Program Overview

Library and Information Science MLIS

The Library and Information Science Master's degree from Southern Miss is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in the evolving field of library and information science. The program is fully online and accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Program-at-a-Glance

• Total Hours: 40
• Cost per Credit Hour: $578.12
• Completion Time: 1-3 years (pending hours enrolled)
• Accreditation: ALA, CAEP
• Special Requirements: No GRE required

Program Description

The complexity of today's information age requires greater expertise and knowledge. The Library and Information Science MLIS from Southern Miss helps students gain the skills needed to excel in this field. The program expands students' knowledge of media utilization, reference and information sources, cataloging, and library management. Students also learn about web design and evaluation.

Program Structure

The online Library and Information Science MLIS offers a unique learning experience with synchronous classes. These live, online classes allow students to meet with their instructor and classmates each week and learn with a community of peers. Classes meet at the same time and on the same day each week and are typically night classes.

Career Opportunities

A Library and Information Science Master's degree prepares students for roles that involve organizing, managing, and disseminating information in various settings.

MLIS Course Requirements

• Library Information Science: 1 hour
• Reference and Information Sources: 3 hours
• Cataloging and Classification: 3 hours
• Collection Development and Management: 3 hours
• Library Management: 3 hours
• Research Methods in Library and Information Science: 3 hours
• Master's Project: 3 hours
  • Select one course:
    • Media Utilization: 3 hours
    • Information Technology and Libraries: 3 hours
    • Web Design and Evaluation: 3 hours
    • LIS Advisor Approved Electives (3 hours, must be at 600-level or higher)

MLIS/MA in Anthropology, History, or Political Science Requirements

The dual degrees in MLIS/MA Anthropology, MA, MLIS/MA History, MA, and MLIS/MA Political Science, MA, require 31 hours in Library and Information Science and 30 hours in the other field of study, respectively. Students must be admitted separately to each program, and the requirements for both degrees must be satisfied before the dual degree is awarded.

Dual MLIS/Business Administration MBA Requirements

The dual degree in MLIS/MBA Business requires 31 hours in the School of Library and Information Science and 21 hours in the School of Management, respectively. Students must be admitted separately to each program, and the requirements for both degrees must be satisfied before the dual degree is awarded.

Admission Requirements

In addition to the requirements detailed in Admission Requirements and Procedures, applicants must submit:

1. Statement of Purpose: A 1-2 page essay describing background and interests in library and information science, the types of libraries, archives, or repositories of interest, and potential contributions to the career field.
2. Letters of Recommendation: Two letters of recommendation on institutional letterhead from professionals and/or professors attesting to the applicant's readiness for graduate work.
3. Résumé

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

In addition to the requirements detailed in General Degree Requirements and General Academic Information, students must earn a minimum grade of "B" in the following foundational courses: LIS 501, LIS 505, and LIS 511.

Tuition and Fees

Estimated tuition for the Library and Information Science MLIS program is $5,473.00 per semester for full-time students, with a total of 9 credit hours per semester. Individual courses may have additional fees that are not reflected in the total above.