Do you want to pursue a career as a librarian? Being a librarian is more than reading and recommending books. One of the best ways to start a career in this field is by earning a library science degree. As most schools offer this program online, we’ve compiled the following article to highlight the cheapest online library science degrees.
In addition to the most affordable online library science degrees, we’ll also go over some of the highest-paying jobs to look forward to after graduation. We’ll wrap up the article by looking at frequently asked questions from prospective students looking for the cheapest online schools for library science.
Can I Get a Library Science Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a library science degree online. Most academic institutions offer this program online as well as in person. A quick search on the best library science degree programs in your area should help you get started.
Why Should I Get a Library Science Degree Online?
You should get a library science degree online if you want to gain skills in librarianship without compromising your day-to-day activities or work. If you have a nine-to-five job and wish to learn librarianship to take advantage of opportunities in your area, you should get a library science degree online.
Besides, online degrees are typically cheaper than in-person degrees. This means you can save a couple of bucks and learn at home without compromising your full-time job.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Library Science Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online library science degree programs in the US include Chippewa Valley’s Library and Information Services Associate Degree, University of Maine at Augusta’s Bachelor of Science in Information & Library Science, and University of Southern Mississippi’s Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science.
Cheapest Library Science Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Chippewa Valley Technical College — Associate in Library and Information Services
- Minneapolis Community and Technical College — Associate of Applied Science in Library Information Technology
- University of Maine at Augusta — Bachelor of Science in Information and Library Science
- University of Nebraska at Omaha — Online Bachelor of Science in Education, Library Science Concentration
- University of Southern Mississippi — Bachelor of Science in Library And Information Science
How Much Does an Online Library Science Degree Cost?
An online library science degree costs anywhere from $250 to $400 per credit. The total cost of an online library science degree will ultimately vary depending on the program. For instance, associate degrees typically cost less than bachelor’s or master’s degree programs.
Expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $200 per credit for online associate degree programs and $240 to $400 per credit for bachelor’s degree programs. Online graduate programs generally start at $500 per credit.
Will Getting a Library Science Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, getting a library science degree online will help you save money as you won’t have to worry about transportation or housing costs. Room and board expenses significantly increase the overall costs of attending university at an academic institution. Fortunately, getting a library science degree online means that you’ll save a lot on such costs.
Online Library Science Programs vs In-Person Library Science Programs
Are you stuck between choosing an online library science program and an in-person library science program? We’ve highlighted a few benefits to help you make a choice that fully suits you.
Benefits of an Online Library Science Degree
- Offers a lower cost for the same degree program. Online programs tend to be much cheaper than programs offered in person. You won’t have to worry about on-campus housing plans, food, transportation, and administration services.
- You can learn from anywhere at any time. One of the biggest perks of online learning is flexibility. As an online student, you can learn from anywhere across multiple devices, including mobile phones, laptops, and tablets.
- Ideal for working professionals. Online programs allow learners to continue working while still gaining new skills and knowledge. As an online student, you can enroll in an online library science degree without compromising your professional work life.
- Course materials are easily accessible. Unlike in-person programs that require students to access course material manually, online programs make it easy for students to access course material. You won’t have to go to the library to access books and reading material as a typical on-campus student would.
- Frees up more time for other activities. You won’t be stuck in traffic jams while heading to or from class when taking online classes. You’ll have more free time on your hands than a standard on-campus student.
Benefits of In-Person Library Science Degree Programs
- You form new networks and connections. Campus is known for providing students with multiple chances to network and build meaningful friendships that last beyond university. These opportunities are fairly limited for online students.
- You can take advantage of the campus facilities. Libraries, gym facilities, sports grounds, student clubs, and counseling halls are a few examples of facilities available for on-campus students. Access to such facilities enhances the overall learning experience.
- Offers a greater learning experience compared to other programs. Most people would love a college experience full of moments of laughter with classmates, activities in student clubs, and the graduation ceremony. This studying experience might be hard to replicate with an online learning program.
- Studying on campus might be easier than online. Studying at home might be challenging for some students, as the environment might not be as conducive to learning. On the other hand, it is easier to learn on campus as the environment is designed to facilitate learning activities.
- Better relationships with lecturers and course instructors. Face-to-face interactions with your lecturers are vital to the learning process. As an on-campus student, you’ll get to meet your instructors and form relationships that could significantly enhance your learning experience.
Online Library Science Degree Career Options
Some of the best online library science degree career options include library media specialist, information officer, librarian, publishing manager, electronic resource librarian, research analyst, taxonomist, academic librarian, rare books curator, and learning resource center librarian.
Getting a lucrative job in this field is a great reason for pursuing a library science degree. Fortunately, career prospects are the same for holders of traditional in-person and online degrees.
