2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Kentucky
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Kentucky – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Kentucky
Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Kentucky
Kentucky offers strong educational opportunities for students pursuing Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) degrees. The state’s programs emphasize practical training, digital innovation, and community engagement, preparing graduates for roles in public libraries, schools, academic institutions, and archival centers.
With a mix of online, in-person, and hybrid learning formats, Kentucky MLS programs cater to both working professionals and full-time students. The focus on hands-on learning and regional networking provides a competitive edge for aspiring librarians.
2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Kentucky
Eastern Kentucky University
Richmond, KY - Public 4-Year - eku.edu
Master's - Master of Arts in Education
Concentration: School Librarian - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University's online Master of Arts in Education with a School Librarian concentration equips educators for K-12 library roles, emphasizing collection development, information literacy instruction, and library management. The curriculum integrates educational technology and youth literature, offering flexible online coursework for working professionals. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and teaching certification, with no entrance exam mentioned. This program leads to school librarian certification in many states, featuring competitive tuition and a focus on practical skills for educational settings.
- Online program format
- School Librarian concentration
- Master of Arts degree
- Education-focused curriculum
- Flexible scheduling options
Master's - Master of Arts in Teaching
Concentration: School Librarian - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University provides an online Master of Arts in Teaching with a School Librarian concentration, designed for educators seeking library leadership in K-12 environments. It covers library management, information literacy, and educational technology through flexible online formats, accommodating working professionals. Admission necessitates a bachelor's degree and teaching certification, with no entrance exam specified. The program offers affordable tuition, multiple start dates, and financial aid, focusing on career advancement without requiring standardized tests like the GRE.
- Online program format
- School Librarian concentration
- Master of Arts degree
- Flexible coursework schedule
- Working professional friendly
- Library management focus
- Information literacy training
- Educational technology integration
- K-12 library preparation
- Bachelor's degree required
Master's - Master of Arts in Education
Concentration: Online Learning Design - Online Learning - Visit Website
Eastern Kentucky University's online Master of Arts in Education with an Online Learning Design concentration prepares educators to develop digital learning experiences, focusing on instructional design, technology integration, and curriculum development. The flexible online coursework suits working professionals, with admission requiring a bachelor's degree and teaching certification; no entrance exam is mentioned. Competitive tuition and financial aid are available, equipping graduates for roles in instructional design and educational technology across various settings.
- Online program format
- Master of Arts degree
- Education concentration
- Online Learning Design focus
- Flexible coursework schedule
- Working professional friendly
- Bachelor's degree required
- Teaching certification needed
- Competitive tuition rates
- Financial aid available
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY - Public 4-Year - uky.edu
Master's - Masters Degree (MSLS) in Library & Information Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Kentucky's Master's in Library Science (MSLS) is a 36-credit-hour hybrid program combining online flexibility with in-person options. It prepares students for careers in academic, public, and special libraries, with curriculum covering data science and health information. The program does not require an entrance exam. Core courses and electives allow customization, and it is military-friendly with financial aid available.
- Flexible online & in-person options.
- Specializations in various library fields.
- 36 credit hours to degree completion.
Master's - UK College of Communication and Information
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
University of Kentucky's online Master's in Library Science focuses on digital curation, data management, and user experience, designed for working professionals. This hybrid program offers flexible online learning with no entrance exam required. Students benefit from experienced faculty and networking opportunities, and it is military-friendly with a hospital on campus.
- Flexible online learning.
- In-demand skills training.
- Experienced faculty & networking.
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY - Public 4-Year - wku.edu
Master's - Master in Libraries, Informatics and Technology in Education
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Kentucky University's Master of Science in Libraries, Informatics and Technology in Education (LITE) is a fully online program requiring 30 credit hours, designed to prepare students for roles as library media specialists and educational technology specialists. This program develops essential skills in library science, collection development, cataloging, and public service, offering flexibility for working professionals. While the program does not require an entrance exam, admissions details are available through the Graduate School. The hybrid format combines online coursework with potential in-person elements, making it accessible for career advancement in educational and library settings.
- 100% online, 30 credit hours.
- Prepares for library media, educational technology roles.
- Skills in library science, cataloging, public service.
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Kentucky
Kentucky’s MLS programs offer a balance of affordability and flexibility, making them accessible to a wide range of students.
- University of Kentucky: Offers an accelerated online MLIS program, allowing students to complete their degree in as little as 18 months.
- Western Kentucky University: Provides robust financial aid opportunities, reducing the overall cost for both in-state and out-of-state students.
These programs cater to students looking to complete their degrees quickly and cost-effectively without sacrificing quality.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Kentucky
Kentucky’s MLS programs align with the state’s educational and cultural priorities, offering popular specializations such as:
- School Librarianship: Preparing librarians to support K-12 education with media literacy and technology integration.
- Public Librarianship: Training professionals to serve diverse communities through public library systems.
- Digital Libraries: Equipping graduates to manage online collections and emerging information technologies.
- Archival Studies: Focusing on preserving Kentucky’s rich historical and cultural records.
These specializations reflect Kentucky’s commitment to education, cultural preservation, and community service.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Kentucky?
Graduates of Kentucky’s MLS programs are well-positioned for various career paths, including:
- School Librarian: Managing school media centers and promoting literacy in Kentucky’s K-12 schools.
- Public Librarian: Supporting community engagement through public library services and programs.
- Academic Librarian: Assisting students and faculty with research and resource management at Kentucky universities.
- Archivist: Preserving historical documents and artifacts for museums, libraries, and state archives.
Digital Librarian: Managing digital resources and virtual libraries for academic institutions and organizations.
With Kentucky’s focus on education and cultural heritage, MLS graduates enjoy strong career prospects in a variety of settings.
