Community is at the heart of the UW iSchool experience, and the community developed as a student is the start of the professional network that serves them throughout their career. Students in the MLIS program work with forward-thinking faculty, forge a network of peers from around the country–and the world, and are gifted with opportunities to connect with library and information industry leaders through experiences in and beyond the classroom. The community built at the iSchool is one of the most valuable assets students develop and take with them, as they begin their professional journey. 

Student community 

In the MLIS program, students learn as much from their peers as they do from the experienced faculty. MLIS students come to the program with impressive backgrounds and contribute their diverse perspectives to the community, creating a learning environment that fosters mutual appreciation and active engagement. Students learn from their peers just as much as they share their experiences and understandings with others.

The MLIS program and the iSchool at large has an active student body that contributes to a vibrant community. Many students participate in one or more iSchool and/or UW student groups that include governance, professional associations, topical, and identity interests. There are also volunteer opportunities to participate in MLIS activities, and the student body association, ALISS (Association of Library and Information Science Students Society), holds book sales, Town Halls, and social events throughout the year. 

Student & career support

All MLIS students are supported by the MLIS Academic Advising team, who helps ensure student success in the program by walking them through course planning, registration, and orientation. The iSchool’s program-specific academic advising teams support students, helping them find resources within the iSchool and the greater UW. They are the students’ advocates, sounding boards, and guides throughout their academic journey.

In addition to one-on-one advising, students are also offered help with general job search strategies, presented resume and cover letter workshops, provided interview advice, and more. Have questions about courses or degree requirements? Want advice on how to start a job hunt or negotiate a job offer? The iSchool’s Career Services team supports students in meeting their professional development goals and navigating the job search process. All MLIS students have access to Career Services for up to one year after they graduate.

Innovative faculty

MLIS students have access to the wide range of faculty, research scientists, and practitioner-lecturers who comprise the iSchool’s faculty community. Our expert faculty bring invaluable knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Be sure to take advantage of your time in the iSchool to get to know the iSchool faculty.

Research groups

The research centers and groups within the Information School are internationally recognized hubs for innovative scholarship and research. MLIS students have the opportunity to connect with the wide range of research centers and research groups housed at the iSchool. Opportunities for research projects and some paid positions do exist. You can learn more through the iSchool’s HR Department, by getting to know the research faculty and their grant work, and seeking individual opportunities. 

Student profile 

In compliance with its ALA accreditation, the MLIS program posts information about admissions rates, academic data, and demographics on the most recently admitted MLIS cohort: view MLIS statistics on our website. The MLIS program is proud of its near 100-year-old history as one of the preeminent schools for library and information professionals, having been the core of the creation of the Information School in 1911 and continuously accredited by the American Library Association since 1926.