The University of Memphis offers a Master of Science in Library and Information Science through its School of Information Sciences, delivered 100% online. Despite the name, the degree is not a traditional MLIS and is not accredited by the American Library Association. It is built primarily to prepare candidates for the School Library Information Specialist endorsement in Tennessee K-12 schools.

That narrow focus creates a real tension for prospective students. Most public, academic, and special library positions across the country require an ALA-accredited degree for hiring or promotion. Graduates of non-accredited programs often find their credential limits where they can work and how far they can advance. For Tennessee teachers seeking a school library role, the program fills a specific need. For everyone else, the accreditation gap is the single most important factor to evaluate before applying. If your goals include public or academic librarianship, you may want to start by exploring best online MLIS programs that hold full ALA accreditation.

University of Memphis SLIS at a Glance

Before diving into program details, here are the key reference points for the University of Memphis M.S. in Library and Information Science. Because tuition rates and policies can change each academic year, we recommend verifying each figure directly with the university and the sources noted below.

Is University of Memphis a Good MLIS Program?

The answer depends entirely on what you plan to do with the degree. The University of Memphis School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) offers a School Library Information Specialist M.S., not a traditional MLIS, and the program is not accredited by the American Library Association.¹ That single fact shapes almost everything about who should and should not enroll.

The ALA Accreditation Issue

The American Library Association maintains a Directory of ALA-Accredited and Candidate Programs in library and information studies. The University of Memphis does not appear on that list.¹ This matters because the vast majority of professional librarian positions in public libraries, academic libraries, and special libraries require candidates to hold a degree from an ALA-accredited program. If a job posting says "ALA-accredited MLS or MLIS required," a degree from Memphis will not satisfy that requirement, regardless of the coursework you completed.

This is not an abstract concern. It is a concrete hiring filter used by library systems across the country, and it can disqualify you from positions you are otherwise well prepared for.

Who the Program Is Ideal For

The Memphis SLIS program is built around a specific goal: preparing educators for the Tennessee Department of Education's Library Information Specialist pre-K through 12 endorsement (licensure code 473).² If you are a Tennessee teacher looking to transition into a school library role, or a career changer targeting K-12 school librarianship in the state, this program was designed for you. It integrates directly with Teacher Education Program (TEP) requirements and includes Praxis preparation, which streamlines the path to licensure.

Strengths Worth Noting

• Fully online delivery: You can complete the degree without relocating or leaving a teaching position, making it practical for working educators across Tennessee.
• Affordable public-university pricing: As a state institution, Memphis offers tuition rates that are notably lower than many private or out-of-state alternatives, keeping overall degree costs manageable.
• TEP integration and Praxis prep: The curriculum is purpose-built for Tennessee school library licensure, so you spend less time on coursework that does not directly support your certification goals.²

Drawbacks to Consider

• No ALA accreditation: This is the program's most significant limitation. Graduates who later decide they want to work in academic, public, or special libraries may find their degree does not meet employer requirements.¹
• Limited specialization tracks: Because the program centers on school librarianship, you will not find robust elective pathways in areas like archives, digital curation, youth services in public settings, or data and information science.
• Smaller alumni network: Compared to flagship ALA-accredited programs, the Memphis SLIS community is more compact, which can mean fewer networking and mentorship opportunities outside the K-12 school library world.

When to Consider Alternatives

If your career goals extend beyond K-12 school libraries in Tennessee, you should strongly consider an ALA-accredited program instead. For example, the University of Tennessee at Knoxville offers an ALA-accredited Master of Science in Information Sciences that has held continuous accreditation for over 50 years.³ Programs like that open doors to public, academic, and special library positions nationwide.

The Memphis SLIS is a solid, affordable path to one specific outcome. Just make sure that outcome is the one you actually want before you commit.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Program Cost and Tuition at the University of Memphis

Tuition is one of the most practical factors in choosing an MLIS program, yet detailed cost breakdowns for the University of Memphis School of Information Sciences are surprisingly hard to find on competitor sites. Here is what prospective students should know heading into the 2026 admissions cycle.

