The following programs are the most affordable online library science master’s degree programs, each accredited by the American Library Association. Any master of library and information science (MLIS) degree from an ALA-accredited program is reputable, as the ALA (American Library Association) is the central governing body for library science, so you might as well save some money on the degree.
Why Should You Enroll in an Affordable ALA Accredited Program?
The reason ALA accreditation is essential is that ALA requires schools to meet standards that ensure students are prepared for the library career field. It is especially important for those wishing to work in a university library, public library, or other specialized libraries to have a degree from an ALA-accredited school. For a master’s program to be accredited by ALA, it must meet certain standards; its curriculum must be up-to-date, and it must meet current technology standards. Combining both ALA accreditation and a program that is affordable is the cheapest quality path for MLIS program applicants.
Affordable MLIS Programs Quick Facts
- Most Affordable MLIS Program Tuition: Valdosta State University MLIS ($11,427)
- Lowest Cost Per Credit MLIS Program: University of North Carolina Greensboro ($283.12)
- Number of MLIS Programs Under $20,000: 8 programs
30 Affordable Online Master’s in Library Science (MLIS) Programs
1. Valdosta State University (Valdosta, GA)
Tuition: $11,427
Valdosta State University stands out for its highly competitive tuition of $11,427 for its 39-credit online MLIS program, making it an incredibly affordable option. The curriculum is foundational, providing a solid grounding in library science principles. Beyond the core academics, Valdosta offers robust alumni services, including resume assistance, job boards, mock interview preparation, and career advice, which can be invaluable for post-graduation success.
Students at Valdosta often praise the accessibility of their professors and the practical application of coursework, which prepares them for immediate entry into various library settings, from public and academic to special libraries. The program emphasizes ethical information practices and the evolving role of librarians in the digital age, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for contemporary challenges. The university’s commitment to student success extends beyond graduation, with career services actively connecting alumni with employment opportunities.
2. University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa, AL)
Tuition: $15,840
With a tuition of $15,840 for its 36-credit online MLIS, the University of Alabama offers an accessible path for many potential enrollees. The program utilizes a cohort model, fostering peer support and collaborative learning. While primarily synchronous, which may be less flexible for some, this structure ensures a consistent learning pace. The curriculum provides a well-balanced core covering information and technology management within the library and information profession. The University of Alabama’s program is particularly strong in its emphasis on leadership and management within information organizations. Students engage in discussions and projects that simulate real-world scenarios, developing skills in strategic planning, budgeting, and personnel management crucial for aspiring library directors or department heads. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in academic libraries, government information centers, and corporate archives, with a strong understanding of both traditional library functions and emerging information technologies. The program’s focus on foundational knowledge combined with practical application makes its graduates highly marketable across the information sector.
3. University of North Texas (Denton, TX)
Tuition $16,500 for Texas residents and $20,520 non-resident
The University of North Texas boasts an education with a competitive value, with tuition at $16,500 for Texas residents and $20,520 for non-residents. UNT is recognized for its comprehensive approach to information organization, storage, and retrieval, emphasizing user perspectives and integrating contemporary trends. Students benefit from its ALA accreditation, planned concentrations, and the option for a hybrid study format.
The faculty boasts strong expertise, with many holding Ph.D.s, J.D.s, and director titles. The faculty’s extensive professional experience enriches the learning environment, providing students with insights into current industry practices and future trends. The program’s emphasis on user perspectives is particularly valuable in an era where libraries are increasingly user-centric, requiring professionals who can understand and meet diverse community needs. The hybrid format offers flexibility for students who prefer a blend of online and in-person interaction, fostering a dynamic learning community.
4. University of North Carolina Greensboro (Greensboro, NC)
Tuition: $6,422 in-state and non-resident $21,137
UNC Greensboro offers a significant cost advantage for in-state residents with an annual tuition of $6,422 for its 36-credit online MLIS program, though non-resident tuition is higher at $21,137. The program also offers the cheapest per credit option, at $283 per credit. The program is acclaimed for providing valuable insights into the information world. A key aspect is its largely synchronous format, which means scheduled meeting times for coursework, lectures, and classes. The program is highly regarded for its strong focus on social justice and community engagement within library and information science. Courses often explore issues of information access, equity, and the role of libraries in fostering informed and inclusive communities.
