Last Updated: October 14, 2024
Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranked school for an online library science program is University of Wisconsin-Madison followed by University of Illinois- Urbana Champaign.
- Online library science programs are increasingly popular, with a focus on affordability, convenience, flexibility, and academic excellence.
- They prepare students for a wide range of careers by teaching information architecture, technology use, and information needs.
- Top programs are ranked based on criteria like curriculum strength, faculty, class size, and previous ratings.
The popularity of online learning has increased drastically in the past years, particularly among post-secondary students. Additionally, more working-age Americans have realized that they need to sharpen their skills and further their education in the increasingly competitive job market. The popularity of online learning in various fields of specialization, including library science, may be attributed to its:
- affordability
- convenience
- effectiveness
- flexibility
Statistics from U.S. News show that more than 11.8 million Americans enrolled for an online course. Library science degrees are among the most popular online degree programs.
Not only do librarians manage collections, these professionals:
- evaluate
- package
- analyze
- present information
Librarians also train other people on the use of this information. Online library information science (LIS) degree programs expose students to:
- theories
- research
- approaches
- practices of LIS
These library science degrees provide students with knowledge and training in areas like:
- information architecture
- uses and needs of information
- information technology
Enrolling in an online library science degree will prepare you for a vast array of career opportunities.
Selection Criteria
To create our ranking of the best schools for library science, we researched each of the institutions offering this program in the country. Our research was based on the key attributes of a reputable, highly effective, and recognized online degree program, including:
- affordability
- academic excellence
- flexibility
- previous ratings
- types and sizes of available classes
- faculty strength
- vast concentration options and/or electives like Information Architecture, Archives, Youth Services, School Librarianship, and more
- focus on developing essential skills like organizing information, being digitally literate, and managing resources
After careful scrutiny of the various programs, we identified twenty of the best MLIS programs in the country today. If you are considering an online master’s degree in MLS, the following are some of the top library science programs to consider.
Please note: Tuition prices are accurate at time of publishing and subject to change. Additional fees may apply. When applicable, in-state tuition is given.
University of Wisconsin- Madison
Based on our ranking criteria, the School of Library and Information Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison takes the top position on this list of the best MIS program providers. We arrived at this decision after analyzing the various attributes of the program, including:
- flexibility
- class size
- fields of specialization
- strength of curriculum
Not only is the Madison school a member of the iSchools, but they also offer a flexible MIS program. Students may choose any of the five specializations offered by this program, including:
- Librarianship
- Archives in a Digital Age
- Digital Libraries
- Information Organization
In addition to its flexibility, this best MIS program offered by the Madison school features a strong curriculum that comprises of three tiers. The curriculum offered by this program offers such courses as:
- Cataloging
- Foundations of Reference
- Information Ethics and Policy
- Collection Management
- Archives Administration
Additionally, the program offers small class sizes. This makes it more convenient for students to interact directly with their peers and instructors. The program allows students to practice information and librarianship services at a professional level through:
- e-Portfolio
- core courses
- electives
- a 120-hour practicum
This MA in library science and information studies program waives its GRE admission requirements.
University of Illinois- Urbana Champaign
The School of Information Sciences at the University of Illinois Online offers an MS in Library and Information Science. Other than the once-a-semester visit to campus, students can complete most of their coursework online.
The program requires 40 semester hours delivered in a flexible synchronous format featuring Web-Based Information Science Education (WISE). This technology allows for a seamless and interactive connection between colleges, students, and the faculty. This MIS program features a strong curriculum with unique course offerings that include:
- Information Organization and Access
- Use and Users of Information
- Youth Services Community Engagement
- Libraries, Information and Society
- Information Modeling
- Introduction to Technology in LIS
- Reference and Information Services
The ALA-accredited MIS program at the U of I is a clear manifestation of the school’s stellar reputation. The program is preferred for high-quality education and post-education assistance. After graduation, students are offered career advisement to help them find good jobs. U.S. News and World Report ranks this MS in library and information science at U of I as the best of its kind.
Valdosta State University
The Department of Library and Information Studies at Valdosta State University offers a Master of Library and Information Science. Their program is one of the most flexible and affordable on our list. According to a similar ranking, this MLIS was ranked a ‘Best Buy’ MLIS program.
Students complete 39 credit hours to earn their degree. The core curriculum allows students to gain expertise in four key areas, including:
- Administration
- Resources for Clients
- Services in the Knowledge Society
- Technical Knowledge
In addition to the enhanced flexibility of online courses, the program allows individuals to further their studies by specializing in a specific area of library and information science. Specializations include:
- Reference Sources & Services
- Cataloging and Classification
- Technology
- Library Management
University of Washington
The Master of Library and Information Science program offered by the University of Washington is aimed at connecting students to information. This MLIS degree provides a solid foundation for a variety of career paths due to its strong curriculum. Course offerings include:
- Research, Assessment, and Design
- Organization of Information and Resources
- Concepts, Services, and Issues for Information Professionals
- Information Behavior
The flexible curriculum allows students to choose electives like directed fieldwork or independent study. Courses are delivered in a convenient asynchronous format that is ideal for working professionals. While courses are offered online, students are required to come to campus for a three-day mandatory orientation. During this time, students will meet their peers and instructors and get a feel for the program.
Rutgers University
The School of Communication and Information at Rutgers University equips its online students with the necessary pedagogy and education to succeed in the competitive job market. The program is designed to help students be more proficient in the formulation and implementation of organizational structures that allow for access to information.
Basically, this ALA-accredited program is a part-time asynchronous degree program and may be completed in three years. With regards to flexibility, the program offers several specializations, including:
- Interaction Design and Informatics
- Archives and Preservation
- School Librarianship
- Technology, Information and Management
- Data Science
- Library and Information Science
- Health Information
Additionally, the program offers several starting dates for their students to choose from, as well as a highly customizable schedule. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for this Master of Information degree for students who meet the criteria for strong academic records. U.S. News and World Report ranked Rutgers 7th in School Library Media.
