A master's in library science prepares you to work as a librarian or information specialist. Our top-ranked programs offer flexibility and affordability.
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If you love books and history, a career as a librarian or curator may be a good path for you. And an important step toward this goal is a master of library science (MLS). An online master's in library science can be a great option if you want a quality program without relocating. But which program should you choose?
Our custom methodology factors in reliable data on academic quality, affordability, and return on investment to determine the best online master's in library science programs in 2023.
Featured Online Master's in Library Science Degrees
The school and/or program descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
These rankings include
CollegeChoice.net is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
from our partners. We use publicly available provisional datasets from Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) to inform the data for these schools. All data is current as of the date this article was published. Program-specific information may vary.
#1 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Seattle, WA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Washington-Seattle Campus offers a library science master's program that helps graduates advance their career. The public institution welcomes degree-seekers with a variety of enrollment options, including online programs created with working professionals in mind. In the master of library science and information science program, learners strengthen their library science knowledge and skills through a rigorous curriculum.
Master's candidates benefit from advising and support services, including career counseling. For example, academic advisors recommend course selections and connect students with tutoring services. The university provides career advising, tutoring, and library services to master's degree-seekers.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 277
Total Online Master's Programs: 12
Admission Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 82%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,278
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,178
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $50,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,629
Out-of-state
$37,998
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,278
Out-of-state
$29,178
Retention Rate
93%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
48,149
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
11%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a library science master's program that helps graduates advance their career. In the MS in library and information science program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills.
College resources and support services provide opportunities for master's candidates to receive guidance throughout their program. Academic advisors assist with course selections, while financial aid counselors help ensure students can fund their education. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of training and networking events.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 130
Total Online Master's Programs: 30
Admission Rate: 63%
Graduation Rate: 86%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $15,016
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $27,187
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $52,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,317
Out-of-state
$33,824
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$15,016
Out-of-state
$27,187
Retention Rate
94%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
52,679
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of South Florida offers 111 master's degrees, including a master's in library science that earns top marks. The MA in library and information science program helps students grow their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Flexible enrollment options, including online classes, help busy learners balance coursework with their other responsibilities.
Learners strengthen their theoretical and practical understanding of library science through the program's challenging curriculum. Students often complete internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, gaining experience while building professional connections. Faculty advisors help learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their library science education.
University of South Florida at a Glance:
Location: Tampa, Florida
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 49%
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,350
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $19,048
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $10,924
Average Price After Aid: $10,004
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,559
Out-of-state
$15,473
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,350
Out-of-state
$19,048
Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
50,626
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Southern California offers a library science master's program that helps graduates advance their career. From its main campus in Los Angeles, the private university offers graduate programs with several enrollment options, including online programs. During the master of management in library and information science program, learners build on their undergraduate knowledge to gain an advanced understanding of library science.
College resources and support services help master's candidates participate in campus life and meet graduation requirements. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to help learners pay for a master's degree. Graduate degree-seekers can also take advantage of training and networking events.
University of Southern California at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 179
Total Online Master's Programs: 36
Admission Rate: 16%
Graduation Rate: 92%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 9-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $47,880
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $61,400
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$59,260
Out-of-state
$59,260
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$47,880
Out-of-state
$47,880
Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
46,287
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#5 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in career advancement can earn their library science master's degree at San Jose State University. The public institution, located in California, serves degree-seekers with diverse needs by offering many enrollment options. In the master's in library and information science program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced library science knowledge and skills.
Master's candidates often benefit from the university's support services, which include academic and career services. For example, financial aid counselors connect students with grant and scholarship opportunities. Master's degree-seekers can also attend networking events and make use of library services.
San Jose State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 73
Total Online Master's Programs: 5
Admission Rate: 67%
Graduation Rate: 66%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $7,176
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $16,680
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $47,200
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,742
Out-of-state
$17,622
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$7,176
Out-of-state
$16,680
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
36,208
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#6 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in library science at the University of Maryland-College Park emphasizes career-focused skills. The public university meets the needs of diverse degree-seekers by offering flexible enrollment options.
Master's candidates benefit from the university's support services, which include academic and career services. For example, career counselors connect learners with job fairs and resume workshops for specific industries. Master's degree-seekers also participate in training events, networking opportunities, and tutoring sessions.
University of Maryland-College Park at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 137
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 51%
Graduation Rate: 87%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,158
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,250
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $50,100
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,824
Out-of-state
$34,936
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,158
Out-of-state
$29,250
Retention Rate
95%
Admission Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
40,709
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA
4 years
Online + Campus
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College offers 78 master's programs, including a library science program. The master of library and information science program helps students grow their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Candidates benefit from flexible learning options, which make it easier to work while enrolled in graduate school.
