University of Kentucky®
Masters Degree (MSLS) in
Library & Information Science
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PROGRAM DETAILS
FORMAT
TOTAL CREDITS 36
CREDENTIALS MSLS Degree
COST PER CREDIT
$753.00
- UK Online
- All Programs
- Masters Degrees
- Library & Information Science (MSLS)
About this Program
Bridge the gaps that exist between people, information and technology. In our fully online, ALA accredited program, you will learn to design and develop knowledge-organization systems. This program will prepare you in becoming a librarian or an information professional in a public library, an academic library, a health science library, an archive, a museum, a government agency, a law library, or any other information center.
Accolades for our MSLS Online Program
- Top 3 program in Health Information by U.S. News and World Report
- Top 12 program in Services for Children and Youth by U.S. News and World Report
- Top 20 program in Library Science by U.S. News and World Report
Media
Designed For
This program is for individuals interested in organizing, preserving, and disseminating information in libraries, archives, and other information settings. Prospective students often have a strong interest in information management, research skills, and technology, aiming to become librarians, information specialists, or knowledge managers in various sectors.
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What You’ll Learn
In our fully online Master of Library and Information Science program, students gain the knowledge and practical skills needed to navigate the evolving world of libraries, archives, and information services. The curriculum covers core areas such as information organization, research methods, digital librarianship, and user services, with opportunities to specialize in areas like data management, archives, or public librarianship. Through interactive coursework, hands-on projects, and collaboration with faculty and peers, students develop expertise in managing information resources and supporting diverse communities. Designed for flexibility, this program allows students to advance their careers while balancing their studies with personal and professional commitments.
In addition to our core curriculum, we offer concentration areas to best prepare students for their future careers in unique areas of library science.
Elective Clusters
Customize your education to your career interests with our Elective Clusters. We've defined elective courses that will fit into your MSLS plan of study and offer you an additional focus area.
- Academic Libraries
- LIS 646 Academic Libraries
- LIS 659 Collection Development
- LIS 665 Introduction to Digital Libraries
- *NEW* Archives & Cultural Heritage
- LIS 643 Archives and Manuscripts Management
- LIS 659 Collection Development
- LIS 690 Programming and Outreach of Libraries and Archives
- LIS 690 Moving Images, Audio, and Photographs in Cultural Heritage Institutions
- Data Science
- LIS 661 Introduction to Data Science
- LIS 662 Data Analysis and Visualization
- Health Information
- LIS 626 Electronic Information Resources in the Health Sciences
- LIS 627 Consumer Health Information Resources
- LIS 629 Introduction to Medical Informatics
- Information Technology and Systems
- LIS 634 Information Architecture
- LIS 668 Database Management
- Instruction Communication
- LIS 618 Games, Literacy, Meaning and Learning
- LIS 619 Informal Learning in Information Organizations
- Public Libraries
- LIS 631 Social Media for Information Organizations
- LIS 645 Public Libraries
- LIS 659 Collection Development
- Special Libraries
- LIS 641 Law Librarianship
- LIS 643 Archives and Manuscripts Management
- LIS 665 Introduction to Digital Libraries
- Youth Services and Literature
- LIS 606 Literature and Materials for Early Childhood
- LIS 610 Library Materials and Literature for Children
- LIS 616 Information Behavior of Children and Youth
Core Competencies
Regardless of what area of focus you customize your degree toward, all students focus on the three core competencies of library and information science.
- Information Organization and Retrieval: Delve into advanced techniques for cataloging, classifying, and organizing diverse types of information resources. Learn how to create efficient systems for retrieving information, both physically and digitally, to meet the needs of library users.
- Collection Development and Management: Gain expertise in selecting, acquiring, and curating a wide range of materials, from traditional books to digital resources and multimedia content. Learn to assess user preferences and needs, manage budgets, and ensure that library collections remain relevant and engaging.
- Information Technology and Digital Services: Explore cutting-edge technologies and digital tools used in modern libraries. Learn to develop and manage online databases, design user-friendly interfaces, and provide guidance on utilizing digital resources effectively, catering to the evolving information-seeking behaviors of library patrons.