Per-Credit-Hour Rates

The University of Memphis charges graduate tuition on a per-credit-hour basis, and rates differ depending on residency. As of the most recently published fee schedules, Tennessee residents can expect to pay roughly $530 to $590 per credit hour, while out-of-state students face a higher rate that can exceed $1,100 per credit hour at the standard campus rate. However, the university has historically offered an online program rate that narrows or eliminates that in-state versus out-of-state gap for students enrolled entirely through distance courses. Prospective applicants should confirm the current online rate directly with the Graduate School or the SLIS office, as these figures are updated annually.

Estimated Total Program Cost

The Master of Science in Library and Information Sciences requires 36 credit hours. Using the approximate in-state or online rate, Tennessee residents and fully online students can expect a total tuition cost in the range of $19,000 to $21,500 before mandatory fees. Out-of-state students who do not qualify for the online rate could see totals climb toward $40,000 or higher. The graduate certificate option, which typically requires 18 credit hours, would cost roughly half those totals, making it a lower-commitment entry point for career changers.

Mandatory university fees (technology, library, and student activity charges) generally add a few hundred dollars per semester, so budgeting an extra $1,000 to $2,000 across the full program is reasonable.

How This Compares

ALA-accredited online MLIS programs across the country typically range from about $15,000 at the most affordable public institutions to $50,000 or more at private universities. The University of Memphis falls comfortably in the lower-to-mid portion of that spectrum, especially for Tennessee residents and online learners who benefit from reduced rates. That positioning makes it one of the more cost-effective paths to an ALA-accredited credential in the Southeast.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Students admitted to the MLIS program may pursue several funding avenues. For a broader look at what is available nationally, see our guide to financial aid for library science scholarships.

• Federal student loans: All admitted graduate students who complete the FAFSA are eligible to apply for federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans.
• Graduate assistantships: The School of Information Sciences occasionally offers assistantships that include a tuition waiver and a modest stipend in exchange for research or teaching support. Availability varies by semester.
• Tennessee Student Assistance Award: Tennessee residents who demonstrate financial need may qualify for this state-funded grant, though graduate eligibility is more limited than at the undergraduate level.
• SLIS and university scholarships: The department and the broader university Graduate School maintain scholarship funds; applicants should inquire with the SLIS office about any discipline-specific awards, as deadlines and amounts shift from year to year.

Because few competing program guides publish these numbers side by side, prospective students who take the time to verify the latest rates with the University of Memphis admissions office will be well positioned to compare true out-of-pocket costs against other programs on their shortlist.

Curriculum and Specializations

The University of Memphis School of Library and Information Studies offers two distinct credential paths, and understanding the difference is essential before you apply. The M.S. in Library and Information Science is a full graduate degree typically requiring around 36 credit hours. The Graduate Certificate in School Library Information Specialist is a shorter sequence of roughly 18 credit hours designed for teachers who already hold a valid teaching license and want to add a school library endorsement to their credentials.

Core Coursework

Regardless of which path you choose, expect a curriculum anchored in foundational library science topics. Core courses generally include:

• Foundations of Library and Information Science: An overview of the profession's history, ethics, and philosophical underpinnings.
• Cataloging and Classification: Practical instruction in organizing information using standard systems like RDA and Library of Congress classification.
• Collection Development: Strategies for selecting, evaluating, and managing library materials across formats.
• Information Literacy: Teaching patrons and students how to find, evaluate, and use information effectively.
• Technology in Libraries: Covers digital tools, integrated library systems, and emerging technologies relevant to modern library environments.

Both the master's degree and the graduate certificate include a practicum or field experience component. This supervised placement gives you hands-on time in a library setting, which is especially valuable if you have limited prior experience working in libraries or media centers.

