Masters In Library Science Online

Anyone with a passion for assisting others and contributing to the growth of the library community as a whole will benefit from earning a master’s in library science (MLS) degree. An MLS is one of the most respected, high-demand degrees available today.

You can find jobs within healthcare, education, technology, and publishing, among other fields. There are also many volunteer opportunities, such as teaching lower-income children to read or offering assistance to senior citizens who no longer drive. According to Payscale, the average salary for those with a Masters in Information with the Library Science Track is $54,039 per year, with potential to earn more over time.

In addition, the program gives you a rich background in different aspects of information management, evaluation, and teaching. A Master’s in Library Science degree is also helpful for those who are preparing to work as librarians in research organizations or in private firms that specialize in information management.

This guide provides information about top Masters in Library Science Online programs, common coursework, degree concentrations, and usually asked questions.

Masters In Library Science Online Overview

The library science master’s degree is the most prestigious and sought-after credentials available to librarians. To obtain the MSLIS, students must complete a significant amount of classwork and fulfill numerous internship requirements, in addition to writing and defending a thesis or completing a research project. Relevant elective courses may be taken to earn a certificate in a specialty area within library and information science.

Top 38 Best Masters In Library Science Online Programs

1. Appalachian State University

Appalachian State University provides a part-time, online Master of Library Science program for students.

Accreditation

AASL Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

The online format has both synchronous (one evening per week per class, students join their classmates and instructor for a three-hour class in real-time in a virtual classroom) and asynchronous (coursework completed on the student’s own schedule) requirements. The program takes approximately two years to complete.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.4
• GRE Requirements: Must have GRE or MAT scores no older than five years

Program: Master of Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: A dual-master’s degree is available with the Master of Arts in Educational Media External link
Program Start Dates: Spring, Summer, and Fall
Program Options: Part-time
Internship Requirements: Students do not need to complete a practicum

2. Clarion University

Clarion University provides an entirely online Master of Science in Library Science program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students can focus their studies in Information and Library Science, Reference and User Services, or School Library Media. Students will complete an apprenticeship before completing the program to solidify their knowledge within their chosen program. Each concentration focuses on the digital expansion of library information.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Not Specified
• GRE Requirements: Not Specified

Program: Master of Science in Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Information and Library Science; School Library Media
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Internship and research requirements

3. Dominican University

Dominican University offers a Master of Library and Information Science degree program in which students can specialize in a variety of areas.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Asynchronous online and hybrid options

Credit Hour

36

Each area can be completed full-time or part-time, and students can finish in one to six years. Dominican University offers a variety of delivery methods for coursework, allowing students to get the most out of their current schedule. The programs are adaptable, with small class sizes that allow students to collaborate closely with faculty and peers.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements:  GRE required if GPA is below 3.0

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Archives and Cultural Heritage Resources and Services, Data and Knowledge Management, Digital Curation, Digital Libraries, Health Informatics, Informatics, Special Study, Web Design, Youth Services
Program Start Dates: Spring, Summer, and Fall
Program Options: Can be completed in 1-6 years
Internship Requirements: Internship requirement

4. East Carolina University

East Carolina University provides a completely online Master of Library Science degree.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Part-time or Full-time

Credit Hour

39

This program is designed for students who want to work as a librarian or information professional in schools, universities, community colleges, public libraries, or other similar settings. Students can specialize in academic library media, public library media, and school library media.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 2.7
• GRE Requirements: Submit GRE or MAT scores

Program: Master of Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Library; Public Library; or School Library Media
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Internship required

5. Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a non-traditional Master of Library Science degree.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Hybrid with weekend intensive sessions each semester

Credit Hour

36

There is a mix of online courses and in-person requirements. Typically, a student attends a weekend session 4-6 times per semester. The minimum time required to complete this degree is four semesters. Students will also complete the program as part of a cohort, where they will collaborate on various projects with their peers.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE Required

Program: Master of Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Capstone required

6. Fort Hays University

Fort Hays State University offers a Master of Science in Education with a Library Media Specialist concentration or an endorsement for Library Media Specialist.

