denise Carroll
Assistant Professor of Practice and Director of the Computer Science Online Degree Completion Program
Bruce Tis
Adjunct Faculty