Online Master’s Degrees in Library & Information Science
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Earning a Master’s in Library and Information Science
Librarians help patrons access library materials and maintain and organize a library’s resources and collections. Increasingly, librarians and information science specialists assume additional responsibilities. Some information science specialists with technical knowledge and training manage vast digital resources. Those with an art background may work as museum curators.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 3% growth for library professionals, translating to 13,300 added jobs in 2023-2033. The options for library and information science master’s degree-holders remain plentiful and promising.
This guide provides a ranking of the top master’s in library and information science programs and an overview of the degree. We outline costs, career outlook, typical courses, and scholarship opportunities.
Top 20 Online Master’s Degrees in Library & Information Science
The University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Southern Mississippi educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers online and at its Hattiesburg campus. Learners can pursue any of the school's 21 online master's programs.
The institution's online master of library and information science is ideal for degree-seekers interested in library and information science careers. After earning the master's degree in library and information science, graduates often qualify for promotions or raises. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's students' overall success.
The school supports online enrollees through affordable tuition rates and institutional funding. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can receive federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships.
The University of Southern Mississippi Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 93%
Students Receiving Loans: 58%
Total Master's Programs: 50
Permits Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$8,786
- Out-of-state$10,786
- In-State$8,786
- Out-of-state$10,786
- Retention Rate68%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled14,133
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment70%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Oklahoma-Main Campus
- Norman, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Norman, Oklahoma, the University of Oklahoma offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Learners can pursue any of the school's five online master's programs.
The online master of library and information science is one of the best online library and information science degrees. Program graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current library and information science career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
Enrollees pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA to receive federal grants and loans. Additional financial aid options include private scholarships and fellowships.
The University of Oklahoma at a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 96%
Students Receiving Loans: 36%
Total Master's Programs: 81
Transfer Credits Counted: No
- In-State$4,788
- Out-of-state$20,169
- In-State$6,583
- Out-of-state$21,242
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate80%
- Students Enrolled28,079
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment33%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Alabama
- Tuscaloosa, AL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Alabama offers master's programs that prepare students for new job opportunities and career advancement. Experts in the field teach courses in the accredited library and information science program. The school's advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff help distance learners meet degree requirements. Program participants communicate with faculty and peers in virtual classrooms.
Students may be able to lower their cost of tuition through loans or scholarships. In addition to this online library and information science program, The University of Alabama offers 22 other master's degrees.
The University of Alabama Facts:
Online Student Enrollment: 5,041
Online Master's Degrees Offered: 23
Grad School Tuition: $10,780 in-state; $30,250 out-of-state
Average Total Aid Per Student: $9,249
Average Cost After Financial Aid: $20,623
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- In-State$10,780
- Out-of-state$30,250
- In-State$10,780
- Out-of-state$30,250
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled38,100
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Central Missouri
- Warrensburg, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Central Missouri stands out among schools offering online programs. In addition to on-campus options in Warrensburg, Missouri, students at the public institution can pursue 21 programs in an online format. The school's academic offerings include a master of science in library science and information services. The online library and information science program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy students to complete degree requirements.
Learners develop transferable skills through core coursework and specialize during advanced library and information science classes. Students gain theoretical and practical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities and elective classes. Graduate degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their library and information science master's degree if enrolled full time. For exact application deadlines and requirements, prospective applicants can speak with an admissions advisor.
Online learners at the school pay affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce the financial burden of earning a master's degree. Graduate tuition rates at the institution average $7,524 for in-state students and $15,048 for out-of-state students. The institution holds accreditation, which means enrollees with financial need qualify for federal grants and loans. According to the school, 94% of students receive financial aid.
- In-State$7,128
- Out-of-state$14,256
- In-State$7,524
- Out-of-state$15,048
- Retention Rate74%
- Acceptance Rate65%
- Students Enrolled11,229
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
- Baton Rouge, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Baton Rouge-based Louisiana State University provides graduate programs for online and on-campus degree-seekers. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's online master's programs, including an online library and information science degree. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible master of library and information science program qualifies graduates for advanced library and information science positions.
