Academics:  Master of Library and Information Science

Tuition Overview

Following is an overview of tuition for the Residential MLIS and Distance MLIS programs.

Residential MLIS Tuition Overview

The Residential MLIS program is a state-supported program and follows the tuition structure defined by the State of Washington. The Information School charges tuition at Graduate Level Tier III, because of the higher technology resources we provide.

Using tuition and fee rates for the 2007-2008 academic year, the total cost of the Residential MLIS degree (tuition, fees, books) is approximately $22,000 (USD) for Washington State residents and $46,000 (USD) for non-residents. 

View more information on tuition and related fees. The University of Washington reserves the right to change tuition and fees without prior notice, and tuition is expected to increase in the future. Current tuition rates can also be obtained by calling the Student Accounts Office at 206-543-4694.

A student’s status as a resident or nonresident of the State of Washington determines the amount of tuition and fees required. The Office of Graduate Admissions will assume that an applicant is a nonresident unless available information clearly indicates legal residency in the State of Washington. Because rules and regulations governing residency versus non-residency frequently change, it is recommended that all appropriate questions be addressed directly to the University of Washington, Residence Classification Office, 264 Schmitz Hall, Box 355850, Seattle, Washington 98195-5850, or call (206) 543-4188. Any student believing that he or she fulfills the qualifications for paying resident fees may obtain an application form for Change in Residence status at the Residence Classification Office. Learn about Washington State Residency requirements .

The residential MLIS program is also eligible for State of Washington or UW employee Tuition-Exemption benefits.

Online MLIS Tuition Overview

The Online MLIS program is a self-sustaining/fee-based program, which results in tuition being charged on a per credit basis.

The table below shows tuition cost per credit for the 2007-2008 academic year for the Online MLIS program:

Using the rates listed above for the 2007-2008 academic year, the total cost of the Online MLIS degree is approximately $33,000 USD. In addition to tuition, a service and activities fee and a technology fee (not charged in summer quarter) are also mandatory. The amount of these fees is determined by the total number of credits taken each quarter.

The Information School offers scholarship opportunities to assist in funding travel expenses incurred for required on-campus residencies for Online MLIS students. To be eligible, students should submit the online Travel Scholarship application. Decisions to award travel funding will be made on the basis of financial need and available funding. Incoming students may begin applying for Online MLIS Travel Scholarships for Winter quarter of their first year. Selected Online MLIS students will be eligible to receive a maximum of $500 per year for course residency travel, for a total of two years. The amount of scholarship money available may be subject to change.

Additional Tuition Information

• UW Tuition Information
• UW Financial Aid Information. This new page will be linked/combined with other financial aid pages. TBD.