If you love books and dream of working with libraries or special collections, then you should consider a career in library science.
Earning a master’s degree in library science from the best online school is the first step in clinching a great position in a museum, school, library, or private collection.
We have compiled a list of the best schools that offer an online master’s degree program in Library Science.
Currently, professionals with a graduate degree qualify for higher positions in many careers, many of which are growing. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that the employment of archivists will increase by 14% over the next decade, almost double the average rate for all occupations.
Also, as organizations increasingly turn to digital forms of organizing and cataloging information, the demand for library professionals continues to grow.
Hence, getting a master’s degree from one of the best schools that offer library science will make you a good prospect for these jobs.
Here is a review of what you should expect in this post.
Table of contents
- Do I Need a Master’s Degree to be a Librarian?
- Why Choose an Online Masters Degree in Library Science Program?
- How Long Does it Take to Earn a Master’s Degree in Library Science Online?
- What is the Online Masters in Library Science Admission Requirements?
- How Can I Get my Masters’s Degree in Library Science Online?
- Where to Get a Masters in Library Science Online?
- 13 Best Online Master’s in Library and Information Science in 2024
- #1. University of Southern California – Marshall
- #3. The University of Washington
- #4. University of Wisconsin – Madison
- #5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- #6. University of Houston – Clear Lake
- #7. University of Kentucky
- #8. St. John’s University
- #9. University at Buffalo
- #10. Drexel University
- #11. San Jose State University
- #12. University of Colorado – Denver
- #13. University of North Texas
- What Are Some Online Master’s in Library Information Science Careers
- What Can I Do with an Online Master’s degree in Library Science?
- How Much Can You Make with an Online Masters in Library Science?
- What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master in Library Information Science Program?
- Online Masters in Library Science FAQs
- In Conclusion
- References
- We Also Recommend
Do I Need a Master’s Degree to be a Librarian?
In general, yes. Most librarian positions require a master’s degree from a graduate program accredited by the American Library Association. Specifically, school librarians often need an additional teaching license to work in public schools, and some public librarians may need to apply for a state license.
Hence, obtaining your master’s degree in library science is an effective way to increase your income. But there are also other things you can do. For example, consider moving to a city with the highest wages and a reasonable cost of living.
For example, remember that some employers will pay higher wages than others. You will always earn more money if you are a librarian at a private university or specialized library, compared to working for a public library or community college system.
In some libraries, you can also chair large committees, which can lead to higher salaries.
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Why Choose an Online Masters Degree in Library Science Program?
Students earning a master’s degree in online library science generally focus on the fundamentals of information organization. An online master’s degree in library science can also include courses in areas such as leadership and management, information technology, and service delivery. Some programs lead to a thesis or thesis, and almost all include a mandatory course on research methods.
Some schools allow students to choose a concentration or area of specialization when they earn their master’s degree in library science online. However, options vary from program to program. Meanwhile, common concentrations include the school library, records, and document management, digital content management, and university library science.
While specialized college courses offer valuable opportunities to gain profession-specific knowledge and skills, students interested in the subfields of the discipline can tailor the online master’s in library science to their professional and academic goals.
In some areas, concentration courses may meet the educational requirements necessary to become certified.
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How Long Does it Take to Earn a Master’s Degree in Library Science Online?
The duration of an online master’s program in library science varies according to the student’s degree requirements and registration status.
Many programs require 30-45 credits, which full-time students can complete in 1-2 years.
Here is a Complete List of Library Science Schools in the World | 2024
What is the Online Masters in Library Science Admission Requirements?
Each online library science master’s program has its own set of prerequisites, so you should contact your accredited institution for detailed information on its policies.
With that said, here are some examples of components that could enter an application for an online MLS program:
Online Application
Complete a first application, which you will find on the website of the accredited institution of your choice. Paper and online forms are generally accepted.
Bachelor Degree in Library Science
You must have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution before applying for an MLIS program.
Transcripts
Request transcripts before the application deadline and download an official copy of each transcript from the post-secondary schools you have attended.
CV / Resume:
Download a copy of your most recent CV or Resume as part of your application.
