The 2021 Guide to Masters in Library Science Online Programs (MLS)

Appalachian State University offers a part-time, online opportunity for students to receive their Master of Library Science. The online format has synchronous requirements (one evening per week per class, students join their classmates and instructor for a three-hour class in real-time in virtual classroom) and asynchronous requirements (coursework completed on the student's own schedule). The program takes about two years to complete

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 828-262-3113
• Email address: becnelke@appstate.edu
• Appalachian State University's website

Clarion University offers a fully online Master of Science in Library Science. Students can specialize in Information and Library Science, Reference and User Services, or School Library Media. Before completion of the program, students will complete an apprenticeship to solidify their knowledge within their chosen program. Each concentration emphasizes the digital growth of library information.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 814 393 2383
• Email address: LLILLARD@CLARION.EDU
• Website: Clarion University's website

Dominican University offers a Master of Library and Information Science where students can concentrate in a variety of areas. Each area can be completed full or part-time with students finishing from one to six years. Dominican University has multiple options for the delivery of the coursework so the student can best benefit with their current schedule. The programs are flexible and offer small classes where students can work closely with faculty and other peers.

Contact Information:

• Email address: asanche2@dom.edu
• Dominican University's website

East Carolina University offers a fully online Master of Library Science. This program is for students seeking employment as a librarian and information professional in schools, universities, community colleges, public libraries, or related settings. Students can concentrate in academic library, public library, and school library media.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 252-328-2787
• Email address: dotsonl@ecu.edu

Emporia State University offers a Master of Library Science in a non-traditional format. There is a combination of online courses and face to face requirements. Typically, a student is in a weekend session 4-6 weekends during a semester. Four semesters is the minimum amount of time it takes to complete this degree. Students will also complete the program in a cohort where they will work hand-in-hand with peers on different projects.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 620-341-5203
• Email address: sliminfo@emporia.edu

Fort Hayes State University offers a Master of Science in Education where a student can concentrate on Library Media Specialist or an endorsement for Library Media Specialist. Students who apply for the endorsement must hold a current teaching license, a master’s degree, and complete 6 graduate courses with a GPA of 3.25. Those seeking the Library Media Specialist will need to complete a master’s degree before applying for licensure. A practicum is also required to complete the program.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 785-628-4283
• Email: krhernandez@fhsu.edu
• Fort Hayes University's website

Indiana University offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Age. Within this degree, students can choose one of the many concentrations offered. Each concentration requires 39 hours of core courses with changes in internship, workshops, and other capstone options. Courses will focus on the information age and the changes in the digital age of library sciences. 

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 317-278-4636
• Email: soicindy@iupui.edu
• Indiana State University's website

Louisiana University offers a Master of Library and Information Science that is fully online. Students may choose from a number of specializations when completing this degree. Each one does require an internship in order to graduate. This master’s degree allows for students to work in librarianship as well as in school and colleges. There is also a great deal of flexibility when deciding careers after completion of LSU’s program.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 225-578-1480
• Email: carolbarry@lsu.edu
• Louisiana State University's website

Murray State University offers a Master’s of Education in Library Media. This online program can be completed in 30-40 hours of coursework (depending on entry credentials). Their media programs focus on the growing technology and skill set needed to be a librarian in today’s schools.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 270-809-2760
• Murray State University's website

NC Central University offers a Master in Library Science that is fully online with the exception of the practicum course required for completion. Students can choose from one of seven tracks to study, ranging from academic or digital librarian to media coordinators and records managers. There are six core courses, plus specialization and elective courses required for completion.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 919-530-7585
• Email: SLIS-Online@nccu.edu
• NC Central University's website

Northeastern State University offers a 33-hour, fully online Master of Science in Library Media and Information Technology. This program is ideal for working adults who need a program that is convenient for working adults to obtain their degree. Students will learn to create an effective library media program in a school setting and in collaboration with all school administrators, faculty, and staff.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: (918) 449-6451
• Email: bakera@nsuok.edu
• Northeastern State University's website

Sam Houston State University offers a fully online Master of Library Science where students will prepare for a career in school librarianship. Students will learn the latest advancements in technology as well as prepare faculty and staff for these changes. For completion of the program, each student must also complete a portfolio as a final product.

Contact Information:

• Phone number: 936.294.4857
• Email: COEGradHub@shsu.edu
• Sam Houston State University's website

San Jose State University offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Science where students can concentrate on a number of pathways when completing the program. For each pathway, students will work closely with an advisor and focus on the core competencies of a degree in library science. An internship is also required for completion of the program.

