School of Information Sciences - Library and Information Science Program

FAQ

How do I apply to the MLIS Program?

All applications are available online at ApplyYourself. 

What are the prerequisites for the MLIS Program?

The Library and Information Science Program seeks students with diverse educational and career backgrounds. Applicants for graduate study must have earned a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a scholastic average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better.

What if I'm interested in the FastTrack MLIS program?

Details about the FastTrack MLIS Program, which is delivered online, are available here.

Can I specialize in my MLIS studies?

• Individualized
• Archives, Preservation & Records Management
• Digital Libraries
• Information Technology
• Resources & Services
  • Children and Youth
  • Health
  • Reference
• School Library Certification Program
  • Endorsement
  • Intern
  • Supervisor of Library Science Certificate Program

How much does it cost to attend a graduate program at the iSchool?

Tuition costs can be found here.

How long will take to earn the MLIS degree?

You can finish the program in as little as a year – three consecutive semesters of full-time study – or up to four years (twelve terms) of part-time study.   

What types of financial aid are available for MLIS students?

The Program has a limited amount of financial aid available, on a competitive basis, for students entering or continuing in its programs and who meet its academic requirements for admission. The primary source of funding for MLIS students is the Partners Program. PhD students will be supported by the Program as Teaching Assistants/Teaching Fellows. For more information, visit our Financial Aid page.

How do I apply to the LIS PhD Program?

All applications are available online at ApplyYourself. 

What are the requirements for admission to the PhD Program?

• A master's degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association, a recognized international program, or the equivalent in a closely related field of study. Students must submit official transcripts as evidence.
• Attainment in graduate work of a minimum quality point average of 3.50 (on a scale with A having a value of four points per credit). An international student's quality point average will be calculated on the basis of equivalency from universities that use a different scale.
• Submission of scores from a predictor test such as the Graduate Record Examination or the Miller Analogies Test, taken within the last five years. (The institution number for the University of Pittsburgh is 2927. The program code for Library and Information Science is 4701.)
• At least three references from persons in the professional and academic communities. The Committee on Doctoral Studies may, on occasion, require additional references.
• Submission of an application fee of $50.

For more information about admission to the PhD program, visit our Admissions page.

How do I choose my advisor for the PhD Program?

An advisor will be assigned to the student upon entering the program, but students are free to select a different advisor for subsequent advising and registration as their interests become more focused. The PhD student should seek a faculty program advisor who is knowledgeable in the student's major area of study. The advisor must be a member of the graduate faculty.

Will I get to participate in research projects?

Both Master's students and PhD candidates can—and do—participate in research projects. The faculty has numerous projects underway, including several that have received federal funding.