Master of library and information science student Naomi Kraut stands confidently in front of the bookshelves at the Milwaukee Public Library.

Unlock New Possibilities

A top-ranked, accredited program. Meaningful hands-on learning. Elevate your career with a master’s degree in library and information science.

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Make Waves in Library and Information Science

UW-Milwaukee’s Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program prepares you for a dynamic career in libraries, archives and as an information professional. You’ll gain a strong foundation in information organization, digital technologies, user services and more.

As an MLIS graduate, you’ll go on to shape the future of information in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Plus, you’ll be equipped to excel in a wide range of public, academic, corporate and nonprofit roles.

I wanted to combine my academic and personal interests into one accredited master’s program, and UWM is where I can do that. I’ve grown so much thanks to my UWM library supervisors.

Master of library and information science student Andrea Urbana smiles while looking at a map of Central America.
AndreaMaster of Library and Information Science
Online students Andrea and Emmanuel work on their laptops outside a coffee shop.
UW-Milwaukee’s MLIS program is available fully online — and lets you study at your own pace, making it ideal for working professionals.

Explore Our Online MLIS Program

As an MLIS student, you’ll learn how to become a skilled librarian or information professional. Our curriculum teaches you how to apply library and information science principles, utilize innovative tools and understand the importance of research in the field.

Our MLIS can be completed entirely online. The degree is a 36-credit program, and only 30 credits are required if you currently have a master’s degree or other graduate degree.  Plus, students enrolled in full-time study plus summer semester coursework could be ready for professional-level positions in as little as two years.

Program Highlights

Career-Focused Concentrations

Our program offers tracks in archival studies, information organization, information technology, public librarianship and school librarianship.

Flexible Learning Options

Our rolling admission process allows you to begin the program in the spring, summer or fall semesters. Plus, you can study at your own pace with full-time or part-time study.

A Top-Ranked Program

U.S. News & World Report ranks our program 14th in the nation for library and information studies.

ALA Accreditation

Our MLIS program has been continuously accredited by the American Library Association since 1976.

Find New Career Possibilities

The field of library and information science is more dynamic than ever. In addition to working in traditional library environments, you’ll be prepared to thrive in a variety of settings, including private corporations, nonprofit organizations and government agencies.

Here are a few of the career options you can pursue with an MLIS degree:

  • Archivist
  • Data analyst
  • Digital librarian
  • Information manager
  • Information architect / taxonomist
  • Knowledge management specialist
  • Library director
  • Librarian
    • Academic
    • Health science
    • Law
    • Public
    • School
  • Records manager
  • School library media specialist
Master's in library and information science student Brendan looks over a map while doing archival work in UWM's American Geographical Society Library.
The median annual wage for librarians and library media specialists was $64,320 in 2024, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Make Waves in Your World

UW-Milwaukee students come from all walks of life. What unites them is a willingness to ask big questions and a determination to find the answers. Many work side-by-side with expert faculty on research tackling the world’s toughest challenges. Others collaborate on art that helps us better understand ourselves or partner with community organizations on projects that improve lives.

Here, we turn ideas into ripples of change that create waves of positive impact. Join the next wave.

Discover New Horizons

Scholarships available! Learn more about how UWM can help you achieve your academic, professional and personal goals.