Master of Library and Information Science
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 St. °µÍø½ûÇø 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.
All applicants will be reviewed for MLIS scholarships.
Accreditation
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St. Kate's?
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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)
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St. Kate's Experience
Discover a supportive community invested in more than your academic success — we help you connect with your purpose. Our goal is to help each of our students develop the knowledge and empowerment to transcend what they thought was possible.