The master's curriculum encourages a comprehensive understanding of library science through both theoretical and practical coursework. Students often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build career-focused skills. Concentrations and electives let learners individualize the program based on their interests and professional goals.
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College at a Glance:
Location: Baton Rouge, Louisiana
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 73%
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,132
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $9,132
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $12,370
Average Price After Aid: $20,352
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,038
Out-of-state
$8,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,132
Out-of-state
$9,132
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
73%
Students Enrolled
34,285
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Appalachian State University
Boone, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in advancing their career can earn their master of library science at Appalachian State University. Located in Boone, North Carolina, the public university offers a variety of enrollment options, including online programs. During the master of library science program, learners gain an advanced understanding of library science topics while strengthening relevant skills.
Master's students can participate in campus life and benefit from the university's support services. Financial aid advisors recommend scholarships and grants, while academic advisors help with course selections. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of writing centers, career advising, and library services.
Appalachian State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 39
Total Online Master's Programs: 11
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 73%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,839
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,271
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $34,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,242
Out-of-state
$19,049
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,839
Out-of-state
$18,271
Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
20,023
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
95%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO
4 years
Online + Campus
The library science master's program at the University of Missouri-Columbia, one of 78 master's degrees, offers a rigorous education. Flexible enrollment options appeal to working professionals who need to schedule classes around their other responsibilities.
During the master's program, learners take challenging courses that strengthen their theoretical and practical library science knowledge. Enrollees can also complete internships and other hands-on learning opportunities, which help build valuable professional connections. Electives and concentrations allow learners to individualize the curriculum based on their professional goals.
University of Missouri-Columbia at a Glance:
Location: Columbia, Missouri
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 82%
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,478
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $25,946
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 93%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,957
Average Price After Aid: $16,930
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,330
Out-of-state
$27,612
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,478
Out-of-state
$25,946
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
31,089
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
87%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#10 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ
4 years
Online + Campus
The University of Arizona offers 148 master's degrees, including a master's in library science that earns top marks. The master of arts in library and information science serves students seeking advanced education and increased career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options help candidates balance graduate courses with work or other obligations.
Learners gain a comprehensive understanding of library science through a curriculum that highlights theoretical and practical approaches to the field. Students complete internships and hands-on learning opportunities to complement their classroom knowledge and expand their professional networks. Faculty advisors help learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their library science education.
University of Arizona at a Glance:
Location: Tucson, Arizona
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 85%
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,938
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $32,065
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $12,472
Average Price After Aid: $15,620
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,990
Out-of-state
$33,273
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,938
Out-of-state
$32,065
Retention Rate
85%
Admission Rate
85%
Students Enrolled
45,601
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#11 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's program in library science at the University at Buffalo offers an affordable, rigorous option for graduate learners. The master of science in information and library science program strengthens subject-specific knowledge, preparing graduates to pursue advanced career opportunities. Flexible enrollment options help candidates balance graduate courses with work or other obligations.
Learners gain theoretical and practical knowledge through the rigorous library science curriculum. Internships and hands-on learning opportunities encourage students to gain varied experience while building professional connections. Learners choose electives and concentrations to specialize their library science education.
University at Buffalo at a Glance:
Location: Buffalo, New York
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 67%
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,310
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $23,100
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 86%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,375
Average Price After Aid: $18,119
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,070
Out-of-state
$24,740
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,310
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
67%
Students Enrolled
32,347
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#12 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
The library science master's program at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers an affordable, rigorous option for graduate learners. Graduates of the MLIS in library and information science program often advance their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Flexible enrollment options appeal to busy students balancing school with work or other responsibilities.
The program uses a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes theoretical and practical approaches to library science. Students gain professional experience during internships and other hands-on learning opportunities. Choosing a concentration also helps learners gain specialized skills in a certain area of library science.
University of North Carolina at Greensboro at a Glance:
Location: Greensboro, North Carolina
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 88%
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,219
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $18,937
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 87%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $9,314
Average Price After Aid: $9,853
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,422
Out-of-state
$19,581
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,219
Out-of-state
$18,937
Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
19,764
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
94%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#13 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of South Carolina-Columbia
Columbia, SC
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in library science degree at the University of South Carolina-Columbia emphasizes career-focused skills. The public school serves degree candidates of all types, with online enrollment options to accommodate working professionals. During the master of library and information science program, graduate-level courses help learners enhance their understanding of the field.