While completing their master's program, graduate students work with experienced faculty advisors. The program features a rigorous curriculum, helping enrollees develop foundational knowledge in the field. Coursework emphasizes analytical and leadership skills applicable to roles in the industry.
The school's affordable tuition rates make graduate studies more accessible. The institution's dedicated financial aid counselors work with degree-seekers as they locate and apply for educational funding.
Louisiana State University Fast Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 77
Number of Online Students: 8,775
Graduate Tuition In-State: $9,132
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $9,132
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$8,038
- Out-of-state$8,038
- In-State$9,132
- Out-of-state$9,132
- Retention Rate83%
- Acceptance Rate75%
- Students Enrolled31,756
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment28%
- AccreditationYes
Sam Houston State University
- Huntsville, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Huntsville, Texas, Sam Houston State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Online learners can earn a graduate degree through the school's distance education programs. The institution's online master of library science is ideal for students interested in library and information science careers.
In addition to rigorous coursework, the master's program prepares enrollees for library and information science careers through academic and career advising. The online library and information science program features flexible enrollment options, which are ideal for busy learners. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time.
Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. To fund their education, 53% of enrollees take out loans. In addition to loans, learners can fund their studies through financial aid, which 86% of the institution's learners receive.
Sam Houston State University Facts:
Total Programs: 132
Number of Online Programs: 43
Number of Online Students: 11,475
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Counted: No
- In-State$5,856
- Out-of-state$15,984
- In-State$5,765
- Out-of-state$13,361
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate83%
- Students Enrolled21,558
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A great option for distance learners, Appalachian State University offers one e-learning program. Located in North Carolina, the school enrolls 3,511 students in its online courses. The catalog includes a fully online library science master’s degree.
The accredited curriculum sets high standards for academic excellence. The master of library science program emphasizes advanced skills and knowledge for library and information science careers. Enrollees enjoy a student-to-faculty ratio of 16-to-1, which gives them one-on-one time with faculty.
The college's website provides additional information about online student services. Degree-seekers pay affordable tuition rates and receive financial aid. This makes the program an affordable option for learners pursuing a master's degree on a budget. The college reports a 73% graduation rate for its programs.
Appalachian State University at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 4,490
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 10
Graduate Tuition: $4,839/year in-state, $18,271/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,612
Average Net Price: $10,525
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- In-State$4,242
- Out-of-state$19,049
- In-State$4,839
- Out-of-state$18,271
- Retention Rate88%
- Acceptance Rate77%
- Students Enrolled19,280
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment23%
- AccreditationYes
Texas Woman's University
- Denton, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Texas Woman's University offers online programs for distance learners. The school reports that 5,192 students take online classes. Online students can earn their master of library science at the school. The accredited program provides a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree’s advanced training prepares students for the workplace. Learners receive one-on-one attention from faculty thanks to the school's student-to-faculty ratio of 17-to-1.
Prospective students can learn more about online support services at the college's website. The school offers affordable tuition rates and financial aid opportunities. This makes the program an affordable option for graduate degree-seekers on a budget. The school has a graduation rate of 43% for its programs.
Texas Woman's University Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 9,457
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 10
Graduate Tuition: $4,973/year in-state, $12,569/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,739
Average Net Price: $9,830
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- In-State$5,430
- Out-of-state$15,559
- In-State$4,973
- Out-of-state$12,569
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate93%
- Students Enrolled15,886
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment60%
- AccreditationYes
The University of North Texas
- Denton, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
A great option for distance learners, the University of North Texas offers e-learning programs. The Texas school enrolls about 15,051 students who take at least some online courses. The school offers an online master of science in library science program. The accredited curriculum offers a rigorous education valued by employers. The degree's advanced training prepares graduates for library science careers. The school offers a student-to-faculty ratio of 26-to-1, giving students one-on-one attention from faculty.
