Do you envision yourself among the stacks of a world-renowned university library? Or do you see yourself planning creative youth outreach services at a public library?
However you imagine your future as a librarian, one of the nation’s best graduate degrees in library science will help you get there.
What kind of Master in Library Science degree should you get?
There are about as many ways of being a librarian as there are programs. For example, almost all of the programs allow you to specialize, in archives, digital media, children’s literature, and much more. Whichever specialization route you take, know that these 35 programs will give you a solid introduction to library science fundamentals.
Though most of these degrees are traditional, on-campus programs, some can be completed fully online. We’ve been sure to note which. Because online education is not only a flexible way to advance your education and career, but it’s affordable too. So, be sure to check out College Choice’s Best Online MS in Library Science degrees.
How much money do people make with a Master in Library Science degree?
With a Master’s degree in Library and Information Science you can land a number of career opportunities. Each of which is not only stable but financially rewarding.
For example, public and private librarians make, on average, over $57,000 a year. And for those who work as archivists or in museums, you can expect an average annual salary of close to $50,000.
On top of a stable annual income, librarians are always in need. In fact, it’s projected the demand for those with a MS in Library Science degree will rise another 10 percent in the next few years. Finally, of those polled, librarians rated their work as “extremely satisfying.”
What are the requirements for a Master in Library Science degree?
While earning a MS in Library Science degree you can expect to take a number of traditional core classes covering information access, management, public outreach, digital media, and more.
In addition to these, you’ll have the opportunity to specialize and gain hands-on experience through an internship or fieldwork. You can also expect to write a thesis or complete a capstone project in order to graduate.
Most of these programs require at least two years to complete the degree, though for some if you enroll full-time you can finish in less time, even in under a year.
What are the best Master in Library Science degrees?
While some of these MS in Library Science degrees were designed for those seeking work in public libraries and others for those interested in academia or archives, they all share one thing one common: they are the best MS in Library Science programs in the country.
To determine the best Library Science programs we started first with the academic reputation of each school nationwide that offers the degree. From there we looked into student retention rates—as those are a clear sign of student satisfaction. Finally, we factored in the school’s affordability, and the early salaries of graduates.
After our extensive research, we found those programs that are the country’s absolute best at training leaders in librarianship. Our figures and information come from the university and colleges’ websites, PayScale, and nationally recognized U.S. News & World Report and The National Center for Education Statistics.
1
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Overview
The University of Illinois is a renowned public research system. And the Urbana–Champaign campus is its flagship school. UIUC is home to nearly 50,000 students studying in one of the 250 academic programs.
Features
The MS in Library and Information Science degree at UIUC is uniquely customizable. After completing the two required core courses in Information Organization and in Libraries, Information, and Society, you can then fully tailor the program. This program can be completed on campus or online. Some of the classes you can take at UIUC include:
- Computing in the Humanities
- Design Info Interfaces
- Computers and Cultures
- Digital Media Ethics
Notables
UIUC is a founding member of the prestigious Big Ten Conference and a Public Ivy. It is ranked 52nd among all national universities by U.S. News & World Report. And it is consistently included among “America’s Best Colleges” rankings from U.S. News, Forbes, and more.
2
Rutgers University
Overview
Rutgers University is located in New Brunswick, New Jersey. It is a public research university with nearly 70,000 students, making it New Jersey’s largest school. Rutgers offers many degree programs, but it is most known for its education and research in English, philosophy, library science, and business.
Features
Rutgers offers a Master of Information program that is founded in library science but also includes a wider context for understanding information. You will learn the value of preserving information artifacts as well as engage trending and new issues in information consumption. Some of the classes you’ll take at Rutgers include:
- Human Information Behavior
- Interface Design
- Foundations of Informatics and Design
- Learning Theory, Inquiry, and Instructional Design
Notables
Rutgers is a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance and the Association of American Universities. Campus is home to several prominent research facilities, archives, and museums. U.S. News & World Report ranks Rutgers 69th among all national universities.
3
Drexel University
Overview
Drexel University is located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It is a private school that was originally founded to provide education in science, industry, and technology. Though today it offers over 170 undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields.