Library Science Job Outlook
The overall library science job outlook looks fairly promising as this industry is expected to grow and generate many jobs. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for librarians and library media specialists is projected to grow by nine percent from 2020 to 2030.
This increase is expected to create approximately 15,200 jobs each year over this decade. However, a significant percentage of these openings will arise in need to replace other workers who might retire or change professions.
Library Science Salary
The average salary for a Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science degree holder is approximately $59,000 a year. This figure is based on data from PayScale, which also estimates that library directors with a Master of Library Science degree earn an average of $56,000 per year.
Can I Enroll in an Online Library Science Program for Free?
No, you cannot enroll in an online library science program for free as there are no accredited academic institutions offering this or related programs for free. Attending an accredited university is important because it gives meaning to your degree. However, you can enroll in a program at an institution offering financial aid programs that cover the total cost of tuition.
Cheapest Online Library Science Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Chippewa Valley Technical College | Associate in Library and Information Services | $2,370/term |
| Minneapolis Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science Library Information Technology | $206.90/credit |
| University of Maine at Augusta | Bachelor of Science in Information and Library Science | $245/credit/ (in state); $625/credit (out of state) |
| University of Nebraska at Omaha | Online Bachelor of Science in Education, Library Science Concentration | $259/credit (in state); $398/credit (out of state) |
| University of Southern Mississippi | Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science | $389.59/credit |
| Louisiana State University | Online Master of Library and Information Science | $485/credit |
| University of Southern Mississippi | Master of Library And Information Science | $519.12/credit |
| University of Washington | Master of Library and Information Science | $852/credit |
| Southern Connecticut State University | Master of Library and Information Science | $4,789/semester |
| Clarion University | Bachelor of Science in Integrative Studies, Library and Information Studies Concentration | $9,829/semester (in state); $11,108/semester (out of state) |
Library Science Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Library Science Programs
We chose the most affordable Library Science degree programs based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Library Science Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
Common Online Library Science Degree Courses
A lot of the required courses you’ll take during a library science degree program revolve around cataloging and managing information. Below we’ve listed some of the most popular online library science degree requirements.
Introduction to Information and Library Science
This course provides a brief overview of the field. You are introduced to the history, purpose, processes, and functions pertaining to information science. By the end of this program, you’ll have demonstrated an understanding of global policies and trends in relation to library and information science.
Cataloging and Classification
Cataloging involves creating and maintaining records in a library catalog. This process typically also involves handling books, sound recordings, serials, computer files, electronic resources, and cartographic materials. This course introduces you to a larger discipline called information organization.
Management of Information Organizations
Managing information is key to the success of organizations, especially those working with large sets of data. Management of information organizations leads to improved business processes as a result of improved technology solutions. This course introduces you to document management systems and data warehousing.
Systems Analysis and Design
This course equips students with problem-solving skills in business information and systems. You will look at various business systems, possible problems, and solutions. This course gives you hands-on experience and skills to view problems as a systems analyst and solve them using the proper methodologies and ethics.
Libraries, Information, and Society
This course explores issues facing professionals in libraries and information science organizations. Some topics you’ll tackle in this program include intellectual freedom, ethics, community service, social responsibilities, and international modes.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Library Science Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online library science degree. Many institutions offer state and organizational-sponsored financial aid programs to help students cover the cost of their education. As US citizens or residents looking for financial aid, students are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA to become eligible for federal and state loans.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Library Science Degree
You can use federal loans, grants, and private loans to finance your online courses. Here’s a brief overview of some popular options that you should consider to help pay for an online library science degree.
Federal and State Grants
The US Government offers grants to students pursuing higher education or career programs at colleges and universities. Unlike private and federal loans, grants don’t need to be repaid.
The Department of Education offers several types of grants to students across community colleges, high schools, universities, and career schools. They include federal pell grants, federal supplemental educational opportunity grants, teacher education assistance for college and higher education (teach) grants, and Iraq and Afghanistan service grants.
Federal and Private Loans
Federal and private loans are some of the most popular financial aid options used by students across America. These loans are availed by the US federal government or a private entity, which serve as the acting lenders.
The Department of Education offers four different types of federal direct loans: direct subsidized loans, direct unsubsidized loans, direct plus loans, and direct consolidation loans. According to the Department of Education, you can borrow $5,500 to $12,500 per year for an undergraduate degree. However, the amount of aid you receive depends on your program of study and school.
Work Study
Work study programs are financial aid programs that allow students to pay for their education while working part-time. This opportunity allows you to earn money while still enrolled in an online library science program.
Cheapest Library Science Degree Programs Online
Cost is often the most important factor when considering your college options. Below is a brief overview of the cheapest library science degree programs online at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels.