The institution's website provides more information about support services and student organizations. The program charges affordable tuition rates and offers financial aid. This helps students complete a master's degree with less debt. The school has a graduation rate of 56% for its programs.
The University of North Texas at a Glance:
Total Online Enrollment: 19,118
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 11
Graduate Tuition: $5,900/year in-state, $13,496/year out-of-state
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,441
Average Net Price: $14,020
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- In-State$8,295
- Out-of-state$18,423
- In-State$5,900
- Out-of-state$13,496
- Retention Rate79%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled39,336
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment49%
- AccreditationYes
Chicago State University
- Chicago, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Chicago State University, a public institution located in Chicago, Illinois, offers online undergraduate and graduate programs. The school has a total of three online master's programs.
The institution's online master of science in library and information science provides a flexible option for degree-seekers interested in library and information science. The library and information science degree can qualify graduates for promotions or raises. To help students succeed academically and professionally, the school provides a variety of support services, including academic advising and career counseling.
Enrollees at the school access affordable tuition rates and institutional funding, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. In addition to federal funding, learners can secure private scholarships and institutional fellowships.
Chicago State University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 80%
Total Master's Programs: 25
Total Online Master's Programs: 25
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$7,488
- Out-of-state$14,856
- In-State$5,850
- Out-of-state$11,340
- Retention Rate52%
- Acceptance Rate63%
- Students Enrolled3,039
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment39%
- AccreditationYes
San Jose State University
- San Jose, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in San Jose, California, San Jose State University educates undergraduate and graduate degree-seekers on campus and online. Students can pursue graduate degrees remotely or on campus. Distance learners can enroll in the master of library and information science from the institution.
The rigorous graduate-level curriculum prepares enrollees to succeed in library and information science careers. The online library and information science program's flexible scheduling options can make it easier for busy learners to complete degree requirements. While most master's programs require 1-2 years, part-time degree-seekers may take longer to graduate.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students with financial need qualify for federal grants and loans. According to the school, 27% of its enrollees use loans to pay for their education. Learners can also fund their education through financial aid, which 73% of the institution's learners secure.
San Jose State University Fast Facts:
Total Programs: 172
Online Master's Programs: 71
Number of Online Students: 12,738
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
- In-State$5,742
- Out-of-state$17,622
- In-State$7,176
- Out-of-state$16,680
- Retention Rate87%
- Acceptance Rate64%
- Students Enrolled36,085
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment35%
- AccreditationYes
The University of South Florida-Main Campus
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of South Florida offers master's programs that prepare students for new job opportunities and career advancement. Experts in the field teach graduate students in the accredited library and information science program. The school's master of arts in library and information science prepares graduates for future careers in library and information science.
In online courses, students interact with faculty and peers in a virtual learning environment. The school offers advisors, IT support professionals, and other support staff for distance learners.
All applicants to the institution submit school transcripts. Degree-seekers can use entrance scores to bolster their application. The average per-credit cost across all programs is $907 at the school. The university can provide federal financial aid as an accredited institution. The school has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of South Florida Facts:
Total Online Enrollment: 24,241
Number of Online Master’s Programs: 27
Graduate School Tuition Rate: $8,350 in-state; $19,048 out-of-state
Average Aid Per Learner: $11,181
Average Cost With Financial Aid: $9,787
- In-State$4,559
- Out-of-state$15,473
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled44,246
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
North Carolina Central University
- Durham, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Based in Durham, North Carolina Central University educates degree-seekers through in-person and flexible online programs. The school delivers 12 master's programs online. The institution offers an online master of science in library science for busy students who want to earn their library and information science degree while maintaining employment.
The program prepares learners to enter the job market or advance their current library and information science career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
Enrollees pursuing online graduate programs benefit from the school's affordable tuition rates. Students with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants, scholarships, and loans. Learners may also fund their studies through scholarships and fellowships.