Letters of Recommendation
Send your letters of recommendation. The number of letters required varies by school. Be sure to request them well in advance of the deadline.
Test Results
Many schools require general GRE test scores or TOEFL / IELTS scores for international students; however, some programs do not require test results at all.
How Can I Get my Masters’s Degree in Library Science Online?
Do you know that the benefits of an online program include relatively lower costs, greater flexibility, and greater accessibility? However, the traditional program offers you more opportunities to research and work with people who are already making progress in the field.
Here is our simple procedure for how to get an online Masters’s degree in Library Science:
Select the Best Online Schools for Your Master’s Degree in Library Science
Choosing the best online school to study your Master’s program is the very first step of getting your Master’s degree in Library Science online. The truth is that you can’t compare a school that is ranked the best with those that are just manageable.
Hence, when looking for the means to obtain a Master’s degree online, the first thing I must say you should do is to check if that school is among the best university that offers Library Science.
Choose the Cheapest and Most Affordable Online Schools for Masters in Library Science
Another factor you need to consider is the tuition fee. Masters in Library science programs are always very expensive, so it is very much important that you choose schools that are cheap so you won’t have to be paying your bills even after graduating.
Though there is no university where you can say the tuition for Masters’s program is cheap, there are schools where their tuition is considerably lower than others. Apply to those schools.
But if you are keen to study in the best school not minding the cost, then go for it. It all depends on what you really want. However, most of these schools that offer online programs have scholarships in computer science that you can apply for.
Our Library Science scholarship category has the best scholarships for a Master’s degree in Library science that you can apply for in any part of the world.
Choose an Accredited Online Masters Degree in Library Science Program
Once you have decided to earn a master’s degree in library science online, it is important to graduate from an accredited institution. Accreditation is a quality control process granted by organizations known as accreditation bodies. In order to ensure that colleges and universities maintain certain academic and ethical standards.
However, schools may be regionally or nationally accredited, depending on the organization evaluating them.
Public nonprofit universities and colleges generally receive regional accreditation, while for-profit vocational schools often receive national accreditation. Individual programs can also receive domain-specific accreditation. For example, many teachers of online library programs are ALA-accredited.
Students must also attend a regionally accredited school for various reasons. As a general rule, credits earned at regionally accredited universities are easily transferred between establishments, unlike those from nationally accredited schools.
Regional accreditation is also considered more prestigious as it requires higher standards and a longer process. Many employers prefer to hire candidates who have earned a master’s degree in online library science from a regionally accredited school.
The accreditation of a school has an impact on the transferability of course credits, as well as the eligibility of students for federal financial assistance. Hence, while choosing the online school to attend for your Master’s program, make sure the department of library science has its accreditation.
Where to Get a Masters in Library Science Online?
Looking for where to get a 100% online master’s degree in library science? World Scholarship Forum has them right here. The schools that offer an online master’s program in library science are really much. For this reason, we have made out the time and compile the best schools that offer online programs in library science.
This means you should not look far anymore. We have all you need right here. In fact, this guide provides you with an overview of the best online master’s programs in library science in the world, including information about the degree requirements, tuition fees, admission requirements, program objectives, and concentrations, and formats delivery.
13 Best Online Master’s in Library and Information Science in 2023
If you’re curious about how we compile our rankings, be sure to take a few moments to check out the World Scholarship Forum Ranking Methodology.
Ranking Methodology
In selecting the Best Online Master’s in Library and Information Science in 2020, we will be considering several ranking factors. They include:
Number of Programs: We consider these as one important criterion for ranking the Best Online Library Science Master’s Degree Schools. Because some of these schools can have a good number of programs they offer which will avail you a lot of options to choose from.
Accreditation: This criterion is very much important because a school can be cheap but yet do not have quality. So, we consider the body of accreditation as well as certification for each of these schools before ranking them. Whether they fall in the category of regional or national accreditation.
Acceptance Rate: This is one aspect that is considered important because of the lower the acceptance rate the better the school.
Graduation & Employment Rate: Here, we consider if these schools have a high tendency to graduate their students. Some can get enrolled but get stuck at the end. Also, we put into consideration whether school graduates are employable by great institutions. These factors are equally very much important.
