mLIs

MLIS, or Master of Library and Information Science, is a graduate professional degree for librarianship and information-related professions. It provides training in organizing, retrieving, and delivering information across formats and platforms, with emphasis on user services, digital libraries, and information technology. Graduates work in libraries, archives, museums, information centers, and corporate or government settings.

Curriculum typically includes information organization and metadata, cataloging and classification, reference and information literacy, information retrieval, library technology, digital librarianship, data management, privacy and ethics, and management or leadership topics. Many programs offer electives or concentrations in areas such as academic libraries, public libraries, archives and records management, youth services, data services, or knowledge management. Most programs require an internship, practicum, or capstone project.

Admission usually requires a bachelor’s degree, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume; some online programs also require writing samples or relevant work experience. Programs are commonly one to two years full-time, with online or part-time options extending to two to three years.

In the United States, MLIS/MLS programs may be accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), which sets professional standards. Other countries have their own accreditation and professional bodies, and degrees may be titled MLIS, MLS, MSLS, or MSc in Library and Information Science. Career paths include librarianship in academic, public, school, or special libraries, as well as roles in archives, metadata, digital curation, information governance, and knowledge management.