Features
The MS in Library and Information Science degree at Drexel is organized into fifteen classes. In addition to completing coursework in management of information organizations and digital data, you will also have the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas. Drexel’s specializations include:
- Digital Technology Services
- Information and Data Services
- User and Community Services
Notables
Drexel is known for its co-op (cooperative education) program. Students combine their education with up to 18 months of paid, full-time work in a field directly related to their studies. This means Drexel students graduate with plenty of hands-on experience when entering the workforce.
4
The Catholic University of America
Overview
Located in Washington, DC, the Catholic University of America (CUA) is a pontifical university. CUA is relatively small with only 6,500 combined undergraduate and graduate students. But CUA is organized into a dozen colleges and schools through which it offers a ton of academic opportunities.
Features
The library science program at CUA is one-of-a-kind and ideal for those who want a faith-based education. CUA offers an MA in Library and Information Science and Religious Studies degree. This joint program allows students to study information, data, and archives as they relate to theology and church history. If this isn’t up your alley, CUA also offers joint library sciences in:
- Health Information
- Law
- History
- Musicology
- And more
Notables
CUA is the only school in the country to be founded by the U.S. Catholic bishops. It is nationally and globally ranked by ARWU, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and more. Campus, unsurprisingly, hosts a number of Catholic-affiliated research centers and facilities, such as the Center for Advancement of Catholic Education.
5
University of Washington
Overview
One of the best schools in the Pacific Northwest, the University of Washington (UW) is located in Seattle. It is a public university and one of the largest on the West Coast with over 46,000 students. UW also boasts one of the largest library systems in the world.
Features
You can earn a Master in Library and Information Science degree either online or on-campus through the University of Washington. Both programs offer full training in library management. And UW gives students the opportunity to specialize in law library science. Graduates from UW have gone on to become:
- Academic Librarians
- Archive Specialists
- Law Librarians
- User Experience Managers
Notables
UW is a flagship university, a Public Ivy, and well-ranked. It is a top-tier research university and a member of the elite Association of American Universities. UW is considered as having one of the best library and information sciences programs in the nation (2nd according to U.S. News & World Report).
6
Indiana University
Overview
Indiana University is a prestigious university system, and its Bloomington campus is considered one of the best schools in the nation. IU Bloomington is a public research university with over 40,000 students.
Features
IU Bloomington offers a MS in Library Science degree that specifically focuses on evaluating, preserving, and collecting data and documents. This program emphasizes the social and cultural services aspects of library science. And it can be paired with nearly a dozen specializations. Among them:
- Art Librarianship
- Digital Curation
- Music Librarianship
- Rare Books and Manuscripts
Notables
A Public Ivy and flagship university, IU Bloomington is top-ranked. U.S. News & World Report ranks it 75th among all national universities. And it is globally ranked by ARWU, Times Higher Education, and more.
7
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Overview
The Chapel Hill campus (UNC) in the larger University of North Carolina System is the leading university. It is one of the nation’s oldest schools, as it began enrolling students in the eighteenth century. Today nearly 30,000 students attend UNC.
Features
UNC’s MS in Library Science degree trains students to design and manage libraries and information centers. As a student you will learn the ins and outs of new service technologies, archival science, effective communication, and more. Graduates from UNC have found work in diverse settings, among them:
- Public libraries
- Government and nonprofit libraries
- Information centers
- Museums
Notables
UNC is known for its vibrant research activities, especially in the areas of health, medicine, sustainability, and information science. In fact, UNC has one of the largest library holdings of any university with over 7 million collected volumes. UNC is ranked 30th in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
8
University of Maryland, College Park
Overview
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is located just north of Washington, DC. It is the leading school in the greater University System of Maryland. UMD is known for its many research relationships and affiliations with the U.S. government.