Here is a list of 13 Best Masters Degree Programs in Library Science Online in 2024:
University of Southern California – Marshall
#1. University of Southern California – Marshall
The University of Southern California at Marshall offers a fully online Master of Administration in Library and Information Science. At the end of the program, students can work in libraries or information science fields.
Above all, this program can also be completed in as little as 20 months. A synthesis project, as well as research and application are necessary to complete the diploma.
Most importantly, to be admitted, prospective students must have a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 3.0 GPA, and related work experience. The university also requires three letters of reference and a statement of intent. USC does not accept transfer credits for the MMLIS program.
Acceptance Rate
16%
Graduation Rate
92%
Accreditation
American Library Association
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: Submit an official transcript
- GRE Requirements: No GRE required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 31
- Type of Degree: Master of Management in Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: None
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
University of Maryland – College Park
#2. University of Maryland – College Park
The University of Maryland offers a Master’s in Libraries and Information Sciences completely online. On average, it takes students 2.2 years to complete the program if they do it part-time. Students can also choose to participate in a field study or complete a thesis as a summary project for this diploma.
In addition, students will be able to lead, defend, promote and contribute by leading schools and their communities with increasing information management and literacy needs.
More importantly, UMD’s online master’s degree in library and information science benefits from a high placement rate. Of all the students who graduated in 2017, 97.2% got a job within two months of graduation.
However, to be eligible for admission, prospective students must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Acceptance Rate
45%
Graduation Rate
85%
Accreditation
ALA Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: No GRE required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 39
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Diversity and Inclusion; Individualized Program Plan; School Library; Youth Experience (YX); Retired Specializations
- Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Field study or Thesis option
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online, with a required field study
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
The University of Washington
#3. The University of Washington
Basically, the University of Washington offers an online Master in Library and Information Science. This program requires a 3 day orientation at the beginning of the program.
Above all, the online program is designed for students to complete in three years, enrolling in 6-8 credits per quarter. An internship is not required, but a key project must be carried out.
Most importantly, applicants to the MLIS program must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 3.0 GPA, although individuals with a lower GPA are encouraged to apply.
Acceptance Rate
46%
Graduation Rate
84%
Accreditation
American Library Association
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 63
- Type of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Law Librarianship; School Library Media Endorsement
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time
- Internship Requirements: None
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
University of Wisconsin – Madison
#4. University of Wisconsin – Madison
Specifically, the University of Wisconsin – Madison offers the online opportunity to receive a Master of Arts in Library Science and Information Studies. This program offers five different concentrations for students to choose as their goal.
Most importantly, applicants must also complete at least one internship and a 120-hour portfolio. Management and technology courses are required for graduation.
Above all, UW accepts new students for the MLIS program once a year in the fall. Applicants must demonstrate a minimum of 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of undergraduate courses.
Acceptance Rate
54%
Graduation Rate
85%
Accreditation
ALA Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: No GRE required
Program Information
- Credit Hours: 39
- Type of Degree: Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Librarianship; Archives in a Digital Age; Data/Information Management and Analytics; Organization of Information; User Experience Design and Information Technologies
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time
- Internship Requirements: Practicum required
Delivery Format
Format: Fully online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
#5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Basically, the University of Illinois offers students a fully online program to receive a Master of Science in Library or Information Science. To complete the program, students must choose the cornerstone that best suits their professional career.
Most importantly, students can choose between an internship, an independent study, or a thesis; Students choose according to their professional goals. Additionally, students can work in schools, college campuses, or even health-related fields.
Acceptance Rate
62%
Graduation Rate
85%
Accreditation
ALA Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 40
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Practicum, Independent Study, or Thesis required
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online, with a required three-day orientation on campus
Instruction Style: Synchronous
University of Houston – Clear Lake
#6. University of Houston – Clear Lake
The University of Houston at Clear Lake offers a Master of Science in School Library and Information Science. The UHCL College of Education offers an affordable solution for those seeking an online option to acquire a master of science degree in the school library and information science. This fully online program can be taken full or part time, and students become certified librarians in the state of Texas.
