Master's in Library Science Degrees for Librarians
Applicants to online master's in library science programs typically need a bachelor's degree from an accredited school. Other admission requirements may include a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA.
Master's degree-seekers in the field usually complete about 12 classes. Some programs offer specializations in archival studies, law librarianship, and music librarianship.
In addition to librarian positions, graduates often secure roles as associate editors, digital archivists, and government records analysts. The following sections explore tuition costs and salary potential.
This guide also covers what earning a master's in library science degree entails and how to pursue jobs in the field.
Why Get a Degree in Library Science Online?
While earning a library science master's degree, students gain transferable research and analytical skills. Graduates can apply these skills to positions across industries. Learners who earn a specialization in youth services or digital collections may be more competitive for niche roles.
Many online programs feature flexible asynchronous formats. Learners in asynchronous classes can schedule their education around work and other responsibilities. Students can also save money by earning an online master's in library science. Online learners often save on housing, meals, or commuting costs. Additionally, online students can consider affordable programs nationwide.
Career Opportunities for Master's in Library Science
While librarians are one of the most well-known jobs for those with a master's in library science, there are many jobs your master's can prepare you for that aren't just becoming a librarian.
Take a look at a few opportunities for you after you finish your degree.
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Library Specialist
Librarians and library media specialists keep library material organized and help people use the library. They also conduct research on library resources. They work in schools, public and private libraries, and more. Plus, they can earn a comfortable living. Their median salary in 2021 was $61,190, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
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Curator
Curators work in museums, heritage institutions, and universities. They manage collections of historically and academically significant material to ensure it's both authentic and properly preserved. At a projected growth rate of 12% over the next 10 years, their field is growing much faster than average. And they make an average of $50,120 per year, according to the BLS.
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Digital Archives Librarian
Digital archives librarians work with material that has been converted into digital formats, often because the physical copies are too old or delicate to be handled safely by the public. Like curators, their field is quickly growing, especially with the heightened demand for online educational programs.
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Intelligence Analyst
An intelligence analyst works in information security and can pursue a job for the government, for law enforcement, or in a business setting. Intelligence analysts look at data from many different sources and evaluate it to check for security threats. Intelligence analysts earn an average of $72,790 per year, according to Payscale.
Featured Online Library Science Programs
Most Affordable Online Master's in Library Science Degrees 2022
#1 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
- Seattle, WA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Prospective graduate students can flexibly earn a library and information science degree at the University of Washington-Seattle Campus without giving up their jobs and other responsibilities. Remote learners have access to the Seattle, Washington school’s catalog of 10 online master's degrees, including the master of library and information science. This adaptable degree opportunity makes graduate education accessible to caretakers, full-time workers, and anyone unable to relocate for school.
A bachelor’s in the major is a typical requirement for many master’s programs, but criteria vary depending on the degree. A big draw to a master’s is the intensive coursework that provides enrollees with advanced preparation in their field. Degree recipients can also apply to terminal programs in their field, such as a Ph.D.
Students studying from within Washington pay an average of $18,198 per year, or $32,439 if elsewhere. Paying for tuition is always a concern, and grants and scholarships are an avenue for exploration. In addition to financial aid students don’t need to pay back, they may also want to consider federal or private loans.
Percent Online Enrollment
8%
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 South Florida-Main Campus
- Tampa, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of South Florida-Main Campus provides students with an MA in library and information science that ranks highly among similar degree offerings. The master’s degree equips enrollees with advanced training valued by employers in their profession. A terminal degree like a doctorate is the next stop for some holders of an MA in library and information science.
Many learners appreciate the school’s convenient online format. Students do not need to sacrifice other important aspects of their lives such as work and family to earn this degree. The school ensures that enrollees receive the personalized attention they need whether they study in person or online.
Unless otherwise stated, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program. About 48% of applicants get accepted to this school on average, but applicants may find that programs have different averages. Paying for college is a big concern for many, and this school charges Florida residents about $8,350 per year, partially offset by financial aid options for qualifying students.
Percent Online Enrollment
55%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Champaign, IL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Degree-seekers can choose from a variety of online graduate degrees at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. The MS in library and information science is a very good option for people with a bachelor’s in a related program who want to earn an advanced degree online. Enrollees can complete the graduate curriculum remotely, ensuring they have more control over their schedules.
Students in the MS in library and information science receive more individualized attention with a 20-to-1 student-to-teacher ratio. The curriculum immerses learners in advanced knowledge and training in library and information science. Graduates leave the program well-prepared for careers in academia, business and industry, or a doctoral program in some cases.
Affordability is a top issue, and the school charges Illinois residents $14,997 per year and out-of-state residents $28,404 per year. The price of tuition is lower if learners qualify for grants and scholarships, which many do at the institution. Student loans are another option, and about 35% of enrollees use this popular funding stream to afford their education.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Appalachian State University
- Boone, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Prospective graduate students can flexibly earn a library and information science degree at Appalachian State University without giving up their jobs and other responsibilities. The school administers online degrees from the campus in Boone, North Carolina, and they include 10 online master's degrees such as the online master of library science. This adaptable program opens up access to full-time workers and others with scheduling challenges preventing in-person graduate education.
