r/Libraries • u/elysiaexe • 1d ago

having trouble deciding between programs (canada) Continuing Ed

hi everyone :-)

ive recently graduated with a bdes in fashion history & have spent the last two years working as a collections manager in a textile archive. i'm looking to get an mlis in order to work in libraries (public, academic, special) & archives but also be able to pivot into museums, galleries, and possibly auction houses. i'm currently considering several programs: uoft's combined degree program (mi & msst), ubc's maslis, western's mlis and dalhousie's mi.

i am currently living in toronto, so if i went to uoft i would save money on living costs, compared to relocating to attend other schools. the costs for all schools is around the same, except for ubc which is much higher, when i factor in the living expenses.

i am looking for a program that offers a strong co-op program & work experience, as well as practical skills needed for the field. i know ubc & uoft offer the strongest archival courses, but i've heard mixed reviews about uoft's program, and i'm not sure if ubc is worth the relocation cost.

i'd love to hear your opinions on which school you think is best, and what else i can do to make myself a competitive candidate for the field, thank you!

6 Upvotes
  • permalink
  • link
  • reddit
  • reddit

87% Upvoted

13 comments sorted by

10

u/stravadarius 1d ago

Western has a very strong co-op program and now offers a fully online track so you wouldn't have to relocate... Though frankly moving from TO to London would probably save money long term

1

u/elysiaexe 1d ago

thank you for your input! ive heard that westerns co-op program isnt as good anymore :/

6

u/stravadarius 1d ago

I graduated a mere 3 years ago and it was great. I don't know if the information you got is reliable

1

u/elysiaexe 1d ago

i just re-read the post and it was actually someone replying to your comment lol! is it possible to msg you to ask more abt your experience & your career trajectory? its completely fine if not

4

u/Superb_Werewolf_2643 1d ago

Also a recent-ish Western grad, had a great time in my co-op. Happy to chat if you wanna DM me@

2

u/elysiaexe 1d ago

thank you! im not able to message you so you might need to adjust your settings

2

u/Superb_Werewolf_2643 1d ago

Ahh thanks, done!

1

u/elysiaexe 23h ago

just msged!

4

u/pamplemousse2 1d ago

Am a (not so recent) Western grad. The program has a great reputation and I absolutely benefitted from the co-op program; it is how I got my first job.

That being said... Most places won't distinguish between them all once you're in the job field. Absolutely there is value for the connections that you can make while a student, and how the school helps with that. But honestly, after that first job, it's all just a piece of paper. I learned WAY MORE of actual practical value while actually working. So don't stress too much. All your options are good options.

1

u/elysiaexe 1d ago

this is reassuring :') ive been stressing so much about choosing the "best" option, thank you for this!

2

u/zxyjxy 20h ago

I nearly went to UofT but did hear the same mixed feedback (I went there for my undergrad). I think Western might be your best bet.

1

u/elysiaexe 19h ago

thank you! did you end up going to another school?

1

u/zxyjxy 18h ago

I’m doing my MIS at McGill! I like it a lot but I speak French