{"id":3688,"date":"2025-03-17T19:13:44","date_gmt":"2025-03-17T19:13:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.degreequery.com\/?p=3688---385c18e0-c894-4eda-aad5-4fa74f5190ae"},"modified":"2026-10-01T21:01:09","modified_gmt":"2026-10-01T21:01:09","slug":"top-10-library-science-graduate-schools","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.degreequery.com\/top-10-library-science-graduate-schools\/","title":{"rendered":"Top 10 Library Science Graduate Schools"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If you have a knack for researching information online and in books, periodicals and other sources, you may already be considering a career as a librarian. It takes more than a love of books to work in a library. Most librarian positions require a graduate degree in a subject like library science or information studies. With 50 such programs currently holding academic accreditation from the <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ala.org\/cfapps\/lisdir\/lisdir_search.cfm\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">American Library Association<\/a>, it can be difficult even to figure out where to start your college search.<\/p>\n<p>To make things easy, our list of the top 10 library science and graduate schools highlights schools with master\u2019s-level information studies programs that rank among the best in the nation.<\/p>\n<h3>1. University of Illinois\u2014\u200bUrbana-\u200bChampaign<\/h3>\n<p>It\u2019s no coincidence that the <a href=\"http:\/\/illinois.edu\/about\/facts.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">University of Illinois\u2014Urbana-Champaign<\/a> tops U.S. News &amp; World Report\u2019s list of the best library and information studies schools in the country. The public institution is home to \u201cone of the largest public university libraries in the world,\u201d which houses more than 24 million resources. It also launched America\u2019s first <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lis.illinois.edu\/academics\/degrees\/phd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ph.D. program<\/a> in Library and Information Science.<\/p>\n<p>At the Graduate School of Library and Information Science, University of Illinois\u2014Urbana-Champaign students can pursue a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lis.illinois.edu\/academics\/degrees\/mslis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Science in Library and Information Science<\/a> or a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lis.illinois.edu\/academics\/degrees\/msim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Science in Information Management<\/a>. They also pursue other areas of study, like a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lis.illinois.edu\/academics\/degrees\/ms-bioinformatics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">graduate concentration in bioinformatics<\/a> or a <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lis.illinois.edu\/academics\/degrees\/cas\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Certificate of Advanced Study (CAS) in Library and Information Science<\/a> or in <a href=\"http:\/\/www.lis.illinois.edu\/academics\/degrees\/cas-dl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Digital Libraries<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Besides being ranked first in the nation overall, the University of Illinois\u2014Urbana-Champaign\u2019s library and information science program also earned high rankings from <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/university-of-illinois-at-urbana-champaign-145637?int=a31a09\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U. S. News &amp; World Report<\/a> in six specialties:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Services for Children and Youth, ranked 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 2<sup>nd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 5<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Health Librarianship, ranked 7<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Archives and Preservation, ranked 8<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, tied for 8<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition to its respected on-campus programs in library science, the University of Illinois\u2014Urbana-Champaign also offers a distance learning option through its Leep online learning program. Both master\u2019s-level programs are designed to accommodate part-time and full-time students.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: Champaign, IL<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 10,245 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $17,774 in-state; $27,834 out-of-state<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>2.\u200b University of North Carolina\u2014\u200bChapel Hill<\/h3>\n<p>Ranked 2<sup>nd<\/sup> in the nation on U.S. News &amp; World Report\u2019s list is the University of North Carolina\u2014Chapel Hill. Students at the UNC School of Information and Library Science can earn a <a href=\"http:\/\/sils.unc.edu\/programs\/graduate\/msls\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Science in Library Science<\/a> (MSLS) or a <a href=\"http:\/\/sils.unc.edu\/programs\/graduate\/msis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Science in Information Science<\/a> (MSIS) degree through two years of full-time study. The school also offers an undergraduate program as well as a <a href=\"http:\/\/sils.unc.edu\/programs\/graduate\/phd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Doctor of Philosophy in Information and Library Science<\/a> and a hybrid <a href=\"http:\/\/sils.unc.edu\/programs\/post-masters-certificates\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Post-Master\u2019s Certificate in Information and Library Science<\/a> program that combines online and on-campus studies.<\/p>\n<p>The study of library science has a long history at UNC. The school, which became the first public university in the country in 1795, has offered courses in library education since 1904. The School of Library Science, as it was then called, accepted its first class of students in 1931.<\/p>\n<p>Degree programs in information and library science at UNC are known for their small class sizes, their renowned instructors and the resources and cutting-edge technology their students have access to throughout their education. Students in both master\u2019s programs take core courses in Human Information Interactions, Organization of Information, Management for Information Professionals and Overview of Research Methods. MSLS students also complete core courses in Resource Selection and Evaluation and Information Resources and Services. Additional core classes for MSIS students include Programming for Information Professionals, Systems Analysis, Database 1 and Information Retrieval.