Non-Specialized Courses in Library and Information Science Programs: A Comparative Analytical Study at the Universities of Zawiya and Sabratha

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze non-specialized courses in Library and Information Science programs at the University of Zawia and the University of Sabratha, to examine their structural organization within the curriculum, and to identify their contribution to supporting students’ general skills within a comparative framework during the academic year 2024–2025. The study adopted a descriptive analytical comparative approach and combined documentary analysis of the approved curricula with a field study using a questionnaire administered to a sample of students and faculty members at both universities. A researcher-developed analysis checklist was also used to examine the number, classification, nature, and distribution of non-specialized courses within each curriculum. The findings revealed a relative numerical similarity between the two universities, with differences in their distribution models. While the University of Zawia combines early foundational courses with later-stage support, the University of Sabratha adopts an extended foundational distribution model during the early stages of the program. The questionnaire results also showed that these courses contribute positively to preparing students for university study and developing some general skills, although they still need further improvement to strengthen their relevance to the specialization and contemporary requirements. The study highlights the importance of strengthening the structural alignment of non-specialized courses within the curriculum in order to support academic program quality.