Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees of 2025
Want to become a librarian or archivist? Explore some of the best online master’s degree programs in library science.
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2025At a Glance: Top Online Master’s in Library Science
- #1: Rutgers University — The university offers a self-designed pathway to customize your master’s in information.
- #2: University of Maryland — UMD’s proximity to Washington, D.C. means students have unique opportunities for archival studies.
- #3: University of Missouri — The university offers a dual degree in library science and public affairs.
You may be considering a career as a librarian because you love reading, but this job is about more than just books.
Libraries are community centers offering free classes, internet access, job search assistance, and other resources that support people’s daily lives and help broaden their perspectives.
With an online master’s in library science, you can develop the research and organizational skills needed to succeed as a librarian while helping communities access information. Read on for our list of the best online master’s in library science programs that can help you take the next step in your career.
Best Master in Library Science Online Degrees of 2025
How We Rank Schools
Rutgers University — Most Customizable
- New Brunswick, NJ
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online Program for Designing Your Own Pathway
Rutgers' online master of information program offers students concentrations in multiple disciplines like health, technology, data science, archives, and even a self-designed pathway. The university recommends you work with a faculty member or advisor to choose courses that match your goals. The program helps prepare you to pursue leadership roles, evaluate resources for cultural sensitivity, learn best practices, and uphold ethics standards in your career.
Why Attend Rutgers Online
- Design Your Degree: Choose from eight concentrations to customize your information master's degree.
- Take Your Time: Graduate in as little as 1.5 years or take classes part time to complete the degree in three years.
- Apply When You Want: Rutgers considers applications on a rolling basis.
Know Before You Go
- While the format is asynchronous, it's not self-paced.
47%
$19,824
93%
$33,720
- Acceptance Rate
- 65%
- Students Enrolled
- 50,617
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Maryland — Best Archival Pathway
- College Park, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online MLIS for Archival Studies
UMD's online master of library and information science (MLIS) program takes advantage of its proximity to Washington, D.C., by offering students specialities in archival studies within museums, government agencies, and public, government, and academic libraries. Students have the chance to take internships with the Smithsonian Institution, Library of Congress, National Institutes of Health, Bloomberg, and The Washington Post.
Why Attend UMD Online
- Graduate on Your Time: The average time to complete a degree is 2.22 years though students have five years to complete the degree.
- No GRE Requirement: You do not need to complete the GRE to apply.
- Access World-Class Research Centers: UMD's College of Information students have access to hands-on learning opportunities at the school's Center for Archival Futures (CAFe) and Advanced Information Collaboratory (AIC).
Know Before You Go
- Out-of-state tuition is about double the price of in-state tuition.
- You have the option of taking some in-person classes.
30%
$16,560
96%
$36,100
- Acceptance Rate
- 45%
- Students Enrolled
- 40,813
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Missouri — Best Dual Degree
- Columbia, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online MLIS for Public Affairs and Management
Students in Mizzou's online MLIS program have the option of earning a master of public affairs degree simultaneously. Students can mesh their library science studies with public policy and management skills within public administration, government, public health, and nonprofit sectors.
Why Attend Mizzou Online
- Earn a Dual Degree: Pair your MLIS with a master of public affairs.
- Real-World Learning: Gain hands-on experience through a required practicum assignment based on your location and goals.
- Flexible Class Models: You have the option to take the classes asynchronously or synchronously.
Know Before You Go
- Mizzou does not require the GRE for admission.
- You need to complete 51 credit hours total for a dual degree in public affairs and MLIS.
- Some courses and events could be in person.
53%
$12,000
91%
$30,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 31,041
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Oklahoma — Most Flexible
- Norman, OK
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online Library Studies Degree for Working Professionals
OU's online master of library and information studies program is built with full-time professionals in mind. It allows you to graduate in as few as 20 months or take as long as you need so you can focus on your career and earn a degree at the same time. At OU, you also have full access to academic support, online tutoring, mental health counseling, and a career development center.
Why Attend OU Online
- Join a Small Community of Peers: You'll be part of a small cohort of working professionals.
