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A Master’s in Library Science is recommended for career mobility and better pay in larger libraries. Requirements vary by school, but a bachelor’s degree, GPA of at least 3.0, and strong letters of recommendation are common. Accreditation is important and online programs are available.
Obtaining a master’s in library science is a good option for anyone wanting to work at the highest levels of larger libraries. Not all libraries require the degree, but for greater career mobility and better pay, this degree is highly recommended. Fortunately, people can apply to master’s programs from very diverse backgrounds, although they all need to have a bachelor’s degree before applying or at the time they would officially start classes.
There are many different schools that offer a Masters in Library Science and some options are available on the actual degree obtained. Some people earn a Masters of Arts or Masters and others earn a Masters or Masters of Science. It is not clear that one degree is seen as superior to another; MS sometimes takes a few more units to complete. The most important consideration is that the degree be accredited and favorably viewed by any agencies or associations in a country that sets standards for library contracting and practice. For example, in the US, it would be wise to find a program certified by the American Library Association, and other associations exist in different countries.
The actual requirements for entry into any Master of Library Science program vary by school. As stated, a bachelor’s degree is required. Additional things a school may ask for are scores on standardized tests, such as the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) test. Students may be required to demonstrate a working knowledge of computer systems, and those who are not native speakers or from countries with a different language may be required to demonstrate language proficiency through testing.
Most schools require an undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0. In competitive programs, a much higher GPA may be required to secure a place. Students should also plan to collect strong letters of recommendation from professors, or, if they have worked in libraries, they may want professional letters of recommendation from library staff. Fortunately, many colleges offer students the opportunity to work in university libraries, and if you can’t find one there, local libraries are often in desperate need of volunteers. This extra experience can be helpful in securing placement in a master’s in library science program.
Program types vary and even exist that are completely online and do not require physical attendance at a school. As long as the program is accredited and favored by any regional or national association, it is worth considering. Participation time is generally two years, but some programs or students take a little longer or shorter. Each school will have different graduate requirements, and all must be met before a person can formally earn a master’s in library science.
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