North Carolina Central University Facts:
Students Receiving Aid: 93%
Students Receiving Loans: 74%
Total Master's Programs: 29
Total Online Master's Programs: 29
Accepts Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$3,728
- Out-of-state$16,435
- In-State$4,740
- Out-of-state$17,694
- Retention Rate76%
- Acceptance Rate68%
- Students Enrolled8,011
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Kentucky
- Lexington, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
With a main campus in Lexington, the University of Kentucky delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. Learners attending the school can study on campus or in an online format. The institution delivers an online master of science in library science that is ideal for busy students interested in advancing their library and information science skills.
Enrollees complete rigorous coursework and can access faculty and career advising. The online library and information science program is ideal for learners with busy schedules. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate in 1-2 years, unless enrolled part time.
The institution holds accreditation, which means students can submit the FAFSA and determine whether they qualify for federal financial aid. To pay for school, 40% of the enrollees take out loans. In addition, 94% of the institution's learners qualify for financial aid.
The University of Kentucky Facts:
Total Programs: 360
Online Master's Programs: 108
Number of Online Students: 7,886
Per-Credit Fee: $693
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$11,011
- Out-of-state$29,331
- In-State$12,055
- Out-of-state$31,215
- Retention Rate85%
- Acceptance Rate96%
- Students Enrolled29,402
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Kent State University
- Kent, OH
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Kent State University educates graduate degree-seekers online and in person and at its Kent campus in Ohio. The public institution delivers an online master's in library and information science for distance learners. Ideal for working professionals, the flexible master of library and information science program qualifies graduates for advanced library and information science positions.
Master's students work with faculty advisors, who provide advice and insights into the library and information science field. The program's rigorous curriculum provides foundational knowledge through core coursework. Master's students develop leadership skills necessary to lead teams in library and information science settings.
Online learners benefit from affordable tuition rates and can apply for institutional funding to further reduce their financial burden. Degree-seekers can discuss funding options, including grants and fellowships, with qualified financial aid counselors. Remote enrollees at the school pay affordable tuition rates, making graduate studies more accessible.
Kent State University Facts:
Online Master's Programs: 104
Number of Online Students: 15,098
Graduate Tuition In-State: $11,766
Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $21,952
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$10,602
- Out-of-state$19,478
- In-State$11,766
- Out-of-state$21,952
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate86%
- Students Enrolled27,716
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment54%
- AccreditationYes
Western Kentucky University
- Bowling Green, KY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Western Kentucky University educates degree-seekers online and at its Bowling Green campus. Learners with personal or professional responsibilities often enroll in the school's 15 online master's programs.
The institution offers an online master of science in libraries, informatics, and technology in education for busy students who want to earn their library and information science degree while maintaining employment. The flexible course options and rigorous curriculum allow professionals to launch or advance their library and information science career. The school offers support services, including academic advising and career counseling, for graduate students.
Affordable tuition rates and institutional funding make pursuing graduate studies easier for many enrollees. Students with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans. Additional financial aid options to help learners fund their master's studies include private scholarships and fellowships.
Western Kentucky University at a Glance:
Students Receiving Aid: 98%
Students Receiving Loans: 41%
Total Master's Programs: 54
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
- In-State$10,802
- Out-of-state$26,496
- In-State$12,140
- Out-of-state$18,340
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate97%
- Students Enrolled18,171
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment41%
- AccreditationYes
East Carolina University
- Greenville, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
East Carolina University educates online graduate degree-seekers from its campus in Greenville, North Carolina. Busy learners can pursue the public institution's online master's programs. Students interested in library and information science can pursue the school's flexible master of library science.
Master's students in the online library and information science program take core classes in their first year. The program also features advanced library and information science courses and electives, which allow degree-seekers to customize the program. Faculty mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and electives help graduate students individualize the program. Graduates often qualify for leadership positions. Current and former program participants can receive support from faculty advisors and career counselors.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. Current professionals may qualify for tuition reimbursement programs through their employer. Of the school's graduate students, 79% fund their education through financial aid.
