Last Updated: October 14, 2024
Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranked school for an online library science program is University of Wisconsin-Madison followed by University of Illinois- Urbana Champaign.
- Online library science programs are increasingly popular, with a focus on affordability, convenience, flexibility, and academic excellence.
- They prepare students for a wide range of careers by teaching information architecture, technology use, and information needs.
- Top programs are ranked based on criteria like curriculum strength, faculty, class size, and previous ratings.
The popularity of online learning has increased drastically in the past years, particularly among post-secondary students. Additionally, more working-age Americans have realized that they need to sharpen their skills and further their education in the increasingly competitive job market. The popularity of online learning in various fields of specialization, including library science, may be attributed to its:
- affordability
- convenience
- effectiveness
- flexibility
Statistics from U.S. News show that more than 11.8 million Americans enrolled for an online course. Library science degrees are among the most popular online degree programs.
Not only do librarians manage collections, these professionals:
- evaluate
- package
- analyze
- present information
Librarians also train other people on the use of this information. Online library information science (LIS) degree programs expose students to:
- theories
- research
- approaches
- practices of LIS
These library science degrees provide students with knowledge and training in areas like:
- information architecture
- uses and needs of information
- information technology
Enrolling in an online library science degree will prepare you for a vast array of career opportunities.
Selection Criteria
To create our ranking of the best schools for library science, we researched each of the institutions offering this program in the country. Our research was based on the key attributes of a reputable, highly effective, and recognized online degree program, including:
- affordability
- academic excellence
- flexibility
- previous ratings
- types and sizes of available classes
- faculty strength
- vast concentration options and/or electives like Information Architecture, Archives, Youth Services, School Librarianship, and more
- focus on developing essential skills like organizing information, being digitally literate, and managing resources
After careful scrutiny of the various programs, we identified twenty of the best MLIS programs in the country today. If you are considering an online master’s degree in MLS, the following are some of the top library science programs to consider.
Please note: Tuition prices are accurate at time of publishing and subject to change. Additional fees may apply. When applicable, in-state tuition is given.
University of Wisconsin- Madison
Based on our ranking criteria, the School of Library and Information Sciences at the University of Wisconsin-Madison takes the top posi