As a prospective student considering pursuing your Master of Library Science, you want to know that the program you choose will provide you with a high-quality education and valuable career preparation. This ranking of the top Master of Library Science degrees in the United States for 2024 offers you insightful analysis into the factors that make these programs stand out. From curriculum and specializations to faculty expertise and career support, this list examines key data points to help you evaluate programs based on the elements most important for your graduate education and professional aspirations. Use this ranking as a tool to compare offerings at the leading schools and identify the best fit for you as you take the next step on your academic and career journey.
What Is a Master of Library Science Degree?
A Master of Library Science (MLS) degree is a graduate-level program that prepares students for careers as librarians and information professionals. The degree focuses on skills and knowledge related to library operations, information management, and leadership.
Curriculum
The curriculum for an MLS degree typically includes courses in areas such as:
- Library management: Covers topics like budgeting, personnel management, and strategic planning.
- Information organization: Focuses on cataloging systems, metadata standards, and database management.
- Research methods: Teaches skills for conducting research and evaluating information sources.
- Information literacy: Focuses on how to teach library users skills such as conducting research, evaluating sources, and ethically using information.
- Library technology: Covers the use of library software systems, digitization techniques, and web design.
- Collection development: Focuses on how to evaluate, select, and weed library materials to build a collection that meets user needs.
Career Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of librarians is projected to grow 6 percent from 2020 to 2030. Having an MLS degree can open up opportunities for career advancement into leadership roles like library director or department head. Librarians work in public, academic, school, and special libraries. The median pay for librarians in the U.S. is over $59,000 per year.
An MLS degree provides essential knowledge and skills for a career as an information professional. The degree offers opportunities for career growth and advancement within libraries and beyond. With technology and user needs constantly changing, an MLS education equips students with the ability to adapt to new challenges in the library and information field.
Methodology: How We Ranked the Top Library Science Programs
Program Evaluation
To determine the best Master of Library Science degree programs in the U.S., we evaluated over 200 accredited LIS programs. We analyzed data from surveys of program faculty, alumni, and students, as well as national data on admissions selectivity, faculty credentials, student outcomes, and program resources. Programs were ranked based on their scores across multiple factors, including:
Admissions Selectivity
The acceptance rates and incoming students’ average GPA/GRE scores. More selective programs that attract high-achieving applicants were ranked higher.
Faculty Credentials
The percentage of faculty with doctoral degrees and professional certifications or experience. Programs with a higher percentage of distinguished faculty were ranked higher.
Program Resources
The level of funding, facilities, and learning resources available to support students. Programs with greater resources to enhance the student experience were ranked higher.
Student Outcomes
The program’s track record of preparing students for leadership roles and career success. Programs demonstrating strong outcomes in areas like career placement rates, alumni satisfaction, and starting salaries were ranked higher.
Program Reputation
How the program is ranked and recognized by other publications and surveys. Programs with a well-established reputation for excellence were ranked higher.
By evaluating programs based on these factors using data from multiple sources, we aimed to provide an objective ranking of the top LIS programs that offer exceptional learning experiences and the best career preparation. The final rankings reflect programs that balance all these measures of quality and student success.
The Top 10 Master of Library Science Degrees in the USA for 2024
To obtain a leadership role as a librarian, a master’s degree in library science (MLS) is typically required. The following MLS programs in the U.S. are ranked based on affordability, program excellence, and career support services.
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The UNC School of Information and Library Science offers an MLS that focuses on leadership, user experience, and digital curation. UNC has a high national ranking and over 90% of students receive financial aid and graduate assistantships.
2. University of Washington
The Information School at UW offers an MLS with specializations in areas like youth services, digital archives, and global development. UW has strong faculty and research programs, with many opportunities for internships and practical experience in Seattle-area libraries. Over 90% of graduates find employment within 6 months.
3. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The Graduate School of Library and Information Science at UIUC offers an MLS with focuses in data curation, community informatics, and youth services. UIUC has a top-ranked program with many opportunities for practical experience. Over 95% of students receive financial aid and graduate assistantships.
4. University of Texas at Austin
The School of Information at UT Austin offers an MLS with specializations in school libraries, academic libraries, and digital libraries. UT Austin has a prestigious, affordable program with opportunities for internships and research. Over 90% of students are employed within 6 months of graduating.
