Introduction to the Online Master of Library and Information Studies

The online Master of Library and Information Studies from OU Online empowers you to lead in the evolving world of information. As the only ALA-accredited master’s program in Oklahoma, this degree prepares you to thrive in librarianship, archival studies, data science, and emerging tech-driven specializations.

Program Overview

• Time to Complete: 20+ Months
• Credit Hours: 36
• Time Commitment: 10 to 20 Hours Weekly
• Start Dates: Fall, Spring, Summer

Program Details

The Master of Library and Information Studies delivers exceptional value, equipping you with the expertise to lead, innovate, and advance in your career. This degree opens doors to top-tier leadership roles and higher earning potential across libraries, archives, and information-driven industries.

Tuition and Fees

• Based on residency status, tuition and fees total $18,446.40 for Oklahoma residents ($512.40 per credit hour) and $44,330.40 for non-residents ($1,231.40 per credit hour).
• Books and additional materials are not included.

About the Online Master of Library and Information Studies

In today’s information-driven world, the ability to access, analyze, and apply information fuels personal growth, social progress, and economic development. As global connectivity expands and technology evolves, information professionals play a vital role in shaping how individuals, communities, and institutions engage with knowledge.

Career Paths

Earning a Master of Library and Information Studies degree from the University of Oklahoma prepares you for career advancement in a variety of careers that rely on information organization, management, storage, access, and use within for-profit and non-profit institutions. Accelerate your career in these areas:

• Academic Librarian
• Digital Asset Manager
• Public Librarian
• User Experience (UX) Librarian
• Archivist
• Data Curator
• Knowledge Manager
• Media Specialist

Industry Insights

• Median Pay: $64,320
• Job Outlook: Employment for librarians and library media specialists is expected to grow 3 percent by 2033.
• Job Openings: 13,300 openings for librarians and library media specialists are projected each year, on average, over the next decade

Program Outcomes: Core Competencies for Information Leaders

The University of Oklahoma’s online MLIS program meets the rising demand for professionals who can harness the power of information to drive personal, social, and economic progress.

Core Competencies

• Design and manage information systems and services that support equitable access, intellectual freedom, and lifelong learning.
• Apply ethical and legal principles to the stewardship of information in libraries, archives, and digital environments.
• Organize, curate, and preserve information resources using current metadata standards, classification systems, and digital tools.
• Leverage emerging technologies and data science techniques to enhance information discovery, user experience, and decision-making.
• Engage with diverse communities to assess information needs and deliver inclusive, culturally responsive services.
• Demonstrate leadership and advocacy in promoting the role of information professionals in society.
• Communicate effectively across professional contexts, translating complex information issues for varied audiences and stakeholders.

Course Details

The Master of Library and Information Studies offers a comprehensive overview of key topics related to the management and categorization of information in a variety of fields.

Course Structure

You’ll earn 36 credit hours across 12 courses. You can expect a time commitment of 10 to 20 hours on average per week for two courses.

Sample Courses

• Management in Information Organizations: Introduction to managerial principles and practices for information organizations such as libraries and archives, emphasizing financial administration, legal and ethical practices, organizational communication, operational efficiencies, personnel development, and planning processes.
• Organization of Information: Introduction to the organization of internal and external sources of information, information services and tools, basic concepts of information storage and retrieval systems, and design and structure of information systems.
• Fundamentals of Information Technology: Students will learn the fundamentals of information technology concepts and applications, understand and utilize emerging technologies to meet society's rapidly changing information needs, and apply these in solving various information problems.
• Information and Society: Introduction to conceptual foundations of the information society, including the nature of data, information, and knowledge; the evolution of national and global organizational information infrastructures; and ethical, legal, and social considerations for LIS professionals.
• Information Seeking and Use: The course teaches information seeking and use by people in various roles, situations, and contexts, individually and in groups.
• Research and Evaluation Methods: Methods of investigating library and information (LIS) problems; use of evaluation in planning for continuous quality assessment and improvement of LIS policies, processes, and procedures; development of original research designs; evaluation of research studies in LIS.

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the online Master of Library and Information Studies program is selective. To apply for any graduate program at OU, we require graduation from an accredited four-year college with a 3.0 cumulative GPA over their undergraduate and/or graduate work (on a 4-point scale where 4.00 is an A). Additional admissions factors may include work or service experience, demonstrated leadership potential, exceptional talents or skills, trends, or academic and undergraduate school performance improvement. Applicants must complete the following:

• Complete an online application
• Submit a current resume or CV
• Provide official transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal Statement
• Three professional letters of recommendation
• International students must demonstrate English proficiency

Application Timeline

The admissions committee operates under a rolling admissions process, and admissions may continue until two weeks before the start of classes. However, some programs may have an earlier application deadline. The committee strives to respond to all applicants within two weeks of receiving a completed application. A nonrefundable deposit of $350 is required upon admission to secure your place in the program. This deposit guarantees your spot in your first semester of courses and will be applied toward your first semester's tuition.

Cost & Financial Aid

Earning your Master of Library and Information Studies is a powerful investment in your future, and OU Online is committed to making that investment clear and accessible.

This program does not offer flat-rate tuition. Based on residency status, tuition and fees total $18,446.40 for Oklahoma residents ($512.40 per credit hour) and $44,330.40 for non-residents ($1,231.40 per credit hour). Books and additional materials are not included.

Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance may be available to help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. Our dedicated financial services team will support you throughout every step of the funding process, allowing you to stay focused on your educational and career goals.

Transfer Credit

You can transfer up to 12 credit hours of graduate-level coursework per Graduate College policy and with approval of the department.

University of Oklahoma Summary

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Overview:

The University of Oklahoma (OU) is a comprehensive research university with a strong focus on innovation and educational excellence. It is a major contributor to the state of Oklahoma, impacting the lives of Oklahomans through scholarship, research, and healthcare. OU boasts a diverse student body representing 50 states, 76 Oklahoma counties, and 125+ countries.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

OU offers a vibrant and diverse campus experience with over 400 student organizations. The university has a strong sense of community and is known for its spirited and driven atmosphere.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Research Focus:

OU is a highly ranked research university, designated as a Highest Research Activity institution by the Carnegie Foundation.

Top-Ranked Programs:

OU is ranked #1 in the country for Aviation and Atmospheric Science & Meteorology.

Diverse Student Body:

OU welcomes students from across the globe, fostering a rich and inclusive learning environment.

Vibrant Campus Life:

With over 400 student organizations, OU offers a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in extracurricular activities and build community.

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Academic Programs:

OU offers over 170 academic programs across various disciplines. The university is particularly known for its strengths in research, aviation, atmospheric science, and healthcare.

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Other:

• OU has three campuses located in Norman, Oklahoma City, and Tulsa.
• The university is committed to supporting the state of Oklahoma through its research and educational initiatives.
• OU has a strong alumni network, with 80% of Oklahoma's healthcare professionals being OU graduates.