The synchronous learning environment facilitates rich discussions and debates, allowing students to engage deeply with these complex topics and develop critical thinking skills essential for ethical professional practice. Furthermore, the emphasis on current and emerging issues in the information field ensures that graduates are well-prepared to tackle contemporary challenges and contribute to the evolution of library services. The lower in-state tuition makes this program an attractive option for North Carolina residents seeking a high-quality, socially conscious MLIS degree.
5. Indiana University (Bloomington, IN)
Tuition: $19,207.50
Indiana University’s 39-credit online MLIS program has a tuition of $19,207.50 and holds the distinction of being the only ALA-accredited MLIS degree in the state. The curriculum prepares students for careers in information by exploring foundational areas of librarianship, including assisting users, collection development, organizing resources, research, and effective use of information technologies. A notable statistic for prospective students is that “Half of IU Online students advance in their careers before they complete their degree,” highlighting the program’s practical career impact. Indiana University’s program is renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and its strong emphasis on research and information literacy.
Students gain a deep understanding of information seeking behaviors, the principles of effective information organization, and the application of various technologies to enhance information access. The program’s reputation, coupled with the career advancement statistics, suggests a strong connection between the curriculum and immediate professional growth. Many students leverage their coursework and faculty mentorship to secure promotions or transition into new roles even before completing their degrees, indicating the direct applicability of their learning.
6. Emporia State University (Emporia, KS)
Tuition: in-state at $13,519 and out-of-state tuition around $22,284
Emporia State offers competitive pricing for its ALA-accredited MLS, within-state tuition at $13,519 and out-of-state tuition around $22,284. The program offers valuable concentrations in Archives Studies, Informatics, Leadership and Administration, and Youth Services. The intensive sessions provide opportunities for hands-on learning, networking with peers and faculty, and deeper engagement with specialized topics. The range of concentrations allows students to develop expertise in high-demand areas, such as the growing field of informatics, which bridges information science with data analysis and technology.
7. University at Buffalo (Buffalo, NY)
Tuition: $19,967.76 for New York residents and $23,351.76 for others
The University at Buffalo provides an ALA-accredited, 36 credit, fully online MLIS program with a tuition of $19,967.76 for New York residents and $23,351.76 for out-of-state residents. This program prepares students for diverse roles in various information environments, including public and academic libraries, law offices, and archives, offering flexibility and relative affordability. The University at Buffalo’s MLIS program is known for its interdisciplinary approach, drawing on expertise from various departments within the university to offer a rich and varied curriculum. Students can explore areas such as digital humanities, data curation, and health informatics, broadening their career horizons beyond traditional library roles. The program’s online format makes it accessible to a wide range of students, including working professionals seeking to advance their careers. The curriculum is designed to be adaptable, allowing students to combine core library science principles with specialized knowledge relevant to their chosen career path.
8. Louisiana State University (Baton Rouge, LA)
Tuition: $19,980
Standing out as the sole ALA-accredited program in the state, LSU’s 36-credit online MLIS offers a thorough yet flexible education for $19,980. The program is entirely asynchronous, providing maximum flexibility. A significant financial advantage is the lower in-state tuition rate, which extends to residents of neighboring states. The university also provides resources for scholarship opportunities.
Louisiana State University’s program is a strong option for students seeking maximum flexibility in their studies, as the asynchronous format allows them to complete coursework at their own pace and on their own schedule. This is particularly beneficial for students balancing work, family, or other commitments. LSU’s program emphasizes practical application of library science principles, preparing students for immediate entry into various library settings, including public, school, and special libraries.
9. University of Southern Mississippi (Hattiesburg, MS)
Tuition: $20,480
The University of Southern Mississippi offers its fully online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) for approximately $20,480 for the entire program. This ALA-accredited program provides a dual degree option, allowing students to earn both an MLIS and an Instructional Technology degree, broadening their career prospects. The University of Southern Mississippi’s dual degree option is a significant advantage for students interested in the intersection of information science and educational technology. This unique offering prepares graduates for diverse roles in school libraries, corporate training, and instructional design, equipping them with a versatile skill set.
10. University of Missouri (Columbia, MO)
Tuition: approximately $21,910.20
The University of Missouri’s online Library and Information Science program, a 39-credit degree, has an estimated cost of approximately $21,910.20. Building on a long-standing history in library science, the program combines a constantly evolving curriculum with traditional foundational knowledge. While primarily remote, some in-person events are available. The program culminates in a three-credit practicum, offering practical experience easily applied to career situations down the road.
