Join us at the iSchool for a progressive and challenging program. Accredited by the American Library Association since the inception of accreditation (1924), our program will support you in becoming an innovative information professional. The Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies can be completed either on campus or online.
Our 36-credit program includes a minimal number of required courses, allowing students flexibility to pursue five different concentration areas, including librarianship, digital archives, information technology and user experience, data/information management & analytics, and organization of information.
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Admission Deadlines
Fall Admissions Deadlines
Priority: Dec. 15 – First consideration for iSchool scholarships and for earlier admissions decision notification.
Final Deadline: March 1 – To be considered for admission and the 2nd round of iSchool scholarship offers.
Alumni Spotlight: Brody Coning
After graduating with his MA in Library & Information Studies, Coning took a role as a film archivist at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Los Angeles.
Why MA LIS?
Both The On-Campus And Online Master’s Programs Offer
- Interactive courses, accessible instructors, individual attention.
- Friendly, supportive, and collaborative community of learners.
- Flexibility in scheduling for full or part-time program of study.
- The ability to tailor your coursework to meet your goals.
- Preparation for a variety of information careers.
- Masters programs provide real world experience through a required internship/field placement.
- Career planning and support the moment you start the program.
- Mix courses from other internationally ranked UW-Madison departments into your iSchool degree (up to 6 credits) including computer science, education, psychology, and communications
- Gain experience via student employment or internships in renowned libraries, archives, labs and technology projects while a student
- Flexibility in course format — students may take either online or face-to-face courses. Please note: Students in the on-campus program should expect to take 2-3 online courses.
- Participate in lively student organizations and community projects that enhance classroom learning and develop professional leadership skills
- Virtual orientation bootcamp prepares you to be an effective online learner and includes a thoughtful blend of live group sessions and solo activities
- The required field-practicum can be completed wherever you live
- Affordable tuition – comparable to Wisconsin resident graduate tuition per credit
What is online learning like?
Courses in the online program are delivered using cutting edge technology tools customized to course content and the instructor’s teaching style. Regular interaction occurs among students and instructors in weekly modules via interactive learning assignments, discussions, team projects and virtual meetings.
Online students may opt to concentrate in specific areas including type of library (Academic, Public, or Special) or follow a technology-focused course of study. Please note that the Digital Archives concentration is not available online and the School Library Media specialization is only available to students residing or working in Wisconsin. Not all courses in all concentration areas are available online.
MA Program Level Learning Outcomes & Data Reports
For nearly 100 years, the Information School has retained its essential values: academic rigor, a commitment to the public good and community engagement, and a resolution to prepare students to be leaders and innovators. iSchool graduates excel in connecting people, information and technology for the public good.
ALA Accreditation
The MA in Library and Information Studies program at the University of Wisconsin-Madison is accredited by the American Library Association Committee on Accreditation, with the status of Continued Accreditation. The next comprehensive review visit is scheduled for fall 2029.
Contact Us & Schedule A Virtual Visit
Meet our program advisor or schedule a virtual visit to see more about the iSchool.
Online Info Sessions
Learn more about our Masters Program in Library & Information Studies? See the recording & Slides.
Questions?
We are here to help. Talk with an enrollment coach today to get your questions answered.