A minimum of 36 credits of graduate study in the Department of Library and Information Science are required for the M.L.I.S. degree. The maximum course load is 15 credits per term, and 36 credits under this plan requires two terms and a summer on a full-time basis, depending on availability of specialized courses. The program also may be taken on a full-time basis by registering for 12 credits during each of the three regular terms. The faculty encourages students to avoid the maximum course load except in cases of special need.

Study may be pursued on a part-time schedule by completing the program within a three-year period. On a part-time basis, students must register for a minimum of 6 credits per term  or 12 credits per year unless special permission is obtained from the director of the program. The full-range of M.L.I.S. courses are offered on campus in New Brunswick. In addition, two areas of specialization--school libraries and digital libraries--are offered for online learning on a part-time basis.

Courses on campus are scheduled in four time periods: morning, midday, late day, and evening. Students should be aware that the completion of the program requires attendance in more than one time period in order to obtain benefit of the full range of course offerings. Courses for those admitted to the online program are offered asynchronously during each semester.

The program may not be completed by enrollment during Summer Session only; a maximum of 12 credits may be earned by attendance at Summer Session, and no more than 9 credits may be taken in any one summer without permission of the program director.

There are no language requirements for the M.L.I.S. degree, and there is no thesis or comprehensive examination. Internships are recommended but not required.