Experiential Learning

Applied learning is central to the MLIS program, helping students bridge theory and practice:

• Internships: 77% of MLIS alumni reported they completed at least one internship or directed fieldwork experience during their time in the program and 23% report receiving a job offer as a result of a prior experience such as an internship, Capstone project, or part-time role (Next Destination Survey).
• Capstone: In their final year, alumni complete a Capstone – a culminating, team-based project addressing an information challenge for a real-world client. iSchool-specific labs including the Center for an Informed Public (CIP) and Technology & Social Change Group (TASCHA), as well as interdisciplinary labs across the UW.
• On-campus jobs: Many alumni noted they obtained early professional skills and experience as student employees in technical, research, and administrative roles.
• Mentorship programs: Students can connect with MLIS alumni and industry professionals through the iSTAMP Program, which provides guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities that support career development.

In the Classroom

MLIS coursework emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and adaptability. Students work in teams to design solutions for real-world challenges, gaining experience in:

• Managing deadlines and deliverables
• Using professional collaboration tools
• Translating complex ideas for technical and non-technical audiences
• Applying human-centered design principles to technology solutions

Alumni Roles & Domains of Expertise

MLIS alumni pursue diverse careers in libraries, archives, education, and beyond. Common roles include (Next Destination Survey & Alumni Outcomes Dashboard):

• Archives and Special Collections Librarian
• Children’s Librarian
• Competitive Intelligence Analyst
• Computer and Information Research Scientist
• Information Architect
• Knowledge Management Specialist
• Learning Resource Center Librarian
• Program Consultant
• Research Analyst
• Semantic Modeler
• Senior Program Manager
• Subject Specialist Librarian
• Taxonomist
• Web Content Strategist
• Youth Services Librarian

Domains of Expertise

The iSchool’s MLIS program offers many pathways to explore based on a student’s passions, what they want to learn, and how they want to make an impact. No matter the area of interest, they’ll be well-prepared for the journey. Some of the pathways many choose to explore include:

• Academic Librarianship
• Archiving / Special Collections / Records Management
• Data Curation
• Database Administration / Development
• Digital Librarianship
• Digital Youth / Children's Librarianship
• Information Architecture / Taxonomy
• Knowledge Organization
• Public Librarianship
• Special / Corporate Librarianship
• User Experience

Alumni Salaries

We’re proud to share the salary outcomes that reflect both the immediate success and long-term growth of our MLIS graduates. Our data comes from two trusted sources:

• The Next Destination Survey, where graduates self-report their first job details near graduation.
• The Alumni Outcomes Dashboard, which uses verified Washington State records to track career progress over time.

Reported Salaries:

• Near graduation (Next Destination Survey): Median $54,000, most offers range from $44,000 - $68,000.
• Five years after graduation (Alumni Outcomes Dashboard): Average $81,000; range $43,000 - $114,000.

iSchool Career Services supports MLIS students in developing the skills and strategies to negotiate competitive offers and align career goals with their values.

Where Alumni Work

MLIS graduates contribute to organizations across education, government, and the nonprofit sector.

• Washington state employment: 72% of alumni work in Washington one year after graduation; 57% remain after five years.
• Geographic reach (5-year data): Most alumni remain in the West (89.0%), with others working across the South (6.5%), Northeast (5.7%), and Midwest (3.4%).
• Top employers: MLIS alumni work at a diverse range of organizations, including:
  • Libraries & education: University of Washington, Seattle Public Library, Bellevue College, Arizona State University, New York University
  • Consulting & business services: King County, Pierce County, Seattle Public Schools, Idaho State Historical Society, ASRC Federal
  • Industry & nonprofits: Ada Community Library, Apex Leaders, Google, Getty Images, Microsoft

Career Resources

The iSchool supports MLIS students throughout their career journey, from first internships or directed field work experiences, to leadership roles.

• For prospective MLIS & incoming UW students: Learn more about internships, job search strategies, and employer connections through the UW Career & Internship Center.
• For current MLIS students: Access tailored career guidance, resume tips, job boards, and more through the iSchool Career Guide for MLIS (Canvas log-in required).

Planning ahead is key - we strongly encourage MLIS students to meet with the iSchool Career Services team early and often, ideally within the first few weeks of their first academic quarter or the summer before their final year, to discuss job search timelines, resume updates, and strategies for standing out in the recruiting process.