Best Online Master’s in Library Science Degrees
Compare the best online master’s in library science programs, explore costs, admissions, ALA accreditation, and find the right MLIS for you.
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2025At a Glance: Top Online MLIS Programs
- #1: Rutgers University — The university offers a self-designed master’s in information pathway, so you can customize your degree and gain the necessary expertise in your preferred specializations.
- #2: University of Maryland — UMD’s proximity to Washington, D.C. means students have unique opportunities for archival studies, with access to governmental and institutional libraries and resources.
- #3: University of Missouri — The university offers a dual degree in library science and public affairs, which prepares you for roles in information policy and governance.
A master’s in library science (MLS) is the standard degree you’ll need if you want to work as a professional librarian. Many employers also prefer — or require — graduates to earn their degrees from programs accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), which evaluates these library and information science programs to ensure they meet the profession’s educational standards.
We rank schools that offer online master’s in library science by considering affordability, student outcomes, reputation, diversity, and social mobility, and include only accredited nonprofit institutions with graduation rates in the top third of online colleges. Read on to find out which programs made the cut.
Top Master’s in Library Science Online Degrees
How We Rank Schools
Rutgers University
- 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
- 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
- 41,725
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Missouri
- 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
93%
$30,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 78%
- Students Enrolled
- 31,559
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Oklahoma
- 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
90%
$25,163
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 30,873
- Institution Type
- Public
University of South Florida
- 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
91%
$19,048
- Acceptance Rate
- 43%
- Students Enrolled
- 49,622
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Denver
- 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
89%
$58,032
- Acceptance Rate
- 77%
- Students Enrolled
- 12,894
- Institution Type
- Private
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
- 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
79%
$19,505
- Acceptance Rate
- 89%
- Students Enrolled
- 18,012
- Institution Type
- Public
Louisiana State University
- 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
85%
$8,461
- Acceptance Rate
- 73%
- Students Enrolled
- 41,705
- Institution Type
- Public
Dominican University
- 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
78%
$19,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 90%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,804
- Institution Type
- Private
San Jose State University
- 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
87%
$16,680
- Acceptance Rate
- 85%
- Students Enrolled
- 37,661
- 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.
Do You Need a Master’s in Library Science to Become a Librarian?
Librarians typically need a master’s degree in library science, preferably from an ALA-accredited program. Some states also require additional licensure or certifications. For example, school librarians might need a teaching certificate.
In addition to these professional credentials, employers look at other types of competencies, such as:
- Computer proficiency
- Interpersonal skills
- Research skills
- Subject matter expertise (for specialized libraries like law and medicine)
Why ALA Accreditation Matters
ALA accreditation means that a master’s program in library and information science has passed a rigorous external review and meets the ALA’s standards for curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes. Graduating from an ALA-accredited MLIS or MLS program matters because many employers require it for professional-level librarian roles.
How to Choose the Right Online MLIS Program
The right online MLIS program should be ALA-accredited and align with your career goals, the specialization you want to focus on, your learning style, and your budget.
Match MLIS Specializations to Your Career
Choose a concentration aligned with the skills and knowledge you need for the job you want. For example:
- Archivist or special collections librarian: Consider archival studies, digital curation, or special collections if you want to work in museums, universities, government agencies, or historical collections. The University of Maryland’s MLIS program stands out for its archival studies specialization, thanks to its proximity to the nation’s capital and the many resources available there.
- School librarian: If you want to work in K-12 settings, choose school library licensure, instructional technology licensure, or library media pathways. The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a wide range of specializations, including those specific to school librarians.
- Public librarian: Look for programs that include community engagement, youth services, and coursework in reference and user services. A self-designed pathway, such as the one offered by Rutgers, can help you gain the well-rounded preparation needed for public librarianship.
- Academic librarian: To work in an academic setting, consider programs that prioritize research methods, information literacy, scholarly communication, and instructional support.
- Digital librarian and data management: Choose concentrations in digital curation, digital libraries, or data science if you want to follow this tech-heavy track.
- Medical, law, or corporate librarian: Pick a program that offers knowledge management coursework and specialized electives designed for these types of industries.
Choose Based on Program Format
Online MLIS programs vary in terms of format. They include:
- Asynchronous programs let you complete weekly coursework at your own pace.
- Synchronous programs require live online meetings.
- Hybrid programs add some in-person coursework or campus experiences (such as the option offered by Dominican University).
- Accelerated formats can help you complete your degree faster, but require a considerable time commitment.
- Part-time programs better fit full-time workers who can only dedicate a few hours to study.
How Much Does a Master’s in Library Science Online Cost?
Online Master’s Degree Programs, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition & Fees (2020)
$8,590
Avg. Net Price (2020)
$10,308
Source: NCES PowerStats
The ranked MLIS programs on our list average about $15,959 for in-state tuition and $26,571 for out-of-state tuition. These figures are not the net prices because they reflect tuition only and do not include books, fees, or other educational expenses, nor do they account for grants or scholarships.
They are also higher than the 2019-2020 NCES averages for online master’s programs ($8,590 in average tuition and fees and $10,308 in average net price), though the gap could be due to differences in the years the data were collected.
Find Financial Aid for Your Online Master’s in Library Science Degree
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online MLIS?
Typical # of Credits
40 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
Most master’s 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, with a lighter course load and scheduling options that better fit around your commitments.
Admission Requirements for an Online MLIS
When applying for an online MLIS program, consider its requirements. Typically, you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Transcripts
- Resume or CV
- Recommendation letters
- Statement of purpose, personal statement, or essay
- GPA of at least 3.0, though some programs review lower GPAs with added materials or conditional requirements.
Some other requirements may include:
- GRE scores: Several of our ranked schools do not require the GRE, but others (like USF) may require or consider GRE scores.
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores: Some programs require English proficiency scores (such as the TOEFL) or other documentation for non-native English speakers.
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 pay above average compared to other occupations. For example, librarians earned an average of $68,270 per year in 2025, according to the BLS. On the other hand, the median annual wage for all workers was $50,980.
| 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 | $64,550 | Organize information and materials, assist in research, and create and use databases. |
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Library Science Programs
There is no practical difference between an MLIS and MLS, except for their titles: an MLIS stands for Master of Library and Information Science, while an MLS stands for Master of Library Science. Nonetheless, employers treat them equally, as both meet the professional requirements for librarian roles (as long as the programs are ALA-certified).
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