MLIS Graduation Assessment

The MLIS graduation assessment serves as the culminating learning outcomes assessment for students preparing to graduate from the School of Information Sciences with the MLIS degree. The MLIS graduation assessment is an opportunity for students to reflect on their cumulative learning experiences in the School. The contents of the graduation assessment focus on professional skills and knowledge developed during students' coursework. After ascertaining that all required materials are present, submitted MLIS graduation assessment is evaluated by a faculty committee consisting of a minimum of two full-time faculty members.

Please note: Information regarding the MSIS graduation assessment is available on the MSIS Graduation Assessment webpage.

Information regarding the Certificate Graduation Assessment is available on the Certificate Graduation Assessment webpage.

The MLIS graduation assessment includes all the following items:

A reflective essay
Four artifacts or assignments supporting student learning outcome proficiency as discussed in the reflective essay
A professional resume
Completed survey in graduation assessment Canvas site

In the reflective essay, the student discusses how they have developed as an information professional and demonstrates how they have become proficient in each of the MLIS student learning outcomes.

As a concluding piece of the essay, the student includes their stance or philosophy of the information profession. This philosophy will be supported by using readings of the research, professional literature, personal experiences, and the degree-specific student learning outcomes. The student may address questions like: What is an information professional? What are the characteristics, qualities and knowledge that will be most important to you as an information professional?

An artifact in the context of MLIS graduation assessment may refer to any sample work a student has completed in a course since entering the School.

Students must back up course artifacts to multiple locations during the course of their studies at the school. Students must not rely on the learning management system (e.g., Canvas) as a backup system. It is not the responsibility of the school, its staff or faculty, to retain copies of student work.

Please check each of the following areas for complete information on the preparation, submission and evaluation of the MLIS Graduation Assessment. [links below to be updated]

If you have any questions on the completion of your graduation assessment, you may contact Academic Services Officer Amber Case.

Recording of the 2024 Graduation Assessment information session

Copy of Slides from 2024 Graduation Assessment information session