Online Master of Library and Information Science

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Lead the Future of Libraries, Archives and Information Services

In a world driven by information, the ability to connect people with knowledge has never been more important. The 100% online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree prepares you to help individuals, organizations and communities navigate an evolving digital landscape.

Learn how to lead in libraries, archives, data environments, information centers and emerging technology fields. Prepare not only to manage information, but to expand access, foster learning and create meaningful impact in the communities you serve.

Program Information

Modality

Online

Program Length

2 years · 43 units

Cost Per Unit

$596* for Spring 2027 · Financial aid and scholarships available

Applications Open

July 1 – December 1 for Spring start · August 1 – May 1 for Fall start

Start Terms

Fall · Spring

* Tuition and fees are subject to change

How to Apply

Admission Requirements

General Requirements

Domestic applicants must be California residents.
A bachelor’s degree from any regionally accredited institution in any discipline with an overall GPA of at least 3.0 in the bachelor’s degree or in the last 60 semester or 90 quarter units (iSchool GPA Calculation Instructions).
A general understanding of computers and technology.
Access to a computer with an Internet connection and appropriate software.

Out-of-State Eligibility

If you live outside of California, check whether our program is approved to accept an application from you.
International students must demonstrate English language proficiency: TOEFL score of 600 (paper version), 250 (computer version) or 100 (internet-based), or an IELTS score of 8.

Graduation Requirements

Successful completion of 43 units.
Completion of a culminating experience (e-portfolio or thesis) in compliance with SJSU regulations and School of Information policies.

Application Dates and Deadlines

Application opens August 1; deadline of May 1 for Fall admission.
Application opens July 1; deadline of December 1 for Spring admission.

Steps to Apply

Apply through Cal State Apply and submit the required documents.
Submit transcripts.
Receive confirmation email.
Receive email with SJSU ID 5-7 business days after submitting application.
Set up your MySJSU account and check for messages and document requests. All students start with an “NC-Incomplete” application status. (Students will be switched to either NCV (Incomplete Verified – the data specialist has reviewed file) or AAG (Admit by Self-Report Data), depending on if they self-report a 3.0 GPA or higher (or 2.8 for Informatics).
Check your MySJSU account for “To-Do List” items. Required documents must be submitted by stated deadlines or your admission will be withdrawn. For course work outside the U.S. and Canada, request a WES document-by-document evaluation. Direct application questions to: grad-admissions@sjsu.edu.
Your evaluator will begin the evaluation as soon as all your documents are received. (Your application status will change to “CO-Complete” if you have a WES evaluation in process, when all required documents are received and your WES review is pending).
SJSU evaluators review your application for CSU eligibility within 7-10 business days.
Your status will change to “RF-Referred to Dept.” if your application documents contain narrative evaluations.
Graduate Admissions (GAPE) will post the university admission decision to your MySJSU account.

Valuable Learning Experiences

The Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) combines the flexibility of online learning with the academic excellence and professional preparation needed to thrive in today's evolving information landscape. Designed for working professionals and aspiring information leaders, the program provides the Spartan Edge to advance your career while balancing work, family and personal commitments.

Learn 100% Online: Complete your degree from anywhere with no required campus visits, orientations or in-person residency requirements.
Balance Education and Career Goals: The program's flexible online format makes it possible to continue working while earning your graduate degree and developing new professional skills.
Join a Highly Rated Learning Community: Graduates consistently identify the program's flexibility and online learning environment as its greatest strengths.
Earn a Degree Trusted by Alumni: With 95% of graduates reporting they would recommend the MLIS program, you'll join a community known for student satisfaction, support and professional success.

Personalized Curriculum

The MLIS program features a dozen career pathways that help students explore and select electives. Many students choose courses from more than one career pathway, building a wide range of skill sets.

MLIS+ Mentored Library Fellowship

Matriculated students in the SJSU iSchool MLIS program who have completed INFO 200 and have at least 18 months remaining before graduation will have the opportunity to gain paid work experience through the MLIS+ Mentored Library Fellowship for Success program.

Learn with the Best

The MLIS program has a rich history at SJSU, with the first library science classes taught in 1928. The American Library Association Committee on Accreditation last reviewed the MLIS program in 2022 and granted re-accreditation for the maximum possible term, with the next review in 2029.

Featured Courses

Information Literacy and Learning

Provides theory and practice for teaching information literacy in an LIS setting. The course emphasizes learning theory as well as the practical aspects of teaching. Students learn methods and tools for teaching in both synchronous and asynchronous settings.

School Library Media Materials

Survey of materials in a variety of formats that meet the needs of K12 students. Materials will be examined that support state and national curriculum standards as well as materials that support independent reading and learning.

Library Services for Racially and Ethnically Diverse Communities

Focuses on developing skills for planning, implementing and evaluating programs for addressing the information needs of racially, ethnically and linguistically diverse communities. Reviews the major national, state and local studies.

What Can You Do With an MLIS Degree?

The MLIS prepares graduates for a wide range of careers across libraries, archives, museums, educational institutions, government agencies, nonprofits and private industry. Through flexible career pathways, students can tailor their degree to align with their interests and professional goals while building transferable skills that are in demand across the information profession.

In-Demand Skills: About 14,900 openings for librarians and library media specialists are projected each year through 2031.

Bay Area Salaries: MLIS professionals in the Bay Area earn a median salary of $70,000 - $100,000, according to Glassdoor.

Take a look at some of the top sectors, companies and job titles of our alumni, according to LinkedIn.

Top Job Titles

Assistant Librarian
Digital Archivist
Emerging Technology Librarian
Informatics Specialist
Knowledge Manager
Librarian
Metadata Specialist
Multimedia Librarian
User Services

Top Companies

City of Redwood
County of San Mateo
San Francisco Public Library
San José Public Library
San José State University
Stanford University
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, College of the Law

Top Sectors

Corporate
State, County and City Government
Healthcare
Higher Education
K-12 Schools
Legal Services
Museums
Private Schools
Private Libraries

Frank Cervone, PhDGraduate Program Coordinator

Contact a Graduate Program Coordinator

To discuss your goals and any questions you have about this program.

frank.cervone@sjsu.edu

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Get the Spartan Edge

Gain momentum through intentional learning, meaningful support, and real opportunity. Whether you’re starting your journey, advancing your education, or expanding your professional skills, SJSU helps you go further.

Graduate Admissions

Review our admission requirements and utilize our Graduate Program Coordinators.

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Costs and Financial Aid

What you need to know about tuition, fees, financial aid and cost per unit.

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