Your Guide to Master’s in Library Science Online Programs (MLIS)
Working in a library may require more than a love of information and books. Those interested in working in libraries across the country can pursue a master’s in library science, also known as a master’s degree in library and information studies, or MLIS.
A master’s in library science is a graduate-level degree focusing on the cataloging and study of printed texts and digital media. A typical MLIS program covers general topics, such as the theoretical components of librarianship and more hands-on lessons about database management and organization.
The American Library Association is the accrediting body for degrees in library and information studies. The association accredits all MLIS programs in the United States and Canada. Those who want to pursue a librarian career in the United States and Canada can attend an ALA-accredited degree program.
Due to advanced technology, librarianship in 2020 is very different than it was even 10 years ago. Some would-be librarians are turning to online master’s in library science programs to master technology skills while obtaining the information they need to work in libraries. An online MLIS helps ensure a greater understanding of library resources, including technology-driven resources.
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Syracuse University
School of Information Studies
Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Syracuse University offers an online, ALA-accredited MS in Library and Information Science that prepares students to help communities access and understand information, technology, and media resources. The program can be completed in 18 months, and no GRE scores are required to apply.
- ALA-accredited
- Can be completed in 18 months
- Optional specialization in School Media
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Online MLIS Curriculum
Courses in online library and information studies vary by school but typically include the evaluation and management of information, cross-disciplinary learning and hands-on experience. Courses may include:
- Information architecture: The structural organization of data or shared information environments such as the art and science of labeling websites, data sets, intranets or other repositories of information.
- Information science and technology: Courses in this category explore fundamental information science theories and information technologies. Theory and technology can be discussed and applied to practical purposes in library and information services.
- Research methods: These courses cover advanced research methods including how to recognize and define a research problem in a professional setting to improve professional practice; how to select and use appropriate research methods such as sampling design, survey, experiment, qualitative field research and unobtrusive research to gather original data to solve the research problem and increase knowledge about the domain; how to use analytic methods like quantitative statistical analysis and qualitative analysis to analyze and synthesize the collected data into a solution to the identified research problem; and how to prepare a professional research proposal.
- User-centered information services: The study of a library system that is user-centered as opposed to systems-centered. This area of study considers how libraries and other information technology can be organized to best suit the end user.
- Computer science: General coursework in computer science can help MLIS students better understand data science, data analytics and data management; institutional repository management; digital libraries and digital preservation; networking hardware and software skills required to manage a computer network; integrated library systems utilizing relational databases and database design; and informatics.
Every MLIS program is unique in its requirements and course loads. The ALA requires the following standards for accredited MLIS program curriculums (PDF, 437 KB):
- Foster the development of library and information professionals who will assume a leadership role in providing services and collections appropriate for the communities that are served.
- Emphasize an evolving body of knowledge that reflects the findings of basic and applied research from relevant fields.
- Integrate technology and the theories that underpin its design, application and use.
- Respond to the needs of a diverse and global society, including the needs of underserved groups.
- Provide direction for future development of a rapidly changing field.
- Promotes commitment to continuous professional development and lifelong learning, including the skills and competencies that are needed for the practitioner of the future.
Online MLIS Admissions Requirements
Each online MLIS program will have its own admissions requirements and prerequisites. For detailed information about the application process you should visit a school’s admissions website. However, there are some components that you should prepare to complete:
- Application: Most programs require some form of application on their admissions website.
- Bachelor’s degree: To qualify for admission to MLIS programs, you must have a bachelor’s degree in some field. There are relatively few undergraduate library science programs, so don’t worry if that is not your field of study.
- Transcripts: Request transcripts from your undergraduate institution in advance of graduate program application deadlines.
- Test scores: Many schools require GRE General Test scores or TOEFL/IELTS scores for international students. Check with the program you are applying to, as not all schools require test scores.
- Resume/CV: Prepare a resume with relevant education and work history and include this in your application.
- Personal statement: Be prepared to write a short essay about who you are and why you are applying for this online MLIS program. Personal statements should be tailored to the specific program and school.
- Letters of recommendation: Get letters of recommendation from academic mentors, professional contacts or other credible people who can attest to your academic ability. The number of letters required will vary by school.