The University of Missouri’s MLIS program leverages its rich history in library science to provide a curriculum that is both historically grounded and forward-looking. Graduates are well-prepared for a wide range of roles, including academic librarians, public librarians, and archivists, with a solid understanding of both traditional and emerging library practices. The program’s strong alumni network further supports career development and job placement.
11. San Jose State University (San Jose, CA)
Tuition: approximately $24,401 for “Special Session” and $18,462 for “Regular Session”
San Jose State’s online MLIS program offers competitive tuition, approximately $24,401 for “Special Session” and $18,462 for “Regular Session,” for its 43-credit program. The program benefits from a strong faculty, appealing admission requirements, and various student internship opportunities. Students have the option of an e-portfolio in place of a thesis, and the program emphasizes strong alumni engagement through free remote seminars and career services.
San Jose State’s MLIS program stands out for its strong connections to the vibrant tech industry of Silicon Valley, offering unique opportunities for students interested in information architecture, data management, and user experience design within corporate settings. The active alumni network and free remote seminars offer continuous learning and networking possibilities, extending the value of the degree beyond graduation. Graduates from SJSU are highly competitive for roles in corporate libraries, information technology firms, and digital content management, reflecting the program’s innovative and industry-relevant curriculum.
12. University of South Carolina (Columbia, SC)
Tuition: $24,921
The University of South Carolina’s 36-credit online MLIS program costs $24,921. This program is particularly beneficial to those new to information science, offering professional advisors through its Student Services Office to help students tailor electives to their career interests. The college also provides a school librarian certification for those interested in working under the South Carolina Department of Education. The program also boasts a consistently high retention rate (above 90% for five years) and strong employment statistics for graduates in the library and information field.
The impressive retention and employment rates speak to the quality of the program and the success of its graduates, indicating a strong return on investment. The curriculum is designed to be comprehensive yet flexible, allowing students to explore various facets of library and information science while specializing in areas of interest.
13. Clarion University (Pennsylvania)
Tuition: $28,000
Clarion University offers its fully online Master of Science in Library Science for approximately $24,000 for in-state students and $28,000 for out-of-state students. The program is ALA-accredited and offers concentrations in Reference and User Services and Local and Archival Studies, allowing for specialized learning. Students in the Reference and User Services concentration learn advanced search techniques, effective communication strategies, and how to assess user needs in diverse library settings. The Local and Archival Studies concentration focuses on the preservation and organization of historical records, cultural heritage materials, and unique collections, preparing students for roles in historical societies, museums, and special collections libraries. The fully online format ensures accessibility for a broad student population, and the program’s commitment to affordability makes it an attractive option for aspiring information professionals across the country.
14. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (Milwaukee, WI)
Tuition: approximately $21,896 for in-state students and $25,896 for out-of-state students
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s fully online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program is priced at approximately $21,896 for in-state students and $25,896 for out-of-state students. This ALA-accredited program is known for its flexible online format, making it suitable for working professionals seeking an advanced degree. The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s MLIS program emphasizes the role of information professionals in fostering knowledge, promoting literacy, and preserving cultural heritage. The flexible online format is particularly beneficial for students who need to balance their studies with existing professional or personal commitments, allowing them to pursue their degree at a pace that suits their individual needs.
15. North Carolina Central University (Durham, NC)
Tuition: $10,750 for residents and out-of-state approximately $35,000
North Carolina Central University offers its fully online Master of Library Science (MLS) at a highly affordable rate for in-state residents: $10,750 for the entire program. However, out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, at approximately $35,000. The ALA-accredited program offers valuable specializations in Public and Digital Libraries and School Media, particularly relevant in today’s information landscape and preparing graduates for roles in community-focused libraries and dynamic educational environments. The Public and Digital Libraries specialization focuses on the evolving services of public libraries, including digital literacy, community programming, and online resource management. Another pathway, a School Media specialization equips future school librarians with the skills to foster information literacy, manage diverse collections, and integrate technology into the learning process. The entire program’s commitment to diversity and inclusion within the information professions is also a notable strength, reflecting the university’s broader mission.
16. University of Oklahoma (Norman, OK)
Tuition: $17,424 to $39,420
The University of Oklahoma’s 36-credit MLIS program offers a tuition range of $17,424 to $39,420, depending on a variety of factors. The program is thesis-optional, allowing students to choose between a thesis project or an ePortfolio. It can be completed in as little as one year for those seeking an accelerated path.