Features
At UMD students gain hands-on experience while earning a MS in Library and Information Science degree. In addition to the field requirement, students can also specialize in archives and digital curation, school library science, or they can create an individualized program plan. All students, however, complete the following core:
- Serving Information Needs
- Achieving Organizational Excellence
- Creating Information Infrastructures
Notables
UMD is a well-decorated university. It is ranked 60th among all national universities by U.S. News & World Report. But it is also considered one of the “Smartest Public Colleges in America” by Business Insider. And The Princeton Review designates it as a “Top School for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.”
9
Florida State University
Overview
Florida State University (FSU) is located in Tallahassee. It is a leading member in the greater State University System of Florida and one of the oldest established universities in Florida. Over 40,000 students attend research-driven FSU.
Features
FSU offers a MS in Information degree in which one can concentrate in library science. This program is a mix of classes on information architecture, services, youth outreach, and more. There are ten ways to further specialize at FSU, making this a highly customizable degree program. Classes include:
- Digital Media: Concepts and Production
- Design and Production of Networked Multimedia
- Digital Libraries
- Introduction to Data Networks
Notables
FSU is a sea and space-grant university, meaning it is very involved in research. In fact, there are more than 100 research centers, facilities, labs, and institutes located on campus. FSU is ranked 81st among all national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
10
University of Michigan
Overview
The University of Michigan (UM) is located just west of Detroit in Ann Arbor, Michigan. UM is a renowned research institution and a leader in STEM education. Nearly 45,000 combined undergraduate and graduate students attend UM.
Features
The University of Michigan offers a Master of Science in Information degree that can be easily paired with specialization in library science. This is a exhaustive program that takes at least two years of full-time study to complete. UM graduates have gone on to become:
- Academic Librarians
- Archivists
- Digital Curators
- Public Librarians
Notables
The University of Michigan is a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance. It is ranked among the top 50 best universities in the U.S., by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, and Washington Monthly.
11
University of Wisconsin—Madison
Overview
The University of Wisconsin is a highly regarded public research university system, and the Madison campus is its flagship. UW Madison is organized into 20 schools and colleges. And over 43,000 students are enrolled in one of the hundreds of degree programs.
Features
At UW Madison you can earn a MA in Library and Information Science degree either online or on campus. This program is accredited by the American Library Association and offers a number of scholarship and funding opportunities. There are also six ways to specialize. Among the concentrations are:
- Archives in a Digital Age
- Data/Information Management and Analytics
- Information Organization
- UX and Information Technology
Notables
UW Madison is a member of the Big Ten Academic Alliance, a Public Ivy, and a top-ranked school. U.S. News & World Report places it 44th among all national universities. It is also globally ranked by several publications, such as Times Higher Education.
12
Kent State University
Overview
Kent State University (KSU) is located in Kent, Ohio and home to nearly 30,000 students. It is one of the largest universities in the state. KSU is a research school known for education and research in flight technology, music, psychology, library science, and more.
Features
Kent State offers a MS in Library Information Science degree that combines informatics, knowledge management, and user experience. Graduates from Kent State have gone on to find work as catalogers, children’s librarians, law librarians, archivists, and much more. Kent State’s program is notably broad, with over a dozen areas of concentration. Among them are:
- Digital Preservation
- Museum Studies
- Public Librarianship
- Youth Services
Notables
KSU is ranked as one of the top public research universities in the US by the Carnegie Foundation, who also recognized it for its community engagement. Likewise, U.S. News & World Report ranks it among the top 100 best public universities.
13
Kutztown University
Overview
Kutztown University is located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania. It is a public school and a member of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. Around 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students attend Kutztown.
Features
Kutztown’s Master of Library Science degree trains students in a wide variety of professional library skills. For example, while a student you will learn how to develop and administer multimedia collections. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in K-12 librarianship. Kutztown’s core includes:
- Organizing, Cataloging, and Classifying Materials
- Collection Development
- Technologies in Libraries
- Reference and Information Services in Library Settings
Notables
Kutztown has been expanding exponentially in the last few years. It was originally founded as a small teacher’s college, but today is comprised of several schools and programs. And it is perhaps best known for its library science programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level.
14
The University of Alabama
Overview
The University of Alabama is located in Tuscaloosa. It is a huge, public research university with nearly 40,000 students and over a dozen colleges and academic divisions. UA is also the only university in the state to offer a law school, a program in information science, and a social work degree.