<\/p>\n<p>Seven of UNC\u2019s library science specialties earned recognition from <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/university-of-north-carolina-at-chapel-hill-199120\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Archives and Preservation, tied for 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Health Librarianship, ranked 2<sup>nd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Law Librarianship, ranked 4<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, ranked 6<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Services for Children and Youth, ranked 8<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 10<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: Chapel Hill, NC<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 10,669 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $11,584 in-state; $28,796 out-of-state<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>3. University of Washington<\/h3>\n<p>At the master\u2019s level, the <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.uw.edu\/academics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">University of Washington Information School<\/a> offers both a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) and a Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) degree path. Study options are also available at the undergraduate level through the <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.uw.edu\/academics\/informatics\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Bachelor of Science in Informatics<\/a> program, at the doctoral level through the <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.uw.edu\/academics\/phd\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Ph.D. in Information Science<\/a> program and at the certificate level in the discipline of <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.uw.edu\/academics\/non-degree\/certificate-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Information Security &amp; Risk Management<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.uw.edu\/academics\/mlis\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MLIS<\/a> program is focused on imparting both theoretical and practical knowledge to help students take their place as \u201cleaders in the library and information world.\u201d Required coursework includes Information Behavior, Information and Society, Organization of Information and Resources, Management of Information Organizations and Instructional and Training Strategies for Information Professionals. The MLIS degree program offers both on-campus and online study options as well as a law librarianship path.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.uw.edu\/academics\/msim\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">MSIM<\/a> degree path grooms students to work fields like data management and transfer, information system design, business intelligence and information assurance and security. In addition to completing fieldwork and a two-semester capstone project, required courses include Foundations: Information, Communication, Teamwork; Policy and Ethics in Information Management; Analytic Methods for Information Professionals; and Management and Strategic Leadership. Students in the MSIM degree program can choose from fill-time or mid-career, part-time study options.<\/p>\n<p>The Information School is currently home to more than 600 total students, including 374 full-time and 242 part-time students. The largest program is the distance learning Library &amp; Information Science program, where more than 88 percent of students are enrolled part-time. On campus, the largest program is Information Management, followed by the school\u2019s residential Library &amp; Information Science degree path.<\/p>\n<p>U.S. News &amp; World Report has awarded high rankings to five of the University of Washington\u2019s library and information science specialties:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Law Librarianship, ranked 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Services for Children and Youth, ranked 2<sup>nd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 3<sup>rd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, tied for 4<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 5<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: Seattle, WA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 10,088 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: <\/strong><strong>$15,192 in-state; $29,415 out-of-state<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>4. University of Michigan\u2014\u200bAnn Arbor<\/h3>\n<p>The field of information studies in constantly evolving, and so is the School of Information at the University of Michigan\u2014Ann Arbor. It started as the University of Michigan Department of Library Science in 1926 and quickly become the third school in the nation to achieve accreditation from the American Library Association. The department went through additional name changes during the 1960s and 1980s before settling on its current name in 1996.<\/p>\n<p>Today, the School of Information is known for its multidisciplinary educational approach that combines a focus on both the human users of information and the technology of managing information resources. Due to its focus on incorporating practical experience and research into classroom studies of theory and principles, the University of Michigan\u2019s School of Information is considered \u201cthe first iSchool in the world to offer an integrated Master of Science in Information degree.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>At the University of Michigan, the professional degree path for aspiring librarians and information studies professionals is the Master of Science in Information (MSI) program. The University of Michigan\u2019s School of Information is also home to additional degree paths, including the new Bachelor of Science in Information, a Ph.D. in Information and a multidisciplinary Master of Health Informatics program.<\/p>\n<p>Core coursework for MSI students includes three foundation courses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Information in Social Systems: Collections, Flows, and Processing<\/li>\n<li>Contextual Inquiry and Project Management<\/li>\n<li>Networked Computing: Storage, Communication, and Processing<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Students must also complete required courses in management and research methods as well as internships, electives and non-program graduate-level coursework.<\/p>\n<p>The University of Michigan excels in a number of library and information studies specialties, with <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/university-of-michigan-ann-arbor-170976\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a> ranking the school highly in concentrations like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Archives and Preservation, tied for 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, tied for 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 4<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Health Librarianship, tied for 4<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>University of Michigan information science students can also create their own tailored MSI program of study to pursue an education outside the realm of the school\u2019s seven established specializations.