- In-State$4,452
- Out-of-state$20,729
- In-State$4,749
- Out-of-state$17,898
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate79%
- Students Enrolled28,651
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Wisconsin–Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Wisconsin–Madison delivers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields. In addition to on-campus graduate programs, the school provides virtual learning options. Graduates of the institution's online master of arts in library and information studies can pursue a variety of positions in the library and information science field.
The master's program combines rigorous, graduate-level courses with strong faculty and career advising. The online program features flexible scheduling and enrollment options, which can make earning a degree easier for busy learners balancing academics with personal obligations. Master's degree-seekers typically graduate with their degree in 1-2 years.
Students at the accredited institution can qualify for federal grants and loans. The school reports that 29% of enrollees take out loans. In addition, financial aid helps 61% of the institution's learners fund their studies.
The University of Wisconsin–Madison Facts:
Total Programs: 492
Number of Online Programs: 4
Online Master's Programs: 147
Number of Online Students: 8,064
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Transfer Credits Allowed: No
- In-State$9,273
- Out-of-state$36,333
- In-State$10,728
- Out-of-state$24,054
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate54%
- Students Enrolled44,257
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
The University of Maryland, College Park
- College Park, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Graduate degree-seekers can enroll in online and in-person programs from the University of Maryland, College Park. Distance learners can earn online master's degrees from the public institution. Students interested in librarianship can pursue the school's flexible master of library and information science.
Master's students in the online program take core classes in their first year. After completing core requirements, degree-seekers take advanced courses and customize the program through electives. Faculty mentorship and experiential learning opportunities help graduate students prepare for careers in the library and information sciences field. Graduates can pursue leadership roles. Faculty advisors and career counselors support master's students and alumni through career resources.
Degree-seekers with financial need can submit the FAFSA to qualify for federal grants and loans. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing master's studies. According to the school, 66% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their graduate education.
- In-State$8,824
- Out-of-state$34,936
- In-State$13,158
- Out-of-state$29,250
- Retention Rate95%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled40,743
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment19%
- AccreditationYes
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro delivers academic programs virtually and on campus. Along with on-campus graduate programs, the school delivers remote programs. The institution's online master of library and information science provides a flexible option for students interested in library and information science.
Enrollees can receive academic advising from library and information science faculty members. Busy learners balancing work and school can benefit from the online library and information science program's scheduling flexibility. Full-time degree-seekers typically require 1-2 years to earn their master's degree in library and information science.
Students with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. Of the school's enrollees, 60% use student loans to pay for their education. Additionally, the institution reports that 88% of learners help pay for their degree using financial aid.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro Numbers:
Total Programs: 158
Number of Online Programs: 33
Number of Online Students: 10,282
Religious Affiliation: Non-Affiliated
Offers Transfer Credits: No
- In-State$4,422
- Out-of-state$19,581
- In-State$5,219
- Out-of-state$18,937
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate82%
- Students Enrolled20,196
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
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What to Know about Master’s in Library Science?
How much schooling do you need to be a librarian?
Senior librarian positions typically require a master’s degree, which usually takes two years of postgraduate study to complete.
What degree do you need for library science?
Employers often prefer candidates with a master of library science or a master’s in library and information science degree.
What is a librarian’s salary?
The BLS reports a $64,370 median salary for librarians and library media specialists. Salaries vary by sector, location, and experience, so some professionals could earn even more. The top 10% garner more than $101,970.
Why Get a Degree in Library and Information Science?
A master’s in library and information science typically qualifies degree-holders for senior positions in most college or university libraries. Their duties include helping patrons use library resources, maintaining collections, and acquiring new items. Librarians specializing in a specific arena including art or law can work for museums or law firms.
How Much Does a Library and Information Science Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, graduate students at public institutions paid an average of $12,596 in tution for the 2021-2022 academic year. Graduate degree-seekers at private nonprofit institutions paid $29,931. The cost of a library and information science master’s degree will likely approximate these average amounts.
Several schools now offer online master’s in library and information science programs. Online learners typically save money by not incurring additional rent, board, and transportation expenses. In addition, some public institutions allow out-of-state online students to pay in-state tuition. These savings can accumulate significantly over the course of a program, so students should research whether a prospective school offers this privilege.
