Library and Information Science: Public Library Concentration, Online MLIS
Public library leaders are essential to developing strong, educated communities. Become an expert in people-focused information services through the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) online public library concentration.
In this online program, you’ll explore legal, financial and social aspects of public library management. You’ll also discover how libraries impact their communities, deploy new technologies and support diverse groups. The School of Information Studies’ public library graduate concentration is your start to a fulfilling career shaping the future of public libraries and those they serve.
Start Dates: Fall, Spring or Summer
Cost per Credit: $800 (Total Cost: $28,800*)
Credit Hours: 36 (15 credits in archival studies required)
*Total cost will vary based on the number of credits transferred into UWM.
Program Type
Master’s
Program Format
Online
Why Study the Public Library Concentration at UWM?
- Gain a transcript-designated concentration within the MLIS program.
- Leverage your academic background, whether in humanities or other disciplines, to build on your existing experience or start a new career path.
- Learn from faculty with real-world knowledge and in-person and online education expertise.
- Develop leadership skills for public library settings.
- Explore modern technologies and their applications in public libraries.
From federal financial aid to Information Studies scholarships, our Office of Student Financial Services offers multiple ways to help you fund your online public library concentration.
Scholarship opportunities may increase with academic standing. Explore the Panther Scholarship Portal regularly as you make progress on your degree.
To begin UWM’s online MLIS public library concentration, you must apply to the MLIS program and select your concentration of choice. You can also submit the Concentration Declaration of Intent form to add or remove a concentration after admission.
The public library graduate concentration is seamlessly integrated into your MLIS journey. You’ll work closely with your advisor to select 15 credits of specialized coursework that aligns with your career goals in public librarianship.
Courses
Choose from a list of qualifying courses that cover topics such as community engagement, library management, technology integration and advocacy.
- INFOST 736: The Public Library
Please select one of the following:
- INFOST 861: Seminar in Intellectual Freedom
- INFOST 862: Legal Issues for Library and Information Managers
- INFOST 864: Critical Approaches to Public Librarianship
- INFOST 520: Managing Library Collections
- INFOST 524: Management of Libraries and Information Services
- INFOST 622: Information Marketing
- INFOST 637: Library Services for Young Children
- INFOST 638: Library Services for School-Aged Children
- INFOST 639: Library Services for Teens
- INFOST 640: Information Literacy Instruction
- INFOST 645: Library Materials for Children
- INFOST 646: Library Materials for Young Adults
- INFOST 660: Information Policy
- INFOST 661: Information Ethics
- INFOST 682: Digital Libraries
- INFOST 685: Electronic Publishing and Web Design
- INFOST 774: Online Information Retrieval
- INFOST 999: Independent Research
The way we access information is constantly changing. Your MLIS public library concentration empowers you to ensure public libraries remain vital community hubs. You’ll be prepared to lead, innovate and advocate in various positions, including:
- Community Outreach Coordinator
- Digital Services Librarian
- Library Advocate
- Library Director
- Technology Integration Manager
- Youth Services Specialist
You’ll be ready to work in:
- Community centers
- Local government agencies
- Library systems and consortia
- Library technology companies
- Public libraries (urban, suburban and rural)
- Nonprofit organizations focused on literacy and information access