- Diverse Approach: The program focuses on cultural, generational, and socioeconomic diversity and perspectives.
- Robust Alumni Network: Connect with librarians and information professionals from OU's global network of 250,000 alumni.
Know Before You Go
- OU notes a time commitment of about 10-20 hours per week for the program.
- The program requires a 3.0 GPA for admission.
51%
$ 8,903
89%
$25,163
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 29,166
- Institution Type
- Public
University of South Florida — Best for Industry Connections
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Most Well-Connected to Leaders in Library Science
USF's MLIS advisory council is made up of 19 professionals and alums within the library system. Students seeking connections within Florida's library and information systems communities will have access to experts in the field, such as the director of the largest public library system in the U.S.
Why Attend USF Online
- Industry-Informed Curriculum: USF's MLIS program takes insights from an advisory council of alumni and industry veterans to ensure the curriculum stays relevant.
- Community Grant Projects: Graduate students can take part in grant research projects that impact the community, like bibliotherapy research with USF's Responsive Librarian Lab.
- Dedicated Scholarships: USF offers a few scholarships specifically for library and information science students to help with education costs.
Know Before You Go
- Students complete six core courses and can tailor their degree to their career path through electives.
- USF requires the GRE for admission to this program.
68%
$ 8,350
92%
$19,048
- Acceptance Rate
- 41%
- Students Enrolled
- 48,566
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Denver — Most Accessible
- Denver, CO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best MLIS for Students New to Online Programs
If it's your first time pursuing an online education, DU is one of the best for new online students. Its online MLIS degree offers one-on-one faculty mentorship from leaders in the field. It also has four start dates per year. In the flipped classroom model, students complete video coursework before meeting virtually weekly to engage and collaborate with peers.
Why Attend DU Online
- Be a Part of Tight-Knit Classes: You'll attend classes of 15-20 students, giving you an opportunity to build relationships with peers and get face time with your professors.
- No Need for the GRE: DU does not require the GRE for admission to the online MLIS program.
- Get Into the Field Faster: Students can finish the online MLIS in less than two years to enter the workforce faster.
Know Before You Go
- You must complete either a capstone course or an internship.
- Classes are all synchronous.
36%
$58,032
88%
$58,032
- Acceptance Rate
- 71%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,384
- Institution Type
- Private
University of North Carolina at Greensboro — Most Degree Options
- Greensboro, NC
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online MLIS for Specialization
UNCG's online MLIS program makes our list for its big variety of program options, including:
- MLIS with school library licensure
- MLIS with instructional technology licensure
- Licensure-only option in school library
- Licensure-only option in instructional technology
- Licensure-only option in school library supervision
The university provides students with a skillset to go into archives, information and database structure and architecture, information management, and even social media and web management.
Why Attend UNCG Online
- Volunteer Opportunities: The program works with outside information organizations to provide students with volunteer opportunities for real-world experiences.
- Internship Matching: The school's Office of Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Services (OAERS) matches graduate students with internships to support their hands-on training.
- Guest Lecture Series: The Department of Information, Library, and Research Sciences hosts a yearly summit with expert and academic guest speakers, including the former director of the National Archives.
Know Before You Go
- Courses are mainly synchronous.
- UNCG requires GRE scores for admission to this program.
- While UNCG is authorized to offer online education in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, the MLIS program might not satisfy state licensure requirements everywhere.
71%
$ 5,375
76%
$19,505
- Acceptance Rate
- 90%
- Students Enrolled
- 17,743
- Institution Type
- Public
Louisiana State University — Best for Global Learning
- Baton Rouge, LA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online MLIS for International Students
International students in LSU's online MLIS program cite the degree's accessibility as one of the top reasons they chose it. From Italy to the Netherlands, students studying outside of the U.S. say that, despite the distance, they still feel connected and supported by professors and peers.
Why Attend LSU Online
- Affordable Education: Cost per credit hour is $560.
- Join an Online-Exclusive Society: Students can join the Omega Nu Lambda Honors Society for online students.
- Apply With Ease: LSU has a service that collects your past transcripts for free.
