Library and Information Science University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)

Overview

The Library and Information Science programme at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) is designed to prepare forward-thinking professionals who act as advocates for information services in a global society. Students engage with the social and cultural dimensions of information technology while developing the skills necessary to lead in diverse environments. The curriculum balances academic rigour with practical engagement to ensure graduates can transform human society through ethical information management.

This Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS) is accredited by the American Library Association, marking it as one of the most comprehensive programmes in the United States. The first year focuses on face-to-face core courses that establish a strong foundation in professional values and skills.

Why Library and Information Science at University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)?

The university offers a dynamic internship programme that has been active since the 1970s, featuring nearly 250 diverse sites. Students benefit from UCLA's prime location in Los Angeles, gaining access to world-class institutions such as the Getty Research Institute and the Los Angeles Public Library. These practical experiences allow students to apply their knowledge in structured professional environments under the mentorship of experienced practitioners.

The programme is distinguished by its commitment to social justice and cultural competency. Facilities like the IS Library and Media Preservation Lab provide hands-on opportunities to work with both analog and digital cultural artifacts. Students are encouraged to develop habits of inquiry and innovation, preparing them to intervene critically in various information environments and advocate for meaningful, equitable practices.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: USD 36297 per year
• National fee: USD 36297 per year
• Local fee: USD 21115 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The core curriculum addresses the needs of every specialisation, focusing on ethics, policy formulation, and managerial skills. Modules may include:

• Archival Studies
• Informatics
• Library Studies
• Media Archival Studies
• Rare Books, Print and Visual Culture
• Digital Curatorship
• Information Policy
• User-Centered System Design
• Collection Development

Careers with Library and Information Science

Graduates from University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) are highly successful and secure roles in a wide variety of institutions. Alumni often find employment as archivists, librarians, and digital asset managers within academic, public, and corporate sectors. Notable graduate destinations include the Los Angeles Public Library, the University of Delaware, and the University of Maryland.

The programme prepares students for leadership roles such as directors of engagement, coordinators of digital humanities, and special collections managers. By integrating formal knowledge with relevant professional experience, the university ensures that graduates are equipped to navigate constant technological change and lead innovation within the global information profession.