Features
UA offers a Master of Library and Information Studies degree that is uniquely blended in its learning formats. Students benefit from having a cohort and working on campus while also taking classes online. This is a 36 credit-hour program comprised of classes such as:
- Organization of Information
- Introduction to Library and Information Studies
- Academic Libraries
- Public Libraries
Notables
UA consistently makes the top 50 Best Public Universities rankings put out by U.S. News & World Report. UA is also known for its library systems, with 2.5 million volumes and six separate libraries. It is one of the most exhaustive and highly regarded public university library systems in the US.
15
Syracuse University
Overview
Syracuse University is a private school located in Syracuse, New York. Though founded by the Methodist Episcopal Church and maintaining a relationship with the church today, it is mostly an independent, non-sectarian university. Over 20,000 students attend Syracuse.
Features
At Syracuse while earning a MS in Library and Information Science you will take 18 credits of core classes (below) plus another 15 in electives of your choice. This flexibility to explore and specialize makes Syracuse’s program ideal for those who want an interdisciplinary education.
- Introduction to the Library and Information Professional
- Library Planning, Marketing, and Assessment
- Reference and Information Literacy Services
- Information Policy
Notables
Syracuse is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities. It is also categorized as a “High Research University” by the Carnegie Classification. And it is ranked 61st among all national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
16
SUNY Albany
Overview
The Albany branch of the greater State University of New York (SUNY) system is a public research university. SUNY Albany offers nearly 200 academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate level. Around 20,000 students are currently enrolled.
Features
SUNY Albany offers a degree in Library and Information Services degree that can be paired with a Library Media Specialist concentration. In addition to taking classes on youth services and librarianship, you will also be expected to complete a field experience or internship. Classes at SUNY Albany include:
- Literature for Children
- The Information Environment
- Information and Knowledge Organization
- Literature for Young Adults
Notables
SUNY Albany has been recently expanding its research and education initiatives to include distinctive new programs in documentary studies, biotechnology, informatics, and more. Not surprising then that the university is ranked among the top 20 nationally for its research expenditures.
17
University of Arizona
Overview
Located in Tucson, the University of Arizona (UA) is a public research university known for its medical schools primarily. Though campus is also home to several well-ranked and renowned law and other graduate programs. Over 40,000 students attend UA.
Features
UA offers a MA in Library and Information Science degree that introduces students to the emerging and trending issues in 21st century librarianship. You will graduate from UA ready for a career in public and academic libraries but also in publishing, the tech industry, the health field, and more. UA offers a number of concentrations, among them:
- Academic Librarianship
- Archival Studies
- Medical and Community Health Information
- Special Librarianship
Notables
UA is ranked among the top 60 best public schools by U.S. News & World Report. Likewise, many of UA’s individual departments and programs are nationally ranked. Among them are the business school, the social psychology department, and the library science program.
18
University of California Los Angeles
Overview
The darling in the greater University of California system, UCLA is a huge research university. It offers over 300 academic programs at all degree levels. Nearly 50,000 students are enrolled at UCLA, one of the nation’s best schools and one of the best on the West Coast.
Features
UCLA’s Master of Library and Information Science program is a balanced blend of theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience. Students learn the ins and outs of contemporary library and archival science. But they also participate in an exhaustive internship program. There are five concentrations available through the UCLA program:
- Rare Books / Print and Visual Culture
- Media Archival Studies
- Library Studies
- Informatics
- Archival Studies
Notables
UCLA has been ranked first among all national public universities. It is considered a Public Ivy and is consistently included in Forbes’ list of “America’s Top Colleges.” The rankings for UCLA are nearly endless, as dozens of its individual departments are also nationally and globally recognized too.
19
Simmons College
Overview
Simmons College is located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is a private liberal arts school primarily focused on women’s education. Indeed, of the 5,000 graduate and undergraduate students, nearly all are women.
