You’re guaranteed to find beautiful landscapes, rich history, and a friendly community in Indiana. The state has rolling hills, forests, and even beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering visitors and residents endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Indiana also has several vibrant cities, each with their own unique character and charm. The welcoming people of Indiana make it a wonderful place for anyone.

Indiana is also a great place for those looking to earn a library science degree. There are two ALA-accredited library science schools: Indiana University Bloomington and Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. Both schools offer master’s programs in library science, as well as other library science education opportunities.

You can also study to become a school library media specialist in Indiana through programs at Indiana University Bloomington and Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis. 

If you already live in Indiana, or want to study library science there, keep reading. This article will talk about the state’s library science programs and more information about library science jobs and salaries in Indiana.

Bachelor Programs Related to Library and Information Science in Indiana

Library and information science is a broad field that encompasses various degrees and professions. In Indiana, there are multiple bachelor programs that can help you pursue a job in information science. Several programs can be combined to earn a master’s degree with fewer course requirements.

Applied Data and Information Science — B.S. at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Data is everywhere, and if you don’t know how to harness it, you’ll be behind in many fields. Earning a bachelor’s degree in Applied Data and Information Science at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis will prepare you for the ever-blossoming digital age. The degree has two tracks you can follow. Specialize in Data Science to learn how to use data to solve real-world problems, or Applied Information Science to manage data archives and understand how to use data responsibly.

Intelligence Studies — Undergraduate Minor at Indiana University Bloomington

The Intelligence Studies minor is designed for those who want to confront fake news and false information. Students learn to use critical thinking skills to critique sources of information before declaring them fit for analysis. Participants in the Intelligence Studies minor program will also study data collection and analyze companies’ practices to gather information about their users.

Undergraduate students who wish to complete a minor in Intelligence Studies at Indiana University Bloomington must earn at least 15 credit hours from a selection of courses. They must finish those classes with at least a 2.3 GPA and earn at least a C+ in each individual course.

Applied Data Science Undergraduate Certificate or Minor at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

The world’s dependence on mobile devices and interconnectivity means we generate large amounts of data. Using this data can help us learn more about ourselves and others. The Applied Data Science Certificate program equips learners with the math and technology skills needed to analyze data sets while acknowledging the societal implications of their work. Students must take 24 credit hours and earn a C- or higher in each course while maintaining a 2.0 GPA to earn this certificate. You may also earn a minor in Applied Data Science by fulfilling the same requirements.

Applied Information Science/Data Studies Undergraduate Certificate at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Like the Applied Data Science program, the Applied Information Science/Data Studies program at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis focuses on data. However, this certificate prepares students to analyze and manipulate data for organization, design, and policy development. This certificate is excellent for students who want to learn how to use data for specific purposes and help make current workflows and processes more efficient. The Applied Information Science/Data Studies certificate can be earned through an Online Data Boot Camp program.

ALA-Accredited Masters Programs in Library and Information Science (MLIS) in Indiana

Master of Library and Information Science at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis’s Master of Library and Information Science program is known for its focus on information literacy and data. IUPUI is a great example of a library school taking the degree into the future and applying it in new ways. The fully-online program reflects the future of libraries and encourages students to learn beyond the traditional library applications of their degree.

• ALA-Accredited
• Online
• Eight specializations available: Academic Librarianship, Archives Management, Digital Curation, Facilitated Learning, Public Librarianship/Adult Services, School Library, Technical Services, Youth Services

To apply for the Master of Library and Information Science program at IUPUI, you must have a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited school and a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. If you meet the GPA requirements, a GRE score is not required. If you don’t meet the GPA requirements, you must meet the minimum GRE scores.

How to Apply

You can apply to Indiana University-Purdue Univerisity Indianapolis’s MLIS program by submitting an application through Indiana University’s Graduate CAS Application. You must include a personal statement, transcripts, and two references.

Master of Library Science at Indiana University Bloomington

The Master of Library Science at Indiana University Bloomington was created around history, but continues around digital work. IUB prides itself in preparing students to work in a rapidly changing information world. The program gives students experience working with digital information and more traditional books and library media. Participants in the Master of Library Science program will get a well-rounded education that will look excellent on their resumes.

• 36 credit hours
• ALA-Accredited
• 4+1 program allows students to complete a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree on an accelerated timeline

Students who wish to apply to the MLS program at Indiana University Bloomington must have a bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 minimum GPA. GRE scores are optional.

How to Apply

Complete the Indiana University CAS Application, and submit supporting documents to apply. The supporting documents should include a resume, a personal statement, at least one recommendation letter, and transcripts. You can also submit a GRE score if you wish.

Master of Information Science at Indiana University Bloomington

Unlike the Master of Library Science, the Master of Information Science degree at Indiana University Bloomington is 100 percent rooted in the future. This program enables students to manage and design information systems. This degree is perfect for those who want to work with data analysis or design information architecture and user experience.