Know Before You Go
- Tuition is the same for in-state and out-of-state students.
- Admission requires GRE scores and a 1,000-word statement of purpose.
49%
$4,370
84%
$8,461
- Acceptance Rate
- 74%
- Students Enrolled
- 39,418
- Institution Type
- Public
Dominican University — Best Hybrid Experience
- River Forest, IL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best MLIS for Students Seeking Some In-Person Learning
If you're unsure what type of learning method you thrive in, Dominican offers online synchronous and asynchronous learning, as well as an option for a hybrid on-campus and online experience. Dominican gives you the flexibility to complete your degree in as little as one year or up to six years — ideal for working professionals balancing work and school.
Why Attend Dominican Online
- Tailor Your Degree to Your Interests: Choose from 15 concentrations including digital curation, cybersecurity governance, and health informatics.
- Gain Real-World Experience in School: Dominican offers many opportunities for internships and practicums.
- Dual-Degree Option: Students can pair their MLIS with another relevant program.
Know Before You Go
- Dominican may require GRE scores for this program.
- The school offers a 20% discount for alums
75%
$19,000
79%
$19,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,424
- Institution Type
- Private
San Jose State University — Best Internship Opportunities
- San Jose, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Why We Chose It: Best Online MLIS for Field Experience
SJSU's MLIS program prides itself on its database of over 200 internship programs, including over 90 virtual internships (as of August 2025). Students can search the internship database to filter by in-person or virtual and by pay, semester, organization type, and institution name.
Why Attend SJSU Online
- Take Classes on Your Own Time: SJSU delivers most course content asynchronously.
- Join the MLIS Fellowship: Students who have completed certain courses and have 18 months before graduation can qualify for the MLIS+ Mentored Library Fellowship.
- Get More Out of Your Degree: SJSU offers opportunities to earn microcredentials and certificates from companies like Meta and IBM.
Know Before You Go
- You must complete either an e-portfolio or thesis.
- SJSU does not require the GRE, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, or resume.
65%
$ 7,176
86%
$16,680
- Acceptance Rate
- 80%
- Students Enrolled
- 36,062
- Institution Type
- Public
How We Highlight What Schools Do Best
We analyzed each school’s program to identify qualities that set it apart, prioritizing factors like concentration options, industry connections, accessibility, and experiential learning opportunities. Based on these strengths, we assigned each school a superlative category.
Since many programs share similar offerings and outcomes, our goal is to simplify your college decision-making by highlighting the features most relevant to your needs.
We verified these schools’ facts in August 2025.
Why You Should Get a Master in Library Science
You should get your master’s in library science if you want to:
Meet educational requirements: With this degree, you’ll fulfill the education needed for most librarian roles, especially in public, academic, or special libraries.- Advance your skills: Learn advanced research, cataloging, and archiving skills to advance your career.
- Increased earning potential: Qualify for higher-paying roles and leadership positions like library manager or director.
- Master information management:Learn to organize, preserve, and provide access to information across a variety of platforms.
Benefits of Getting a Master in Library Science Online
According to BestColleges’ 2025 Annual Online Education Trends Report:
Virtually all — 99% — of online master’s students and graduates said they would recommend online education to others.- They also said their online master’s degree pays off, with 95% stating their degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
- 75% said online learning is equal to or better than learning on-campus.
How to Choose the Best Master in Library Science Online Degree for You
When considering which master of library science online program to enroll in, consider its price, length, application requirement, and accreditation status.
You should also worth checking whether financial aid is available, as it can significantly reduce the cost of your degree.
Keep reading for a closer look at these factors and how they can help you choose the right program for you.
How Much Does an Online Library Science Master’s Degree Cost?
Online Master’s Degree Programs, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2020)
$8,590
Avg. Net Price (2020)
$10,308
Source: NCES PowerStats
The median yearly cost for an online library science master’s degree was about $7,305 in 2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). This price tag includes tuition and additional fees. However, your net price could be lower if you qualify scholarships or grants.
