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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You may be considering a career as a librarian because you love reading, but this job is about more than just books.
Beyond housing books and other written materials, 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 informations and navigate an ever-changing world.
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.
Master in Library Science Online Program Highlights
- Online master’s programs tend to be less expensive than in-person programs.
- Getting your master’s in library science can make you eligible for higher-paying jobs, such as archivist or library director.
- As a librarian, you can earn an above-average salary of $64,320 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
- When comparing master’s of library science programs, look for accredited universities. The American Library Association is the most prominent accrediting body for library science programs.
Best Master in Library Science Online Degrees of 2025
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Rutgers University
New Brunswick, NJ4 yearCampus + Online
$18,696
$31,800
65%
46%
Why We Chose This School
The library and information science department at Rutgers University is known for its renowned faculty and commitment to innovative research. While it is a competitive school to get into, its high retention and graduation rates make it worth the effort. Attending a master's program at a large school exposes you to a wealth of opportunities.
This program stands out to us in particular because of its stated commitment to the human experience, enhancing people's lives, and sharing information that benefits communities. As a student, you'll be trained in diverse real-world contexts.
Pros
- Gloria Steinem Endowed Chair in Media, Culture and Feminist Studies
- Top university for LGBTQ+ students
- Large alumni network
Cons
- Services are better for on-campus students
- No self-paced online options
$13,674
$32,436
93%
50,617
Public
Yes
$18,696
$31,800
New Brunswick, NJ4 yearCampus + Online
$18,696
$31,800
65%
46%
$13,674
$32,436
93%
50,617
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The library and information science department at Rutgers University is known for its renowned faculty and commitment to innovative research. While it is a competitive school to get into, its high retention and graduation rates make it worth the effort. Attending a master's program at a large school exposes you to a wealth of opportunities.
This program stands out to us in particular because of its stated commitment to the human experience, enhancing people's lives, and sharing information that benefits communities. As a student, you'll be trained in diverse real-world contexts.
Pros
- Gloria Steinem Endowed Chair in Media, Culture and Feminist Studies
- Top university for LGBTQ+ students
- Large alumni network
Cons
- Services are better for on-campus students
- No self-paced online options
University of Maryland
College Park, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$16,238
$35,388
45%
27%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Maryland library and information science online program can prepare you for a career in archives, libraries, and museums. We chose this program because it is flexible for both full-time and part-time working students and has technologically focused, innovative offerings.
You can focus your studies on digital curation, diversity and inclusion, and legal informatics. The program usually takes around two years — or 36 credits — to complete. To apply, you will need to submit three letters of recommendation, transcripts, a statement of purpose, and a supplemental essay.
Pros
- Test scores are optional
- Supportive community
Cons
- You must pick one of seven specializations
- Expensive out-of-state tuition
$9,889
$38,690
96%
40,813
Public
Yes
$16,238
$35,388
College Park, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$16,238
$35,388
45%
27%
$9,889
$38,690
96%
40,813
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Maryland library and information science online program can prepare you for a career in archives, libraries, and museums. We chose this program because it is flexible for both full-time and part-time working students and has technologically focused, innovative offerings.
You can focus your studies on digital curation, diversity and inclusion, and legal informatics. The program usually takes around two years — or 36 credits — to complete. To apply, you will need to submit three letters of recommendation, transcripts, a statement of purpose, and a supplemental essay.
Pros
- Test scores are optional
- Supportive community
Cons
- You must pick one of seven specializations
- Expensive out-of-state tuition
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$10,447
$28,605
77%
54%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Missouri online library science program demonstrates a deep understanding of how libraries and librarians' roles have evolved and changed over time. As a student here, you will learn to engage users, make research-backed decisions, and develop educational programs. This program, which is accredited by the American Library Association, requires a real-world practicum assignment.
You can specialize in archival science, eLearning information, or library media in this program. To apply for this fully online program, you will need a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, a 3.0 GPA, and TOEFL or IELTS scores if you're an international student. GRE test scores are not required.
Pros
- Can combine with with a master's in public affairs
- Variety of required and elective courses
Cons
- High estimated cost
- 39 credits, longer than other programs
$13,000
$33,200
91%
31,041
Public
Yes
$10,447
$28,605
Columbia, MO4 yearCampus + Online
$10,447
$28,605
77%
54%
$13,000
$33,200
91%
31,041
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Missouri online library science program demonstrates a deep understanding of how libraries and librarians' roles have evolved and changed over time. As a student here, you will learn to engage users, make research-backed decisions, and develop educational programs. This program, which is accredited by the American Library Association, requires a real-world practicum assignment.
You can specialize in archival science, eLearning information, or library media in this program. To apply for this fully online program, you will need a bachelor's degree from an accredited school, a 3.0 GPA, and TOEFL or IELTS scores if you're an international student. GRE test scores are not required.
Pros
- Can combine with with a master's in public affairs
- Variety of required and elective courses
Cons
- High estimated cost
- 39 credits, longer than other programs
University of Oklahoma
Norman, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$8,034
$23,820
77%
51%
Why We Chose This School
We chose the University of Oklahoma library and information studies online master's program because of its completion and retention rates and outcomes relative to its overall price.