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: Ann Arbor, MI<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 8,570 graduate students (342 MSI students)<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $20,638 in-state; $41,688 out-of-state<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>5. Syracuse University<\/h3>\n<p>Tied for fourth place on U. S. News &amp; World Report\u2019s list is a private research university with a long history. Syracuse University dates back to 1870, and its <a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.syr.edu\/about\/history\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">School of Information Studies<\/a> is considered \u201cthe Original Information School in the nation.\u201d Originally founded in 1915 as the School of Library Science, today the highly ranked library and information science school offers more than 15 study options, with programs at the undergraduate, graduate, certificate and doctoral levels.<\/p>\n<p>The Master of Science in Library and Information Science degree program is the typical education path that prepares aspiring librarians for work in a wide range of positions and industries, from academia to the corporate world. Core subjects of study include introductory coursework in library science professions, resources and organization and management and policy. Students can choose from part-time and full-time options and can complete their work through traditional and online courses.<\/p>\n<p>Syracuse University also offers four specific graduate library and information science degree paths:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.syr.edu\/academics\/graduate\/masters-degrees\/ms-in-information-management\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Science in Information Management<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Master of Science in Information Management for Executives<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ischool.syr.edu\/academics\/library-and-information-science-masters-degree\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Science in Library and Information Science: School Media<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Master of Science in Telecommunications and Network Management<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/syracuse-university-196413\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a> ranked three of Syracuse University\u2019s library and information studies specialties among the top 3 in the nation:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Information Systems, tied for 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 3<sup>rd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 3<sup>rd<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: Syracuse, NY<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 6,593 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $24,984<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>6. Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey\u2014\u200bNew Brunswick<\/h3>\n<p>Tied for sixth place on U.S. News &amp; World Report\u2019s list is <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/about-sc-i\/about-sc-i.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey<\/a>. The University has more total graduate students than any other school on our top 10 list, including more than 360 students in the institution\u2019s two master\u2019s-level information studies degree programs. On-campus students in these academic paths attend courses in classrooms and laboratories spread across five different campus buildings.<\/p>\n<p>At Rutgers University, the Department of Library and Information Science is part of the School of Communication and Information. In addition to the highly ranked Master of Information degree program, the department is also home to a <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/master-of-communication-and-information-studies\/mcis-home.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Communication and Information Studies<\/a> program, an <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/information-technology-and-informatics-major\/information-technology-and-informatics-major.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Information Technology and Informatics undergraduate program<\/a>, a <a href=\"https:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/research\/publications\/disciplinary-foundations-phd-programs-library-science-and-information-science\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">PhD in Library and Information Science<\/a>, a <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/master-of-library-and-information-science\/school-library-certification.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">School Library Certification<\/a> program and <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/master-of-library-and-information-science\/education-courses.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">non-degree education courses<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The Master of Information is the school\u2019s professional graduate program, which replaces the previously offered Master of Library and Information Science. Rutgers University students can earn their Master of Information degree on-campus or through 100 percent <a href=\"http:\/\/online.rutgers.edu\/master-library-info\/?Access_Code=RU-ENT-SEO2&amp;utm_campaign=RU-ENT-SEO2\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">online studies<\/a>. They can study full-time or part-time, but must finish their coursework within a <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/mi\/program-information.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">three-year<\/a> period to graduate. The current Master of Information program includes <a href=\"https:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/images\/files\/mlis\/mi-degree-requirements.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">foundation courses<\/a> such as:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Introduction to Library and Information Professions<\/li>\n<li>Human Information Behavior<\/li>\n<li>Organizing Information<\/li>\n<li>Information technologies for Library &amp; Information Service Agencies<\/li>\n<li>Management Principles for the Information Professions<\/li>\n<li>Information and Society<\/li>\n<li>Colloquium in Library and Information Studies<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Students can also choose from <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/master-of-information\/concentrations.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">concentrations<\/a> in <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/images\/files\/mi\/liscoursesforconcentration.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Library and Information Science<\/a>, <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/images\/files\/mi\/datasciencespring2016.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Data Science<\/a>, Informatics and Design and <a href=\"http:\/\/comminfo.rutgers.edu\/images\/files\/mi\/timadvisingfall2015.