Most Affordable Online Library Science Associate Degrees
- Chippewa Valley Technical College | Associate in Library and Information Services. According to the US Department of Education, Chippewa College is one of the most affordable schools for library science associate degrees. Consider this program if you are looking for career opportunities as an AV technician, library assistant, or library director.
- Minneapolis Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Library Information Technology. This fully online program allows students to transfer to a four-year program while earning a certificate that shows they have the ethical, legal, and professional frameworks to work in a wide variety of libraries and information resources for communities.
- Central Carolina Community College | Associate in Library and Information Technology. This Central Carolina Community College program is completely online. It takes about two years to complete. You’ll learn a wide variety of topics, including information resources and services, cataloging, library program development, electronic databases, acquisitions, and collection management and electronic databases.
- Northeast Community College | Associate in Library and Information Sciences. This program at Northeast Community College is offered jointly by Central Community College and the University of Nebraska at Omaha. This degree provides the necessary skills for you to become a public librarian in Nebraska.
- Oakland Community College | Associate in Library Services and Technology. This Oakland Community College program is for professionals who aspire to work in all types of libraries under different technician-level positions.
Most Affordable Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degrees
- University of Maine at Augusta | Bachelor of Science in Information & Library Science. It takes approximately four years to complete this 120-credit program. One reason why this program is worth considering is that you’ll work on site at a library under the supervision of an MLS librarian. As such, it is a hands-on educational experience.
- University of Nebraska at Omaha | Online Bachelor of Science in Education, Library Science Concentration. This program offers students the opportunity to earn a bachelor’s degree while picking up valuable skills from courses including research and inquiry, library services, and management of information resources in libraries.
- University of Southern Mississippi | Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science. As a student, you’ll learn advanced public and school librarian skills, including advanced cataloging, referencing, web development, and collection development.
Most Affordable Online Library Science Master’s Degrees
- Louisiana State University | Online Master of Library and Information Science. This program provides a solid foundation in information research, information theory, information behavior, and management of information organizations. Students also have the option to complete a dual degree with a graduate certificate in this field.
- University of Southern Mississippi | Master of Library and Information Science. The school of library and information science has been accredited since 1980 to award degrees in this field. As a graduate, you’ll have the skills to serve information needs in a wide variety of environments.
- University of Washington | Master of Library and Information Science. This university features a world-class faculty that will help you gain the skills you need to make an impact in any knowledge-intensive industry.
- Southern Connecticut State University | Master of Library and Information Science. This 36-credit program provides students with an opportunity to learn through hands-on experiences, including internships and capstone projects.
- University of Arizona | Master of Library and Information Science. This University of Arizona program consists of 37 credit hours and is accredited by the American Library Association. It offers students an opportunity to concentrate in areas including archival studies, legal information, digital information management, and community health information.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Most In-Demand Library Science Jobs With an Online Library Science Degree
| Library Science Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Data Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | 25% |
| Archivists, Curators, and Museum Workers | Master’s degree | 19% |
| Digital Archivist | Master’s degree | 19% |
| Instructional Coordinators | Master’s degree | 10% |
| Librarians and Library Media Specialists | Master’s degree | 9% |
Best Jobs With an Online Library Science Degree Explained
Curious about what the jobs you can get with a library science degree are? After studying library science online, there is a wide array of career goals you can work towards. Here’s a brief overview of some of the best jobs you can get with an online library science degree.
Is an Online Library Science Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online library science degree is worth it, especially when considering the convenience and in-demand skills you’ll be getting. Many surveys have shown that online education is just as effective as traditionally-accepted learning methods. This means that you won’t compromise on curriculum quality by enrolling in programs for library science online.
Not only that, but you’ll still be getting a ton of in-demand skills with an online option. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates careers in this industry will grow by as high as 19% over the next decade. If you’re considering getting an online degree in library science, you should absolutely go for it.
Additional Reading About Library Science
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Cheapest Online Library Science Degrees FAQ
A Bachelor of Science degree is best for library science. A BS degree in library science, or library and information services, is the best specific degree program to consider if you want to launch a career in the library or information services industry. However, to reach higher professional goals, you may want to get a Master of Science in the field.
According to US News & World Report, the best school for librarians or students aspiring to work in this field is the University of Illinois—Urbana-Champaign. Other great universities and colleges for aspiring librarians and library technicians include Sam Houston State University, Valdosta State University, University of North Texas, University of North Carolina, and more.
According to BLS, the degree that most librarians need to work in entry-level positions is a master’s degree in a related field. One of the most popular master’s degrees for a librarian or library media specialist is a Master of Library and Information Science.
MLIS stands for Master of Library and Information Science. A Master of Library and Information Science is a master’s degree that most librarians and library media specialists need for typical entry-level positions in this field.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
