36
$485
classes start on
More than ever, library and information professionals are expected to perform at a high level of proficiency. LSU Online is equipping students in the Online Master of Library and Information Science program to hone their practical skills in this knowledge-intensive field. Our online MLIS degree is a non-thesis program that offers a solid foundation in information theory, information seeking and retrieval skills, information technology expertise, information organization, information behavior, management of information organizations, and understanding information research. Additionally, students in the Online MLIS program have the option to earn either an online Graduate Certificate in Archival Studies or an online Graduate Certificate in Records and Information Management with their elective courses. From anywhere in the world, students can enroll in this 100% online program that offers a blend of applied and theoretical knowledge, preparing students to succeed in a diverse range of information environments. Become a distinguished professional and start qualifying for new career pathways in library and information science. Additional information on the School of Library & Information Science Graduate Programs can be found here.
An MLIS is the required terminal degree for nearly all librarianship positions in North America and is the preferred degree for archival positions and other information professions.
Students have the option to complete either an online Graduate Certificate in Archival Studies or an online Graduate Certificate in Records and Information Management with their Online MLIS elective courses.
All core required courses are taught by full-time faculty or adjuncts with PhDs and advanced professional experience.
The Online MLIS program is the only ALA-accredited program in Louisiana and has been continuously accredited since 1931.
"The MLIS program is based on nearly 90 years of academic and instructional excellence. The faculty bring their research and professional expertise to provide a unique applied learning experience. Graduates are respected leaders in their fields and remain engaged with the LSU School of Library & Information Science."
Dr. Carol Barry
Director- LSU School of Library & Information Science
Total credit hours per program: 36 credit hours
Cost per credit hour: $485
Total cost with fees: $17,460
The total cost above does not include transfer credit or financial aid. Cost per credit hour and fees are subject to change. Fee schedules may vary by program depending on course-specific fees for proctoring and/or books. Please contact a Student Success Coach for more information.
| Program Core | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| LIS 7000: Information & Society | 3 |
| LIS 7004: Management of Information Organizations | 3 |
| LIS 7008: Information Technologies and Systems | 3 |
| LIS 7009: Understanding Research | 3 |
| LIS 7010: Organization of Information | 3 |
| LIS 7011: Information Behavior | 3 |
Students can select a total of 6 electives (18 credit hours) that best suit their career interests from among the four focused elective groups below. Students may take courses from one area or multiple areas.
| Librarianship Focused Electives | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| LIS 7002: Information Resources | 3 |
| LIS 7100: Youth Services Librarianship | 3 |
| LIS 7110: Adult Services Librarianship | 3 |
| LIS 7401: Academic Libraries | 3 |
| LIS 7608: Introduction to Cataloging and Classification | 3 |
| LIS 7807: Information Literacy Instruction | 3 |
| LIS 7900: Internship in Library & Information Science | 1-3 |
| LIS 7909: Directed Independent Study | 1-3 |
| Archival Studies Focused Electives | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| LIS 7408: Introduction to Archival Theory, Principles & Practice | 3 |
| LIS 7504: Preservation Management of Physical Records | 3 |
| LIS 7505: Introduction to Digital Curation | 3 |
| LIS 7506: Preservation & Digitization of Audiovisual Materials | 3 |
| LIS 7702: Seminar in Archival Appraisal | 3 |
| LIS 7703: Advanced Seminar in Archival Studies | 3 |
| LIS 7704: Archival Arrangement & Description | 3 |
| LIS 7900: Internship in Library & Information Science | 1-3 |
| LIS 7909: Directed Independent Study | 1-3 |
| Cultural Heritage Resource Management Focused Electives | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| LIS 7408: Introduction to Archival Theory, Principles & Practice | 3 |
| LIS 7504: Preservation Management of Physical Records | 3 |
| LIS 7505: Introduction to Digital Curation | 3 |
| LIS 7506: Preservation & Digitization of Audiovisual Materials | 3 |
| LIS 7608: Introduction to Cataloging and Classification | 3 |
| LIS 7700: History & Theory of Cultural Heritage Institutions | 3 |
| LIS 7705: Introduction to Museum Management | 3 |
| LIS 7900: Internship in Library & Information Science | 1-3 |
| LIS 7909: Directed Independent Study | 1-3 |
| Records and Information Management Focused Electives | Credit Hours |
|---|---|
| LIS 4511: Information Architecture | 3 |
| LIS 7505: Introduction to Digital Curation | 3 |
| LIS 7508: Management of Knowledge-based Assets in Organizations | 3 |
| LIS 7604: Principles of Records Management | 3 |
| LIS 7612: Information Governance | 3 |
| LIS 7618: e-Discovery | 3 |
| LIS 7900: Internship in Library & Information Science | 1-3 |
| LIS 7909: Directed Independent Study | 1-3 |
Applicants must apply through the LSU Graduate School. All application materials must be received by the application deadlines. In addition to the LSU Graduate School required materials, the School of Information Studies requires applicants to provide:
1. A resume
2. A statement of purpose of at least 1,000 words that answers the following questions:
Please note: MLIS does not require letters of recommendation.
The Graduate School's criteria for admission and probationary admission are shown below.
Admission
Probationary Admission
For information on the application process, application fees and deadlines, and application processes for international students, see the Graduate School website.
A broad range of career opportunities are open to graduates of the Online MLIS program. Many graduates go into the field of librarianship, working in public, corporate, academic, and school libraries. But the MLIS degree also gives you the flexibility to explore a variety of careers.
Selected Positions:
The online Master of Library and Information Science program is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).
Our online MLIS degree offers a solid foundation in information management, organization, and research. Students will be prepared to excel in a diverse range of information science careers. Electives help to further hone students’ skills in a specific area of their choosing.
Students in the Master of Library & Information Science will meet the following learning outcomes:
Why choose LSU’s online Master of Library and Information Science?
Our MLIS is the only ALA-accredited program in Louisiana. It has also maintained accreditation since 1931. For over 90 years, the comprehensive MLIS program has provided students with the knowledge and experience to excel in their careers. Courses are taught by expert faculty, and graduates themselves become respected leaders in the LIS field. Additionally, students also can complete a graduate certificate while they earn their online Master of Library and Information Science.
There are many factors new students should consider when deciding whether to begin their academic degree or certificate program in the summer or during a fall/spring term. Summer modules are shorter (5 weeks) when compared to fall/spring modules (7 weeks). Therefore, a course during a 5-week module requires students to dedicate more time than a 7-week module.
New students that have full-time jobs or family obligations may find it more challenging to begin their degree or certificate program in the summer modules. Graduate School policy requires students maintain a 3.0 GPA or higher to avoid academic probation (“B” or better), and a 2.75 GPA or higher to remain academically eligible. Our online students have told us that summer courses demand they devote more time to their coursework to be successful because of the shorter length of the summer module. Students in summer courses should expect to spend about 25 hours per week on their academic studies.
Online studies provide the flexibility you need to fit your educational goals into your life. Please consider these factors when deciding which start time gives you the best opportunity for a successful beginning to your academic journey.
For more detailed information, you may read the School of Information Studies Graduate Student Handbook.
Take the first step forward by completing the form and our enrollment team will contact you soon to discuss:
