If you’re interested in information management, digital archives, or public library work, an online library science degree (often called MLIS or LIS) gives you the tools to pursue those roles without commuting. “Online” means virtually all coursework is done via the internet—lectures, readings, assignments—with some programs including optional practicum or short residencies.
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Why More Students Choose Online Library Science
Years ago, library science degree programs were mostly in physical campus settings. To access them, students often needed to relocate or commute.
Online programs remove those barriers: you can study from wherever you live, at hours that fit your schedule, combining work, family, or other commitments with your coursework. Technology now supports discussion boards, remote group work, digital libraries, and synchronous video lectures.
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What You Actually Gain in an Online LIS / MLIS Program
An online library science program delivers core competencies that used to be limited to on-campus study:
- Cataloging, metadata standards, and resource description
- Information organization and classification
- Digital library systems, archives, and preservation
- Reference services, information literacy, and patron support
- Data management, digital humanities, and collection development
- Optionally, practicum or capstone experience (remote or local)
These programs are designed to be flexible, often accredited, and many do not require GRE scores for admission (subject to each university’s policy).
Flexibility, Certification, and GRE Requirements
- Fully online & flexible: students can complete coursework from home, often asynchronously or with a mixture of synchronous sessions.
- Accreditation & credentialing: many respected programs are ALA (American Library Association) accredited, which is important for many library employers.
- No GRE required in many cases: numerous LIS/MLIS programs have waived or eliminated GRE requirements to broaden accessibility (check specific program admissions guidelines).
U.S. Salary and Career Data for Librarians / Library Science Professionals
- According to ZipRecruiter, the average pay for someone with a library science degree is about $65,193/year (≈ $31.34/hour).
- PayScale shows that holders of a Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS) report average base salaries around $67,000/year.
- The U.S. “Librarians and Library Media Specialists” group had a median wage of $64,320 in May 2024.
These figures vary by region, library type (public, academic, special), and experience level.
Which People Benefit Most from Online LIS / MLIS Programs
- Those already working (full- or part-time) who cannot relocate
- Career changers looking to enter library, archival, or information science roles
- Professionals in related fields (education, museum, nonprofit) wanting credentials
- Individuals seeking advanced specialization (digital libraries, metadata, information systems)
- People who prefer flexibility in pacing or scheduling due to life obligations
Because GRE is often not required and programs are flexible, the barrier to entry is lower for many.
Example Institutions Offering Online Library Science Programs
- Drexel University Online — Offers a fully online MLIS (Library & Information Science) program with accreditation and flexible delivery.
- University of North Texas (UNT Online) — Their MLIS program is 36 credit hours, ALA-accredited, with multiple concentration options.
- University of Southern Mississippi — Fully online MLIS, offered at approx. $20,480 total tuition in one published example.
- Louisiana State University (LSU) — Online MLIS program, charged per credit (e.g. $555 per credit) in published listings.
- LEEP Program at University of Illinois — A distance-education initiative offering library science degree coursework without relocation.
Before enrolling, verify whether the program requires residencies, internships, or GRE, and whether its accreditation is recognized by your state or desired employers.
Why This Course Makes Sense
- It gives you credentials that many library and information institutions expect.
- It offers career flexibility in roles such as librarian, information specialist, archivist, or digital collections manager.
- Remote delivery means you can work while you earn your degree.
- Some programs waive GRE requirements, lowering admission barriers.
- With the growing importance of digital information, professionals with library / information science skills continue to be relevant.
Summary
Online library science (LIS / MLIS) programs allow individuals to gain specialized knowledge in information organization, digital libraries, archives, reference services, and more—without the constraints of campus attendance. Many of these programs are ALA-accredited and do not require GRE scores. U.S. salary data for librarians and MLIS-holders suggests median earnings in the mid-$60,000 range, though actual pay depends on location, role, and experience. For those seeking a flexible, credentialed pathway into information professions, online library science programs offer a practical route.
Data source:
- https://morgridgeonline.du.edu/online-mlis-program/
- https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Library-Science-Masters-Salary?
- https://www.online.drexel.edu/online-degrees/information-sciences-degrees/ms-di/index.aspx?
- https://www.librarysciencedegrees.org/programs/online/most-affordable-mlis?
- https://librarysciencedegreesonline.org/affordable-library-science-programs/?
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LEEP_Online_Education?