Finding the Best Master of Library Science Online Program for You
Sponsored School
Syracuse University
School of Information Studies
Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Syracuse University offers an online, ALA-accredited MS in Library and Information Science that prepares students to help communities access and understand information, technology, and media resources. The program can be completed in 18 months, and no GRE scores are required to apply.
- ALA-accredited
- Can be completed in 18 months
- Optional specialization in School Media
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Finding the right MLIS program is a personal process. You should carefully consider program length, accreditation status, degree conferred and class format. Some students may thrive on live classes online, while others may be looking for a program they can complete at their own pace. Here are all the online master’s of library science programs available, and a brief description of each.
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Last updated: June 2020
Online Master’s in Library Science Concentrations
Some library science master’s programs allow you to concentrate in specific areas. While not available at every school, according to the ALA, concentrations can include:
- School librarianship
- Art librarianship
- Health science librarianship
- Database design
- Archival studies
Concentrations allow a student to dive deeper into an aspect of library management.
For example, with a concentration in school media, a librarian is better equipped to deal with the demands of working in an academic setting. Programs in school media offer insight into developing and managing educational media and providing library services and resources to students of all ages. Similarly, a concentration in information management may help students gain skills in managing information acquisition, utility, retention and transfer to help a variety of organizations succeed.
Online Master’s in Library Science Careers
The first step to becoming a librarian is to obtain a MLIS or similar master’s degree, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Some special librarians, such as those working in corporate, law or medical libraries, may need degrees in their specialized field in addition to an MLIS. Some employers require special librarians to have a master’s degree, a professional degree or a Ph.D. in that subject. For example, a law librarian may be required to have a law degree.
Two other categories of librarians may need additional certifications, according to the BLS.
- Public school librarians typically need a teacher’s certification and some states require school librarians to pass a standardized test, such as the PRAXIS II Library Media Specialist test. This requirement varies by state and county.
Librarians working in public libraries in some states may need certification and a librarian license.
An MLIS degree is a requirement for almost all librarian jobs in the United States and Canada. But becoming a librarian is not the only option for those holding an MLIS. Some careers that may require or prefer an MLIS degree include:
- Academic librarianship
- Archiving, special collections and records management
- Data Curation
- Database administration and development
- Digital librarianship
- Digital youth and children’s librarianship
- Information architecture and taxonomy
- Knowledge organization
- Law librarianship
- Public librarianship
- Special and corporate librarianship
- User experience
In the median annual salary for all librarians was $60,820 the BLS reports. The median salary for librarians by industry or category was:
- Colleges, universities and professional schools (state, local and private): $65,120
- Elementary and secondary schools (state, local and private): $62,370
- Information: $61,340
- Local government, excluding education and hospitals: $54,890
Many students find a rewarding career in libraries or related fields after studying graduate library science.
Last updated: April 2022
Syracuse University
School of Information Studies
Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Syracuse, New York
In its tradition of preparing students to shape our world through the power of information, Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies (iSchool) offers a Master of Science in Library and Information Science degree delivered online. The program is accredited by the American Library Association and prepares students to help communities better access and understand information and media resources. Students may also specialize in School Media to prepare for library and information roles in elementary and secondary school settings. The program can be completed in 18 months. No GRE scores are required to apply.
