Master of Library and Information Science

The Master of Library and Information Science degree program at the San José State University School of Information prepares graduate students for exciting careers as information professionals who work in myriad information environments and professional positions.

Learn more about the Master of Library and Information Science program. Sign up to attend an online information session.

“The San Jose State iSchool appealed to me because as a working professional, it was very important for me to attend 100% online programming. The tuition was very affordable, and I had some of the best professors. They were very supportive, very encouraging. I absolutely do believe that librarians can change lives.” – Eke Williams, ‘19 MLIS

Learn with the Best

The MLIS program has a rich history at San José State University, with the first library science classes taught in 1928. The graduate degree program has been 100% online since 2009.

The American Library Association Committee on Accreditation last reviewed the MLIS program in 2022 and granted re-accreditation for the maximum possible term of seven years with Continued status. The next comprehensive review visit is scheduled for spring 2029.

Customized Curriculum

With numerous electives and variety of course topics available in the MLIS program, graduate students can customize their studies to fit their interests and career objectives.

Internship Opportunities

Our MLIS students have the unique opportunity to participate in an innovative internship program. Our school works directly with internship site supervisors to maintain a database of more than 200 internship opportunities each semester, including virtual internships. Imagine interning at a high-tech Silicon Valley company without ever stepping foot in San José, California.  

Convenient 100% Online Learning

The MLIS program is delivered exclusively online, meaning everything is offered online including courses, internships, academic advising, faculty office hours, guest speaker presentations, research assistant opportunities, convocation, and more!

There are no on-campus orientations or other required in-person events. Our students interact with peers and instructors through web conferencing, social networking platforms, a web-based learning management system, and other interactive environments.

Most course content is delivered asynchronously—giving students the freedom to access the course at any time they choose, from any location. Some courses also include occasional “live” synchronous sessions.

Program Requirements

The MLIS program requires the successful completion of 43 units, including work that satisfies the requirement of a culminating experience (e-portfolio or thesis) in compliance with San José State University regulations and School of Information policies. 

Coursera Career Academy

Students enrolled in the MLIS program have the option to elevate their learning and career opportunities by taking not-for-credit online courses and earning micro-credentials and certificates from leading companies like Meta, IBM, and Salesforce. The Coursera Career Academy curriculum is available to MLIS students for free. 

MLIS+ Mentored Library Fellowship

Beginning in fall 2025, matriculated students in the SJSU iSchool MLIS program who have successfully completed INFO 200 and have at least 18 months remaining before graduation will have the opportunity to gain practical work experience through the MLIS+ Mentored Library Fellowship for Success program. The extended-length, paid work experiences with structured mentorship equip students with the skills and experience necessary for successful careers in academic libraries while providing library organizations with access to a well-prepared pool of future professionals.  

Learn More

• Sign up for future student emails.
• Download our MLIS brochure.
• Attend an online open house or watch a recording
• Discover online learning.
• Review the MLIS Skills at Work: A Snapshot of Job Postings report.
• Check out the iStudent Blog and Career Blog.
• Contact Dr. Frank Cervone, MLIS Program Coordinator.