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Technology, Information and Management<\/a>, or they can create their own pathway in the general Master of Information focus. \u00a0\u00a0Four library and information studies specialties earned high rankings from <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/rutgers-university-new-brunswick-186380\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>School Library Media, ranked 2<sup>nd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Services for Children and Youth, ranked 6<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, ranked 7<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 8<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: New Brunswick, NJ<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 19,000 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $16,272 in-state; $27,648 out-of-state<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>7. University of Texas\u2014\u200bAustin<\/h3>\n<p>The University of Texas at Austin\u2019s School of Information allows students to combine practical experience and research opportunities with interdisciplinary classroom instruction. With the opportunity to create their own tailored program, build an online portfolio and choose a capstone project that ranges from volunteer work to writing a master\u2019s thesis, students of the University of Texas at Austin\u2019s iSchool can attain a one-of-a-kind education.<\/p>\n<p>Students in the Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS) degree program take just three core courses:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Information in Social and Cultural Context<\/li>\n<li>Perspectives on Information<\/li>\n<li>Understanding Research<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Most of their studies revolve around electives that, taken strategically, can help students develop expertise in their choice of more than a dozen possible areas of study. Students also complete a required <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ischool.utexas.edu\/programs\/masters\/capstone\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">capstone experience<\/a> in the form of a fieldwork project, school library practicum, master\u2019s thesis or report ready for publication.<\/p>\n<p>Besides ranking the University of Texas at Austin as tied for sixth place among America\u2019s library and information studies programs, <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/the-university-of-texas-at-austin-228778\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a> also rated the school highly in four specializations:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Law Librarianship, ranked 2<sup>nd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Archives and Preservation, ranked 4<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 9<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, ranked 11<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: Austin, TX<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: <\/strong><strong>11,331 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $13,814 in-state; $26,156 out-of-state<\/strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>8. Indiana University\u2014\u200bBloomington<\/h3>\n<p>The information studies education at Indiana University\u2014Bloomington is the most affordable on the top 10 list, and that\u2019s no coincidence. The public institution, which dates back to 1820, has worked hard to keep the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.indiana.edu\/admissions\/cost-finances.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">cost of attendance<\/a> down <em>and<\/em> to be transparent about the financial investment students make when pursuing a degree. The school strives to provide a great value for the tuition money students spend, including offering plenty of research opportunities and specialization options that allow students to customize their education.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.soic.indiana.edu\/about\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">School of Informatics and Computing<\/a> at Indiana University\u2014Bloomington offers 11 programs of study at the master\u2019s and doctoral levels, plus numerous accelerated, dual degree, specialization and certificate options.<\/p>\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.soic.indiana.edu\/graduate\/degrees\/information-library-science\/master-library-science\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Library Science<\/a> (M.L.S.) degree path prepares students with the technical skills to gather and assess information resources, assist users with research and create their own educational tools to help users learn. The curriculum includes <a href=\"https:\/\/www.soic.indiana.edu\/graduate\/degrees\/information-library-science\/master-library-science\/requirements.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">foundation courses<\/a> in subjects like helping users find information, organizing information resources, managing libraries of various kinds, effective research methods and using and designing technological tools like databases and digital libraries. Students also gain real-world experience in the library and information sciences profession by completing an <a href=\"http:\/\/www.soic.indiana.edu\/graduate\/courses\/index.html?number=Z605&amp;department=ILS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">internship<\/a> which includes a final presentation. M.L.S. students can choose from a dozen specializations, ranging from information architecture to rare books. An accelerated program is also available for students who haven\u2019t yet earned an undergraduate degree.<\/p>\n<p>The school also offers a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.soic.indiana.edu\/graduate\/degrees\/information-library-science\/master-information-science\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Master of Information Science<\/a> (M.I.S.) degree designed to prepare students for roles as information scientists. They learn to evaluate and organize data through coursework in subjects like Introduction to Information Science, Database Design, Information Architecture, Human Computer Interaction and computer programming.<\/p>\n<p>Three of Indiana University\u2014Bloomington\u2019s library and information studies specialties earned acknowledgement from <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/indiana-university-bloomington-151351\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 7<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, tied for 8<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 13<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: Bloomington, IN<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 10,150 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $9,038 in-state; $25,878 out-of-state<\/strong><em>\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n<h3>9. Simmons College<\/h3>\n<p>The ninth school on U.S. News &amp; World Report\u2019s list has a long history of offering a library and information science education and plenty of flexibility in program format options. Simmons College, a small private institution, has trained library and information science professionals since 1902. Although the school\u2019s 1,622 undergraduate students are exclusively women, its graduate student population numbers more than 4,000 and includes both male and female students.