Best Online Master's in Library Science Degrees

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $348
Out-of-State | $348

Credits to Graduate: 39

The University of South Florida's MA in library and information science has held continuous ALA accreditation since 1974. The program's six core courses examine foundational aspects of library science, including research methods, library administration, collection development, and information organization. Learners supplement core coursework with technology and library science electives covering a combined 21 credits.

With 100% online, asynchronous delivery, the program optimizes flexibility and convenience. The degree culminates with a portfolio presentation, which replaces the need for a comprehensive final examination. 

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $2,197
Out-of-State | $2,197

Credits to Graduate: 31

The University of Southern California's online master of management in library and information science is hosted through the institution's Marshall School of Business, which holds accreditation from AACSB International.

The online program's curriculum is asynchronous. In addition to a survey of library science essentials, coursework covers business concepts including marketing, accounting, and strategic management. Independent research, internship, and capstone requirements round out the program.

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $889
Out-of-State | $889

Credits to Graduate: 63 quarter credits

The University of Washington's online master of library and information science program emphasizes applied information organization and design theory. Coursework guides students to approach library science through a user-focused lens, including ethics of information and libraries' social impacts.

Students primarily engage in asynchronous learning, though some courses and components may require real-time participation. UW also developed the online program for part-time students. Most learners graduate in three years.

According to the program, recent cohorts of students — which began their coursework in 2018, 2019, or 2020 — boast graduation rates between 84% and 90%. 

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
San Jose Area | $1,069
In-State | $525
Out-of-State | $525

Credits to Graduate: 43

San Jose State University's online master of library and information science program began in 1928. In 2009, the degree shifted to a 100% online delivery model. Courses are mainly asynchronous with occasional synchronous elements.

The curriculum covers 16 required units and 27 elective units. Both core and elective coursework maintains a technological focus, teaching students best practices for contemporary libraries.

According to the school, employment rates for library science students who graduated between fall 2021 and spring 2023 range from 83% to 89%.

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $455
Out-of-State | $658

Credits to Graduate: 36

The University of North Texas' online library science master's program holds particular appeal for emerging specialists. Students can choose from six concentrations: archival studies and imaging technology; information organization; knowledge management; and law, music, or youth librarianship. These targeted concentrations enhance the acquisition of specific skills and prepare learners for focused career paths.

Online sessions maximize flexibility for learners balancing studies with part- or full-time employment. Degree-seekers who study full time can graduate in just one year. 

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $535
Out-of-State | $535

Credits to Graduate: 39

The University of Missouri's online master of library and information science program views library and information science as a dynamic field undergoing profound change in the technological age. This philosophy informs the program's design.

Students can take coursework in a variety of emphasis areas, including youth services, archival studies, digital humanities, and public librarianship. For students who already hold Missouri teaching certification, the program also offers a school library media concentration that meets state requirements for an add-on certificate in this subfield.

The 100% online coursework combines asynchronous and synchronous modalities. However, the degree also requires an in-person practicum experience.

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $900
Out-of-State | $900

Credits to Graduate: 37

The University of Arizona's online master of arts in library and information science features an interdisciplinary curriculum emphasizing foundational principles, information architecture, and advanced research methods. Learners can specialize their degree with five concentrations: academic librarianship, archives and special collections, digital curation, law librarianship and legal information, and public librarianship. 

The online program culminates in a capstone experience — which includes an in-person internship — and an electronic portfolio. Students usually complete the program in two years of full-time study. 

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $828
Out-of-State | $1,805

Credits to Graduate: 36

The University of Maryland's online master of library and information science program differentiates itself with unique specialization opportunities. The degree's six concentration options include archives and digital curation, diversity and inclusion, intelligence and analytics, legal informatics, school library, and youth experience. Learners can also design their own specialization through an individualized program plan.

Coursework flexibility supports learners working part time or full time. Required application materials include a statement of purpose, academic transcripts, a resume or CV, three letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. GMAT/GRE scores are optional.

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $572
Out-of-State | $692

Credits to Graduate: 36

The University of South Carolina's online master of library and information science program includes a six-course core covering library science fundamentals and technological proficiencies. Core coursework develops advanced understandings of information organization and access, community engagement, and research skills. The remaining six courses are electives, allowing learners to customize the degree to their interests. Previous elective options have included classes about storytelling, diversity, archiving, and library planning.

Students can also pursue school library certification within the program. This option requires an in-person library practicum. Enrollees with no teacher certification must complete an additional 15 credits in education and a second internship. 

According to an alumni survey, respondents who graduated during the 2020-21 school year reported 92% full-time employment rates, including 80% in the library and information sciences field. 

Programmatic Accreditation: American Library Association

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $264
Out-of-State | $994

Credits to Graduate: 36

Eastern Carolina University's online master of library science degree features ALA accreditation, along with official endorsements from the American Association of School Librarians and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. The program offers asynchronous, self-paced, 100% online delivery.

Learners can select specializations in three areas: academic library, public library, and school library media. All three concentrations emphasize practical, hands-on learning with a focus on contemporary library and information services technologies.