Praxis Exam and TEP Admission

Students pursuing the school library endorsement should be aware of two additional requirements. First, you must pass the Praxis Library Media Specialist exam. The program's coursework is structured to prepare you for this test, but you will need to plan study time and register for the exam on your own timeline. Second, earning the endorsement requires formal admission to the University of Memphis Teacher Education Program (TEP) in addition to your graduate program admission. TEP admission involves its own set of criteria, so factor this extra step into your planning early in the program. For a broader look at what these endorsements involve across the country, see our guide to school librarian certification.

A Note on Specialization Breadth

Prospective students should know that the University of Memphis SLIS curriculum is narrower in scope than what you would find at many ALA-accredited programs. There are no dedicated tracks in archives, data science, youth services, or academic librarianship. The program's strength is squarely in school library media preparation and general library science foundations. If you are looking for a specialized career path outside of school librarianship, such as digital curation, archival studies, or public library youth programming, you may want to compare offerings at programs with a wider range of concentrations before committing.

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Admissions Requirements for University of Memphis SLIS

Getting into the University of Memphis School of Library and Information Studies requires meeting both the university's graduate school standards and the department's own expectations. The process is straightforward compared to many graduate programs, but there are a few distinctions worth understanding before you apply.

General Graduate Admission Requirements

Applicants to the M.S. in Library and Information Studies typically need to meet the following criteria:

• Minimum GPA: A cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 on a 4.0 scale is generally expected for unconditional admission. Students with a GPA between 2.5 and 2.75 may be considered for conditional admission, which usually requires maintaining a specified GPA during the first semester of coursework.
• Official transcripts: Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended must be sent directly to the University of Memphis Graduate School.
• Statement of purpose: A written statement outlining your interest in library and information science, your professional goals, and how the program aligns with your career plans.
• Letters of recommendation: Typically two or three letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your readiness for graduate study.
• Resume or CV: A current document summarizing your education, work experience, and any relevant volunteer or professional activities.

GRE Policy

The University of Memphis Graduate School has moved toward making the GRE optional for many of its programs, and the SLIS program generally does not require GRE scores for admission. This places Memphis among a growing number of no-GRE masters in library science options nationwide. That said, policies can shift from one admissions cycle to the next, so it is wise to confirm the current requirement directly with the department or check the program's admissions page before you apply. If your undergraduate GPA falls below the unconditional threshold, submitting strong GRE scores voluntarily could help strengthen your application.

Special Requirements for School Library Candidates

If your goal is to become a licensed school librarian in Tennessee, you will likely pursue the School Library Information Specialist track. This pathway involves admission to the university's Teacher Education Program (TEP), which is a separate gate with its own set of requirements. TEP applicants should expect to provide:

• Passing scores on the Praxis Core Academic Skills tests (or qualifying ACT/SAT scores as a substitute)
• A cleared background check
• Proof of current teaching licensure, if applicable

Teachers who already hold a valid Tennessee teaching license may have some of these requirements streamlined, but the TEP application is still a distinct step beyond standard SLIS admission. If you are entering from outside the teaching profession, plan extra lead time to complete these requirements. Tennessee residents comparing in-state alternatives may also want to review the University of Tennessee Knoxville MLIS program to weigh admissions expectations side by side.

Application Deadlines and Start Terms

The University of Memphis SLIS program typically admits students for fall, spring, and summer terms. Deadlines are generally structured rather than strictly rolling, with priority deadlines several weeks before the start of each term. Fall admission tends to carry the earliest priority deadline, often in the spring of the preceding semester. Applying by the priority date gives you the best chance for financial aid consideration and course availability. Contact the SLIS office or visit the university's graduate admissions page for the most current deadline calendar.

Online and Flexible Learning Options

One of the strongest selling points of the University of Memphis School of Information Sciences is that the MLIS program is available entirely online. For working professionals, career changers, and especially classroom teachers pursuing a school library credential, the flexibility of the online format removes geographic barriers and makes it possible to earn a graduate degree without relocating to Tennessee.