• ALA-Accredited
• 36 hours required
• Students can finish a bachelor’s and master’s degree in a quicker program with the 4+1 program

Like the MLS program, students must have a 3.0 GPA in their bachelor’s program to apply to earn an MIS. GRE scores are also optional for Master of Information Science applicants.

How to Apply

The Indiana University CAS application is where you start when applying to the MIS program. You must include a personal statement, a resume, transcripts, and one recommendation letter at minimum. GRE scores are not required, but can be added to your application.

Certificate Programs in Library and Information Science in Indiana

Adding a certificate to your master’s degree can make you more enticing on the job market. They may also be required for certain specialty librarian jobs, such as school librarians or archivists.

Graduate Certificate in Information Architecture at Indiana University Bloomington

Information architecture includes creating and maintaining content systems. The certificate program at Indiana University Bloomington gives students practical, real-world experience. People hoping to work on websites, information systems, educational software, or digital libraries should consider this certificate.

Specialist in Library and Information Science at Indiana University Bloomington

If your master’s degree isn’t in library or information science, or you want to brush up your skills, you should think about earning the Specialist in Library and Information Science post-master’s degree. This program involves 30 hours of coursework with no required courses. Fifteen of those hours can come from any department at Indiana University, enabling you to tailor your degree to your needs. 

School Library Certificate at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

Certified teachers who want to add to their resume and become school librarians will need to earn a school library certificate. At Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, you have the opportunity to learn the latest advancements in the field while fulfilling your requirements to land your dream job. 

Archives Management Certificate at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

While you don’t have to have a specialized degree in archives management to become an archivist, adding an Archives Management certificate will improve your chances of getting archives positions. At IUPUI, the archives management program is meant for new and experienced archivists looking to enhance their credentials. The 18-credit certificate will prepare participants to help people conduct research and process archival materials. 

Ph.D. Programs in Library and Information Science in Indiana

Ph.D. in Data Science at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis

The Ph.D. in Data Science program at IUPUI is innovative — in fact, it’s the first of its kind in Indiana. Students learn to contribute revolutionary research to the field of data science. Working with global health and science researchers, participants get the skills needed to come up with new techniques that will change the way we think about data.

Ph.D. in Information Science at Indiana University Bloomington

Whereas IUPUI’s data science program is one of the newest programs, Indiana University Bloomington’s Ph.D. in Information Science is one of the oldest. But that doesn’t mean it’s out of touch; in fact, it’s designed to prepare students for the latest and greatest technology in the field. People who want to be on the cusp of information science should consider this program. 

How to Become a Librarian in Indiana

To become a librarian in Indiana, you must have a master’s degree in library or information science. The American Library Association accredits schools that are fully equipped to teach library science, and a degree from one of these universities is more valuable. Depending on the position, experience in a library or as a supervisor may also be required.

Below are the library jobs common in Indiana and the job qualifications:

Collection Development Librarian: Collection development is the adding and removing of books or other materials from a library’s collection. As a collection development librarian, you must have extensive knowledge of various subjects, and understand your library’s users to adequately buy materials they will use. An MLIS is required for this, and experience in a library is beneficial.

Assistant/Associate Librarian: Assistant or associate librarians work in academic libraries. They often help students conduct research and teach information literacy, among other courses. The requirements for this position are more extensive; beyond an MLIS, you must also have teaching experience and be active in professional organizations.

Library Assistant: As a library assistant, you will help librarians do their jobs. Typically, a library assistant helps check out books, shelve materials, work with patrons, and do other small tasks. Library assistants usually only need a high school diploma, making this position great for getting library experience.

Adult Services Librarian: Adult Services is a department in a public library that caters to the adults in the community. Adult Services librarians assist patrons with research and computer use, provide readers’ advisory services, and plan programs for adults. This job requires an MLIS, but doesn’t always require library experience, making it a good position for recent graduates.

What Else Can You Do With a Library Science Degree in Indiana?

While Indiana’s economy is heavily based on agriculture and transportation, the diverse state has major cities and small towns, plus a National Park and easy access to Chicago, making it a hub for all types of industry.

If you have a library science degree but don’t want to work in a traditional library, you have many options in Indiana. The availability of data science programs in the state shows that there are many organizations conducting research, which could be an excellent avenue for MLIS holders. Marketing is also a common job path for people with information science degrees.

Salary Opportunities

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual salary of a public librarian in Indiana is $46,981. Meanwhile, those with an MLIS working in other fields typically earn $39,332 annually in Indiana. School librarians serving elementary and secondary schools earn an average of $48,161 yearly, while college and university librarians usually earn the most at $48,872 per year.

Additional Resources

For more information about libraries in Indiana, visit: https://www.in.gov/library/directory-of-indiana-libraries/

For more information about librarianship and Library Science, visit: https://www.ala.org/