Basically, students will learn to work closely with elementary, middle, and high school teachers to integrate technology, promote school-wide literacy, and understand the ethical use of resources.
Most importantly, the admission requirements for the program include a bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 3.0 GPA in the last 60 course credits, and a valid Texas teaching certificate. Applicants with a GPA below 3.0 must provide GRE scores.
Most importantly, this diploma is accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation and meets the training requirements for the Texas School Librarian Certification.
Acceptance Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
79%
Accreditation
AASL Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 33
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in School Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: AASL Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Practicum required
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online, with a required school library practicum
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
University of Kentucky
#7. University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky offers a fully online program for a Master of Science in Library Science. Students can take the courses full or part time according to their schedules.
In order to complete the degree, students can register for an internship or have the opportunity to study abroad. Students also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of concentrations, as well as the opportunity to intern in Washington, D.C.
Acceptance Rate
96%
Graduation Rate
61%
Accreditation
ALA Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: No GRE required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 36
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in Library Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Libraries; Health Information; Information Systems; Public Libraries; School Librarian Program; Youth Services and Literature; Generalist
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Practicum required (Study Abroad – also offered)
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
St. John’s University
#8. St. John’s University
The Online Master of Science in Library Science and Information Science from St. John’s University (M.S.L.I.S.) allows you to allow others to access information. As M.S.L.I.S. Graduated, he acquires leadership skills to help a variety of clients and customers meet their information needs.
Most importantly, in this ALA-accredited 36-credit program, you not only expand your knowledge and acquire comprehensive skills. But you have the opportunity to demonstrate them with an optional real-world internship at a library or other information center.
Most of all, St. John’s is one of seven institutions on the East Coast offering a 100% online master’s degree from ALA-accredited libraries.
Acceptance Rate
68%
Graduation Rate
58%
Accreditation
American Library Association (ALA)
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: No GRE required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 36 credits
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in Library and Information Science (M.S.L.I.S.)
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Librarianship; Archival Studies; Management for Information Professionals; Public Librarianship; Special Librarianship Program; Youth Services
- Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Electronic portfolio required; internship optional
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
University at Buffalo
#9. University at Buffalo
The University of Buffalo offers a Master of Science in Information and Library Science. This accredited program prepares students to become specialists in kindergarten through grade 12 libraries. The program focuses on clinic-based teaching experiences that allow students to collect their own data throughout their courses.
More specifically, students will complete an internship and a digital portfolio. Peer reviews are included so that students can assess best practices for their future careers.
Above all, admission requires a minimum score of 3.0 GPA, GRE or MAT, and references and a statement of objectives.
Acceptance Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
72%
Accreditation
American Library Association
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: Submit an official transcript
- GRE Requirements: GRE required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 39
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in Information and Library Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Music Librarianship; Law Librarianship
- Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Practicum required
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
Drexel University
#10. Drexel University
Drexel University’s accredited online master’s degree program in library and information science is an industry leader in digital information management and is among the best library programs in the country.
Basically, this program is organized into four 10-week periods per year (unlike the traditional two-semester system), which means you can take more courses in less time. One semester credit is equivalent to 1.5 quarter credits.
Acceptance Rate
79%
Graduation Rate
68%
Accreditation
American Library Association
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 63
- Type of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Law Librarianship; School Library Media Endorsement
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time
- Internship Requirements: None
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
San Jose State University
#11. San Jose State University
San José State University offers a fully online Master of Science in Library and Information Science where students can focus on a number of pathways when competing for the program.
For each course, students will work closely with an advisor and focus on the basic skills of a library science diploma. An internship is also required to complete the program.
Most importantly, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree and demonstrate a minimum of 3.0 GPA. However, SJSU does not require test results, letters of recommendation, statements of intent, or resumes.
