If you’re considering a career in library science, you won’t be alone. Accredited online and campus library science degrees are available to help you gain a comprehensive understanding of library and information science.
This article will provide an overview of the degree programs and specializations, job opportunities and outlook, and best value schools with on-campus library science programs.
We will also cover bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in library science.
With this information, you can make an educated decision when selecting the best library science degree for your career goals.
Degree Programs and Specializations
The degree programs and specializations available in library science range from certificates to doctoral degrees.
114 colleges and universities offer library science or school librarian programs, with 6 schools offering certificates, 9 schools offering associate’s degrees, 10 schools offering bachelor’s degrees, and 97 schools offering master’s or advanced degrees.
Degrees may be called Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), or Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS).
Doctoral degrees in library science are also available.
Areas of specialization in library science include:
- Archival and special collections/archives management
- Children and youth services
- Data and asset management
- Digital information management/digital curation
- School library.
Job Opportunities and Outlook
Library science degree holders can work in public and private sectors, such as schools, colleges, universities, and specialized libraries. Many librarians are expected to retire, creating increased job openings.
The job opportunities available to those with a library science degree vary, depending on the sector. In the public sector, librarians can work in schools, universities, or specialized libraries. Private sector opportunities include working in museums, archives, and corporations. With the expected retirement of many librarians, job openings are expected to rise.
Those with a library science degree can specialize in the following areas:
- Archival and Special Collections/Archives Management
- Data and Asset Management
- Digital Information Management/Digital Curation
- School Library
In addition, library science degree holders can pursue advanced degrees in library science, such as a Master’s or a Doctoral degree. With the right qualifications and experience, individuals can pursue leadership positions in the library science field.
Best Value Schools With On-Campus Library Science Programs
Analyzing the best value schools with on-campus library science programs is an important consideration for those looking to pursue a degree in the field. Graduation rate and net price are key indicators of a school’s value, and US News & World Report rankings can provide additional context. The following table provides an overview of the best value schools offering library science degrees. | School | US News & World Report Ranking | Graduation Rate | Net Price | Price per Graduate Credit | |———————————-|———————————–|—————–|————|————————| | University of California-Los Angeles | 16 | 92% | $14,867 | $3,374 | | University of Maine at Augusta | Not Ranked | 40% | $8,993 | $262 | | Appalachian State University | Not Ranked | 68% | $15,193 | $2,179 | | Louisiana State University | Not Ranked | 52% | $9,706 | $367 | | University at Buffalo | 80 | 61% | $13,945 | $2,529 |
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Exploring the range of bachelor’s degree programs available in library science can help students find the best fit for their academic and career goals. Degrees may include:
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University of California-Los Angeles: ALA-accredited BS in Library Informatics
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Informatics and digital information skills
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University of Maine at Augusta: Fully online BS in Information and Library Services
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Flexible and personalized degree plan
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Appalachian State University: AASL-recognized and CAEP-accredited BS in Library Science
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Online coursework and real-world field experience
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Louisiana State University: Fully online BS in Library and Information Science
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Specializations in School Librarianship and Academic Librarianship
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University at Buffalo: ALA-accredited MS in Information and Library Science
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Online course delivery and real-world experience
Master’s and PhD Programs
Evaluating the range of master’s and PhD programs in library science can help students identify the best fit for their academic and career goals.
Some universities that offer master’s programs in library science include:
- University of California-Los Angeles: They offer an ALA-accredited MLIS degree.
- Appalachian State University: They offer an AASL-recognized and CAEP-accredited MLS program.
- Louisiana State University: They offer a fully online MLIS program with specializations in School Librarianship and Academic Librarianship.
- San José State University: They offer an exclusively online MLIS program.
- University at Buffalo: They offer an ALA-accredited MS in Information and Library Science program.
For students interested in pursuing a PhD in library science, options include:
- University of California-Los Angeles: They have a PhD in Information Studies with a focus on social justice and cultural/global awareness.
- University at Buffalo: They have a PhD in Information Science with a research focus.
Cost Comparison of Programs
Subsequently, it is important to compare the cost of different library science programs to determine which one is the best fit for an individual’s budget.
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Bachelor’s Degree Programs
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University of California-Los Angeles
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $12,242
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University of Maine at Augusta
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $5,181
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Appalachian State University
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $5,385
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Master’s and PhD Programs
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University of California-Los Angeles
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $12,242
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Appalachian State University
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $5,385
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Louisiana State University
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $4,514
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Doctoral Programs
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University of California-Los Angeles
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $12,242
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University at Buffalo
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Price per graduate credit hour for in-state residents: $7,868
Pros and Cons of Online Vs. Campus Programs
Comparing the benefits and drawbacks of online and campus library science programs can help inform an individual’s decision.
Online programs offer convenience and flexibility, allowing students to complete assignments and coursework at their own pace.
However, without being on campus, students may lack access to resources such as libraries, laboratories, and faculty.
Campus programs, on the other hand, provide students with a more traditional college experience, along with access to physical resources and faculty, but may require more time and money due to travel and living expenses.
To determine which type of program is best, it is important to consider both the pros and cons of each option.
Conclusion
Library science offers a wide range of degree programs and specializations, with accredited online and campus options to meet the needs of students.
With a library science degree, individuals can pursue a career in the public or private sectors, such as schools, colleges, and specialized libraries.
When selecting the best library science degree for career goals, it is important to consider the cost of the program, job opportunities, and specializations offered.
With this information, individuals can make an informed decision and gain a comprehensive understanding of library and information science.