Faculty actively facilitates job placement, assisting students with securing positions during and after their studies. The proactive involvement of faculty in job placement evinces a genuine commitment to student success beyond academics. This hands-on career support can be invaluable for students navigating the job market.
17. Kent State University (Kent, OH)
Tuition: $26,800 for in-state residents and $27,200 for out-of-state residents
Kent State’s 37-credit online MLIS program costs $26,800 for in-state residents and $27,200 for out-of-state residents, with a slight discount for Ohio residents. It holds the sole ALA-accredited library science program in Ohio. The program offers specialized concentrations in medical librarianship and archival studies, and a unique, accredited school library media certification.
Its Cultural Heritage Informatics cluster provides a cutting-edge approach to information management and preservation. Kent State University’s MLIS program is a leader in specialized areas of library and information science. The concentrations in medical librarianship and archival studies prepare students for highly specialized roles in healthcare institutions and cultural heritage organizations, respectively.
18. University of Kentucky (Lexington, KY)
Tuition: $27,108
The University of Kentucky’s 36-credit online Master of Library Science program has a standardized tuition of $27,108 for all students, regardless of residency, which is a significant benefit for out-of-state learners. The faculty actively engages in timely research on topics like book bans and data utilization in school libraries, showcasing the program’s commitment to contemporary issues in the field.
The faculty’s active engagement in contemporary and often controversial issues within library science, such as intellectual freedom and the ethical use of data, ensures that the curriculum is relevant, dynamic, and prepares students for the real-world challenges facing information professionals. This focus on current events and critical thinking is invaluable for developing informed and adaptable professionals.
19. University of Tennessee, Knoxville (Knoxville, TN)
Tuition: $28,134
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s 36-credit online Master of Information program has an average tuition of $28,134. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, from big data to children’s programming, and offers career pathways such as academic librarianship, information organization, and youth services. There is no GRE requirement, and an optional field experience component is available for added real-world practical skill-building.
The University of Tennessee, Knoxville’s Master of Information program is designed to be comprehensive and career-oriented, covering a vast spectrum of topics relevant to the modern information professional. The impressive employment rate of nearly 90% within one year of graduation underscores the program’s effectiveness in preparing graduates for successful careers in the information field.
20. University of Wisconsin-Madison (Madison, WI)
Tuition: $30,600
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s 36-credit online Library and Information Studies program has a tuition of $30,600. The curriculum provides a well-rounded and socially relevant information-based education, with focuses on diversity, tribal libraries, social justice, and digital librarianship. It also emphasizes contemporary methods for information organization, including courses on metadata, XML, and taxonomies. The emphasis on contemporary methods for information organization, such as metadata, XML, and taxonomies, ensures that students are proficient in managing and retrieving digital information effectively.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison’s program is at the forefront of addressing social relevance and ethical considerations within library and information science. Its strong focus on diversity, tribal libraries, and social justice prepares graduates to be thoughtful and inclusive leaders in an increasingly diverse society. In addition, availability of funding alternatives like assistantships and fellowships demonstrates the university’s commitment to supporting its students financially.
21. Dominican University (River Forest/Chicago, IL)
Tuition: $30,600
Dominican University offers its 36-credit MLIS program at a tuition of $30,600. The program provides considerable flexibility, allowing students to complete their degree in one to six years (longer than the typical five-year limit). Students can also choose between synchronous or asynchronous course delivery, as well as online or hybrid formats. Dominican University’s MLIS program is characterized by its exceptional flexibility, catering to a wide range of student needs and learning preferences. The extended completion window of up to six years is a significant advantage for students who require more time to complete their studies due to professional or personal commitments. The option to choose between synchronous and asynchronous course delivery, as well as online or hybrid formats, allows students to tailor their learning experience to their individual schedules and learning styles. This adaptability ensures that students can pursue their MLIS degree without compromising other important aspects of their lives.
22. University of Rhode Island (South Kingstown, RI)
Tuition: $31,932
The University of Rhode Island’s 36-credit online MLIS program has a tuition of $31,932. This program offers a diverse faculty, unique pathway selections, and real-world student opportunities through a mandatory internship, preparing students for professional roles before graduation. It also offers unique degree pathways in areas like library equity and leadership, encouraging inclusivity and equitable programming. The mandatory internship component is a cornerstone of the curriculum, ensuring that all students gain practical, real-world experience before entering the profession. This hands-on training is invaluable for skill development and networking. The program’s emphasis on practical experience and specialized pathways makes its graduates highly competitive in the job market, prepared to address the evolving needs of libraries and information centers.