With this in mind, make sure to research financial options carefully — 29% of the online students and program graduates we surveyed say they wished they had done more research about cost and financial aid before enrolling in a program. What’s more, 31% say they wished they’d compared more programs.
Find Financial Aid for Your Online Master’s in Library Science Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master in Library Science Online?
Typical # of Credits
40 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
Most master of library science programs require 30-40 credits, which can take you up to two years to complete. However, you can graduate in 1-1.5 years if you enroll in an accelerated program. These programs let you finish sooner by condensing material into shorter terms and allowing you to take more classes at once.
On the other hand, if you want to keep working while studying, you should consider enrolling in a part-time program. These can take longer to complete but offer more flexibility by offering a lighter course load and scheduling options that can better fit around your commitments.
Online Master’s in Library Science Program Application Requirements
Library science graduate programs typically require a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 for admission.
Many programs don’t require you to submit test scores, but some might ask for GRE scores. If the one your applying to does, make sure to check the minimum or recommended scores, since they can vary widely.
Other common application requirements include:
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- Essays
- Bachelor’s degree
- Interviews (depending on the program)
Application fees can range from $65-$90 or more, depending on the school. Fortunately, many programs offer fee waivers based on financial need, so contact the school’s financial aid office to learn more your options.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Programmatic accreditation ensures the educational quality of specific programs within a college or university. It signal that a program meets industry and educational standards that make it trustworthy and valuable in its field.
When comparing programs, only consider accredited ones to make sure your degree will pay off. For example, many employers only hire candidates who graduate from accredited programs.
The American Library Association (ALA) is one of the most prevalent and sought-after accrediting bodies for library science programs.
Cindy Hohl, president of ALA, told BestColleges that ALA accreditation demonstrates a program has undergone a self-evaluation process, been reviewed by its peers, and has met ALA’s standards.
Be sure to explore ALA’s database of accredited programs.
Ask an Expert: How Important Is Library Science Program Accreditation?
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Library Science?
With a master’s in library science, you can pursue a career as a librarian, archivist, curator, teacher, research scientist, or library media specialist.
These roles often earn and above-average pay compared to other occupations. For example, librarians earned an average of $64,320 per year in 2024, according to the BLS. On the other hand, the median annual wage for all workers was $49,500.
| Job | Median Annual Salary, May 2024 | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Public Librarian | $60,510 | Serve communities by planning programs and helping people find books and use resources. |
| School Librarian | $69,880 | Develop lesson plans and teach elementary, middle, and high school students to use library resources. |
| Academic Librarian | $66,260-68,570 | Assist students and faculty at colleges and universities in their research. |
| Special Librarian | $59,810 | Work in law, medicine, or for corporations to serve the information needs of an organization. |
| Archivist | $61,570 | Organize information and materials, assist in research, and create and use databases. |
Is an Online Master’s Degree in Library Science Worth It?
An online master’s in library science degree can improve your career prospects for library and information careers while offering the flexibility to work while learning and being cheaper than an in-person master’s program.
Our research shows that the vast majority of online master’s program graduates found value in their online studies and would recommend it to others.
Additionally, having a master’s degree can qualify you to earn a higher pay. NACE found that people with a master’s degree have a higher mean starting salary compared to those with just a bachelor’s or associate degree.
NACE also reports that 67% of 2023 graduates with a master’s in library science are employed full time. Eighty-six percent are employed overall. This figure includes full-time, part-time, temporary, freelance, or contract work.
Education Beyond a Master in Library Science
If you want to pursue a career in research or as a professor, you may need to pursue an education beyond a master’s degree.
Academic and advanced research positions usually require a doctoral degree. A doctorate in library science can make you eligible for roles like academic library director and college professor or in adjacent fields like information and data.
If you don’t want to broaden your skillset without pursuing a doctorate, you may consider getting a certificate. With a certificate, you could specialize in niche areas like digital curation, digital libraries, law libraries, or health informatics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
To qualify for most library jobs you need a master’s in library science, according to the BLS. With a bachelor’s degree, you can land some library jobs, but a master’s degree opens up the most doors for you.
If you want to work for a school library, you may need an additional teaching certificate depending on your state.
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