Accreditation

NCATE Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students who apply for the endorsement must have a current teaching license, a master’s degree, and a 3.25 GPA in 6 graduate courses. Before applying for licensure as a Library Media Specialist, candidates must first complete a master’s degree. To complete the program, you must also complete a practicum.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 2.5
• GRE Requirements: No GRE Required

Program: Master of Science in Education
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Library Media Specialist; Library Media Specialist Endorsement
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

7. Indiana University

Indiana University has a completely online Master of Library and Information Age program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

39

Students can choose from a variety of concentrations within this degree. Each concentration requires 39 hours of core courses, with internship, workshops, and other capstone options varying. The information age and changes in the digital age of library sciences will be the focus of the courses.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE Required if GPA is below 3.0

Program: Master of Library and Information Age
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Generalist (No Specialization); Academic Librarianship Specialization; Archives Management Specialization; Digital Curation Specialization; Public Librarianship/Adult Services Specialization; School Library Specialization; Technical Services Specialization; and Youth Services Specialization
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Internships, workshops, and other requirements vary by program

8. Louisiana State University

Louisiana University offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Science degree.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

When completing this degree, students can choose from a variety of specializations. To graduate, each of them requires an internship. Students with this master’s degree can work in librarianship, as well as in schools and colleges. There is also a lot of freedom when it comes to choosing a career after graduating from LSU’s program.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE Required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Librarianship; Adult Services in Public Libraries; Archival Studies; Cultural Heritage Resource Management; Digital Content Management; Knowledge Management; School Librarianship; Youth Services Librarianship
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Internship required

9. Murray State University

A Master of Education in Library Media is available at Murray State University. This online program can be finished in 30-40 hours of study time (depending on entry credentials).

Accreditation

Non-ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

30-40

Their media programs emphasize the evolving technology and skill set required to be a school librarian today.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Submit official transcript for review
• GRE Requirements: No GRE Required

Program: Master of Education
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Library Media for Certification in Library Media; Library Media for Initial Certification
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Field work required for initial certification

10. NC Central University

With the exception of the practicum course required for completion, NC Central University offers a Master of Library Science degree that is entirely online.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students can study in one of seven different tracks, ranging from academic or digital librarian to media coordinators and records managers. There are six core courses, as well as specialization and elective courses, that must be completed in order to graduate.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE Required

Program: Master in Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: academic librarian; archives and records manager; digital librarian; public librarian; school media coordinator; or special librarian.
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Practicum classes required

11. Northeastern State University

Northeastern State University offers a 33-hour Master of Science in Library Media and Information Technology that is entirely online.

Accreditation

NCATE-AASL Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

33

This program is ideal for working adults who want to earn their degree in a way that is convenient for them. Students will learn how to develop an effective library media program in a school setting, working with all school administrators, faculty, and staff.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: MAT or GRE, required for GPAs under 3.0

Program: Master in Science in Library Media and Information Technology
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Field Study required

12. Sam Houston State University

Sam Houston State University offers a fully online Master of Library Science program that prepares students for a career as a school librarian.

Accreditation

AASL Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students will learn about the most recent technological advancements, as well as how to prepare faculty and staff for these changes. Each student must also complete a portfolio as a final product in order to complete the program.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Portfolio required

13. San Jose State University

San Jose State University offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Science program that allows students to focus on a variety of pathways while completing the program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

43

Students in each pathway will work closely with an advisor and focus on the core competencies of a library science degree. In order to complete the program, you must also complete an internship.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Librarianship; Data Science; Digital Curation; Digital Services; Emerging Technologies; Information Intermediation; Information Organization; Leadership and Management; Archives and Preservation; Public Librarianship; Special Librarianship; Teacher Librarianship; Web Programming; Youth Services.
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Internship required

14. St. John’s University

A Master of Science in Library and Information Science is available at St. John’s University.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students can select from a variety of specializations and complete an electronic portfolio at the end of the program. Students can work in schools, museums, scientific institutions, and on college campuses, among other places. If a student so desires, they can complete an internship to gain real-world experience in their field of study.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Librarianship; Archival Studies; Management for Information Professionals; Public Librarianship; Special Librarianship; Youth Services
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Complete in 24 months
Internship Requirements: Electronic portfolio required; internship optional

15. Texas A&M University – Commerce

Texas A&M University at Commerce offers a Master of Education or a Master of Science in Education Technology.