23. Florida State University (Tallahassee, FL)
Tuition: $31,953.24
Florida State University’s 36-credit online Master of Science in Information degree has an average tuition of $31,953.24. The program effectively blends foundational information literacy, management, preservation, and retrieval with more complex theoretical research applications. Notably, much of its iSchool coursework is approved by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, demonstrating its relevance in today’s technology-driven information landscape.
Florida State University’s Master of Science in Information program is designed for the modern information professional, seamlessly integrating foundational library science principles with advanced technological applications. The NIST approval of its iSchool coursework is a significant indicator of the program’s rigor and relevance, ensuring that graduates are well-versed in industry best practices for information management and security. The curriculum prepares students not only for traditional library roles but also for careers in information technology, data management, and cybersecurity. The program’s emphasis on both theoretical research and practical application ensures that graduates are well-rounded and capable of addressing complex information challenges in diverse settings. Students benefit from a strong faculty with expertise across various information disciplines, and a curriculum that is continuously updated to reflect emerging trends.
24. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill (Chapel Hill, NC)
Tuition: $12,526 for in-state students and $30,252 for out-of-state students
The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, offers its 48-credit online MLIS program with a tuition of $12,526 for in-state students and $30,252 for out-of-state students. The program is ALA-accredited and known for its high ranking in various “best” lists, including U.S. News. It offers targeted degree paths, such as Archival and Special Collections, Data and Asset Management, Information Organization and Management, and Youth and School Librarianship, with flexibility for elective choices.
While the higher credit requirement means a longer program, the exceptional value for in-state students is undeniable. The targeted degree paths allow students to specialize deeply in areas of high demand, such as archival management for historical institutions or data and asset management for corporate and government organizations. The flexibility in elective choices allows students to broaden their knowledge or further refine their specialization. Graduates from UNC-Chapel Hill are highly competitive in the job market, often securing prestigious positions in academic research libraries, national archives, and leading information organizations, leveraging the program’s strong reputation and comprehensive curriculum.
25. Wayne State University (Detroit, MI)
Tuition: $33,294.60
Wayne State University’s 36-credit online library science program will cost students around $33,294.60. The curriculum focuses on the needs of both local and global information communities. A unique aspect of the program is its culminating Graduation Assessment, a reflective project that includes an essay, course artifacts, a professional resume, and a survey, providing a comprehensive demonstration of student learning. Wayne State University’s online library science program provides a thorough and reflective educational experience. The curriculum’s focus on both local and global information communities prepares graduates to address information needs at various scales, from neighborhood libraries to international organizations. The culminating Graduation Assessment is a distinctive feature, encouraging students to synthesize their learning, showcase their professional development, and reflect on their growth throughout the program.
26. University of South Florida (Tampa, FL)
Tuition: for Floridians is $16,825.77 and out-of-state is $34,209.63
The University of South Florida’s 39-credit online MLIS program offers a significant cost difference between in-state ($16,825.77) and out-of-state ($34,209.63) tuition, making it ideal for locals, yet a tougher choice for out-of-staters. The program is structured around four central goals: Leadership and Innovation, Systems and Services, Knowledge Representation, and Theory Praxis, providing a strong foundational education and encouraging students to meet specific learning milestones. The program benefits from an advisory council with experienced experts in the field. The University of South Florida’s MLIS program offers a structured yet flexible curriculum guided by clear learning goals.
27. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY)
Tuition: $35,010
Syracuse University’s 36-credit online MLIS program tuition lands at $35,010. It is highly regarded for its customizable course pathways, expert faculty, and strong alumni network. The expert faculty, many of whom are leaders in their respective fields, provide cutting-edge insights and mentorship. The robust alumni network offers valuable connections and career opportunities. Graduates from Syracuse are well-prepared for leadership roles in data management, information security, and technological innovation within diverse information environments.
28. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey (New Brunswick, NJ)
Tuition: $37,692
Rutgers’ 36-credit Master of Information (MI) program has an approximate tuition of $37,692 for the fully online format. The program combines traditional information theory with emerging technologies, focusing on an education that is “people-focused, information technology-intensive, data-driven, and career-oriented.” It emphasizes current and emerging aspects of information relevant to an ever-evolving field. While admission requirements are comprehensive, GRE scores can be waived with a 3.0+ undergraduate GPA or another master’s degree.
