What is the difference between the Master of Science in Information Science (MSIS) and Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)?

The MLIS degree focuses heavily on library and information science. The required courses for the MLIS are best suited for students interested in a career in a library setting. The MLIS degree program is ALA accredited. Graduates with ALA accredited degrees are highly sought by libraries and archives seeking LIS professionals to hire. We recommend the MLIS for those seeking to work in a library of any kind or those who may consider a future career in libraries and archives in which an ALA accredited degree is required or desired.

The MSIS focuses on technology, processes, and data that enable our data-driven society to function and is not intended for broad-based work in a library environment. This degree program has not yet been reviewed by the ALA Committee on Accreditation and is best suited for those interested in working in environments where ALA accreditation is not a concern.

If I'm currently in the MLIS program can I switch to the MSIS?

Students may switch programs but must complete MSIS coursework requirements regardless of work completed in the MLIS program. There are no overlapping required courses for the MLIS and MSIS degrees and only technology-oriented electives count for the MSIS. No exceptions will be made for students transferring from one degree to another. Please note that INF 6010 is not a required course for the MSIS and will not count toward that degree. MSIS students will complete INF 6010. If you would like to switch to the MSIS program we recommend discussing the process with your advisor.

Should I complete the MLIS and Graduate Certificate in Information Management or just the MSIS?

If you are interested in working in a library environment while focusing on data-intensive and user-centric technology, we recommend pursuing the MLIS and Information Management Graduate Certificate.

If you are interested in data management, technology management, and similar fields outside of traditional library work, then we recommend the MSIS.

How many credit hours is the MSIS?

The 30-credit (10 course) MSIS degree includes five required courses (four courses plus a capstone practicum) and 5 elective courses, organized into a variety of specializations. Students are free to combine elective courses from the various specializations to craft a customized Plan of Work that satisfies the student's particular needs.

What are the program pre-requisites?

Detailed admissions requirements can be found on the SIS admissions webpage. All applicants must possess an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with a GPA of 2.75 or higher.

Which courses are required for the MSIS?

Required courses for the MSIS include:

• INF 6010: Information in Society
• INF 6415: Information Technology Project Management 
• INF 6460: Introduction to Database Design
• INF 7996: Research for the Information Profession
• INF 7960: Practicum: Information Management

What areas can I specialize in?

Students, in conjunction with their faculty advisors, are encouraged to select from one or more specializations to create a unique program of study. Areas of specialization include: Web-Based Information Services, Data Analytics, Health and Scientific Data Management and User Experience. To learn more about coursework related to these specializations visit: http://sis.wayne.edu/msis/msis-specializations