University of South Carolina
The College of Information and Communications at the University of South Carolina features a high-quality online Master of Library and Information Science. Students can take the program entirely online or combine online and on-campus coursework.
Students can complete their degree in just 18 months using the Fast Track option. This accelerated Master of Library and Information Science degree program is specifically designed for students with busy lives. Although the program may be fast-tracked, it focuses on the outcome of its students. To ensure a positive academic experience, students are assigned to faculty advisers to help them with career choices.
Students taking this MLIS program can choose from three unique areas of specialization, including:
- Information Services
- Library Services to Children and Young Adults
- Cultural Heritage Institutions
Based on a student survey, almost 67% of graduates received a promotion or raise upon completion of the degree. MLIS graduates are working in:
- colleges
- schools
- communities
- industries
- businesses
University of Kentucky
The Master of Science in Library Science offered by the University of Kentucky is an ALA-accredited program. Students will develop a solid foundation with skills and education that are relevant to the library and information work environment. Students have the opportunity to study abroad and gain international experience.
The program offers unique practicum opportunities for its online Master of Library and Information Science students.
The curriculum features flexible asynchronous coursework, making it a great choice for working professionals. Schedules can be individualized, and students may choose to complete a full-time or part-time program. Concentration areas include:
- Academic Libraries
- School Librarian
- Youth Services and Literature
- Health Information
- Information Systems
Online students benefit from the UK’s great low in-state tuition rates. U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Kentucky in the top 5 for Health Librarianship.
Kent State University
The top library science degree program at Kent State University is a great choice for students planning to work in settings like:
- museums
- information agencies
- companies and agencies
- cultural organizations
Their course offerings provide students with an exceptional skill set in demand by top employers. Pathways of study include:
- Applied Data Science
- Information and Knowledge Organization
- Information Access and Discovery
- Data Information Technology
Students interested in K-12 School Librarianship can complete the School Library Media K-12 major. Dual degree options include:
- Master of Library and Information Science and Master of Business Administration
- Master of Library and Information Science in School Library Media K-12 and Master of Education in Educational Technology
This American Library Association-accredited program is also one of the most popular MIS programs in the country, having been included in a top 20 list by the U.S. News & World Report. The success rate associated with the MIS program offered online by Kent State University is also desirable; most graduates from this school are able to get jobs within six months after completion.
University of Southern California
The Master of Management in Library and Information Science (MMLIS) offered by the University of Southern California is probably the most popular program included in this list—with regard to cultural and academic considerations.
While it is one of the most expensive options on this list, graduates are prepared for high-level positions.
The program is offered through the USC Marshall School of Business. This school is reputed to be one of the most innovative schools in library and information sciences in the region. Their top MMLIS program is specifically designed to instill the required skills to help students fit into the modern era of library and information. Course offerings include:
- Management Communication for Leaders
- Collection Development and Management
- Information Description, Organization, and Retrieval
Students can complete their library science degree in just 20 months. The University of Southern California is ranked #22 top colleges in the country by U.S. News and World Report.
The University of Texas Austin
This top-ranked MSIS at the University of Texas-Austin’s School of Information is a two-year program that prepares graduates for careers in:
- Technology
- Education
- Government
- Law
- Business
The University of Texas-Austin is one of the founding members of iSchools, an organization that focuses on advancing the information field. iSchool offers research labs in:
- User Experience
- Digital Archives
- Conservation
- Information Retrieval
Students in this Master’s in Library and Information Science must complete a capstone project and an electronic portfolio. Faculty and staff are committed to supporting students in their career search and placement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Library science professionals work in a wide range of industries including:
public and university libraries
K-12 schools
special collections
government agencies
cultural institutions
consumer goods corporations
nonprofit organizations
academic libraries
consulting
information collection and delivery agencies
service corporations
Graduates from the best MLS programs have various career titles including:
Children’s Librarian
Reference Librarian
School Media Specialist
Systems Librarian
Research Analyst
Information Architect
Database Manager
Web Developer
Chief Information Officer
Cataloging Supervisor
News Librarian
Academic Librarian
Curator
Information Analyst
Systems Analyst
A librarian can earn between $59,730 and $68,450 a year.
A library director makes between $70,240 to $99,856 a year.
A reference librarian is paid between $26,000 and $62,000 a year.
Head librarians average $65,193 a year
An academic librarian makes about $66,260 every year.
The best Master’s of Library Science Programs prepare you to contribute towards the evolution of the global information society. With your MLS degree, you will be in a position to strengthen and create links between:
technology
information
librarians
individuals
The difference between MLS and MLIS lies in their focus. MLS, or Master of Library Science, centers on traditional librarianship and information management, while MLIS, or Master of Library and Information Science, encompasses a broader range of information-related disciplines, preparing students for diverse roles in the evolving field of information science. Both degrees open doors to rewarding careers in libraries, information services, and beyond, catering to varying interests within the information profession.
While a bachelor’s degree is sufficient for some entry-level library positions, obtaining a master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS) is generally advisable for those aspiring to become professional librarians. An MLIS provides specialized knowledge and skills essential for managing diverse information resources, adapting to technological changes, and assuming leadership roles in libraries. Ultimately, pursuing a master’s degree enhances career opportunities and equips individuals with the expertise needed to excel in the dynamic field of librarianship.
A master’s degree in library and information science (MLIS) typically takes about two years to complete. The program includes coursework in various aspects of library science, information organization, technology, and management. Students also often have the opportunity to gain practical experience through internships or fieldwork.