5 Best Bachelor's In Library Science Degrees

A Bachelor's in Library Science can lead to many career opportunities. Here, we list the best undergraduate degrees available.
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Updated May 18, 2023

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Before the time of social media and online books, people actually had to go to a library if they wanted to know the answer to something.

While we might not realize it today, libraries have transformed modern day society. Literacy rates have been improved, more people are informed about their rights, and communities have developed a place for engaging activities. The first libraries were created with the goal of organizing collections of documents. Overtime strategies of how to catalogue and manage information were developed, and thus the field of Library Science emerged.

Students interested in studying Library Science not only have a passion for books and reading, but also for engaging the community. These people work in libraries, museums, and schools. College Choice has compiled a list of the five best undergraduate degrees for this major. Continue on to see if these programs may be right for you.

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What type of Bachelor’s in Library Science can you get?

Although Library Science degrees are mostly at the graduate level, several schools offer a Bachelor’s degree. The most common will be a Bachelor of Science in Library Science or Information Science. These programs are usually multidisciplinary in nature and will require students to take a variety of core courses, major courses related to Library Science, and electives. Programs are offered on-campus or online.

An online program may be ideal for students who do not have the time for traditional on-campus programs. Online degrees are held via video chat and coursework is taken on one’s own time. Those who think they may be suited for an online degree should contact the school to find out what their requirements are.

Ready for a Master’s degree? See our ranking of the 35 Best Master’s in Library Science.

How much money do people with a Bachelor’s in Library Science make?

According to PayScale, those with a BS degree in Library and Information Science earn an average salary of $59,000. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median pay of librarians across the nation as of 2018 is $59,050. However, depending on location, those just starting out can earn as low as $39,799. Head librarians can make as much as $82,098.

Within this field, library directors make the most money, with a few people on PayScale reporting their income to be as much as $99,526. Other salaries in this field include: curator ($42,000 to $86,000), archivist ($45,000 to $80,000), and medical librarian ($34,286 to $55,631).

What can you do with a Bachelor’s in Library Science?

The most common career upon graduation is to become a librarian either at a school or in a community library. Although most librarians do hold a Master’s degree, some positions may be open to those with only a Bachelor’s. Other than being a librarian, any jobs relating to cataloging information, developing literacy programs, or managing information systems are career possibilities. Some examples are:

What are the requirements for a Bachelor’s in Library Science?

Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED from an accredited school. Students should aim to have the strongest GPA possible, with at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Other than transcripts, schools will require letters of recommendation, personal essays, and SAT or ACT scores. Because Library Science is generally a more liberal arts degree, colleges will not require any specific courses to be taken, but showing that you have taken a variety of advanced subjects will make one’s application stand out.

Throughout the program, students will learn a variety of subjects other than just the ins and outs of libraries. They will also learn about cataloging, research methodologies, program enactment, and digital preservation. As technology in libraries is fundamental nowadays, strong skills in computers and other systems are a plus.

What are the Best Bachelor’s in Library Science?

We’ve found that the best degrees are those that offer not only fair prices, but ample flexibility and convenience as well! To find the best degrees for you, we look at the best schools in the country based on reputation, student satisfaction, program quality, and return on investment. Then we review the bottom line - just how much is this going to cost? Check out our methodology page for a more in-depth description of our data.

Once we determine all of the above, we curate a list of stellar schools for you! These not only represent the best degrees you can get, but also ones that will fit your budget. Check out our picks below!

#1 5 Best Bachelor’s In Library Science Degrees

University of Southern Mississippi

  • Hattiesburg, MS
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in library and information science program at University of Southern Mississippi, a public institution, ranks high for academic quality. From its campus in Hattiesburg, the school offers both in-person and online enrollment options. The school sets high academic standards while offering flexible course options.

Students take major-specific courses and meet general education requirements to complete their degree. Courses in math, the humanities, and the natural sciences meet general education requirements. The curriculum covers theoretical and advanced topics, preparing graduates for the workforce or further education.

University of Southern Mississippi at a Glance:

Admissions Rate: 97%

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Total Bachelor's Programs: 74

Total Online Bachelor's Programs: 22

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,786

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,786

Average Amount Aid Awarded: $8,843

Graduation Rate: 49%

Average Graduate Earnings After Six Years: $33,500

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,786
Out-of-state
$10,786
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,786
Out-of-state
$10,786
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
14,133
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
70% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 5 Best Bachelor’s In Library Science Degrees

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

  • Kutztown, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The bachelor's in library science program at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, which offers 43 bachelor's programs, stands out for its excellent reputation. The degree builds the knowledge and skills required for a variety of entry- and mid-level careers. The degree also prepares graduates for master's-level programs, which open up additional career opportunities.

The curriculum trains learners in the core principles and practices of library sciences. General education classes emphasize key skills like writing, research, communication, and critical thinking. Learners can complement their degree with a minor or second major.

Incoming degree candidates can expect strong support services when they enroll at the school. For example, academic advisors meet with students to recommend course selections and review graduation requirements.

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:

Location: Kutztown, Pennsylvania

Type of School: Public

Admissions Rate: 90%

Undergrad Tuition In State: $7,716

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $11,574

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,716
Out-of-state
$11,574
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,288
Out-of-state
$13,932
Retention Rate
74%
Acceptance Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
8,195
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

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