Accreditation

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Both programs are 36 hours long and prepare students to work as librarians in Texas. The programs are centered on the philosophy of library science and the promotion of literacy. Students must have a GPA of 2.75 on the last 60 hours of bachelor’s work or a conferred US Master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 2.75/3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: MEd-Educational Technology/Library Science; MS-Educational Technology/Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Rolling Admissions
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Practicum in Library Media Center

16. Texas Woman’s University

Texas Woman’s University has a completely online library science program. Students can earn a Master of Arts or a Master of Library Science degree.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36-39

Students can choose a specialization within each degree plan that allows them to work in a variety of library areas. Basic library dynamics, as well as library management and information retrieval, will be taught to students. Students must also complete a practicum and a Final Exam portfolio.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0

Program: Master of Arts in Library Science; Master of Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Libraries; Public Libraries; School libraries; Special Libraries; Health Science Libraries; Information Technology; Technical Services/Cataloguing; Community Informatics
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Practicum required for all programs. Master of Science requires a portfolio and Master of Arts requires a Thesis.

17. University of Alabama

The University of Alabama offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Sciences degree. As students pursue their degree, they can select from a variety of concentrations.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students must complete an internship, but they can also choose between a thesis and a non-thesis option. Students will study traditional library practices as well as information management techniques that help shape library sciences today throughout the program.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: Not Specified

Program: Master of Library and Information Studies
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Libraries; Digital Stewardship; Public Libraries; Special Libraries; Social Justice; Youth Service; Archival Studies; School Libraries
Program Start Dates: Fall only
Program Options: Thesis and Non-Thesis
Internship Requirements: Internship required

18. University of Buffalo

A Master of Science in Information and Library Science is available from the University of Buffalo.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

39

This accredited program provides students with specialization options as well as a variety of learning experiences. Students will complete both a practicum and a digital portfolio.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Information and Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Music Librarianship; Law Librarianship
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

19. University of Central Missouri

The University of Central Missouri offers a Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services that is entirely online.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students will learn leadership skills that will help them preside over school libraries, as well as research and technology skills, through the program. Students will also be able to improve their current teaching pedagogy while developing ideas and practices to implement in their current classrooms.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 2.75
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

20. University of Colorado – Denver

The University of Colorado – Denver offers a completely online Master of Arts in Information and Learning Technologies with concentrations in Instructional Design, eLearning, and K-12 Teaching.

Accreditation

AASL Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

30

Students will learn how to keep up with the demands of technology and information, as well as how to assist students and colleagues in dealing with the ever-changing environment. Students who complete the program can work as librarians, university instructors, coaches, designers, or consultants.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Submit original transcript
• GRE Requirements: Not Specified

Program: Master of Arts in Information and Learning Technologies
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Instructional Design, eLearning, and K-12 Teaching
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Professional portfolio required

21. University of Houston – Clear Lake

A Master of Science in School Library and Information Science is available from the University of Houston at Clear Lake.

Accreditation

AASL Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

33

This fully online program can be completed full-time or part-time, with students becoming Texas-licensed librarians. Students will learn to collaborate closely with elementary, middle, and high school teachers to integrate technology, promote school-wide literacy, and understand resource stewardship.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0

Program: Master of Science in School Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

22. University of Illinois

The University of Illinois offers a fully online Master of Science in Library or Information Science program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

40

Students must select a capstone project that best fits their career path in order to complete the program. Students can select a practicum, independent study, or thesis based on their professional goals. Students can work in schools, on college campuses, or even in medical fields.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE required if GPA is below 3.0

Program: Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum, Independent Study, or Thesis required

23. University of Kentucky

The University of Kentucky offers a fully online Master of Science in Library Science program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students can take the courses full-time or part-time, depending on their schedules. Students can complete their degree by enrolling in a practicum or studying abroad. Students can also choose from a number of concentrations and have the opportunity to intern in Washington, D.C.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Library Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Libraries; Health Information; Information Systems; Public Libraries; School Librarian Program; Youth Services and Literature; Generalist
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required (Study Abroad – also offered)

24. University of Maryland

The University of Maryland offers an entirely online Master of Library and Information Science program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

