Master of Library and Information Studies

Shape the Future of Information

Discover a new generation of library science and information studies with our innovative degree program, designed for students who want to connect people with knowledge, technology, and their communities. You’ll gain hands-on experience in information management, digital libraries, research, archives, emerging technologies, and community engagement while developing the skills employers value in today’s information-driven world. Whether you dream of becoming a librarian, archivist, digital information specialist, or technology leader, our program will prepare you to make a meaningful impact. Turn your passion for learning and helping others into a rewarding career—your future in information starts here.

• 36-hour program
• Two-year approximate length
• In-person
• Practical model
• Choice of final capstone project or thesis
• No GRE required

Requirements to Be Considered for Admission

To be considered for admission to the MLIS program, applicants must be admissible to the Graduate School at the University of Arkansas and must have:

1. An earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution in any discipline

2. A minimum 3.00 GPA overall or a 3.00 GPA on the last 60 hours of coursework

3. Completed a program-specific application to the MLIS program

4. Provide a Statement of Purpose & Goals The statement of purpose and goals is a one- to two-page essay stating your purpose and goals in applying to our program. In your statement, include your short and long-term goals.

5. Provide a Resume or CV Please include information related to your education and professional background.

6. Provide Three (3) Letters of Recommendation Three (3) letters of recommendation are required. The recommenders should be familiar with the applicant’s scholarly and professional background.

Application Checklist

• Graduate School Application If you are applying for financial support, submit a Graduate School Assistantship form as well.
• Official Transcripts for non-University of Arkansas students
• Three Letters of Recommendation from professional or academic references
• Statement of Purpose
• Curriculum Vitae or Resume
• Paid admission fees

Program/Graduation Requirements

Advisor

Upon admission to the program, students will be assigned a faculty advisor based on their statement of purpose and goals. It will be the role of the advisor to assist the students in forming a master’s degree advisory committee and support the student in course selection and informing them about degree requirements. Advisors will be members of the MLIS faculty who hold graduate faculty status.

Students are expected to communicate with their advisor each semester to discuss progress, course selection, enrollment, and any issues. Advisors will notify students annually of their standing in the program per the Annual Academic Review policy established by the Graduate School.

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Program of Study

The Program of Study will include a minimum of 36 graduate hours. Substitutions to the original Program of Study must be approved by the advisory committee prior to enrollment in any courses not included in the approved Program of Study.

The Program of Study should include coursework in the areas of research methods, library studies core, electives, and a thesis or capstone project, as established by the MLIS faculty. The number of hours and courses applicable to each area are indicated below.

Completion of 3 semester hours in the area of research and statistics [3]

ESRM 50103 Research Methods in Education

General orientation course which considers the nature of research problems in education and the techniques used by investigators in solving those problems. Prerequisite: Graduate standing. (Typically offered: Fall, Spring and Summer)

Completion of 15 hours of Library Studies Core [15]

LIBS 50003 Foundations of Libraries, Information & Society

Introduction of the foundational principles, laws, and issues in libraries. Examines topics of intellectual freedom, copyright and fair use, privacy, equal rights, and ethical and legal frameworks. Explores the social, economic, and cultural role of library and information settings within society and history. (Must be taken in your first semester).

LIBS 50103 Organization of Information, Access & Use

Explore the lifecycle of information and recorded knowledge, from creation to organization, access, and use. Topics include cataloging, metadata, classification, and indexing systems; cultural and ethical considerations; and the impact of social, economic, and technological forces on information access. Emphasis is placed on practical methods, user needs, and professional practices across diverse formats and settings.

LIBS 50203 Management, Policy & Program Evaluation

Introduction to transformative leadership concepts and methods for diverse library and information settings and change management. Topics include organizational development, strategic communication, financial administration, strategic planning, and implementation—emphasis on evidence-based assessment and evaluation. (Prerequisites: LIBS 50003 & LIBS 50103).

LIBS 50303 Technology Fundamentals

Comprehensive introduction to essential tools and technologies in libraries. Explore and evaluate emerging technologies, with an emphasis on practical applications and conceptual understanding.

LIBS 50403 Outreach & Service in Libraries

Exploration of frameworks, strategies, and holistic approaches in library outreach, advocacy, and instruction practices. (Prerequisite(s): LIBS 50003 & LIBS 50103).

Completion of 15 hours of Library Studies electives [15]*

*Students enrolling in the thesis option will take [12] hours of electives

Choose among:

• LIBS 52003 Information Literacy & Searching Techniques
• LIBS 52103 Collection Development, Strategy & Analysis
• LIBS 52203 Cataloging & Metadata Management
• LIBS 52303 Pedagogies & Instructional Design
• LIBS 52403 Special Topics in Libraries
• LIBS 52503 Marketing, Outreach & Service in Libraries
• LIBS 52603 Assessment & User Experience in Libraries

Completion of 6 hours of Thesis [6] or 3 hours Capstone [3]

LIBS 6000V Thesis

(6 Hours) Students independently investigate a significant topic in the field under faculty guidance. Emphasizing critical thinking, research methods, and scholarly writing, this course culminates in a formal thesis that demonstrates expertise and contributes to the profession. (Prerequisite: ESRM 50103 or concurrent enrollment).

OR

LIBS 61003 Capstone

Culminating experience where students integrate knowledge and skills from their coursework to complete a comprehensive project. Guided by faculty mentors, students apply research, critical thinking, and professional practices to address a key issue in librarianship. Projects may involve research, program evaluation, or creative problem-solving and align with students’ academic and career goals. This capstone demonstrates mastery of the field and prepares students for professional success. (Prerequisite: ESRM 50103 or concurrent enrollment; taken in the last semester).

Total Hours: 36