Best Master's in Library & Information Science Programs Online 2025

Find the best online MLS and MLIS degrees for a rewarding career in library and information sciences

Master’s in Library Science (MLS) vs. Master’s of Library & Information Science (MLIS)

When choosing an advanced degree in library science, students may wonder about the differences between a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) and a Master’s in Library & Information Science (MLIS). While these degrees are similar and often overlap, they can have nuanced distinctions in focus and career outcomes. The MLS generally centers on librarianship and library management, equipping graduates to work directly in various library settings. Meanwhile, the MLIS expands to include broader information science areas, such as data management, archives, and digital libraries, which may appeal to students interested in roles beyond traditional libraries.

For those passionate about the field of information science, an MLIS degree provides flexible, comprehensive training to prepare for various library and information roles. With specializations in Librarianship, Records Management, and more, these accredited online programs cater to students seeking careers in diverse settings, from legal libraries to digital archives. Explore the advantages of earning an MLIS degree online and discover the best program to fit your goals.

MLS/MLIS Degree Specialties

Below are the degree specialties for MLIS programs.

Degree Type	Description	Duration
Master’s Degree in Children Services	Centers on developing library programs, resources, and services tailored to young readers and families, often in public or school libraries.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Cultural Heritage Information	Emphasizes the preservation of cultural heritage materials, such as artifacts, manuscripts, and digital records, for institutions and research facilities.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Digital Libraries	Focuses on building, managing, and preserving digital resources, including online collections, databases, and digital archives.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Law Librarianship	Equips students with skills to work at law firms, conduct legal research, and work in court systems.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in School Librarianship	Trains students to manage school libraries and support K-12 educational programs, focusing on literacy development and resource organization.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Records Management	Focuses on the organization, preservation, and access of records within organizations, with an emphasis on digital records management.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Archival Studies	Focuses on preserving and managing historical documents, digital records, and archives, preparing students for roles in museums, archives, and heritage centers.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Academic Librarianship	Prepares students for roles in college and university libraries, where they support research, instruction, and resource management for students and faculty.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Public Librarianship	Equips students with skills to work in community libraries, engaging with the public through programs, services, and resource management.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Book Arts	Centers on the history, preservation, and creation of books, including bookbinding, conservation, and the artistry involved in book production.	1-2 Years
Master’s Degree in Music Librarianship	Prepares students to manage music collections, resources, and archives, supporting musicians, educators, and researchers in various institutions.	1-2 Years

Exploring MLS and MLIS Degree Specializations

These specialized areas of study allow students to tailor their education to align with specific professional paths, from managing traditional library collections to navigating complex digital ecosystems.

One popular specialization is Children & Youth Services, which prepares students to support literacy and learning for young audiences through programs, collections, and services in schools and public libraries. Similarly, School Librarianship equips graduates to work in K-12 environments, often meeting certification requirements to enhance curriculum integration and digital literacy initiatives.

For those interested in the digital realm, Digital Libraries focuses on managing online collections and enhancing user accessibility, while Archival Studies teaches students to preserve historical records and cultural artifacts. The closely related field of Cultural Heritage Information Management emphasizes safeguarding and curating materials critical to preserving diverse cultural histories.

Specializations such as Law Librarianship and Records Management prepare students for niche roles in legal environments and institutional data management, respectively. Academic Librarianship, on the other hand, trains graduates to support scholarly research and manage collections in higher education institutions.

Other unique tracks include Music Librarianship, which focuses on managing collections of musical scores and recordings, and Public Librarianship, designed for those aiming to lead community engagement and literacy initiatives in public libraries. Additionally, fields like Special Librarianship and Information Technology and Data Science provide opportunities in corporate, medical, and technological environments, emphasizing specialized research and data management.

By selecting a specialization, MLS and MLIS students can align their education with their career aspirations, ensuring they graduate with the skills and expertise required to thrive in their chosen field. Whether managing cultural heritage or innovating in digital library systems, these programs pave the way for impactful and fulfilling careers.

Top Ranked MLIS Degree Programs in the United States in 2025

The best Master’s in Library & Information Science degrees available for students, ranked for 2025. Learn more about our Rankings Methodology here. You can also search through schools that offer different MLS/MLIS degrees by state.

Rank	School Name	Degree	City	State	Tuition & Fees	Graduation Rate
1	Simmons University	Master of Library and Information Science	Boston	MA	$20,800 - $28,100	70%
2	Chicago State University	Master of Library and Information Science	Chicago	IL	$5,500 - $7,400	30%
3	Drexel University	University of Denver MLIS	Philadelphia	PA	$33,400 - $45,200	80%
4	University at Buffalo	Information and Library Science, MS School Librarianship, MS	Buffalo	NY	$15,700 - $21,300	70%
5	St. John Fisher University	Master's degree in Library Science Online M.S. in Library Media	Rochester	NY	$24,100 - $32,600	70%
6	University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus	Online Master of Library and Information Studies School of Library and Information Studies	Norman	OK	$19,200 - $26,000	80%
7	Texas Woman's University	Master of Library Science Degree (MLS) School of Library & Information Studies	Denton	TX	$9,900 - $13,400	50%
8	University at Albany	MS Information Science MS Information Science School Library	Albany	NY	$15,100 - $20,400	70%
9	University of Arizona	Library and Information Science Master of Arts Online Master of arts in Library & Information Science Campus Accelerated MLIS Program (BA in Information Science & eSociety)	Tucson	AZ	$14,500 - $19,600	70%
10	Kutztown University of Pennsylvania	Master of Library Science (MLS) Master of Library Science (MLS) without certification	Kutztown	PA	$17,700 - $23,900	60%

Master’s in Library & Information Science Degrees

When choosing an advanced degree in library science, students may wonder about the differences between a MLS and a MLIS degree. While these degrees are similar and often overlap, they can have nuanced distinctions in focus and career outcomes. The MLS generally centers on librarianship and library management, equipping graduates to work directly in various library settings. Meanwhile, the MLIS expands to include broader information science areas, such as data management, archives, and digital libraries, which may appeal to students interested in roles beyond traditional libraries.

Online MLS/MLIS Admissions Requirements

Admission requirements for online MLIS programs may vary by institution, but generally include the following:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
Minimum GPA (often 3.0 or higher)
Statement of purpose explaining career goals
Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3)
Resume or CV detailing relevant experience
English proficiency test scores for international students (e.g., TOEFL or IELTS)

Some programs may also waive GRE requirements or require additional documentation, so prospective students should check specific program guidelines.