39

If students study part-time, it takes them an average of 2.2 years to complete the program. As a capstone project for this degree, students may also choose to participate in a field study or write a thesis. Students will be able to lead, advocate, promote, and contribute as they lead their schools and communities to meet the growing information management and literacy needs.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Archives and Digital Curation, Diversity and Inclusion, Individualized Education Plan, Intelligence and Analytics, Legal Informatics, School Library, Youth Experience
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Field study or Thesis option

25. University of Missouri

The University of Missouri has an online Master of Science in Library and Information Science program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

39

The program can be completed entirely online by students. Part-time students complete their studies in three to four years, whereas full-time students complete their studies in two years. Changes in information sciences, technology, and management will be covered, as well as E-learning, digital humanities, and archival services.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

26. University of North Carolina – Greensboro

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a completely online Master of Library and Information Services program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Students can pursue certification in either School Library or Instructional Technology. Students will complete a capstone project at the end of their coursework instead of a thesis. Students will have the opportunity to work in schools or with non-profit organizations.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Submit an official transcript
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Studies
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: School Library Licensure; Instructional Technology Licensure
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Capstone Project (Practicum or Research)

27. University of North Texas

Students can earn a Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies from the University of North Texas, which offers eight concentrations.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Online

Credit Hour

36

Core courses, major course requirements, and 21 credits of electives are required for each. Students will also complete a field experience that includes six months of professional experience in a paid position or a 120-hour practicum/internship in a library or information-centered environment.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Transcript Required
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Archival Studies and Imaging Technology; Distributed Learning Librarianship; General Program of Study; Information Organization; Law Librarianship and Legal Informatics; Music Librarianship; Youth Librarianship; School Library Certification
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Field Study required

28. University of Northern Iowa

The University of Northern Iowa offers a Master of Arts in School Library Studies online.

Accreditation

AASL Accredited

Program Format

Mainly online (one Saturday session required)

Credit Hour

33-36

Students will progress through the program in cohorts that begin in the fall. Cohorts typically take two courses per semester and can complete their studies in 2.5 years. The cohort also works collaboratively through one evening course per week. Before completing the degree, the program requires one on-campus meeting.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Not Specified
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Arts in School Library Studies
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall only
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

29. University of Oklahoma

Students can earn a Master of Library and Information Services degree online through the University of Oklahoma.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

36

Students may choose to specialize in one field, such as librarianship or library media. Students must pass an exam, write a thesis, or create a personal portfolio to complete the program. After graduation, students can work with schools and non-profit organizations.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Services
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Librarianship; Archives; Children and Young Adult Services; Information Organization; Information Technology; Public Librarianship; Reference Services; School Library Media; Special Librarianship
Program Start Dates: Fall and Spring
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Pass a comprehensive examination, completing a written thesis, or completing a portfolio.

30. University of Pittsburgh

The University of Pittsburgh offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Science degree that can be earned part-time (up to four years) or full-time (3 consecutive terms).

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

36

Six core courses are required for this program, and the remaining courses are tailored to the student’s concentration area. Students will work closely with a faculty advisor throughout the program to ensure that their career paths are fully covered by the program.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Academic Information Services; Archives; Public Library Services; Children and Youth Services; School Library Certification Program; Information Technology; Civic Engagement
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Field experience offered for some specializations

31. University of South Alabama

A Master of Education in Library Media is available from the University of South Alabama.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

21-30

Students can specialize in one of two areas: library media certification or the Alabama Class “A” Endorsement in Library Media. The hours vary depending on the concentration. Students must first pass the Comprehensive and Portfolio Exams, as well as the PRAXIS II, before taking the exam.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 2.5
• GRE Requirements: GRE required for GPAs below 2.5

Program: Master of Education in Library Media
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Certification in Library Media (30 hours); Alabama Class “A” Endorsement in Library Media (21 semester hours)
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Internship required

32. University of South Carolina – Columbia

The University of South Carolina – Columbia offers an online Master of Library and Information Science degree.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Fully online except for internship

Credit Hour

36

This program, however, requires an internship that must be completed in a setting that is relevant to the student’s career goals. If the student wishes to become a school librarian, they can obtain the necessary certification. Students will focus on the most recent information technology methods and research standards in the library sciences while taking courses.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options:  Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Internship required

33. University of Southern California – Marshall

Marshall University at the University of Southern California offers a fully online Master of Management in Library and Information Science.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