Contact Information:

• Email: linda.main@sjsu.edu
• San Jose State University's website

St. John’s University offers a Master of Science in Library and Information Science. Students can choose from specializations offered and complete an electronic portfolio at the end of the program. Students can work in schools but also museums, scientific institutions, and on college campuses. If a student choses, they can complete an internship for world experience in their specialization.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 844-393-1677
• Email: gradhelp@stjohns.edu
• St. John’s University's website

Texas A&M University at Commerce offers a Master’s in Education Technology - either as a Master of Education or Master of Science. Both programs are 36 hours and prepare students to become librarians in the state of Texas. The programs focus on the philosophy of library science and literacy promotion. Students should have a GPA of 2.75, 3.0 on the last 60 hours of bachelor work, or a conferred US Master’s degree with a GPA of 3.0.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 903-468-3142
• Email: Jennifer.Faunce@tamuc.edu
• Texas A&M University - Commerce's website

Texas Woman’s University offers a fully online program in library science. Students can complete a Master of Arts or Master of Library Science. Within each degree plan, students can choose a specialization that allows them to work in a variety of library areas. Students will learn basic library dynamics as well as library management and information retrieval. In addition, students must complete a practicum and a Final Exam portfolio.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 940.898.2602
• Email: slis@twu.edu
• Texas Woman’s University's website

The University of Alabama offers a Master of Library and Information Sciences in a fully online format. There are many concentrations to choose from as students pursue their degree. Students are required to complete an internship, but they can also choose a thesis or non-thesis option. Throughout the program, students will study traditional library practices as well as learn information management techniques that help shape library sciences today.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 800-467-0227
• University of Alabama's website

The University of Buffalo offers a Master of Science in Information and Library Science. This accredited program offers students options for specialization as well as a variety of learning experiences. Students will complete a practicum as well as a digital portfolio.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 716-645-2412
• Email: vmnesset@buffalo.edu
• University of Buffalo's website

The University of Central Missouri offers a fully online Master of Science in Library Science and Information Services. Through the program, students will learn leadership skills that will help preside over school libraries as well as research and technology skills. Students will also improve their current teaching pedagogy while developing ideas and practices they can use in their current classrooms.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 660-543-4910
• Email: burress@ucmo.edu
• University of Central Missouri's website

The University of Colorado - Denver offers a fully online Master of Arts in Information and Learning Technologies with tracks in Instructional Design, eLearning, and K-12 Teaching. Students will learn ways to keep up with the demands of technology and information as well as assist students and colleagues with the ever present changes. Upon completion, students can work as librarians, university instructors, coaches, designers, and consultants.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 303-315-6300
• Email: education@ucdenver.edu.
• University of Colorado - Denver's website

The University of Houston at Clear Lake offers a Master of Science in School Library and Information Science. This fully online program can be completed full or part-time with students becoming licensed librarians in the state of Texas. Students will learn to work closely with elementary, middle, and high school teachers to integrate technology, promote school-wide literacy, and understand the ethical use of resources.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 281-283-2500
• Email: admissions@uhcl.edu
• University of Houston - Clear Lake's website

The University of Illinois offers a fully online program for students to receive a Master of Science in Library or Information Science. To complete the program, students must choose a capstone that best fits their career path. Students can choose from a practicum, independent study, or thesis; students choose based on their professional goals. Students can work in schools, on college campuses, or even health-related fields.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 217-300-9111
• Email: ischool-apply@illinois.edu
• University of Illinois's website

The University of Kentucky offers a fully online program for a Master of Science in Library Science. Students can take the courses full or part-time as it fits with their schedules. For completion of the degree, students can enroll in a practicum or have the option to study abroad. Students also have the opportunity to choose from a variety of concentrations as well as a chance to intern in Washington, D.C.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 859.218.0956
• Email: infosci@uky.edu
• University of Kentucky's website

The University of Maryland offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Science. On average, it takes students 2.2 years to complete the program if doing it part-time. Students can also chose to participate in a field study or complete a thesis as a capstone project for this degree. Students will be able to lead, advocate, promote, and contribute as they lead schools and their communities to the growing needs in information management and literacy.

