MLS Degree vs. MLIS Degree: What is the Difference?

Find the best online MLIS program for your schedule and career goals

MLS vs. MLIS: Choosing the Right Master’s in Library Science for Your Career

When deciding between a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) and a Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS), understanding the differences and unique benefits of each program is essential. While both degrees prepare students for careers in librarianship and information management, their focus, curriculum, and career applications vary. This guide provides a comprehensive comparison to help prospective students make the right decision based on their career goals and interests.

What Is an MLS Degree?

The Master’s in Library Science (MLS) is a traditional degree designed for students pursuing careers in public, academic, or school libraries. The program focuses on foundational library science skills, including cataloging, reference services, collection management, and literacy programming.

An MLS degree emphasizes the practical aspects of librarianship, preparing graduates to work directly with communities, students, or library patrons. Coursework typically includes subjects like information organization, library management, and user services. Some programs also offer electives in children’s librarianship or public library administration for students who want to specialize.

Key Features of MLS Programs:

Core Focus: Foundational librarianship skills like cataloging, resource management, and reader advisory services.
Career Paths: Public librarians, school media specialists, and academic librarians.
Best Fit For: Students interested in traditional library roles with a strong emphasis on community and educational services.

What Is an MLIS Degree?

The Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree expands upon traditional library science principles by integrating information science and modern technologies. MLIS programs prepare students for a wide range of careers, not just in libraries but also in digital archives, corporate information management, and specialized sectors like healthcare and law.

This degree emphasizes technology, data, and digital resource management. Students often delve into areas such as metadata, user experience design, and digital curation. Many MLIS programs also offer specializations, including digital libraries, archival studies, law librarianship, and records management, making it a versatile choice for students seeking broader opportunities.

Key Features of MLIS Programs:

Core Focus: Digital information management, metadata, and emerging technologies in information science.
Career Paths: Digital archivists, corporate information managers, and specialized librarians in fields like law and healthcare.
Best Fit For: Students interested in advanced technology integration, data science, or information governance roles beyond traditional libraries.

MLS vs. MLIS: Key Differences

While MLS and MLIS degrees share foundational elements, they diverge in focus, curriculum, and career applications.

Feature	MLS Degree	Employers
Primary Focus	Traditional librarianship	Integration of library science with information science and technology
Career Scope	Primarily public, school, and academic libraries	Libraries, corporate sectors, digital archives, and specialized industries
Specializations	Centered around traditional librarian roles	Wide-ranging, including technology, archives, and legal librarianship
Technology Integration	Library databases and records management	Emphasis on emerging technologies and digital management of records and information
Degree Titles	Master’s in Library Science	Master’s in Library & Information Science

MLS vs. MLIS: Curriculum Comparison

Both MLS and MLIS programs include foundational coursework, but MLIS programs often offer a broader selection of electives that emphasize technology and specialization.

MLS Core Curriculum:

Cataloging and Metadata
Library and Information Services
Collection Management
Children’s or Youth Librarianship
Literacy Development

MLIS Core Curriculum:

Digital Resource Management
Information Policy and Governance
Data Analytics for Libraries
Metadata and User Experience
Digital Preservation and Curation

The curriculum for MLIS programs typically includes advanced topics like data science and digital archiving, preparing graduates for roles in technology-driven fields. MLS programs remain more focused on traditional library functions, though both degrees share foundational library science coursework.

Choosing the Right Degree for Your Goals

Deciding between an MLS and an MLIS depends on your career aspirations and interests.

Choose an MLS if you:

Aspire to work in public, school, or academic libraries.
Prefer a traditional role focused on literacy, community service, and educational programming.
Value direct engagement with patrons and resource management

Choose an MLIS if you:

Are interested in digital archives, corporate roles, or information governance.
Want a career that combines technology with information science..
Plan to specialize in niche fields like law, healthcare, or records management

Employer Perspectives on MLS and MLIS Degrees

Both MLS and MLIS degrees are widely recognized and respected by employers. The choice between the two typically comes down to the specific job role and the skills required. For traditional library positions, an MLS is sufficient and highly regarded. However, for technology-driven roles or specialized positions, employers often prefer candidates with an MLIS due to their training in advanced information science and digital tools.

MLS and MLIS Degrees Education Path

Both MLS and MLIS degrees offer valuable pathways to rewarding careers in library and information science. While the MLS focuses on traditional librarianship, the MLIS provides a more versatile education that extends into emerging fields. Prospective students should consider their career goals, interests, and the evolving demands of the library and information science profession when choosing between the two.