Overview
The Master of Library and Information Science (M.Lib.I.Sc or MLIS) is a postgraduate programme focused on organising, managing, preserving, and providing access to information resources. It prepares students to work with printed materials, digital collections, archives, and information systems.
The course duration varies by institution and entry qualification. Some programmes follow a one-year structure after a relevant bachelor’s degree, while others offer a two-year curriculum. Regular and distance-learning options are available at selected institutions; other study modes should be checked for programme-specific recognition.
MLIS eligibility commonly requires a Bachelor of Library and Information Science (B.Lib.I.Sc), Bachelor of Library Science (B.Lib.Sc), or an accepted equivalent qualification. Some institutions offer programmes with different entry requirements. Minimum marks are often around 50%, subject to institutional rules.
Admission may be merit-based or entrance-based. Universities may accept CUET PG or conduct another designated postgraduate entrance examination. Applicants should confirm the examination applicable to their chosen programme.
The syllabus generally covers Library Management, Information Organisation, Computer Applications, Digital Libraries, Research Methodology, and Statistical Techniques. Students develop skills in cataloguing, information retrieval, collection management, and digital resource administration.
Indicative course fees range from INR 15,000 to INR 50,000, although the actual cost varies by institution and programme structure.
Master of Library and Information Science: Highlights
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Name | Master of Library and Information Science |
| Common Abbreviations | M.Lib.I.Sc, MLIS, or M.LIS |
| Course Level | Postgraduate |
| Duration | Typically 1–2 years, depending on the institution and entry qualification |
| Admission Process | Merit-based or entrance-based |
| Eligibility | A relevant bachelor’s degree or another qualification accepted by the institution; minimum marks vary |
| Entrance Examinations | CUET PG or the postgraduate entrance examination specified by the university |
| Core Study Areas | Library Management, Cataloguing, Information Retrieval, Digital Libraries, Computer Applications, and Research Methodology |
| Indicative Fees | INR 15,000–50,000 |
| Career Opportunities | Librarian, Cataloguer, Information Analyst, Digital Resource Manager, Archivist, Records Manager, and Library Systems Specialist |
| Employment Areas | Public libraries, educational institutions, government departments, archives, research organisations, and information centres |
| Salary Prospects | Vary by role and experience; the supplied INR 3–18 LPA range spans different career levels and should not be treated as a typical starting salary |
Institutions to Explore
Institutions mentioned for library and information science programmes include:
- Banaras Hindu University
- Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)
- Jamia Millia Islamia
- Jain University
- University of Delhi
- Lovely Professional University
Applicants should confirm the exact programme title, current availability, eligibility, duration, and recognised study mode before applying. Teaching and specialised technical roles may require additional qualifications or experience.
Eligibility
The Master of Library and Information Science course is a PG course, hence, the basic eligibility is to have a UG degree. But for more detailed info on the eligibility requirements, you can see below.
Some colleges offer admission based on merit, but most colleges admit students through entrance exams. So, you are advised to visit the official website of the college you wish to apply to and check their eligibility before you fill out the application form.
- A degree in B.Lib.I.Sc
- At least 50% marks
- No age limit