Acceptance Rate
67%
Graduation Rate
57%
Accreditation
American Library Association
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: No GRE is required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 43
- Type of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Librarianship; Data Science; Digital Curation; Digital Services; Emerging Technologies; Information Intermediation; Information Organization; Leadership and Management; Archives and Preservation; Public Librarianship; Special Librarianship; Teacher Librarianship; Web Programming; Youth Services
- Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Internship required
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous and synchronous
University of Colorado – Denver
#12. University of Colorado – Denver
The University of Colorado – Denver offers a Master of Arts in Information Technology and Learning entirely online with a leadership concentration from library teachers. Students will learn how to meet the demands of technology and information and help students and their colleagues deal with ever-present changes.
Upon completion, students can work as librarians, college instructors, coaches, designers, and consultants. In addition, this two-year, 30-year degree requires completion of information literacy, management of the school library, and promotion of literature in schools.
Above all, the program offers continuous entries. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA. A valid teaching license is required for approval of the teacher’s library science.
Acceptance Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
61%
Accreditation
AASL Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: Submit an official transcript
- GRE Requirements: No GRE is required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 30
- Type of Degree: Master of Arts in Information and Learning Technologies
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Teacher Librarian Leadership
- Tuition: $377/credit in-state; $452/credit out-of-state
- Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
- Accreditation Status: AASL Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Professional portfolio required
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
University of North Texas
#13. University of North Texas
The University of North Texas offers a Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies with eight concentrations from which students can choose. Each requires core courses, core course requirements, and 21 elective credits.
Additionally, students will complete field experience with six months of professional experience in a paid position or a 120-hour internship/internship in a library or information-oriented environment.
Most importantly, graduate students from the University of North Texas can complete their 36-credit master’s degree in library science online, face-to-face, or in a mixed format.
Students must also meet the field experience requirements with six months of previous work experience or a 120 to the 160-hour internship.
Above all, admission requires a minimum of a 3.0 undergraduate GPA, a one-page goal and objective statement, two letters of recommendation, and a resume.
Acceptance Rate
72%
Graduation Rate
62%
Accreditation
ALA Accredited
Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA: 3.0
- GRE Requirements: No GRE is required
Program Overview
- Credit Hours: 39
- Type of Degree: Master of Science in Library and Information Science
- Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Diversity and Inclusion; Individualized Program Plan; School Library; Youth Experience (YX); Retired Specializations
- Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
- Accreditation Status: ALA Accredited
- Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
- Internship Requirements: Field study or Thesis option
Delivery Format
Format: 100% online, with a required field study
Instruction Style: Asynchronous
What Are Some Online Master’s in Library Information Science Careers
After completing an online MLS program, the next step is to obtain a license. This certification will allow you to officially work in the field of your choice. Most importantly, you need to know that each state has its own licensing requirements to become a school librarian.
However, school librarians with an MLS or MLIS degree can work from elementary to high school. Take a look at the career prospects for librarians in 2020 below.
In addition to these common roles as a school librarian, there are also specializations and different roles that a recent graduate of an online MLS program can pursue, including:
- Academic librarianship
- Archival or special collections librarianship
- Cataloging or metadata
- Instructional Coordinator
- Digital librarianship
- Archivist
- Digital preservation
- Library management
- Museum studies
- Public librarianship
- Reference librarianship
- Special librarianship
- Youth services
- Children’s librarianship
- Teen librarianship
What Can I Do with an Online Master’s degree in Library Science?
Of course, you can become a librarian at a school, university, or public library. This is the obvious answer and these jobs will always be opportunities, even if the nature of these jobs has changed dramatically.
But librarianship is an increasingly technology-driven profession. And that will continue to be true for the foreseeable future.
By obtaining your master’s degree in library science online in a high-level program, you will be well prepared to work in many types of libraries, from conventional public libraries to specialized and university libraries. You will also have the advanced information and investigative skills you need to help people find important information and organize files well.
Above all, the most advanced librarian jobs require you to have a master’s degree. Therefore, it makes sense to earn your master’s degree in order to access the most challenging and exciting jobs with the highest salary potential.
How Much Can You Make with an Online Masters in Library Science?
Several factors can affect a worker’s income, such as experience, location, education, and employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), librarians earn an average salary of $59,050.
Most librarians work in primary and secondary schools and public libraries, while others work in colleges and universities and in local governments. Additionally, archivists earn a median salary of $48,400 per year.
