On-Campus and Off-Campus Programs of Accredited Library Schools: A Comparison of Graduates

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare the similarities and differences in the personal characteristics, professional achievement, and career development of 1979-81 graduates of on<ampus and off-campus programs of eight accredited American Library Schools. Usable returns to a mail questionnaire were received from 359 of a randomly selected sample of 573 graduates. Findings indicated more similarities than differences in terms of professional progress and growth. In general, off-campus graduates were older, less mobile, had more family responsibilities, and utilized support structures generally available to mature adults. On-campus graduates perceive a greater likelihood of pursuing an advanced degree. In conclusion, schools that offer extension education are considered to be performing a worthwhile service in producing a capable group of professionals who closely approximate their counterparts who attended campus programs in terms of professional contribution.