Texas Woman's University

Programme overview

The Master of Library Science (MLS) equips students with the core knowledge and practical skills required for work as librarians and information specialists. The curriculum is delivered entirely online, includes a practicum experience, and allows learners to pursue a specific program track or create a tailored course of study in another area of interest. The MLS is accredited by the American Library Association Committee on Accreditation (status: Continued accreditation; next comprehensive review scheduled for 2032).

What you'll study

Students develop an individualized plan of study that combines foundational library and information science instruction with advanced coursework in a chosen specialty. The program requires completion of a practicum aligned with the student’s professional interests and career goals. Learners may follow a defined Program Track or design a course of study in another subject area supported by the School of Library & Information Studies.

Entry requirements

Applicants must meet both MLS and TWU Graduate School admission standards. Minimum academic criteria include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution (or equivalent) and a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA — or a 3.0 GPA in the last 60 semester credit hours or on a previous graduate degree. Candidates with GPA below 3.0 who meet the Graduate School minimum may be considered case-by-case.

• Submit online graduate application and pay the application fee (domestic $50; international $75) or request an eligible fee waiver.
• Upload the SLIS Application Form, a resume, and a two-page statement of intent describing professional goals and career interests.
• Provide an email address for one academic or professional reference who will submit a letter via the application system.
• Submit official transcripts for all postsecondary institutions attended; international applicants must provide a credential evaluation from a NACES or AICE member service.
• Applicants to the dual MLS/MS in Health Studies must also apply to the Department of Health Studies.

Preferred application deadlines are listed by term (fall, spring, summer), but the school continues reviewing applications until at least two weeks before each semester begins. For admission questions contact the SLIS office.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles as librarians and information specialists in libraries and varied information environments. The program focuses on competencies that support employment in public, academic, school, corporate, health, or special library settings depending on the student’s chosen specialization and practicum experience.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Applicants interested in assistantships must meet the university’s general criteria for Graduate Assistant appointment. TWU publishes fee waiver opportunities for eligible applicants (for example McNair Scholars and some alumni), and candidates should consult the Graduate Admissions and SLIS offices for information on available funding, assistantships, and fee waiver eligibility and application procedures.