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About the program

  • ALA-Accredited:

    The Syracuse University MSLIS program — now also offered online since 2017 — has been accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) since 1928.

  • 18-Month track available:

    Earn an MSLIS online in as few as 18 months.

Professional pathways

Librarians provide essential services to connect diverse communities across the globe and protect the freedom of information. MSLIS learners learn to advance equity and promote justice through the lens of technology and access to information, and quickly become exemplary leaders. Align your coursework to your professional goals with one or more of the following professional pathways:

  • User services and community engagement:

    Ensure equal access to library and information services by providing information literacy training, instructions, references, collection management, and outreach to diverse communities.

  • Data curation and services:

    Master digital data systems, metadata theory and practices, programming and markup languages, and data services, and enrich the life of your community.

  • Organization and management of information and knowledge:

    Organize and manage information and knowledge of all types, formats, and forms to achieve your goals and actualize your values.

  • Children and youth services:

    Facilitate lifelong learning and build relationships with parents, caregivers, and teachers through networking and marketing strategies.

  • Digital information systems:

    Optimize digital information systems in libraries and other organizations to make data and metadata findable, accessible, interoperable, and usable for daily tasks and operations.

  • Information research and analytics:

    Develop skills and knowledge in research methods and data science to detect emerging market trends or collect critical information to reveal critical insights for your library's long-term success.

Ready to advance your career?

Admissions

Prospective learners interested in this program can choose from four cohort start dates. GRE scores are not required; however, if an applicant believes their scores will support their application, they are encouraged to submit them. To complete an application, you will need to submit: 

  • Résumé

  • Transcripts

  • Letters of recommendation

  • Personal statement

  • Application fee

  • TOEFL scores (if applicable)

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Frequently asked questions

How long does it take most learners to complete the program?

Learners typically complete the 36-credit MS in Library and Information Science program in 18 months.

Will I need to visit campus while in the program?

Learners in the program must attend one on-campus immersion. At these in-person immersions, learners get to meet their peers and instructors, and learn from leaders in the library and information science field. Immersions take place on campus two to three times per year. While there, learners also have the opportunity to visit a wide range of Syracuse University libraries.

What is the typical MSLIS learner like?

MLIS learners want to become leaders in the modern library and information science field. They are often driven by a desire to help communities more effectively access and use information. 

Learners in the online and on-campus MLIS programs at Syracuse University come from communities across the globe and lead as Orange professionals in fast-paced fields. Syracuse University maintains high standards for accepting learners to the online program.

What is a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS)?

The iSchool at Syracuse University offers a Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in School Media for learners who have already completed a master’s in library science and wish to work in school libraries. Learners looking to begin their MLIS can also complete this CAS with no additional coursework. Please contact your adviser for more information.

Are both the MSLIS and MSLIS: School Media programs accredited?

Yes, both programs are accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). Both programs also provide learners with a thorough grounding in the knowledge, skills, and values of librarianship in an interdisciplinary context. MLIS: School Media graduates are also eligible for New York State Department of Education (NYS DOE) certification.