Programs
The Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) program is a professional, graduate degree program that is accredited by the American Library Association. Our MLIS program prepares students for the joys and challenges of a career in the information professions and as library and information leaders.
Degree Programs & Pathways
The Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) program is a professional, graduate degree program that is accredited by the American Library Association. Our MLIS program prepares students for the joys and challenges of a career in the information professions and as library and information leaders.
SLIS’s ALA-accredited MLIS is offered in two distinct delivery pathways:
- Hybrid—students take their core courses in-person and their electives online (asynchronous)
- Online—students take all of their courses online (asynchronous)
The online pathway is offered part-time. The hybrid pathway allows for part-time and full-time study. All students are offered courses in all three terms: Fall, Winter, and Spring/Summer.
SLIS offers two combined degree programs:
Comparison of MLIS Program Options
The chart below outlines the different MLIS program options available to SLIS students.
|
Hybrid MLIS |
Online MLIS |
|
|
Program structure |
Core courses are offered in person; electives are offered online, asynchronously |
Core courses and electives are offered online, asynchronously |
|
Intake term |
Fall term only |
Fall term only |
|
Full-time or part-time |
Full-time: Part-time: |
Part-time only: |
|
Time completion |
Minimum: 2 years Maximum: 6 years* |
Minimum: approx. 2.5-4 years** Maximum: 6 years |
|
Thesis option |
Yes |
No |
|
Dual program options |
MLIS/MA (Digital Humanities) MLIS/MBA |
No |
* Thesis-based students must complete all requirements within four years
** Many online students will complete their program in three (3) or four (4) years. Because the online MLIS is a part-time program it is not possible to complete the program in two (2) years or less.
PROGRAMS OFFERED BY OTHER DEPARTMENTS
MA | Master of Arts in Digital Humanities, Library & Information Studies Specialization
Individuals may pursue a course-based or thesis-based Master of Arts in Digital Humanities (DH) with a specialization in Library & Information Studies.
Interdisciplinary PhD
Individuals may pursue a PhD at SLIS in conjunction with another department on campus that has an established PhD program.