Features
Simmons’ MS in Library and Information Science degree prepares students for a wide variety of career options. That’s because at Simmons you will be equally trained in management and ethics as you will in big data, emerging technologies, and archives. Indeed, graduates from the Simmons program have gone on to become:
- Database Editors
- Public Librarians
- Cataloging and Acquisition Librarians
- Emerging Technologies Librarians
Notables
In addition to its reputation as a women’s college, Simmons is also known for its commitment to sustainability. It has put several programs, academic and non-academic alike, in place across campus. Simmons is also ranked among the top 20 colleges for its region.
20
University of Texas at Austin
Overview
The Austin branch in the sprawling University of Texas system is a public, research-driven university. Over 50,000 students attend UT Austin and are enrolled in one of the university’s 270 academic programs. And the UT Austin campus is home to dozens of research labs, centers, and institutes.
Features
The library science graduate program at UT Austin emphasizes the role of information in librarianship. This program distinctively integrates information content with information consumerism and connections. UT Austin’s courses cover:
- Children’s Literature
- Information Resources in Science and Technology
- Materials for Young Adults
- Digital Media Design
Notables
UT Austin is a flagship university, a member of the Association of American Universities, and a Public Ivy. It has graduated and/or hired recipients of the Nobel Prize, Pulitzer, the Turing Award, and the National Medal of Science. U.S. News & World Report ranks UT Austin 56th among all national universities.
21
Queens College, CUNY
Overview
Part of the City University of New York System, Queens College is home to nearly 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Queens College provides these students with a liberal arts education. And it offers nearly 100 academic degree programs.
Features
Queen’s College offers a publicly funded Masters in Library and Information Science degree. This program prepares students for work in universities, municipal centers, and corporate archives alike. And Queens gives students the option to specialize. Concentrations are available in:
- Archives and Preservation of Cultural Materials
- Public Library Services for Children and Young Adults
- Library Media Specialists
- Academic Librarianship
Notables
Queens College is consistently ranked for its academic excellence as well as affordability. For example, The Princeton Review ranked it 8th nationally for being among “America’s Best Value Colleges.” Other publications to issue praise on Queens College include U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, and Newsweek.
22
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Overview
The Milwaukee branch in the greater University of Wisconsin System (UWM) is a public research school. It is the largest school in the greater Milwaukee area as well as one of the largest in the state. Over 25,000 students attend UWM.
Features
The Master of Library and Information Science degree from UWM includes fieldwork, a thesis project, and coursework. Graduates from this program have found work in a variety of disciplines, from emerging technologies to data analysts. UWM’s core consists of the following classes:
- Foundations of Library and Information Science
- Organization of Information
- Information Access and Retrieval
- Research Methods in Information Studies
Notables
Many of UWM’s individual departments are well-ranked. Among them are the Archives and Preservation program, the Library and Information Studies program, and the education college. The school as a whole is also well-ranked and consistently included in top 100 national university listings.
23
University of Kentucky
Overview
The University of Kentucky (UK) is located in Lexington. UK is a public school that was founded as an agricultural and mechanical college. However, today it offers over 250 academic programs to its 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
Features
The MS in Library Science degree from UK can be earned fully online. Students enroll in an individualized schedule and plan of study. And they can even participate in practicum and Study Abroad opportunities. At UK you can concentrate in one of many areas, including in:
- Health Information
- Academic Libraries
- School Librarian Program
- Youth Services and Literature
Notables
UK is known for its ongoing commitment to providing better academic and research opportunities to its students. In fact, it is a member of the SECU Academic Consortium. This program is an initiative among several universities to promote research, scholarship, and student achievement.
24
Long Island University
Overview
Long Island University (LIU) is a private school with locations in and around the greater New York metropolitan area. LIU offers more than 500 academic programs to its 18,000 students. And it is also known for its well-ranked online learning programs.
Features
LIU offers unique opportunities to study and explore library science. You can earn a MS in Library and Information Science degree with specialization in School Library Media. You can even earn a dual master’s degree with NYU. Additional areas of study include:
- Archives and Records Management
- Information Systems and Technology
- Rare Books and Special Collections
- Public Librarianship
Notables
Long Island University is regionally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. When it was first chartered, LIU was founded on the principle of accessible and affordable education. It still upholds those commitments today.