Contact Information:

• Email: mlisprogram@umd.edu
• University of Maryland's website

The University of Missouri offers an online program for a Master of Science in Library and Information Science. Students can take the program entirely online. Students who enroll part-time finish in three to four years where full-time students can finish in two years. The coursework will cover changes in information sciences, technology, and management as well as explore E-learning, digital humanities, and archival services.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 573-882-4546
• Email: sislt@missouri.edu
• University of Missouri's website

The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Services. Students can choose licensure in School Library or Instructional Technology. In lieu of a thesis, students will complete a capstone project at the end of their coursework. Students will be able to work in schools or with non-profit organizations.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 336.334.3477
• Email: lis@uncg.edu
• University of North Carolina - Greensboro's website

The University of North Texas offers a Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies with eight concentrations for students to choose. Each requires core courses, major course requirements, and 21 credits of electives. In addition, students will complete a field experience with six months of professional experience in a paid position or a 120-hour practicum/internship in a library or information-centered environment.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 940-565-2445
• Email: LIS-Chair@unt.edu
• University of North Texas's website

The University of Northern Iowa offers an online Master of Arts in School Library Studies. Students will progress through the program with a cohort beginning each fall. Cohorts usually complete two courses a semester and can finish in 2.5 years. The cohort also works interactively via one course a week during the evening. The program does include one on-campus meeting before completing the degree.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: (319) 273-2717
• Email: collegeofed@uni.edu
• University of Northern Iowa's website

The University of Oklahoma offers an online program for students to complete a Master of Library and Information Services. Students can opt to specialize in one area such as librarianship and library media. To complete the program, students must complete an exam, write a thesis, or complete a personal portfolio. Students then can work with schools and non-profit organizations upon graduation.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: (405) 325-3921
• Email: lisinfo@ou.edu
• University of Oklahoma's website

The University of Pittsburgh offers a fully online Master of Library and Information Science degree that can be completed part-time (up to 4 years) or full-time (3 consecutive terms). This program requires six core courses then the remaining courses are tailored to the student’s concentration area. Throughout the program, students will work closely with a faculty advisor to ensure their career paths are fully covered by the program.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 412-624-3988
• Email: shabana.reza@pitt.edu
• University of Pittsburgh's website

The University of South Alabama offers a Master of Education in Library Media. Students can concentrate in one of two areas: Certification in Library Media or the Alabama Class “A” Endorsement in Library Media. The hours differ for each concentration. Before completing the exam, students must complete exams such as the Comprehensive and Portfolio Exam as well as the PRAXIS II.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: (251) 380-2735
• Email: prmoore@southalabama.edu
• University of South Alabama's website

The University of South Carolina - Columbia offers a Master of Library and Information Science that can be completed entirely online. However, this program requires an internship that must be completed in a setting conducive to the student’s career plan. If the student is interested in becoming a school librarian, they can complete the certification required. While taking courses, students will focus on the newest methods of information technology and on research standards in the library sciences.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 803-777-5067
• Email: fetnerg@email.sc.edu
• University of South Carolina - Columbia's website

The University of Southern California at Marshall offers a fully online Master of Management in Library and Information Science. Upon completion of the program, students can work in libraries or the information science fields. This program can also be completed in as little as 20 months. A capstone project as well as research and application are required to finish the degree.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 213.640.4034
• Email: alexis.hackathorn@usc.edu
• University of Southern California - Marshall's website

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a virtual learning experience with their Master of Library and Information Science degree program. Students can choose one of four specializations as their career path and complete a practicum within that area. This program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 601.266.4228
• University of Southern Mississippi Website

The University of Washington offers an online Master of Library and Information Science. This program does require a 3-day orientation at the beginning of the program. The online program is designed for students to complete in three years, enrolling in 6-8 credits per quarter. An internship is not required, but a capstone project must be completed.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 206.543.1794
• Email: iask@uw.edu
• University of Washington's website

The University of Wisconsin - Madison offers an online opportunity to receive a Master of Arts in Library and Information Studies. This program offers five different concentrations for students to choose as their focus. Candidates must also complete a minimum of a 120-hour practicum and a portfolio. Courses in management and technology are mandatory for completion of the degree.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 608-263-2900
• Email: info@ischool.wisc.edu
• University of Wisconsin - Madison's website

Valley City State University offers an online degree program to obtain a Master of Education in Library and Information Technologies. If the student chooses, he/she can also take courses in order to receive a Library Media Specialist certificate. Special program requirements include capstone projects, field work, and research application.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 701.845.7303
• Email: donna.james@vcsu.edu
• Valley City State University's website

Wayne State University offers a Master of Library and Information Science degree that is fully online and requires a practicum no matter the concentration of study. Upon completion of the program, students can work in library settings or with other information organizations. Within the 36 hours required to finish, 18 hours are core classes with the remaining 18 being in the student’s chosen concentration.

Contact Information:

• Phone Number: 313-577-1825
• Email: asksis@wayne.edu
• Wayne State University's website