<\/p>\n<p>The College\u2019s School of Library and Information Science features numerous options for students to earn their Master of Science in Library and Information Science degree. Not only can students study full-time or part-time (up to six years) to earn their degree at the pace that\u2019s right for them, but they can also choose from traditional, online and hybrid course formats.<\/p>\n<p>Students in Simmons College\u2019s MSLIS degree program take core courses in Foundations of Library and Information Science, Information Organization, Reference\/Information Services and technology for library and information science professionals as well as completing a capstone project. They can choose concentrations in the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Archives Management<\/li>\n<li>Cultural Heritage Informatics<\/li>\n<li>Information Science and Technology<\/li>\n<li>School Library Teacher Program<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Students can also pursue further studies in one of the following tracks:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Information Organization<\/li>\n<li>Management and Leadership<\/li>\n<li>Preservation Management<\/li>\n<li>Reference and Information Services<\/li>\n<li>Youth Services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In addition to earning its place among the top 10, Simmons College\u2019s MSLIS program also earned recognition from <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/simmons-college-167783\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a> for four specialties:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Archives and Preservation, tied for 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Services for Children and Youth, ranked 3<sup>rd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 10<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 14<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Location: Boston, MA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 4,000 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $21,384<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>10. Drexel University<\/h3>\n<p>Rounding out the top 10 best library and information science schools in the nation is Drexel University, a private school in the heart of the University City neighborhood of Philadelphia. At Drexel, aspiring library and information science professionals are part of the School of Computing &amp; Informatics.<\/p>\n<p>Students in Drexel\u2019s Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS) degree program complete <a href=\"http:\/\/catalog.drexel.edu\/graduate\/collegeofcomputingandinformatics\/libraryandinformationscience\/#degreerequirementstext\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">core courses<\/a> in Introduction to Research in Information Organizations, Social Context of Information Professions, Information Users and Services, Information Access &amp; Resources, Foundations of Information Systems and Managing Information Organizations.<\/p>\n<p>Students can also choose one of the following specialties:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Archival Studies<\/li>\n<li>Digital Curation<\/li>\n<li>Digital Libraries<\/li>\n<li>Library and Information Services<\/li>\n<li>Youth Services<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Drexel\u2019s MSLIS program excels in several specializations. <a href=\"http:\/\/grad-schools.usnews.rankingsandreviews.com\/best-graduate-schools\/top-library-information-science-programs\/drexel-university-212054\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">U.S. News &amp; World Report<\/a> awarded the program high ratings for the following specialties:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Health Librarianship, ranked 1<sup>st<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Information Systems, ranked 3<sup>rd<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Digital Librarianship, ranked 6<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Services for Children and Youth, ranked 9<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>School Library Media, tied for 10<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<li>Archives and Preservation, ranked 12<sup>th<\/sup><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Flexibility is important at Drexel University, and not only because the school\u2019s numerous concentrations offers students the chance to customize their education. The school allows students to earn their MSLIS degrees through traditional on-campus studies, through a fully online program or by combining the two learning options. They can use practicum experiences to attain real-world professional experience in library and information science even before they graduate. Students who enter the degree path with relevant work experience can even receive college credits for the work they have already done.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Location: Philadelphia, PA<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Enrollment: 9,463 graduate students<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>Tuition: $26,032<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><em>Editor\u2019s Note:<\/em><\/p>\n<p>When you begin your college search for the right graduate library science program for you, consider this list a guide. There are many other factors and resources to consider when making your college selection. The <a href=\"http:\/\/www.ala.org\/educationcareers\/careers\/librarycareerssite\/whatyouneedchooseschool\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ALA<\/a> specifically recommends that aspiring library and information studies professionals weigh factors like cost, admissions requirements, program emphasis, course offerings, distance learning options, program schedule options and the information then can glean from a personal visit to the school.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p><em><strong>For Further Reading:\u00a0<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.degreequery.com\/top-10-graduate-degree-programs-criminal-justice\/\">Top 10 Graduate Degree Programs in Criminal Justice<\/a><\/p>\n<p><u><a href=\"https:\/\/www.degreequery.com\/top-25-law-schools\/\">Top 25 Law Schools<\/a><\/u><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you have a knack for researching information online and in books, periodicals and other sources, you may already be considering a career as [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":6,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"mobius_hide_qdf":false,"mobius_hide_el":false,"mobius_limit":"","mobius_degree":"","mobius_category":"","mobius_subject":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[120,82,328,337],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3688","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-college-selection","category-grad-school","category-majors","category-masters"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v22.5 - 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