25
SUNY Buffalo
Overview
Part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, the Buffalo campus is a public research university. Though first founded as a medical college, today SUNY Buffalo is one of the largest public universities in New York, with over 30,000 students and nearly 400 academic programs.
Features
At SUNY Buffalo you can earn a Master in Library Science degree that fully trains you in work in a variety of library settings. You can also dual enroll and earn a degree in Music History or law.
There are nearly ten areas of concentration available too. Among them:
- Libraries Serving Business, Museums, and Law Firms
- School Librarianship
- Media Librarianship
- Cataloging and Classification
Notables
SUNY Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities. It has graduated Nobel laureates, Pulitzer Prize winners, Fulbright Scholars, Rhodes Scholars, and much more. It is ranked among the top 100 best universities in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
26
University of South Carolina
Overview
Located in Columbia, but with several additional satellite campuses, the University of South Carolina (SC) is a research university. It offers more than 350 academic programs of study to its 35,000 students. And it is considered a high-activity research school.
Features
At the University of South Carolina you can earn a full degree or graduate certification in Library and Information Science. You can also choose between on-campus or online courses. At SC you will tailor a majority of the degree toward your specific interests and career goals. Regardless of how you design the degree, you will explore:
- Information and its organization
- Leadership and management
- Technology
- Provision of information services
Notables
The University of South Carolina has been called an “up-and-coming” university by U.S. News & World Report. In fact, SC is a flagship university with dozens of national rankings. Many of its individual departments and programs are among some of the best in the nation, especially its graduate library science program.
27
Valdosta State University
Overview
Valdosta State University (VSU) is located in Valdosta, Georgia. It is part of the wider University System of Georgia. VSU offers academic programs at all degree levels to its 11,000 students.
Features
Valdosta State offers a hybrid Master of Library and Information Science degree that combines traditional and online learning. This program equally prepares students for work in academic, public, and special libraries. In fact, graduates from Valdosta have gone on to secure careers as:
- Business Librarians
- Library Managers
- Digital Archivists
- Information Services Coordinators
Notables
The Valdosta campus is an active one. Over 200 student-led organizations and events take place at VSU, and include everything from student-led radio to intramural sports. VSU’s Greek life is similarly involved and impressive.
28
University of Southern California
Overview
The University of Southern California (USC) is located in Los Angeles. It is a private, research university with over 40,000 attending students. USC is known for its active research facilities, initiatives, and centers.
Features
USC offers a Master of Management in Library and Information Science degree that can be completed online. Though this is an online program, USC still utilizes a cohort-based model of education. You will partner closely with classmates and faculty, and you can specialize, in:
- Academic Librarianship
- Digital Assets Management
- Information Consultation
- Branch Management
Notables
USC is ranked among the top 25 best colleges and universities in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report. On top of its endless academic accolades, USC is also highly respected for its commitment to sustainability and its happy students.
29
University of Pittsburgh
Overview
The University of Pittsburgh is a research university. It is organized into 17 undergraduate and graduate schools, through which Pitt’s 28,000 students are enrolled. The university is one of the largest recipients of federally sponsored research funding in the U.S.
Features
Pitt’s Master of Library and Information Science program can be completed in as few as three terms of full-time study. You can study either on-campus or online. And you can specialize by enrolling in one of three pathways:
- Archives and Information Science
- Data Stewardship
- Library and Information Services
Notables
The University of Pittsburgh is consistently recognized as one of the nation’s best schools. It is ranked 68th by U.S. News & World Report. The Center for Measuring Performance has ranked Pitt 9th among all U.S. research universities. The university is also nationally and globally ranked by dozens of other publications and sources.
30
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Overview
The Greensboro campus in the University of North Carolina (UNCG) system is a public liberal arts school. It is home to over 20,000 students and has a reputation for its research activity and community involvement. There are nearly 200 academic degree programs offered by UNCG.