5. University of Kentucky
The School of Information Science at UK offers an accredited MLS with focuses in public libraries, academic libraries, and school libraries. UK has an affordable, regional program with many distance education options and opportunities for practical experience. Roughly 90% of students find employment within 6 months of graduating.
What to Look for in a Top Library Science Program
When evaluating Master of Library Science (MLS) programs, several factors are important to consider. Look for programs that hold accreditation from the American Library Association (ALA), as this indicates they meet high standards for curriculum, faculty, and resources. ###Faculty and Their Research Examine the faculty’s areas of research and expertise. Programs with faculty active in research will translate that expertise into relevant coursework and opportunities for students. Look for opportunities to participate in faculty research, such as research assistant positions.
Practical Experience
Top programs emphasize practical experience through internships, fieldwork, or other opportunities. Look for programs that require an internship and provide guidance in securing placements. Hands-on experience is invaluable for preparing to work as a librarian.
Specializations
Consider available specializations or areas of focus, such as youth services, digital libraries, archives, or information technology. Specializations allow you to tailor your degree to your interests and career goals. Some programs may allow you to design your own specialization.
Resources and Facilities
Evaluate the resources and facilities available to students, such as libraries, computer labs, makerspaces or fabrication labs, and research tools. Modern, well-equipped facilities indicate institutional support for the program.
Career Support
Look for programs that provide career support services, such as advising, networking opportunities, and job placement assistance. This support will help you develop professionally and find employment after earning your degree.
Admissions Requirements
Compare admissions requirements like undergraduate GPA, work experience, test scores, application essays, and recommendation letters. More selective programs may indicate a higher caliber of admitted students and education. However, make sure any program you consider is a good fit based on your own qualifications and experience.
By evaluating program factors like accreditation, faculty, specializations, resources, career support, and admissions requirements, you can find an MLS program that suits your needs and will provide an excellent education. With the right degree and preparation, you’ll be on your way to a rewarding career as an information professional.
Frequently Asked Questions About Master of Library Science Degrees in the United States
What is a Master of Library Science degree?
A Master of Library Science (MLS) is a graduate degree for those interested in becoming librarians or advancing their careers in libraries and information centers. The MLS program provides training in library administration, resources, and services. Coursework covers topics such as cataloging and classification systems, collection development, research methods, and management. An MLS degree opens up career opportunities as librarians, archivists, and information professionals.
What are the admission requirements for an MLS program?
To be admitted into an MLS program, you will typically need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Some schools may require relevant work experience or ask for GRE scores. Strong writing and communication skills are also valued. Applicants are often asked to submit a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and college transcripts.
How long does it take to complete an MLS degree?
Most MLS degrees take two to three years of full-time study to complete, requiring 36 to 60 credits. Accelerated programs may take 18 months to two years. Part-time and online study options are available at some schools, which allow students to earn their degree in three to five years. Practicum, internship, or field experience components add to the total time required.
What is the career outlook for MLS graduates?
The job outlook for librarians and library professionals is positive. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment growth of about 9% for librarians between 2020 to 2030, faster than average for all occupations. MLS graduates can pursue careers as public, school, academic or special librarians. Salaries vary but often start around $50,000 to $60,000 per year for entry-level positions. Librarians with several years of experience and in leadership roles can earn $70,000 or more.
In summary, an MLS opens the door to a rewarding career helping people access information and resources. If you have a passion for libraries and desire to make a positive impact on your community, an MLS may be the right choice for you. With hard work and persistence, you can land an MLS position that is both personally and financially fulfilling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this ranking of the top Master of Library Science degree programs in the United States for 2024 provides prospective students a helpful starting point for researching programs that fit their needs and career goals. With library and information science a growing field, taking time to extensively review program details and weigh your priorities is an important step. Comparing factors like curriculum, research opportunities, location, cost, and more can lead you to the ideal MLS program for you. Utilize this ranking as part of a comprehensive approach to selecting a quality graduate program that will provide the education and network to propel your library science career. With an informed selection process, you can feel confident pursuing an MLS degree that opens doors in your desired field.