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Jagpreet
31 July, 2024
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The full form of MLIS is Master of Library and Information Science.
The Master of Library and Information Science degree is a postgraduate programme that prepares students for top jobs in libraries and information centres. The rise of digital information, as well as the need for information management, has increased the demand for skilled library and information science professionals. Distance MLIS programmes provide a flexible and convenient opportunity for working professionals and lifelong learners to expand their knowledge and advance their careers in this field.
Do you know the Distance MLIS programme is a postgraduate degree that can be pursued online or through correspondence. The MLIS programme is made for individuals who have already completed a Bachelor of Library and Information Science (BLIS) degree or any other graduate degree. The programme covers a wide range of subjects essential for working in libraries and information centers, including information organisation, information retrieval, cataloguing and classification, library administration, and information literacy.
Flexibility in Learning: You can study at your own pace and convenience, making it beneficial with fast lives and busy schedules. You can also learn if they have the option to review course materials whenever necessary.
Expert Faculty: You can mostly benefit from the assistance of experienced professors/lecturers who believe in helping them succeed in your future.
Budget Friendly: Compared to the on-campus programmes, distance MLIS programmes often have lower tuition fees, while saving on transportation and accommodation costs.
Market Importance: The distance MLIS programme curriculum is well designed to align with the latest trends and requirements.
Independent Learning: Also, the Distance MLIS programme allows you to learn at your own time and comfort which suits your learning style and schedule. You can learn with the option of re-reading course materials according to your needs.
Distance learning is experiencing a surge in popularity due to its flexibility and accessibility, which are attributed to busy work schedules, family commitments, or other reasons.
An MLIS degree qualifies you for faster promotions in the Library and Information Science industries by providing advanced knowledge and skills.
With the growing importance of digital information, organisations are seeking skilled librarians and information specialists to manage their offline and digital libraries.
Obtaining a distance MLIS degree is like learning to organise and retrieve information. This degree also assists you in categorising information in a structured manner.
Distance MLIS programmes are often more affordable than regular programmes. Students facing budget issues can easily enrol in these courses.
| University | Fees Structure | Accreditions |
| Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) | INR 11,100/- | NAAC A++, UGC-DEB, AICTE, AIU, ACU |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU) | INR 14,000/- | NAAC A++, AICTE Approved, NIRF- 46 (Overall Category), WES Recognised |
| Delhi University School of Open Learning (DU – SOL) | INR 10,670/- | Recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC), Distance Education Bureau (DEB) |
| Subharti University | INR 29,800/- | UGC, DEB Approved |
| Mangalayatan University | INR 20,000/- | NAAC A+, UGC-DEB, AICTE, AIU, BCI, PCI, NCTE |
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
| Computer Basics & Applications | Library Management |
| Foundations of Library & Information Science | Computer Applications (Practical) |
| Knowledge, Information and Communication | Information Sources & Services |
| Knowledge Organisation – Library Classification & Cataloguing-I (Practical) | Marketing of Information Products and Services |
| Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
| Universe of Knowledge & Research Methods | Information Science and Knowledge Management |
| Information Retrieval (Practical) | Information Sources & Products in Social Sciences (Elective) |
| Information Retrieval (Theory) | Yoga (Elective) |
| Information Technology and System Design | Information Technology Applications (Practical) |
If you are eligible for a Distance MLIS programme, you must have a bachelor’s degree in library science or a related field from a recognised university.
Candidates must have a minimum mark of 50% in the qualifying examination. Additionally, basic computer literacy and proficiency in English are also important factors.
The Distance MLIS admission process involves submitting an application form, along with required documents and fees. Some universities may conduct merit-based or entrance exams for admission.
Once you graduate a Distance MLIS programme you can pursue careers in various fields, including:
Academic libraries
Public libraries
Special libraries (e.g., corporate, government)
Information technology firms
Museums and archives
Educational .institutions
An MLIS programme in distance mode can take you a notch higher in the system where you are already working or it can help you open more doors for several careers. Some of such job opportunities have been tabled below. Have a look, choose that suits you and aim for it for your future.
| Job Roles | Job Description |
| Archivist | An archivist is responsible for assembling, cataloguing, preserving, and managing valuable collections of historical information. An archivist can work with a range of public and private sector organisations for various roles. |
| Cataloguer | A Cataloguer oversees a library’s collection of materials and maintains bibliographic records for books, journals, and other library resources. |
| Law Librarian | A Law Librarian offers full support to legal clients while working for legal companies or law schools. Duties include overseeing various library operations, assisting with research, and budget management. |
| Library Director | The Library Director ensures the day-to-day operations of the library run smoothly, checking books in and out for patrons, and overseeing staff members. Duties may grow with the size of the library. |
| Job Roles | Average Annual Salary |
| Archivist | INR 5 LPA |
| Cataloguer | INR 3 LPA |
| Law Librarian | INR 2.5 LPA |
| Library Director | INR 4.7 LPA |
Distance MLIS programmes offers a flexible way for individuals to enhance skills in library and information science. These programmes, which are supported by top universities and have a curriculum that aligns with industry needs, offer a valuable opportunity for career advancement and lifelong learning. Whether you are a working professional or a lifelong learner, a Distance MLIS degree can help you find new opportunities and advance your career in library and information science.
The list of top 7 distance education universities in India are listed below.
IGNOU Distance Education
Amity University
Symbiosis University
LPU Distance Education
Delhi University School of Open Learning
Symbiosis University Distance Education
Yes, students can pursue MLIS without BLIS.
The age limit for this course is between 20 to 22 years.