Features
UNCG offers a Library and Information Studies graduate degree through their School of Education. This program focuses on the emerging trends in library and information management. You’ll graduate ready for a career working directly in a library system or as an information specialist in an array of roles. UNCG’s classes include:
- Information Sources and Services
- Information Organization and Access
- Library Administration and Management
- Capstone Experience in Library and Information Studies
Notables
Many of UNCG’s programs are well-ranked and recognized. But the university’s known strengths are in library science, business and economics, and education. And The Princeton Review included UNCG among its “Best Values” list of most affordable schools.
31
Emporia State University
Overview
Emporia State University (ESU) is located in Emporia, Kansas. It is a small school with 6,000 undergraduate and graduate students. ESU is organized into four schools and colleges: the School of Library and Information Management, the School of Business, the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, and the Teachers College.
Features
The Master of Library Science program at Emporia can be earned on the Kansas campus or on one of the affiliate campuses around the country. Students thus benefit from a cohort experience while gaining management skills in the areas of librarianship, information, and technology. Some of the classes you’ll take as an Emporia student include:
- Organization of Information
- Management and Information Organizations
- Information Technology
- Research in Library and Information Science
Notables
ESU is regionally ranked by U.S. News & World Report. And it is considered among the top public schools in the nation. Finally, Emporia’s Teachers College is one of only four universities nationwide to be recognized as an Exemplary Model Teacher Education program.
32
University of Denver
Overview
The University of Denver is comprised of 12,000 students. It is a private university and organized into a number of schools, colleges, and research centers, including several professional development programs.
Features
Denver’s MS in Library and Information Science degree takes approximately 18 months to two years to complete. In addition to completing coursework on data management and information science, you will also have the opportunity to participate in a rewarding, hands-on field experience. And you can specialize, in:
- Archives
- Digitalization
- Academic Librarianship
- Information Technology
Notables
The University of Denver is counted among the top 100 best national universities in the country, by U.S. News & World Report. Several of its individual departments are also well-ranked. On top of these academic accolades, the University of Denver’s campus is a designated arboretum.
33
Wayne State University
Overview
Located in Detroit, Michigan, Wayne State University (WSU) is a public research university. Comprised of over a dozen schools and colleges, WSU offers 350 academic programs of study. More than 27,000 students attend WSU.
Features
WSU’s Master of Library and Information Science degree emphasizes information access, organization, services, and support. This is an ideal program for students who want to serve both local and global communities. And you can take classes, such as those below, online:
- Introduction to Information Management
- Introduction to Computer Programming
- Access to Information
- Organization of Knowledge
Notables
WSU is ranked among the top 50 best public universities for research funding. Several of the university’s colleges and departments are well-ranked too. Among them are the law school, nursing school, library science department, and more.
34
University of Oklahoma
Overview
Located in Norman, Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma (UO) is a public, research university. UO offers over 300 academic programs to its 30,000 students. And while many of its programs are well-ranked and recognized, UO’s strengths are in library science, energy, Native American studies and languages, and engineering.
Features
UO offers a Master of Library and Information Studies degree that is fully customizable. However you design your degree you can expect coursework and field experience that brings in a global perspective on information technology. Of the many areas of specialization you can enroll in, are:
- Children and Young Adult Services
- Public Librarianship
- Information Technology
- References Services
Notables
UO is ranked first among all public universities for how many National Merit Scholars attend. Likewise, UO It is ranked among the top ten producers of Rhodes Scholars. And it is ranked among the top 100 best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
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University of Iowa
Overview
Located in Iowa City, the University of Iowa (UI) is one of the largest schools in the state. It is comprised of 11 colleges, more than 200 academic programs, and over 33,00 students. UI is known for its programs in health care, law, information science, and the fine arts.
Features
The University of Iowa offers a MA in Library and Information Science degree that emphasizes technological concerns in librarianship. This is a full two-year program in which students take classes on information policy, information and communication technology, and management. You can also specialize in:
- School Media
- Public Digital Humanities
- Informatics
- Book Studies
Notables
UI’s campus is home to several renowned research centers, such as the Public Policy Center. The university is also nationally and globally ranked by Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Times Higher Education, and more.