According to a survey done by the school, 80% of OU online graduates found employment six months after graduation, over 60% reported a salary of $75,000 or more, and 78% said the skills they learned in their program made them more competitive in their field.
As a student in this flexible, online program, you'll develop your leadership skills while participating in diverse coursework and practical experience. You'll have the choice of completing your degree by completing a thesis or portfolio or by passing an exam.
Pros
- Rolling admissions.
- Career support and professional instructors
Cons
- Selective admissions
- Tuition waivers don't apply to online programs
$5,070
$22,140
89%
29,166
Public
Yes
$8,034
$23,820
Norman, OK4 yearCampus + Online
$8,034
$23,820
77%
51%
$5,070
$22,140
89%
29,166
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
We chose the University of Oklahoma library and information studies online master's program because of its completion and retention rates and outcomes relative to its overall price.
According to a survey done by the school, 80% of OU online graduates found employment six months after graduation, over 60% reported a salary of $75,000 or more, and 78% said the skills they learned in their program made them more competitive in their field.
As a student in this flexible, online program, you'll develop your leadership skills while participating in diverse coursework and practical experience. You'll have the choice of completing your degree by completing a thesis or portfolio or by passing an exam.
Pros
- Rolling admissions.
- Career support and professional instructors
Cons
- Selective admissions
- Tuition waivers don't apply to online programs
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,350
$19,048
41%
67%
Why We Chose This School
Graudates of the University of South Florida library science program highly rate the program's capabilities with technology, mastery of program outcomes, and faculty. Several graduate assistantship programs affiliated with the program boast competitive and robust benefits packages.
This program is academically rigorous: You must maintain at least a "B" grade average, and no more than two "C" grades will be accepted. The majority of students graduate in 2-3 years.
In this program, you will learn the skills necessary to be a library science professional through six required core courses as well as elective course options.
Pros
- High retention and graduation rates
- Advisory council of experts for the master's in library science program
Cons
- Low starting salaries six years after entry
- Low four-year completion rate for low- and middle-income students
$3,647
$11,963
92%
48,566
Public
Yes
$8,350
$19,048
Tampa, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,350
$19,048
41%
67%
$3,647
$11,963
92%
48,566
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Graudates of the University of South Florida library science program highly rate the program's capabilities with technology, mastery of program outcomes, and faculty. Several graduate assistantship programs affiliated with the program boast competitive and robust benefits packages.
This program is academically rigorous: You must maintain at least a "B" grade average, and no more than two "C" grades will be accepted. The majority of students graduate in 2-3 years.
In this program, you will learn the skills necessary to be a library science professional through six required core courses as well as elective course options.
Pros
- High retention and graduation rates
- Advisory council of experts for the master's in library science program
Cons
- Low starting salaries six years after entry
- Low four-year completion rate for low- and middle-income students
University of Denver
Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online
$55,260
$55,260
71%
36%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Denver library and information science program is flexible and accessible — you can start at a time that works best for you, complete quickly, and access coursework and lectures online anytime. Plus, it doesn't require a GRE test score to apply.
The program develops close relationships between students and its experienced faculty. The online courses will have video coursework created by faculty throughout the week, and then you will meet in small group sessions to discuss the material. To complete, you will choose either a capstone project or an internship.
Pros
- Four start dates a year
- Can graduate in 21 months
- One-on-one faculty support
Cons
- Higher net price
- Small number of faculty
$55,260
$55,260
88%
13,384
Private
Yes
$55,260
$55,260
Denver, CO4 yearCampus + Online
$55,260
$55,260
71%
36%
$55,260
$55,260
88%
13,384
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Denver library and information science program is flexible and accessible — you can start at a time that works best for you, complete quickly, and access coursework and lectures online anytime. Plus, it doesn't require a GRE test score to apply.
The program develops close relationships between students and its experienced faculty. The online courses will have video coursework created by faculty throughout the week, and then you will meet in small group sessions to discuss the material. To complete, you will choose either a capstone project or an internship.
Pros
- Four start dates a year
- Can graduate in 21 months
- One-on-one faculty support
Cons
- Higher net price
- Small number of faculty
University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$5,219
$18,937
90%
69%
Why We Chose This School
The library and information science master's degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a three-year, 36-credit program that offers several licenses and certifications and is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).
Through this program, you can become a public school librarian, an academic librarian, or an archive manager. The school offers two online career days during the academic year where you can learn from and network with career professionals.
You'll be joined in this program by students from all backgrounds, and you'll receive top-of-the-line teaching from a diverse group of faculty and benefit from small class sizes. You'll also complete a capstone as part of the program.
Pros
- Offers a student chapter of the ALA
- Interdisciplinary program
Cons
- Low graduation rate
- Low completion rate for low- and middle-income students
$4,422
$19,582
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
$5,219
$18,937
Greensboro, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$5,219
$18,937
90%
69%
$4,422
$19,582
76%
17,743
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The library and information science master's degree at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro is a three-year, 36-credit program that offers several licenses and certifications and is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA).
