Online

Master of Library and Information Science

Woman helping a man on the computer in Library
Online

Master of Library and Information Science

Empower people through information and technology.

Bridge the gap between people, information, and technology with an online master's degree in library and information science. St. Kate's has the only accredited program in Minnesota.

Help communities access, understand, and use information and resources.

The curriculum for the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree at ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â integrates the principles, practices, and ethics of library and information science with an in-depth understanding of the people who use information systems in their work and communities. Whether you are interested in public, academic, digital, school, or special libraries and archives, or want to create a custom career path in information-intense industries – such as an information systems analyst, data asset manager, or social media curator – this online program will empower you to:

  • Navigate the social issues and technological risks that come with digital data and information management
  • Understand the ethics behind intellectual freedom, privacy, intellectual property, and equitable access for all
  • Help patrons and colleagues overcome obstacles to accessing and using information, such as information overload and disinformation
  • Become a leader and advocate on critical information issues affecting our patrons and communities

If you are interested in becoming a school librarian specifically, you can pursue the School Library Media Specialist track and receive licensure in addition to your graduate degree for just a few more credits.

Under the guidance of faculty advisors with deep connections within the profession, you’ll analyze the field and plan experiences that prepare you for employment.

Students of all genders are welcome in this program.

Program at a Glance

Format: Online

Start: Fall, Spring, or Summer

Time to completion: 28 months

Credits required: 36

Tuition per credit: $995 (2024-25 rates)

Total tuition: $35,820

Rates are subject to change each June 1. 

Tuition and fee information

All applicants will be reviewed for MLIS scholarships.

Apply for financial aid

Accreditation

The Master of Library and Information Science program at ÑÇÉ«Ó°¿â is accredited by the American Library Association Committee on Accreditation, with the status of conditional accreditation. The next comprehensive review visit is scheduled for Fall 2026. Graduating from an ALA-accredited program provides flexibility in the types of libraries and jobs you can apply for and enhances career mobility. Many employers require an ALA-accredited master's degree for professional level positions, and some states require an ALA-accredited degree to work as a professional librarian in public or school libraries. Learn more about accreditation outcomes here
 
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St. Kate's?

Hear what some of our students, faculty, and alumni think!

Plan of Study

The MLIS program offers six pathways with different areas of focus (academic libraries; archives & special collections; digital libraries; public libraries; school libraries; and a custom pathway students can design to meet their career goals). Sample plans of study for two of the pathways are below. For course descriptions and other details, consult the .

Year 1

  • Fall
    LIS 7010 Introduction to Library and Information Science (3cr)
    LIS 7040 Information Access Services (3cr)
  • Spring
    LIS 7030 Organization of Knowledge (3cr)
    LIS 7610 Marketing and Public Relations (3cr)
  • Summer
    LIS 7050 Research Methods for Library Information Science (3cr)

Year 2

  • Fall
    LIS 7630 Readers Advisory Services (3cr)
    LIS 7710 Public Libraries (3cr)
  • Spring
    LIS 7220 Library Materials for Young Adults (3cr)
    LIS 7993 Practicum (3cr)
  • Summer
    LIS 7700 Management of Libraries and Information Centers (3cr)

Year 3

  • Fall
    LIS 7480 Collection Management (3cr)
    LIS 7530 Web Design and Accessibility (3cr)

Year 1

  • Fall
    LIS 7010 Introduction to Library and Information Science (3cr)
    LIS 7040 Information Access Services (3cr)
  • Spring
    LIS 7030 Organization of Knowledge (3cr)
    LIS 7960 Information Technology, People and Society (3cr)
  • Summer
    LIS 7050 Research Methods for Library Information Science (3cr)

Year 2

  • Fall
    LIS 7480 Collection Management (3cr)
    LIS 7510 Database Management (3cr)
  • Spring
    LIS 7500 Information Seeking and Retrieval (3cr)
    LIS 7590 Digital Libraries (3cr)
  • Summer
    LIS 7700 Management of Libraries and Information Centers (3cr)

Year 3

  • Fall
    LIS 7970 User Experience Design (3cr)
    LIS 8820 Metadata for Internet Resources (3cr)

Career Outcomes

Application

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Financial Aid

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Information Session

Ask questions, meet faculty, and more.

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Tuition Rates

Review costs and payment processes.

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News Custom Block

News from the Information Management Department

"I Hit Submit": St. Kate's celebrates Fulbright candidates
"I Hit Submit": St. Kate's celebrates Fulbright candidates
Sarah Park Dahlen, PhD Honored with Faculty Teaching and Advising Award 2020-21
Sarah Park Dahlen, PhD Honored with Faculty Teaching and Advising Award 2020-21
2021 MLIS Summit Focuses on Privacy and Algorithmic Bias
2021 MLIS Summit Focuses on Privacy and Algorithmic Bias