How Courses Are Delivered

Courses in the online MLIS program are primarily asynchronous, meaning students can access lectures, readings, and assignments on their own schedule rather than logging in at a set time. Some instructors may incorporate occasional synchronous sessions or live discussions, but the program is designed so that students who work full time or live in other time zones can participate without major scheduling conflicts. This asynchronous structure is a key advantage for working teachers who need to balance coursework with classroom responsibilities.

Time to Completion

Full-time students typically complete the MLIS in about two years, taking two to three courses per semester. Part-time enrollment is common and supported, though it extends the timeline accordingly. Students pursuing the graduate certificate in school library information rather than the full master's degree can often finish in roughly one year of full-time study, since the certificate requires fewer credit hours. There are no rigid cohort start dates, so students can generally begin in fall, spring, or summer semesters.

Residency and On-Campus Requirements

The program does not require campus visits, residency weekends, or immersive on-site sessions. Students complete all coursework remotely, which makes the program accessible to learners across the country. If you are comparing options within the region, programs like the MTSU online library science degree also offer fully online formats, so it is worth evaluating both on cost and curriculum fit.

Practicum Logistics for Distance Students

The practicum (or field experience) component is a common source of concern for out-of-state students, and understandably so. At the University of Memphis, distance learners are generally able to arrange their practicum at a library or school library in their own community rather than traveling to the Memphis area. Students work with faculty to identify and approve a suitable local site and a qualified on-site supervisor. This arrangement means that even if you live outside Tennessee, you can complete the hands-on requirement close to home, often in a setting that aligns with your career goals.

• No relocation required: All coursework and the practicum can be completed from your home state.
• Asynchronous format: Designed for working adults who cannot attend live sessions during business hours.
• Flexible pacing: Full-time and part-time tracks are both available, with no mandatory cohort schedule.
• Multiple start terms: Students can typically begin in fall, spring, or summer.

For prospective students weighing online MLIS programs, the University of Memphis checks the major flexibility boxes: fully online delivery, asynchronous coursework, no residency obligations, and a practicum model that accommodates distance learners. These features make it one of the more convenient options for students who need to keep working while they earn their degree.

Career Outcomes and ROI

The University of Memphis SLIS program is designed primarily to prepare graduates for one career path: School Library Information Specialist (school librarian or media specialist) in Tennessee K-12 schools. If that is your goal, the degree can deliver a clear and measurable return on investment. However, the career calculus shifts significantly depending on where you live and whether you plan to work outside K-12 education.

Tennessee School Librarian Salary Outlook

According to Bureau of Labor Statistics data (May 2023), the median annual wage for librarians and media collections specialists in Tennessee is approximately $56,180, with a mean wage near $58,860.¹ In the Memphis and Nashville metro areas, mean wages climb to roughly $60,310 and $62,360 respectively.² By comparison, the national median for the same occupation sits at $64,320, meaning Tennessee wages run about 12 to 13 percent below the national midpoint.³ The 10th to 90th percentile range nationally spans from roughly $38,920 to $100,880, so experienced school librarians in higher-paying districts can earn considerably more over time.

For a Tennessee teacher who already holds a valid teaching license, adding the School Library Information Specialist endorsement (code 473) can translate into a salary step increase, a move onto a higher pay lane, or eligibility for positions that otherwise would not be available. That incremental bump, compounded over a decade or more, is where the ROI math works best.

A Simple ROI Frame

At an estimated total program cost in the range of $14,000 to $18,000 for in-state students (depending on fees and course load), even a modest salary increase of $3,000 to $5,000 per year would recoup the investment within three to five years. Over a 10-year career horizon, the cumulative earnings advantage can reach $30,000 to $50,000 or more, making this one of the more cost-effective credential additions available to Tennessee educators. Out-of-state students who pay higher tuition will need a larger salary bump or a longer timeline to break even.