Through this program, you can become a public school librarian, an academic librarian, or an archive manager. The school offers two online career days during the academic year where you can learn from and network with career professionals.
You'll be joined in this program by students from all backgrounds, and you'll receive top-of-the-line teaching from a diverse group of faculty and benefit from small class sizes. You'll also complete a capstone as part of the program.
Pros
- Offers a student chapter of the ALA
- Interdisciplinary program
Cons
- Low graduation rate
- Low completion rate for low- and middle-income students
Louisiana State University
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,132
$9,132
74%
48%
Why We Chose This School
The Louisiana State University online master's in library and information science is a 36-credit program with credits costing $555 per credit hour. The program is taught by faculty with doctorates and professional experience and is accredited by the American Library Association.
To apply, you'll need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, and you must submit your resume and a 1,000-word statement of purpose.
This degree will give you a foundation in information management, research, and organization. You can earn an online graduate certificate in archival studies or an online graduate certificate in records and information management through their elective courses. As a student in this program, you'll be eligible to join the Omega Nu Lambda Honor Society.
Pros
- Only ALA-accredited program in the state
- High overall student completion and retention rates
Cons
- Intense summer program and GPA requirements
- No specialization areas
$8,038
$24,731
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
$9,132
$9,132
Baton Rouge, LA4 yearCampus + Online
$9,132
$9,132
74%
48%
$8,038
$24,731
84%
39,418
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The Louisiana State University online master's in library and information science is a 36-credit program with credits costing $555 per credit hour. The program is taught by faculty with doctorates and professional experience and is accredited by the American Library Association.
To apply, you'll need a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, and you must submit your resume and a 1,000-word statement of purpose.
This degree will give you a foundation in information management, research, and organization. You can earn an online graduate certificate in archival studies or an online graduate certificate in records and information management through their elective courses. As a student in this program, you'll be eligible to join the Omega Nu Lambda Honor Society.
Pros
- Only ALA-accredited program in the state
- High overall student completion and retention rates
Cons
- Intense summer program and GPA requirements
- No specialization areas
Dominican University
River Forest, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$19,900
$19,900
80%
73%
Why We Chose This School
Dominican University's master's in library science can be delivered in an online or hybrid format, and the online option can be delivered synchronous or asynchronous. Students can concentrate in 15 different areas, which they can also take as stand-alone certificates.
Students will complete practicums and internships to gain hands-on experience. At Dominican, you'll benefit from a collaborative environment and small class sizes.
To apply, submit an online application, an official transcript, and a 500-word personal essay. Letters of recommendation are not required for students with a GPA above 2.7, and applicants with a GPA below 2.7 GPA can submit their GRE score.
Pros
- Can graduate in one year
- Dual degrees offered
Cons
- High tuition rate
- Low earnings six years after entry
$35,850
$35,850
79%
3,424
Private
Yes
$19,900
$19,900
River Forest, IL4 yearCampus + Online
$19,900
$19,900
80%
73%
$35,850
$35,850
79%
3,424
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Dominican University's master's in library science can be delivered in an online or hybrid format, and the online option can be delivered synchronous or asynchronous. Students can concentrate in 15 different areas, which they can also take as stand-alone certificates.
Students will complete practicums and internships to gain hands-on experience. At Dominican, you'll benefit from a collaborative environment and small class sizes.
To apply, submit an online application, an official transcript, and a 500-word personal essay. Letters of recommendation are not required for students with a GPA above 2.7, and applicants with a GPA below 2.7 GPA can submit their GRE score.
Pros
- Can graduate in one year
- Dual degrees offered
Cons
- High tuition rate
- Low earnings six years after entry
San Jose State University
San Jose, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,176
$16,680
80%
71%
Why We Chose This School
We chose the master of library and information science at San Jose State University because of its commitment to being at the forefront of technology and because it provides all the same resources to its online students as its in-person students. Online students in this program receive strong academic and career support.
You'll complete an e-portfolio or thesis. Most courses are delivered asynchronously. The master's program also offers Coursera Career Academy micro-credentials and certificates for free.
Pros
- Internship opportunities
- 100% online support services
Cons
- Low student graduation
- 43 units to complete
$5,742
$17,622
86%
36,062
Public
Yes
$7,176
$16,680
San Jose, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,176
$16,680
80%
71%
$5,742
$17,622
86%
36,062
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
We chose the master of library and information science at San Jose State University because of its commitment to being at the forefront of technology and because it provides all the same resources to its online students as its in-person students. Online students in this program receive strong academic and career support.
You'll complete an e-portfolio or thesis. Most courses are delivered asynchronously. The master's program also offers Coursera Career Academy micro-credentials and certificates for free.
Pros
- Internship opportunities
- 100% online support services
Cons
- Low student graduation
- 43 units to complete
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
58% said their classes included assignments they could use to explore future career options.- 56% said their classes included assignments they could relate to their future jobs.
- 52% said their classes included opportunities to build their professional networks.
- 78% said an online learning environment is equal to or better than learning on campus.
- 97% said they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
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?
Median Tuition & Fees (2020)
$7,305
Median Net Price (2020)
$4,794
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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