College resources and support services help master's candidates participate in campus life and meet graduation requirements. For example, career counselors host mock interviews to prepare graduates for the workforce. Master's degree-seekers can also attend networking events and make use of library services.
University of South Carolina-Columbia at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 108
Total Online Master's Programs: 28
Admission Rate: 68%
Graduation Rate: 78%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $13,737
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,760
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $43,900
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$12,288
Out-of-state
$33,528
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$13,737
Out-of-state
$29,760
Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
68%
Students Enrolled
35,470
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#14 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
The University of Alabama
Tuscaloosa, AL
4 years
Online + Campus
The master's in library science degree at the University of Alabama emphasizes career-focused skills. The public university offers programs on its Tuscaloosa campus, along with online options designed for degree-seekers who require scheduling flexibility. During the master of library and information studies program, learners gain high-level library science knowledge through accessible graduate courses.
College resources and support services help master's candidates make progress toward their degree. For example, career counselors host mock interviews to prepare graduates for the workforce. Master's degree-seekers also take advantage of networking and training events hosted by the university.
The University of Alabama at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 81
Total Online Master's Programs: 26
Admission Rate: 80%
Graduation Rate: 72%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $10,780
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $30,250
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,400
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,780
Out-of-state
$30,250
Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
37,840
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#15 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis
Indianapolis, IN
4 years
Online + Campus
Learners seeking a graduate degree in library science can enroll in the MLIS program at Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis. Students can advance their career opportunities and increase their earning potential by completing a master of library and information science. The university's graduate programs offer flexible enrollment options that make it easier for enrollees to fit classes into their schedule.
The master's curriculum encourages a comprehensive understanding of library science through both theoretical and practical coursework. Students often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build career-focused skills. Learners can specialize their library science education by choosing electives and concentrations.
Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis at a Glance:
Location: Indianapolis, Indiana
School Type: Public
Admission Rate: 79%
Graduate Tuition In State: $9,090
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $24,864
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 92%
Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,785
Average Price After Aid: $12,345
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,795
Out-of-state
$30,477
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,090
Out-of-state
$24,864
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
29,390
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#16 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville
Knoxville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Students seeking career advancement often benefit from the master's in information sciences program at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville. The public university offers programs on campus and online, with flexible options designed for busy degree-seekers. During the master's in information science program, learners take graduate-level courses in library science to enhance their understanding of the field.
Master's candidates benefit from a generous selection of college resources and support services. For example, financial aid counselors recommend scholarships, grants, and other forms of funding. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of tutoring, mental health counseling, and library services.
The University of Tennessee-Knoxville at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 84
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 78%
Graduation Rate: 71%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $11,468
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $29,656
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $41,600
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,332
Out-of-state
$28,522
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,468
Out-of-state
$29,656
Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
30,559
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
41%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#17 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Wayne State University
Detroit, MI
4 years
Online + Campus
Students interested in advancing their career can earn their master's in library science from Wayne State University. From its Detroit campus, the public university meets the needs of diverse degree-seekers by offering flexible enrollment options. In the master of library and information science program, learners complete a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes advanced knowledge and skills.
College resources and support services help master's candidates earn their degree and plan their next steps. Financial aid advisors connect students with resources to pay for graduate school, while academic advisors recommend course selections. The university also offers library services and networking events for graduate degree-seekers.
Wayne State University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 124
Total Online Master's Programs: 8
Admission Rate: 69%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $16,285
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $35,274
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,900
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$13,024
Out-of-state
$29,894
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,285
Out-of-state
$35,274
Retention Rate
82%
Admission Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
26,241
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#18 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of library science program at Texas Woman's University appeals to students seeking career advancement. The public university, located in Denton, provides several enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online options designed for working professionals. The MLS program's graduate-level curriculum helps learners strengthen their library science skills.
While earning a master's degree, enrollees often rely on college resources and support services for assistance. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships enrollees can use to pay for a master's degree. Master's degree-seekers can also take advantage of writing centers, career advising, and library services.
Texas Woman's University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 47
Total Online Master's Programs: 13
Admission Rate: 94%
Graduation Rate: 48%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $5,053
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $12,415
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $42,800
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,537
Out-of-state
$15,353
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,053
Out-of-state
$12,415
Retention Rate
77%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
16,433
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
85%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#19 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC
4 years
Online + Campus
The master of library science program at East Carolina University emphasizes career-focused skills. The public institution, located in Greenville, offers a variety of enrollment options for degree-seekers, including online programs. During the MLS program, learners take advanced courses in library science that build on their prior training.
