Why study this program?
The Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) degree is offered by the School of Library and Information Studies, and is the only graduate professional library and information studies program in the prairie provinces.
The MLIS program is accredited by the Committee on Accreditation of the American Library Association (ALA).
The MLIS program develops the attitudes and skills necessary to help diverse populations define their information needs and navigate complex digital landscapes. The program integrates social responsibility into the critical evaluation of information and the management of human knowledge.
Graduates are prepared to facilitate effective information seeking while actively dismantling systemic barriers to access. By fostering inclusive excellence and honoring diverse ways of knowing, the program empowers professionals to make ethical, informed decisions that support the cultural and informational needs of communities.
More information about the MLIS degree can be found on the Faculty of Education’s MLIS web page.
Faculty of Education
Completing studies from the Faculty of Education means your credentials will be recognized worldwide. We are home to award-winning teachers, internationally recognized researchers, educational innovators and community leaders.
Additional information about graduate programs, policies and procedures can be found in the Faculty of Education’s Graduate Student Handbook.
Take your career to the next level at the Faculty of Education.
Length of Program
The maximum time to complete the MLIS program as set by the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies is six years. Because this is a part-time program, students may take a maximum of two (2) courses per term, for a total of six (6) courses (★18) per calendar year.
Schedule: Part-Time, Asynchronous
Approx Workload: 12 - 15 Hours/Week
Average Time to Complete: 3 Years
Application Period
- Applications Open: September 15
- Applications Close: December 15
Students must complete a minimum of 13 courses (★39), including a capping exercise.
Required Courses (21 units)
- LIS 501 - Foundations of Library and Information Studies (prerequisite for remainder of program)
- LIS 502 - Organization of Information
- LIS 503 - Reference and Information Services
- LIS 504 - Leadership and Management Principles for Library and Information Services
- LIS 505 - Introduction to Research in Library and Information Studies
- Two 3-unit courses from the approved Information Technology courses (see SLIS website for current offerings)
Elective Courses (18 units)
- Six 3-unit courses.
- With approval, students may select elective courses outside of SLIS.
Capping Exercise
Professional Development Requirement
Students in the MLIS program fulfill the GPS Professional Development Requirement through their program, culminating in the LIS 600 capping exercise course.
Ethics Requirement
Students in the Master of Library and Information Studies programs must meet the GPS Ethics and Academic Citizenship Requirement through the completion of INT D 710 by the end of the first term of registration in their degree program.
At the University of Alberta, tuition differs between Canadian and international students, as well as between the type of program chosen (thesis-based or course-based).
For general information, please visit the Tuition and Fees page on the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies site.The Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies administers over $35 million each year in scholarships, awards, and financial support for graduate students. Opportunities vary by faculty.
Please note: there are limited funding opportunities available to students pursuing part-time graduate studies or those completing a certificate program.
Please refer to the detailed program information or email slis@ualberta.ca.
General inquiriesPlease check out some of our most frequently asked questions (FAQS) to see if your question has been answered, or contact the Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS) during our office hours.
Faculty of Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies (GPS)
Killam Centre for Advanced Studies
2-29 Triffo Hall
University of Alberta
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada T6G 2E1