University of Arizona

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational library and information science theory with practical skills in organisation, access and administration. Core topics typically include information organisation and metadata, reference and user services, information retrieval and discovery, research methods in library and information science, and preservation and conservation principles.

Students also study management and administration subjects such as collection development, budgeting and leadership for information organisations, and policy and ethical issues in librarianship. Technology-focused modules cover digital libraries, information systems, database design, metadata standards, and emerging technologies for discovery and access.

Most students complete a practicum or internship in a library or information setting, and a capstone project or research paper that integrates practical experience with scholarly inquiry. Elective options allow specialisation in areas such as archives and special collections, school librarianship, youth services, data curation, digital scholarship, and information literacy instruction.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals and reasons for pursuing the degree, a current CV or résumé, and letters of recommendation that speak to the applicant’s academic potential and/or professional experience.

The programme commonly does not require the GRE, but applicants should check the current admissions guidance. Relevant professional experience in a library or information role can strengthen an application. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence where required by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of information professions. Typical roles include public, academic and school librarians, cataloguing and metadata specialists, digital archivists and preservation officers, records and information managers, and special libraries or corporate knowledge managers.

Other common pathways are positions in digital curation and stewardship, information architecture, user experience for library systems, outreach and instruction roles (information literacy tutors or coordinators), and leadership or administrative posts within library systems. The practicum and faculty connections also support placement into internships and early-career roles across regional and national cultural heritage organisations.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona School of Information offers an ALA-accredited curriculum that blends hands-on practice with research-led teaching and a focus on technology and digital scholarship. Students benefit from access to the university’s libraries, special collections and digital infrastructure, and from partnerships with local cultural institutions that provide practicum and internship opportunities.

The programme’s delivery options provide flexibility for on-campus and distance learners, supporting working professionals and those relocating. Faculty expertise spans archives, metadata, digital preservation, information management and community-focused librarianship, helping students develop both practical skills and a strong professional network within the field.