Is MLIS Right for Me?

Are you unsure if this program is right for you? This website is designed to help introduce you to the MLIS degree, learn about where the degree can take you, and advise and prepare for taking the plunge and getting that application started! That all starts with ALA accredidation. Check out some of the other pages to learn more.

What is ALA Accredidation?

Employers will generally require a master’s degree from a school with ALA accreditation. If your goal is to work in a professional library or information science position, this is paramount. The American Library Association goes through an external review of any candidate program and evaluates the curriculum among other aspects to determine if the program meets a professional standard.

Are there Other Degrees that Require ALA Accredidation?

Degrees that can have an ALA accredidation might have different names. The most common title will be MLIS or Master’s degree in library and information studies. However, others such as the ones listed below are common as well.

• MIS, Master of Information Studies
• MLS, Master of Library Sciences
• MSIS, Masters of Science in Information Sciences

What Can I Do with an MLIS Degree?

In the same way that there are different names for accredited programs, many programs will have specific pathways that help future students learn for specific types of LIS professions.