Enrollment Type: N/A
Length of Program: As few as 18 months
Credits: 36
User Services and Community Engagement, Data Curation and Services, Organization and Management of Information and Knowledge, Children and Youth Services, Digital Information Systems, Information Research and Analytics
Appalachian State University
Master of Library Science
Boone, North Carolina
Name of Degree: Master of Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Local and Archival Studies, Reference and User Services, School Library Media
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- CV/resume
The University of Alabama
School of Library and Information Studies
Master of Library and Information Studies
Tuscaloosa, Alabama
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Studies
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Academic Libraries, Digital Stewardship, Information Literacy, Public Libraries, Special Libraries, Social Justice, Youth Services
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
- CV/resume
Clarion University
Department of Library Science
Master of Science in Information and Library Science
Clarion, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Information and Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Local and Archival Studies, Reference and User Services, School Library Media
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Offiical transcripts
- CV/resume
University of Central Missouri
Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services
Warrensburg, Missouri
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 33
Concentrations:School Library
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree
- Official transcripts
- Interview
Dominican University
College of Applied Sciences
Master of Library and Information Science
River Forest, Illinois
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Academic Libraries, Public Libraries, School Library
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Personal essay
East Carolina University
College of Education
Master of Library Science
Greenville, North Carolina
Name of Degree: Master of Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 39
Concentrations:Academic Libraries, Public Libraries, School Library
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
Emporia State University
School of Library and Information Management
Master of Library Science
Emporia, Kansas
Name of Degree: Master of Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Archive Studies, Health Information Professionals, Informatics, Leadership and Administration, Youth Services
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- CV/resume
- Statement of goals
- Interview
- Valid ID
Indiana University – Purdue University at Indianapolis
School of Informatics and Computing
Master of Library and Information Science
Indianapolis, Indiana
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 39
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
Louisiana State University
School of Library and Information Sciences
Master of Library and Information Science
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- CV/resume
- Statement of purpose
Murray State University
College of Education and Human Services
Master of Arts in Education in Library Media
Murray, Kentucky
Name of Degree: Master of Arts in Education in Library Media
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 33
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
The University of Southern Mississippi
Master of Library and Information Science
Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 40
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- Personal statement
- Short answer response
- Recommendations (three required)
- Resume/CV
- Program mode preference
- Transcripts
- Extenuating circumstances (optional)
- Scholarship information (optional)
- Official GRE scores (optional)
- TOEFL Scores for non-native speakers
North Carolina Central University
School of Library and Information Sciences
Master of Library Science
Durham, North Carolina
Name of Degree: Master of Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Two letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- CV/resume
- TOEFL/IELTS, financial statement (for international applicants)
Northeastern State University
College of Education
Master of Science in Library Media and Information Technology
Tahlequah, Oklahoma
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Library Media and Information Technology
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 33
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- TOEFL/IELTS (for international applicants)
Sam Houston State University
Master of Library Science
Huntsville, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Teaching certification
- Interview
- Writing sample
- Teaching experience (2 years)
San Jose State University
School of Information
Master of Library and Information Science
San Jose, California
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 43
Concentrations:Academic Libraries, Archives and Records Management, Public Libraries, Special Libraries, Youth Services
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
University of Southern California
School of Business
Master of Management in Library and Information Science
Los Angeles, California
Name of Degree: Master of Management in Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 40
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- CV/resume
- Statement of purpose
- Three letters of recommendation
Texas A&M University
Master’s in Educational Technology Library Science
College Station, Texas
Name of Degree: Master’s in Educational Technology Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Official transcripts
- Teacher or Principal Certificate
- Personal statement
- Resume or CV
Texas Woman's University
School of Library and Information Studies
Master of Library Science
Denton, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Academic Libraries, Digital Stewardship, Information Literacy, Public Libraries, Special Libraries, Social Justice, Youth Services
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- CV/resume
- Statement of purpose
- One letter of recommendation
University at Buffalo
Masters in Information and Library Science
Buffalo, New York
Name of Degree: Masters in Information and Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- GRE
- 3.0 GPA
- Personal statement
- Two letters of recommendation
- Bachelor’s degree
- English Proficiency TOEFL, IELTS)
University of Denver
Morgridge College of Education Online
Master of Library and Information Science
Denver, Colorado
Serve as a steward of your community’s history. Earn a Master of Library and Information Science online from University of Denver’s ALA-accredited program in as few as 21 months. With no GRE required, apply now to learn to empower your community by improving information access and promoting intellectual freedom.