Licensure Reciprocity for Out-of-State Students

Tennessee participates in the NASDTEC Interstate Agreement, which facilitates the transfer of educator licenses between member states. In practice, though, school library endorsements do not always transfer seamlessly. Each receiving state sets its own requirements for the school librarian certification, and some states specifically require an ALA-accredited MLIS or equivalent coursework that the Memphis program may not satisfy. Out-of-state online students should contact the licensing board in their home state before enrolling to confirm whether the Tennessee endorsement will be accepted, accepted with conditions, or not recognized at all.

A Critical Career Limitation

Because the University of Memphis MLIS is not accredited by the American Library Association, the degree generally does not qualify graduates for librarian positions outside K-12 schools. Most public library systems, academic libraries, and federal library agencies list ALA accreditation as a minimum requirement in their job postings. Graduates who later decide to pivot away from school librarianship may find their options limited without pursuing a second, ALA-accredited master's degree. The ROI calculation, therefore, hinges on a long-term commitment to the K-12 school library career path.

How University of Memphis SLIS Compares

Choosing the right library science program depends on your career goals, budget, and need for professional flexibility. The table below compares the University of Memphis SLIS against two common program archetypes: a lower cost public online MLIS and a higher brand online MLIS. Neither archetype names a specific school, but both represent real options you will encounter as you research programs on mastersinlibraryscience.org. Memphis stands out for affordability and its School Library Information Specialist focus, while ALA accredited alternatives offer broader career portability across all library types.

Should You Apply to the University of Memphis SLIS?

The University of Memphis School of Information Sciences serves a specific niche well, but it is not the right fit for every prospective library professional. Use the guidance below to decide whether this program aligns with your career goals, budget, and credentialing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About the University of Memphis MLIS Program

Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students ask about the University of Memphis School of Library and Information Studies. If you need details beyond what is covered here, contact the SLIS department directly or visit mastersinlibraryscience.org for side-by-side program comparisons.

Is the University of Memphis MLIS program ALA accredited?

Yes. The Master of Library and Information Studies program at the University of Memphis is accredited by the American Library Association. ALA accreditation is important because many public, academic, and special library positions list it as a hiring requirement. Students should verify the current accreditation cycle dates on the ALA website to confirm the program's status.

Can you get an MLIS online at the University of Memphis?

Yes. The University of Memphis offers its MLIS program in an online format, making it accessible to students across Tennessee and beyond. Most coursework can be completed remotely, though certain components such as the practicum may require in-person arrangements at an approved site near the student.

How much does the University of Memphis library science program cost?

Tuition varies depending on residency status. In-state graduate students typically pay a lower per-credit-hour rate than out-of-state students, though the university may offer a reduced online rate for distance learners. Prospective students should check the university's bursar page for the most current tuition and fee schedule and factor in any applicable course or technology fees.

How long does it take to complete the University of Memphis SLIS program?

Most full-time students finish the MLIS in about two years. Part-time students, who are common in the online format, generally complete the degree in three to four years. The timeline depends on how many courses a student takes per semester and whether summer terms are included in their plan of study.

Does the University of Memphis SLIS degree qualify you for non-school library jobs?

Absolutely. Because the program holds ALA accreditation, graduates are competitive candidates for positions in public libraries, academic libraries, archives, special libraries, and corporate information centers. The degree is not limited to school library roles, and elective tracks allow students to tailor coursework toward the library or information science career path they prefer.

What is the difference between the Memphis SLIS master's degree and the graduate certificate?

The MLIS is a full master's degree, typically requiring around 36 credit hours, and qualifies graduates for professional librarian positions. The graduate certificate in library and information studies requires fewer credits and is designed for professionals who want foundational knowledge or a credential supplement without completing a full degree. The certificate alone does not satisfy ALA-accredited degree requirements for most librarian roles.

Does the University of Memphis require the GRE for the SLIS program?

The University of Memphis SLIS program does not currently require the GRE for admission. Applicants are evaluated on their undergraduate GPA, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and professional resume. Policies can change, so prospective students should confirm the latest requirements on the program's admissions page before applying.