University of Kentucky®
A degree in library information science goes far beyond working beyond the counter of a library. Archivist, information specialist, data curator, library technician, and data consultants are just the beginning of careers that come from a degree in library sciences. The wide range of skills in information organization, research, technology, and community engagement translate to various sectors and roles for these professionals. If you’re interested in helping people uncover information, UK Online’s Master in Library and Information Science program provides you with adaptable skills to best equip you for a career in the dynamic field of library and information science.
1. Flexibility of Online
This degree is ideal for an online program. Students have the time and flexibility to complete asynchronous work in accordance with the assignment due dates. Being a technology and information centered degree, what better way to learn than your computer!
2. No GRE Scores Required
You are not required to submit GRE test scores for enrollment. Save time, money, and stress.
3. Nationally-Recognized Program
US News & World Report has ranked UK’s Library and Information Science program in the top 20 for library science degrees, #12 in youth library services, and #3 in health librarianship. This speaks to the quality and reputation of the program.
4. Esteemed Faculty
This program is led by an incredible team of library science experts whose goal is to help students get the most out of their studies and be prepared for your future career. Dr. Oltmann and her team received the Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program grant for $445,281. Oltmann plans to use the grant for a three-year research project that will examine how public libraries respond to attempts to ban books. Dr. Cahill is part of a multi-university team that received $249,000 in funding from National Leadership Grants for Libraries for a project titled "Demonstrating Your Data: An Evidence-based Practice Curriculum for School Librarians."
5. History of the Program
Not only is this the only ALA-accredited library science program in Kentucky, but it’s a highly respected and one of the oldest programs nationwide. Since 1911, UK has been educating library science professionals and we continue to grow and improve each and every year. Our esteemed program was also one of the first to offer a fully online library science degree program in the U.S.
6. ALA Accredited Program
University of Kentucky’s library science degree has maintained continuous accreditation since 1942. For decades UK has prided itself on being an accredited program to broaden students' professional options. A degree from an ALA-accredited program is the preferred or required credential for many professional library jobs, including those in public, academic, special, and school libraries.
7. Eight Different Elective Clusters
Tailor your education to meet your professional goals. Within our Master of Library Science program, students forge their degree plans by choosing courses aligned with the following elective clusters:
- Academic libraries
- Data science
- Health information
- Information technology and systems
- Instructional communication
- Public libraries
- School libraries
- Allows for concurrent school media certification/rank change in KY.
- You also must have a valid teaching license to become a certified school librarian.
- Youth services and literature
8. No Out-of-State Tuition
For this online program, everyone pays the same price, whether you’re a Kentucky resident or live in another state.
9. Tuition Cap
If a student has the time and wishes to take more than 9 credit hours, the tuition is capped. This is a great way to save money and get your degree quicker if you strive to go over 9 credit hours each semester.
10. Alternative Spring Break Program
University of Kentucky’s library science degree program is one of the few universities to participate in an alternative spring break program with prestigious sites in and around DC. Whether a student is physically or virtually at library sites, they have the chance to work with institutions, such as the Library of Congress and National Library of Medicine, while working with professional librarians or archivists. We are proud to be one of the only Library Science programs to offer this unique professional development opportunity to its students.
