UW-SLIS - Master's Degree Application

The School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) admits students to its on-campus and distance master's programs once a year, for fall semester. Applications are available in September and are due December 15. Although applications are accepted after the deadline, priority consideration is given to applications received by December 15. Admissions decisions will be sent via email or U.S. mail no later than April 1.

SLIS is restructuring the Archives & Records Management program to better meet the changing needs of the profession. Applications for admission to the Archives & Records Management program are not being accepted for fall 2010.

Criteria

Refer to the Graduate School's minimum requirements for admission. The School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) considers applicants on indicators of their academic abilities, professional promise, leadership and community engagement. An undergraduate program that includes breadth in liberal arts and sciences is required. Any major is acceptable; undergraduate coursework in library and information studies should not be so extensive as to dilute the liberal arts component of the bachelor's degree. Prior work experience in a library or other information agency is useful, but is not required. The GRE is not required and is not considered.

Application Process

Submit the UW-Madison Graduate School Electronic Application

Instructions for the "Recommendations" section

Submit references electronically through the Recommendations section of the online application. SLIS requires three references, at least two of which should be from professors who are familiar with your academic abilities. References must be from professors or employers who can estimate how well you would do in a rigorous graduate program. If you have been out of school for more than five years and are unable to obtain references from a former professor, you may substitute professional references or obtain an academic reference by taking a SLIS course (offered online or in Madison) as a University Special Student; academic references are preferred. Additional instructions for submitting references are available from the Graduate School.

Instructions for the "Statements" section

Submit your personal statement electronically through the Statements section of the online application. Your statement should communicate to the admissions committee your aspirations for your time at SLIS and for your career. Among other things, it could discuss:

  • What you hope to accomplish from this program
  • Your reasons for choosing UW-Madison's SLIS program
  • Your tentative career goals
  • Your leadership experience and potential for leadership in the profession

Diversity of experiences contributes to the enrichment of the school and profession. Your statement may include any relevant factors you would like the admissions committee to consider such as cultural, economic, educational, and other aspects of your background that may differentiate you from other applicants. You may also choose to mention particular skills and experiences (foreign languages, technology skills, travel, etc.). We will use your personal statement to assess your writing ability. Your statement should not exceed 1200 words.

If you are applying to the distance program, please explain why you are choosing the distance option.

Instructions for the "Supplemental Application" section

Upload your resume, apply for SLIS scholarships and answer SLIS-specific questions through the Supplemental Application section of the online application.

Transcripts

Submit two sets of transcripts showing undergraduate and post-undergraduate coursework. At least one set must be official transcripts, sent from you or the institution. The second set may be a photocopy of the official transcripts.

Mail transcripts to:
SLIS Admissions
600 N. Park St., Room #4217
Madison, WI 53706

GRE scores

GRE scores are not required and are not considered.

International Applicants

TOEFL or equivalent scores are required if English is not your native language, or if your undergraduate instruction was not in English. SLIS requires minimum TOEFL scores of 580 (paper-based); 237 (computer based test CBT); or 92 (internet based iBT); IELTS score of 7; or MELAB of 82.

International applicants are required to have sufficient funds to cover their expenses completely while attending UW-Madison. For more information, visit the international applicant website. Do not send financial documents with your application; the Graduate School will request them after SLIS has recommended you for admission.

Questions?

If you have a question about the receipt or status of your applications materials, first check your online application; allow two weeks for SLIS to process your materials. Then direct questions to Gayle Nimmerguth, Student Status Examiner, nimmerguth@wisc.edu or 608-263-2904.

Questions about the master's program and admission to the program should be directed to the Student Services Coordinator, Andrea Poehling, student-services@slis.wisc.edu or 608-263-2909.