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: As few as 21 months
Credits: 58
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution
- Cumulative 2.5 on a 4.0 scale or a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the last 60 semester credits or 90 quarter credits
- Two letters of recommendation
- Current resume
- Unofficial transcripts from all postsecondary institutions you attended; if admitted, official transcripts will be required
- Statement of professional goals
- Diversity statement
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University of Hawaii at Manoa
Master of Library and Information Science
Honolulu, Hawaii
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: N/A
Length of Program: N/A
Credits: 39
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- GRE not required
University of Houston
Master of School Library and Information Science
Houston, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of School Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 33
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- GRE or GMAT
- 3.0 GPA
- Transcripts
- English Proficiency TOEFL, IELTS)
University of Illinois
School of Information Sciences
Master in Library and Information Science
Champaign, Illinois
Name of Degree: Master in Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 40
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resume
- English Proficiency TOEFL, IELTS)
- Statement of purpose
University of Kentucky
College of Communication and Information
Master’s in Library Science
Lexington, Kentucky
Name of Degree: Master’s in Library Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Instructional Technology, Student Diversity, Curriculum and Instruction, Teacher of Distinction
Admission Requirements:
- Transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate courses
- Unofficial transcripts
- Four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution
- 3.0 GPA
- Statement of Purpose
- Current resume or CV
University of Maryland
College of Information Studies
Master of Library and Information Science
College Park, Maryland
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate courses
- Unofficial transcripts
- Four-year baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution
- 3.0 GPA
- Statement of Purpose
- Names and e-mail addresses of three academic or professional references
- Current resume or CV
- TOEFL/IELTS scores (international applicants only)
University of Missouri
The School of Information Science and Learning Technologies
Master of Library and Information Science
Columbia, Missouri
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 39
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume
University of North Carolina Greensboro
Master of Library and Information Science
Greensboro, North Carolina
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume
- TOEFL/IELTS for non-native English speakers
University of North Texas at Dallas
Master of Science in Library Sciences
Denton, Texas
Name of Degree: Master of Science in Library Sciences
Enrollment Type: N/A
Length of Program: N/A
Credits: 36
Concentrations:School Library, Instructional Technology Licensure
Admission Requirements:
- Résumé
- Statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Field Experience required (120 Hours)
University of Northern Iowa
College of Education
Master of Arts in School Library Studies
Cedar Falls, Iowa
Name of Degree: Master of Arts in School Library Studies
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 2.5+ years
Credits: 33
Concentrations:Archival Studies and Imaging Technology, Information Organization, Law Librarianship and Legal Informatics, Music Librarianship, Youth Librarianship, School Library Certification
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- Resume/CV
- Transcripts
- 3.0 GPA
University of Oklahoma
School of Library and Information Studies
Master of Library and Information Studies
Norman , Oklahoma
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Studies
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Statement of purpose
- Professional resume .
- Three letters of recommendation
University of Pittsburgh
School of Computing and Information
Master of Library and Information Science
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time and Part-Time
Length of Program: 1+ years
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- 2 Recommendations
- Resume/CV
- Transcripts
- Official GRE scores (optional)
- TOEFL Scores for non-native speakers
- 3.0 GPA
University of South Carolina – Columbia
College of Information and Communications
Master of Library and Information Science
Columbia, South Carolina
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: N/A
Length of Program: N/A
Credits: 36
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- GRE or MAT
- 3.0 GPA
- Resume
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcripts
- English Proficiency TOEFL, IELTS)
University of South Alabama
Department of Counseling and Instructional Sciences
Master of Education in Educational Media
Mobile, Alabama
Name of Degree: Master of Education in Educational Media
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 1.5+ years
Credits: 30
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- 2 Recommendations
- Resume/CV
- Transcripts
- Official GRE scores (optional)
- TOEFL Scores for non-native speakers
- 2 Years full-time teaching experience
- 2.5 GPA
University of Washington
Information School
Master of Library and Information Science
Seattle, Washington
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Part-Time
Length of Program: 3 years
Credits: 63
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- Personal statement
- Diversity statement
- Essay
- Short answer response
- Recommendations (two required, three recommended)
- Resume/CV
- Program mode preference
- Transcripts
- Extenuating circumstances (optional)
- Scholarship information (optional)
- Official GRE scores (optional)
- TOEFL Scores for non-native speakers
University of Wisconsin – Madison
Information School
Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies
Madison, Wisconsin
Name of Degree: Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2+ years
Credits: 39
Concentrations: N/AAdmission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- 3.00 GPA
- Submit a personal statement
- Current Resume/CV
- 3 letters of reference
- Transcripts
Wayne State University
School of Information Sciences
Master of Library and Information Science
Detroit, Michigan
Name of Degree: Master of Library and Information Science
Enrollment Type: Full-Time
Length of Program: 2 years
Credits: 36
Concentrations:Library Users and Communities, Library Tools and Resources, Library Systems and Infrastructure
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university
- 3.00 GPA
- Submit a personal statement (pdf)
- Current Resume/CV