Applicants to master’s programs usually meet entry requirements with a bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, and other criteria that vary depending on the program. There are many benefits of a master’s degree, with the most notable being higher-level job possibilities and enhanced pay. Another benefit of this degree is preparation for a doctoral program or another terminal credential.
The average tuition for students living in North Carolina is $4,839 per year, and $18,271 if they live elsewhere. If they qualify, learners can use grants and scholarships to help fund their education. Loans may also be available to help students pay for all or part of the program.
Percent Online Enrollment
23%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Madison, WI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Wisconsin-Madison’s ranks highly among similar programs and should be of particular interest to students wanting to study online. The master of arts in library and information studies program prepares learners for high-level career opportunities not always available to those who hold a bachelor’s alone. Students earn this so they can also pursue a doctorate later on if they choose.
This program offers a format conducive to effective time-management that many learners need. Students can juggle their various responsibilities thanks to this program's flexibility. Whether enrollees are learning in person or online they study in a supportive academic environment.
For consideration, applicants need a bachelor’s to apply to this program unless otherwise stated. Those who apply can expect an acceptance rate of about 54%. Financial aid options such as loans and scholarships can help students pay for tuition, which is $10,728 per year for Wisconsin residents.
Percent Online Enrollment
18%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
How Much Does a Library Science Degree Online Cost?
Learners pursuing an online master's in library science may pay a per-credit, per-class, or per-program tuition rate. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of a graduate degree was $19,792 in 2019-2020. In-state public schools typically offer the lowest tuition rates. Learners should also budget for program fees.
Students can finance their education through scholarships and paid internships. Learners should submit the FAFSA annually to determine whether they qualify for federal aid. Many private organizations award scholarships to master's in library science degree-seekers. Learners may also receive institutional funding.o
Additional Online Student Fees
Online students may need to buy a new laptop or pay for high-speed internet. Some computer companies offer student discounts. Learners in hybrid programs should also budget for transportation costs to visit campus and internship sites. Other expenses include textbooks and class materials.
Graduates of online master's in library science programs may need additional credentials to qualify for some roles. For example, public school librarians need a state-issued license. Licensure applications and renewals require fees, which vary by state.
How Much Do Library Science Graduates Make?
According to the BLS, librarians and library media specialists earn a median salary of $60,820 per year. This salary exceeds the national median for all occupations. Librarians at higher education institutions earn the highest median salary.
Geographic location also impacts earning potential. Librarians in the District of Columbia, Washington state, and California earn the highest average salaries, according to BLS data.
After earning a library science master's degree, some graduates pursue a second master's degree or a doctorate. Specialized medical, corporate, and law libraries often prefer librarians with relevant academic backgrounds.
Courses in Library Science
Online master's in library science programs feature specialized curricula. Students explore technology's impact on the profession. Degree-seekers prepare to apply technical knowledge in the workplace, use various research methods, and manage materials. Learners develop career-specific skills during internships.
The following list highlights core courses students typically complete before beginning specialization coursework. Class names, topics, and requirements vary by program. Prospective students can consult course catalogs and contact an admissions advisor for detailed information.
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Information Communities
This introductory class explores forces that impact information access. Coursework examines cultural norms, political constraints, and technological progress. Students analyze the many resources librarians use to retrieve information. Learners also discuss ethical considerations.
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Information Professions
This class covers various jobs and specializations for online master's in library science program graduates. Students analyze work environments, legal frameworks, and professional resources. Participants develop the management and leadership skills necessary to foster productive work settings.
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Online Learning
Librarians use the internet and computer databases to help people find information. This course explores technologies for networking services, content and learning management tools, and web conferencing. Students also learn how librarians protect data.
Featured Online Library Science Programs
How to Become a Librarian
Librarians and library media specialists typically need a master's degree. Aspiring librarians can earn a master's in information studies or a master's in library and information studies.
Public school librarians must meet other academic and education requirements. The top online master's in library science programs hold programmatic accreditation from the American Library Association.
Job responsibilities vary by position and employer. However, typical duties include maintaining databases, assisting patrons, and updating library inventories. Senior librarians prepare and follow budgets.
These professionals may also teach classes and train new employees. Librarians can specialize in an area such as academic, administrative services, or public libraries.
Frequently Asked Questions About Library Science
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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 with a master's in library science, like archivists and curators, are projected to grow at a 12% rate.
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What can you do with a library science degree?
There are several career options to explore with a master's degree in library science besides just being a librarian. With a master's degree in library science, you can look for opportunities as an archivist, curator, digital collections specialist, and more. You can also choose to work in schools or legal settings, too.
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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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Is a master's degree 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, be sure to reflect on your own 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.
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