Library & Information Science (MA)
Main Campus, Tucson, United States
Master of Arts in Library & Information Science (MA)
University of Arizona
Library & Information Science
Program Overview: MA in Library & Information Science
The Master of Arts in Library & Information Science (MLIS) at the University of Arizona is the only American Library Association (ALA) accredited program of its kind in Arizona, offered through the College of Information Science. This interdisciplinary program prepares you for exceptional careers in libraries, museums, archives, government, and business information centers.
The curriculum covers a broad array of professional perspectives, from archival studies and digital curation to public librarianship, legal information, health informatics, and academic librarianship. Students can complete the 37-unit program in approximately two years on the main campus in Tucson or entirely online, with up to six years allowed for completion.
A required capstone internship and ePortfolio ensure that graduates gain hands-on professional experience and can demonstrate core competencies to future employers. The program also offers a dual JD/MLIS degree in partnership with the James E. Rogers College of Law, providing a unique pathway for those interested in law librarianship.
Key Program Highlights
- ALA-accredited program — the only one of its kind in Arizona, ensuring nationally recognized professional credentials
- Five specialty tracks available: Academic Librarianship, Archives and Special Collections, Digital Curation, Law Librarianship, and Public Librarianship
- Flexible delivery with identical on-campus and fully online options, allowing you to study from anywhere
- Required capstone internship providing real-world professional experience before graduation
Curriculum & Modules
The MLIS curriculum comprises 37 units including core courses, specialty electives, free electives, and a capstone internship with an ePortfolio requirement. Core courses build foundational knowledge in library science, information organization, and research methods, while electives allow you to tailor your studies to specific career goals across five specialty areas.
LIS 504: Introduction to the Library & Information Professions
3 UnitsThe foundational first course that introduces students to the library and information professions, current issues, and professional roles in 21st-century information services.
LIS 506: Research Methods in Library & Information Science
3 UnitsFocuses on research methodology, research design, and elementary statistics as applied to library and information science contexts.
LIS 515: Organization of Information
3 UnitsAn introduction to the theories and practices used in the organization of information, including cataloging, classification, and metadata systems.
Information Technology Elective
3 UnitsStudents choose one course from the information technology category to build technical competencies relevant to modern library and information environments.
Specialty Electives in Library & Information Science
6 UnitsTwo courses selected from LIS specialty areas such as Academic Librarianship, Archives, Digital Curation, Law Librarianship, or Public Librarianship to align with your career goals.
LIS 698: Capstone Internship
3 UnitsA required capstone internship providing hands-on professional experience in a library, archive, or information center. Prerequisites include 18 completed units and completion of LIS 504, LIS 506, and LIS 515.
Elective Specializations
Admission Requirements
Admission to the MA in Library & Information Science is granted by the dean of the College of Information Science upon recommendation of the Admissions Committee and the Graduate College. To apply, reach out to Uni4Edu to begin your application process and receive personalized guidance throughout.
Academic Requirements
- Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university recognized by the University of Arizona
- Personal StatementA personal statement of 750 to 1,000 words exploring your skills, interests, and career goals in the field
- Resume / CVAn updated resume detailing all professional and volunteer work experience
- TranscriptsUnofficial transcripts from all previously attended higher education institutions
- GPA RequirementContact Uni4Edu for current minimum GPA requirements
English Language Requirements
- TOEFLContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- IELTSContact Uni4Edu for current minimum score requirements
- Other TestsAdditional English proficiency tests may be accepted — contact Uni4Edu for details
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
The University of Arizona College of Information Science offers a variety of scholarships for graduate students in the MLIS program. Funding is awarded based on academic achievement, financial need, and specific eligibility criteria. Both new applicants and current students may apply for departmental funding each semester through Uni4Edu.
Knowledge River Program
Varies (includes GA positions and limited scholarship funding)A unique program attracting students interested in addressing library and information issues from the perspectives of Hispanic and Native American communities. Scholars receive academic support, mentoring, professional development, and limited scholarship funding.
Medical Library Group of Southern California & Arizona Scholarship
USD 1,500Awarded annually to an outstanding College of Information Science student who has demonstrated interest in pursuing health sciences specialization in librarianship.
College of Information Science Departmental Scholarships
VariesMultiple scholarships are available including support for public librarianship concentrations, students with financial need, non-resident students with humanities backgrounds, and students of Hispanic/Latino descent. Contact Uni4Edu for current availability.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the University of Arizona MLIS program are prepared for a wide variety of essential roles across institutions and industries. The ALA-accredited credential is recognized nationwide and opens doors to careers in public, academic, and special libraries, as well as archives, museums, government agencies, and the private sector.
Potential Career Roles
Types of Employers
Rankings & Recognition
The University of Arizona is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU) and is consistently ranked among leading research universities globally. Its Library and Information Science program has earned recognition from U.S. News & World Report as one of the top programs in the nation.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Library & Information Studies | U.S. News & World Report | Top Ranked (Best Graduate Programs 2026) |
| Information Systems | U.S. News & World Report | Top Ranked (2024) |
| Archives and Preservation | U.S. News & World Report | Top Ranked (2024) |
| Arts and Humanities | U.S. News & World Report | #58 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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