How Much Do Library and Information Science Majors Make?
According to BLS data for 2023, elementary and secondary schools employed the highest number of library professionals at 49,030. Government agencies and higher education institutions showed the second and third highest employment levels at 45,520 and 18,720, respectively.
States hiring the highest number of librarians and media collection specialists include New York, Texas, California, Ohio, and Florida. Industries and states with the highest employment levels in a professional arena typically offer more opportunities for career advancement and salary growth.
According to the BLS, the top-paying industries for librarians include the federal government, organizations involved with scientific research and development, and companies offering legal services. These sectors offer annual mean salaries of $102,320, $93,100, and $90,840 respectively.
Washington, D.C. pays the highest annual mean salary for library professionals, $93,640. States ranking among top-payers include Washington, California, Maryland, and New York. Librarians there earn annual mean salaries of $93,270, $90,930, $82,540, and $82,300 respectively.
Courses in Library and Information Science
Library and information science master’s degree coursework varies among schools, depending on specializations and the school’s educational objectives. Some of the more popular concentration areas include school media, database design, health science librarianship, and archival studies. Some programs allow students to craft an individual study plan supporting their specific career and academic goals.
The courses described below represent some of the most common classes in master’s in library and information science programs today.
The course introduces probabilistic and statistical models relevant to assessing and quantifying different types of information. Topics include probability theories and parametric and non-parametric predictive modeling. Students learn to apply appropriate models to manage and organize information in various fields of study.
Data, Statistical Models, and Information
Participants explore current issues impacting library and information science, including intellectual freedom, professional ethics, social responsibilities, and community service. Enrollees examine the interplay of these and other factors in determining the socio-cultural role libraries and information agencies play in a world inundated with data. Libraries, Information, and Society
Students learn how to create different information systems through selection, preservation, and various organizational methods. Learners analyze information providers and various communities that use or rely on the services to organize information more relevantly. Information Organization and Access
Certifications and Licensure for Library and Information Science
Many states require school librarians to first obtain a credential as a teacher in a specific subject area or grade level. Some states require a teaching license, others accept a certification, some require a master’s in the field, and others do not. Students should contact the department of education in the state where they plan to work for specific requirements.
Certified Public Library Administrator
The American Library Association (ALA) offers this credential to candidates with three years of supervisory library experience. The credential tests a candidate’s proficiency in seven out of nine standard areas. Competency topics include budget and finance, technology management, planning and management of buildings, and organization and personnel administration.
Certified Data Management Professional (Associate)
The Data Management Association (DAMA) administers four levels of CDMP credentials. The associate-level credential requires six months to five years of experience in data management. Candidates must hold current DAMA membership and pass the data management fundamentals exam to earn the credential.
Early Childhood through Young Adulthood/Library Media Certification
The National Board for Professional Teaching Standards offers this certification for school librarians teaching students ages 3-18 years. Candidates must pass a four-part evaluation process covering several key areas. Topics include administration; access, equity, and diversity; ethics; and knowledge of library and information studies.
Scholarships for Library and Information Science
Colleges and universities often support graduate students through teaching or research assistantships and work-study grants. Degree-seekers not only receive financial assistance, but further their education and professional experience as well. Professional organizations and private nonprofit groups with strong ties to the field may administer scholarship programs that students can explore for additional funding. See below for sample opportunities.
| Scholarship | Amount | Who Can Apply |
|---|---|---|
Christopher Hoy/ERT Scholarship | $5,000 | ALA administers this scholarship established with donations from the Exhibits Round Table. Students in an ALA-accredited master’s in library and information science program can apply. |
New Media Scholarship | $2,500 | The program accepts applications from students in a master’s in library and information science program with a specific concentration in digital communications and human-computer interactions. |
Spectrum Scholarship | $5,000 | ALA welcomes applications from students enrolled in a master’s in library and information science program who belong to a minority group including African American, Asian, or American Indian/Alaska Native. |
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