Most librarian jobs require a graduate degree in library science. Students can complete a master's degree in library science by taking coursework primarily or completely online. Like traditionally earned degrees, these programs are rigorous in their approaches to teaching and in academic standards. Many are accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) and offered as one option within a traditional program.
Like traditional library science degrees, online master's degrees in library science allow students to earn a Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), or equivalent. Depending on the course of study, earning an online library science degree can take between two and three years of graduate study – the same time commitment as for an on-campus degree. Programs will also offer similar core courses, but vary in their professional focus, specializations, and professional certificates.
Learning Formats
The distinction between traditional and online programs is not in the quality of the education, then, but in how students learn. Students can take courses from their home and, in many cases, according to their individualize scheduling needs. Courses use a variety of instructional formats, including web-based course management systems, email and message boards, social networks, and chat rooms.
In many programs, students can complete their entire degree through online and other distance-learning options. Other programs require students to attend short orientation sessions in which they meet faculty and cohort group members. Some programs may require students to take a few core courses on campus, usually at accelerated paces.
Benefits and Drawbacks
One of the primary benefits of pursuing an online master's degree in library science is its flexibility in scheduling and fulfilling course requirements. Flexibility is important to many students, including those who work full-time, have other obligations, or live in an area which does not offer an ALA-accredited program.
Another benefit is that students are required to use computer technology while taking classes. Some programs will require students to demonstrate a minimum level of technological proficiency as a condition of admission or hold special instructional sessions. Although working heavily with computers can be an initial drawback for some students, a comfort level and familiarity with technology is a professional requirement for a librarian.
Students’ distance from the physical campus can have disadvantages. They are removed from some of the structure and support found in traditional programs, including face-to-face contact with faculty, administrative support, and others students. Some students may find it more difficult to network or gain practical experience through internships or entry-level library jobs. Because of these reasons, students in these library science programs need to be highly self-motivated and organized.
Guidelines for Selecting an Online Library Science Program
Just as with traditional schools, the first criterion is a program accredited by the ALA. And in general, the same guidelines for choosing a traditional library and information science program apply to online programs.
These broad types of classes, which are known by various names, form the foundation for library jobs. They are found in most library and information science programs and should part of an online program’s curriculum:
- Information Access and Organization
- Information Management
- Policies and Ethics
- Theory and Research Methods
- Users and Information
Recommended ALA-Accredited Library Science Online Programs
ALA, an independent professional organization, offers a searchable database identifying programs with distance-education options, including programs with online MLS or MLIS degrees. In addition to the ALA, prospective students might find it useful to consult a variety of evaluative sources.
One such source is U.S. News and World Report’s “Best Library and Information Studies Schools.” In addition to providing overall school rankings, the periodical rates program with specializations: archives and preservation, digital librarianship, health librarianship, information systems, law librarianship, school library media, and services for children and youth.
Of the 22 highest-ranked schools published by U.S. News and World Report in 2010, 14 offered programs where a master's degree in library science may be earned primarily or wholly online:
- University of Illinois – Urbana-Champaign
- Syracuse University
- University of Washington
- Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey
- Drexel University
- University of Pittsburgh
- University of Wisconsin – Madison
- Florida State University
- University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
- University of North Texas
- University of South Carolina
- Wayne State University
- San Jose University
- University of Alabama
ALA-accredited online library science programs offer a viable alternative for future librarians seeking to earn a master's degree but who, for various reasons, are unable to attend a traditional program. With careful research, prospective students can determine which schools best fit their needs as they begin their librarian careers.
Related Articles:
Librarian Careers – General Information
Librarians – Choosing a Library Science Program
Author's Note: This article was updated June 2010 to reflect current information.
Debra Peterson - A freelance writer and scholar, Debra Peterson specializes in Disney Studies, with particular interests in Walt Disney World and ...
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