29. St. John’s University (Queens, NY)
Tuition: $50,203
St. John’s University offers a 36-credit online MLIS program with a tuition of $50,203. While the least affordable option on this list, this ALA-accredited program provides students with the flexibility of an online format and a strong foundational education in library and information science, preparing students for a wide array of professional roles. The curriculum covers core areas such as information organization, reference services, and library administration, ensuring that graduates possess a comprehensive understanding of the field. The program also encourages students to explore specialized areas of interest through elective coursework, allowing them to tailor their studies to their career aspirations.
30. Master of Library Science from Queens College, New York
Tuition: $16,920 in-state, $30,780 out of state
The MLIS program at Queens College(CUNY) is the most affordable of the MLIS programs that are accredited by the American Library Association if you are a New York resident, and overall, it is one of the most affordable in the country for non-residents. It is also the only publicly funded ALA program in New York. The program prepares students for careers in academic libraries, public libraries, archives, and other information organizations. CUNY provides plenty of internship opportunities at the most prestigious institutions including the Center for Jewish History, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Brooklin Academy of Music.
CUNY also offers concentrations in archives, public services, youth and children services, library media in public schools, digital resources management, information organization, and special librarianship. All MLIS students will learn the skills they need to meet the information and literacy needs of the metropolitan area of New York and any other area. They focus on serving multicultural, multiethnic, and multilingual populations. Specifically, they teach students how to analyze the community and its needs and the community’s relationship with information, and how best to provide information that is most needed in the area.
How to apply
To qualify for the program you must have a 3.0 GPA from an undergraduate degree or an additional graduate degree. However, GRE scores will be considered if the applicant’s GPA is below 3.0. Otherwise, GRE test scores are not required. Then, fill out the online application and pay the fee and submit any documents the application calls for. Applicants will also be asked to have an interview with someone from the MLIS department.
Library Science Programs Currently Accepting Applicants
Bonus Programs:
Master of Science in Information Studies from the University of Texas at Austin
Tuition: $63,000
This is a 36-credit hour degree program that offers various courses that allow for a customizable set of courses. There are courses in the following areas of study: informatics, user experience (UX), research and design, health informatics, human-computer interaction, information security, AI and data science, data engineering, information organization, information search and retrieval, preservation, archiving, collections management, librarianship, and information literacy. For those who have not completed a bachelor’s degree, the iSchool offers a five-year program that combines a bachelor’s and a master’s in information science. They also offer a Ph.D. program in information studies.
This degree is very versatile and can help earn careers in all areas of librarianship and information. People from very different educational backgrounds come into this program and most students have very different career goals. Students can learn mostly about librarianship and research, but they can also focus more on the digital side of information and become website designers, cataloguers, and graphic design artists. Students will also take a capstone in the area of study they choose.
How to apply
To qualify for the iSchool admissions, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school and have a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 grading scale. For fall 2023 GRE test scores are optional, but in the past, they have been required. All applicants must fill out an online application and pay the application fee. Applicants also need to submit transcripts, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Master of Library and Information Science from the University of Washington
Tuition: $60,543
The Information School, or the iSchool, at the University of Washington is ranked #2 in the nation by U.S. News Report and the American Library Association has accredited them since 1926. This program is also available online or on campus and can be flexible to fit any schedule. They offer five core areas of study: digital youth, knowledge organization, information services, data science, and user experience (UX). Also, they offer an endorsement in school librarianship and a law librarianship option.
Each program the iSchool offers teaches students to bring individuals and communities of all walks of life to knowledge and information that is relative to their life. The program achieves this through courses on information behaviors, design methods for librarianship, services and issues for information professionals, information technology, social ethics, and many more. Additionally, a capstone is required for the program to further offer additional skills in library and information scholarship.
How to apply
To qualify for the MLIS program you need to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school. If you want to go into law librarianship, you will also need a J.D. from an American Bar Association-approved school. Then fill out the online application and send in the application fee, transcripts, at least two letters of recommendation, program mode preference, personal statement, diversity statement, an essay, a short answer response, and a resume.
MLS Program Research Resources
If you would like to know more about library science and librarianship, visit https://www.ala.org/ and other library associations throughout the different states. We hope this article was helpful to you and that you find an MLIS degree that is the right fit for you and for your finances. School can be expensive, but these programs and the scholarship and financial plans they offer will help with that financial burden and help you earn your degree.