Master's candidates often rely on the school's support services to make progress toward their degree. Academic advisors help with course selections, while financial aid counselors recommend grants and scholarships to fund a master's degree. Master's degree-seekers can also attend networking and training events hosted by the university.
East Carolina University at a Glance:
Total Master's Programs: 71
Total Online Master's Programs: 41
Admission Rate: 88%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1
Graduate Tuition In State: $4,749
Graduate Tuition Out of State: $17,898
Average Alumni Earnings After Six Years: $37,300
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,452
Out-of-state
$20,729
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$4,749
Out-of-state
$17,898
Retention Rate
83%
Admission Rate
88%
Students Enrolled
28,798
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
93%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#20 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, TN
4 years
Online + Campus
Trevecca Nazarene University stands out for its 19 master's programs, which include a library science master's program. The master of library and information science program helps students grow their career opportunities and increase their earning potential. Flexible enrollment options, including online classes, help busy enrollees balance coursework with other responsibilities.
During the program, learners take challenging courses that strengthen their theoretical and practical knowledge of library science. Students often complete internships and other experiential learning opportunities to build practical skills. Learners can specialize their education by choosing electives and concentrations.
Trevecca Nazarene University at a Glance:
Location: Nashville, Tennessee
School Type: Private
Admission Rate: 63%
Graduate Tuition In State: $8,982
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,998
Out-of-state
$25,998
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,982
Out-of-state
$8,982
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
63%
Students Enrolled
3,968
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
60%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Get an Online Master's in Library Science?
Most libraries require a master's in library science to consider you for a job as a librarian.
Studying online allows you to begin your library science degree without the expense of relocating.
A master's in library science can open doors to work in museums and archives, as well as public and private libraries.
The flexibility of an online master's means you can work while you study, gaining experience and saving money.
As more and more archival material is being digitized, demand for archivists and other master's in library science jobs is growing.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Library Science?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), popular careers for master's in library science graduates include curator and digital archives librarian. Check out some of the most popular career choices for MLS grads in the table below.
How Much Does an Online Master's in Library Science Degree Cost?
If you choose to pursue an online master's in library science, you may pay a per-credit, per-class, or per-program tuition rate.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the average cost of a graduate degree was $19,749 in 2020-2021. In-state public schools typically offer the lowest tuition rates.
Online graduate degree programs can be less expensive than on-campus programs, as you won't have the expense of moving. However, your program may have additional technology fees to cover IT and online resources.
Your school may also offer financial aid and scholarships for online degree students, and you may be eligible for private scholarships.
3 Tips for Choosing an Online Master's in Library Science
If you've decided to apply for an online master's in library science, the next step is choosing your program. Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your decision.
1. Define Your Goals
Why are you getting your master's in library science? How do you hope this program will impact you and your career? Asking yourself what you hope to achieve can help point you toward specific program specialties, particular institutions, and more.
2. Determine Your Budget
The cost of a degree can vary widely from program to program, so it's helpful to know your budget in advance. In addition to comparing tuition costs, you should consider what different programs' financial aid opportunities are, as well as your loan eligibility. Online programs are often more affordable than on-campus ones, and many offer financial aid.
3. Compare Online Programs
Not all online programs are the same. Be sure to compare program offerings, including fully online versus hybrid degree programs, the merits of synchronous and asynchronous classes, and different course offerings. You should also consider other nonacademic factors like networking opportunities, alumni communities, and post-graduation employment rates.
Frequently Asked Questions About Library Science
How do you become a librarian?
To become a librarian, you'll need to earn a master's in library science before you can apply for most positions in a library.
While you're studying for your master's, it can be a good idea to gain work experience by volunteering or interning at a library or archive. This will help develop your on-the-job skills in addition to your academic ones.
Is a master's in library science worth it?
Yes, the high demand and competitive salary make an MLS degree worth it. But before you choose an MLS program, reflect on your interests and career goals.
If your dream career is to work as a librarian, a master's in library science will likely be highly worth it for you. However, if you're unsure about working in libraries and want a more general qualification, an MLS may not be the right fit.
Are librarians in high demand?
According to the BLS, librarians and library media specialists are in demand. Jobs for librarians are projected to grow at a rate of 6% from 2021-2031, which is as fast as the national average.
Plus, other professions for graduates with a master's in library science, like archivists and curators, are projected to grow at a 12% rate.
Why do librarians need a master's degree?
A master's degree shows that you've received the specialized training needed to be a librarian. Being a librarian is a complex job that requires a wide variety of specialized skills. You should excel in organization and human resource management while also knowing the ins and outs of the library system.
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