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Master of Library & Information Science
Build a strong foundation in traditional librarianship together with an opportunity to engage with innovative ideas and new information technologies.
Master of Library & Information Science
Build a strong foundation in traditional librarianship together with an opportunity to engage with innovative ideas and new information technologies.
Master of Library & Information Science
Build a strong foundation in traditional librarianship together with an opportunity to engage with innovative ideas and new information technologies.
A reputation of excellence in education
Western's Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program is widely recognized as one of the best programs of its kind in North America. The curriculum stresses an exploration of the literature of the discipline and the development of advanced research skills. You’ll graduate from our program as a skilled professional who is well prepared to meet the challenges facing information and library professions today and in the future.
Unique, flexible structure
Western’s MLIS offers unmatched flexibility with hybrid or fully online study, three possible start dates per year, and full-time or part-time options—earn your degree in as little as 12 months.
Co-op placement opportunities
Eligible MLIS students can complete one or two optional, paid co-op work terms in library or information roles, gaining professional experience that enriches learning and provides valuable career advantages after graduation.
ALA-accredited
Western's MLIS program has been in good standing with the ALA since 1969 and will complete its next review in 2026. Accreditation means you can be confident that you'll receive a top tier educational experience in our program, with access to everything you need to be successful.
Gain professional skills on co-op
Isobel Flindall, MLIS student
A full-circle journey on the library floor
Be employable
Western MLIS grads have options
The master of library and information science program prepares graduates to work as librarians in public libraries, academic libraries, special libraries and within the government. Graduates land roles related to archives, special libraries, reference and information services, collections management, programming, information literacy, community outreach, administration/management, and more. Graduates of the MLIS program also find themselves employed in non-library settings, bringing their information science skills to museums, research support, corporate or government data management, fundraising, knowledge and data analysis, project management and many other possibilities.
* The most recent data below comes from the 2024 MLIS Placement Survey, conducted in August 2025. For more employment-related information, visit the MLIS Program Performance page.
89%
of respondents were employed in the LIS field within 6 months of completion
$68K
average starting salary for graduates
68%
of graduates identified co-op as the most helpful in securing their first job
Questions? Connect with us
For questions about the Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS) program, contact FIMS Graduate Student Services.
Program Information
Ready to apply?
From data to discovery. Your MLIS journey starts here.