In 2011, about 40% of librarians in the United States worked for elementary and secondary schools. There they earned a median salary of $59,000. About 25% of librarians worked for local governments and earned $51,000.
Also, librarians working at colleges and vocational schools earned an average of $61,000 a year. Keep in mind that librarians who work for the federal government earn the highest salaries: $80,100 per year.
However, the lowest-paid library jobs are typically those of the local government, with professionals making $49,700 per year.
Another great way to supplement your librarian salary is to go back to school to get a master’s degree in education so you can teach. Then you can work as a librarian and also teach in high school or even a community college for additional income. You may also consider earning a doctorate in the field, which will allow you to earn a first-place plan in many library systems.
In addition, keep in mind that many professionals who work in a library may need to work evenings and weekends. It may have a schedule similar to that of teachers and may stop summers.
This will allow you to resume another job if you wish. Also, people who work in special libraries may have a more regular work schedule that respects the 40-hour workweek, making it harder to find work for extra money.
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master in Library Information Science Program?
Each online master’s degree in library science is slightly different, and course offerings tend to vary between schools and programs. However, certain concepts are included in most programs. You will likely find one of the following courses when you earn a master’s degree in library science online.
The Curriculum for an Online Master’s Degree in Library Information Science
Specifically, this course introduces various cataloging and organization methods, including Dewey’s decimal classification and standard subject headings. The course also explores the techniques of indexing and retrieving digital collections.
Above all, students gain the practical skills necessary to successfully analyze, classify, and catalog documents in a library. Students also explore the importance of maintaining taxonomic standards in school libraries.
Basically, by presenting an overview of research tools and methodologies, this course prepares candidates for original research. Most importantly, students design and implement studies, collect data using quantitative and qualitative methods. As well as analyze the information acquired, and present their results in the thesis form.
Specifically, students in this class gain a broad understanding of advanced management concepts and library functions. Also, the course prepares students for leadership positions in schools and public libraries. Topics include hiring and supervising staff, working with government officials and volunteers, and financial management.
Certifications and Licenses a Master’s in Library Information Science Prepares For
While all states require school librarians to be licensed, approved, or certified, each state has different requirements and guidelines for doing so. In some places, a state-approved online master’s program in library science is enough to qualify graduates for approval. More information is generally available from the State Department of Education.
Basically, public librarians who have earned a master’s degree in online library science and have three or more years of professional experience can obtain this voluntary certification through the American Library Association (ALA). Above all, the courses are available online and face-to-face. Some school systems include certification for continuing education credits.
Online Masters in Library Science FAQs
Librarianship is an important career field and one that is still needed, so it’s well worth taking the time to learn more about how to pursue your goals. Overall, earning a Masters’s in Library Science may help you move into various positions as a leader in libraries around the country.
Aspiring librarians can earn an online bachelor of science in education with a library major. Library science courses include teaching and learning in digital environments, managing collections in libraries and information agencies, and management of resources in libraries.
Basically, the duration of an online master’s program in library science varies according to the student’s degree requirements and registration status. Many programs require 30-45 credits, which full-time students can complete in 1-2 years.
Looking for where to get a100% online master’s degree in library science? World Scholarship Forum have them right here. The schools that offer an online master’s program in library science are really much. For this reason, we have made out the time and compiled the best schools that offer online programs in library science.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), librarians earn an average salary of $59,050. The top 10%, almost always with a master’s degree or higher, earned more than $84,000 per year.
Here is a list of 13 Best Masters Degree Programs in Library Science Online in 2020:
University of Southern California – Marshall
University of Maryland – College Park
The University of Washington
University of Wisconsin – Madison
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
University of Houston – Clear Lake
University of Kentucky
St. John’s University
University at Buffalo
Drexel University
San Jose State University
University of Colorado – Denver
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In Conclusion
The most advanced librarian jobs require you to have a master’s degree. Therefore, it makes sense to earn your master’s degree in order to access the most challenging and exciting jobs with the highest salary potential. The online programs can make it easier for you to earn your master’s degree in library science. Enroll Now!!