31

Students who complete the program can work in libraries or information science fields. This program can also be finished in as few as 20 months. To complete the degree, you must complete a capstone project, as well as research and application.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Management in Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: None
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Can be completed in 20 months
Internship Requirements: None

34. University of Southern Mississippi

With their Master of Library and Information Science degree program, the University of Southern Mississippi provides a virtual learning experience.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

40

Students can pursue one of four specializations as a career path and complete a practicum in that field. This program is available as a full-time or part-time option.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: Submit official transcript
• GRE Requirements: GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Public Librarianship; Academic
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Part-time or Full-time
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

35. University of Washington

The University of Washington offers a Master of Library and Information Science degree online.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

63

This program does necessitate a three-day orientation at the start of the program. Students can complete the online program in three years by enrolling in 6-8 credits per quarter. There is no requirement for an internship, but a capstone project must be completed.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Library and Information Science
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Law Librarianship; School Library Media Endorsement
Program Start Dates: Fall
Program Options: Can be completed in 3-6 years
Internship Requirements: None

36. University of Wisconsin – Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison offers an online Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies program.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

39

This program provides students with the option of selecting one of five different concentrations as their primary focus. Candidates must also complete a 120-hour practicum as well as a portfolio. Management and technology courses are required to complete the degree.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Librarianship; Archives in a Digital Age; Data/Information Management and Analytics; Organization of Information; User Experience Design and Information Technologies
Program Start Dates: Not Specified
Program Options: Must be completed within 7 years
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

37. Valley City State University

Valley City State University offers an online Master of Education in Library and Information Technologies degree program.

Accreditation

AASL Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

33

If the student so desires, he or she can also take courses to earn a certificate as a Library Media Specialist. Capstone projects, field work, and research application are examples of special program requirements.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: GRE Required if GPA is lower than 3.0

Program: 33
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Library Media Specialist
Program Start Dates: Fall, Spring, and Summer
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Field experience

38. Wayne State University

Students who complete the program can work in libraries or other information organizations. The 36 hours required to complete the program include 18 hours of core classes and the remaining 18 hours in the student’s chosen concentration.

Accreditation

ALA Accredited

Program Format

Onine

Credit Hour

36

Students who complete the program can work in libraries or other information organizations. The 36 hours required to complete the program include 18 hours of core classes and the remaining 18 hours in the student’s chosen concentration.

Admissions Information:

• Minimum GPA: 3.0
• GRE Requirements: No GRE required

Program: Library Services; Information
Concentrations/Specializations Offered: Library Services; Information Management; Archives and Digital Content Management
Program Start Dates: Fall, Winter, and Spring
Program Options: Not Specified
Internship Requirements: Practicum required

What Is A Master’s In Library Science Online Program?

Librarians are information experts who rely heavily on digital tools. These tools include computer-based cataloging systems, which allow librarians to catalogue and organize the thousands of books available in a library. Earning an online master’s in library science teaches students about the different types of computer and software-based systems that are used by librarians today. Information skills and effective communication via social media are also covered during a Master’s in Library Science program.

Because the field of library science is so wide-ranging, students will take courses that address the challenges facing librarians across all settings. Courses at the online master’s degree level often include formal study in areas such as database modeling and design, information organization, web design, and research methods. Other topics you may study include literacy programs, public policy, and grantsmanship.

What Are The Courses For Master’s In Library Science Online Programs?

Related Master’s in Library Science Degree Concentrations

How To Get A Masters In Library Science Degree?

Masters In Library Science Jobs Opportunities

A master’s in library science degree advises those pursuing a career in academic, public, and private libraries. Students using the expertise of library staff to consult with internal and external clients to create information literacy programs that meet their patrons’ needs.

A master’s degree is required for most senior librarian positions in public and academic libraries, as well as at many museums, archives and other research facilities.  A master’s degree also helps prepare graduates for managerial positions within the field of library science.

A master’s degree in library science serves as a terminal degree in the field, providing graduates with the academic credentials needed to take on advanced roles in library science. Some positions and employers, such as those at specialty libraries, may require applicants to have professional degrees or certificates. Many libraries require a master’s degree and extensive field experience for the most advanced positions. This field, with the exception of librarians in public school systems, usually does not necessitate a license.

FAQs about Online Master’s in Library Science Programs