Alternative Spring Break Opportunity
You have the option to apply for a competitive spring break internship program in Washington, D.C., at institutions like the National Library of Medicine and Library of Congress. This valuable experience is an opportunity for students to put their lessons into practice while learning from professionals at these prestigious institutions.
Career Stats
ALA Accreditation
Course Examples
- LIS 600 Information in Society
- LIS 601 Information Search
- LIS 602 Knowledge Organization
- LIS 603 Management in Info Organizations
GOT QUESTIONS?
Schedule time to meet with a representative from the Library & Information Science program to talk about your unique situation.
How to Apply
Admissions Criteria
- Must have obtained a baccalaureate degree, prior to the start of the admission term, from a fully accredited U.S. institution of higher learning or from a recognized foreign institution. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
- An overall grade point average of 3.0 on undergraduate and graduate work, if applicable.
- International applicants whose native language is not English must submit either a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score. See Graduate School admissions for specifics.
School Librarian Certification
Requirements for school media librarians may vary from state to state, so it is important to take this into consideration as you plan for your degree. If you are planning to enroll in UK's MSLS degree program as an out-of-state student seeking concurrent school media certification, please know you may need to hold a KY teaching license to complete a certification program here. If you are a current student seeking concurrent certification in Kentucky but plan to move/become a school librarian elsewhere, please check with that state's certification board to ensure yours will transfer.
Application Requirements
- Two letters of recommendation (Only an email address is required. Our system will ask them to upload their letter.)
- Personal Statement - in 200-300 words, please explain the following:
- Why you are seeking admission to the Library and Information Science program at the University of Kentucky?
- Why you are interested in a career as an informational professional?
- CV or Resume
Program Contact
Deadlines
Fall 2025
Spring 2026
Summer 2026
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Fabulous program that has prepared me well for my career as a librarian.
Jasmyne Lewis CombsWhy UK Online
Once you become a student, you will have access to a wide variety of academic support services to maximize your success.
No test scores required.
Pay the same online tuition rate, no matter where you live.
Save money by paying for only 9 standard credit hours per semester, even if you take more.
Fit learning into your busy schedule with no prescribed class times.
Frequently Asked Questions
About
Is this program ALA accredited?
Yes, University of Kentucky's Master of Library Science program is ALA accredited. This ensures students are eligible for all MLS positions upon graduation, and reflects the school's commitment to a contemporary and quality education.
What’s the difference between an MSLS and a MLIS degree?
Different programs award similar degrees with different names. These might include master of science in library science (MSLS), master of library and information science (MLIS), master of information science (MSI), and others. The important thing to pay attention to is whether the program you are considering is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). All of these degrees lead students down the same career path, and one is not better than another.
Admissions
Does it matter what undergraduate degree I received to qualify for the MSLS program?
No. As long as you have a four-year degree from an accredited university, with a 3.0 GPA, you are a candidate for our program. We have students with degrees in history, English, chemistry, and nearly every other discipline in our program.
What is the admission criteria?
Please view the Admission Criteria section, located under "How to Apply" on this page.
Is the GRE required for admission?
No. We do not require GRE test scores for admission.
Career Info
What are career prospects for people with an ALA accredited degree?
Having a master's degree in library science is especially important for librarians employed outside of school settings. Interested applicants should review material available to them including the US Bureau of Labor Statistics and information from ALA. Additionally, students may want to review job ads locally, or in areas where they would be willing to relocate. Always keep in mind that while the typical job for someone with an ALA accredited degree is a librarian, there are other jobs where the skills you learn will be applicable. This could include working as a knowledge management specialist, information broker or database administrator. Read more at the ALA website.
Tuition
How much does the online program cost?
The tuition rate for this program is listed at the top of this page. If you still have questions, please reach out to the program representative.
Is there a tuition cap?
Yes! For graduate students who enroll full-time (9+ credit hours) exclusively in a distance education program, will receive a capped tuition rate. To see the current term’s capped tuition rate, please visit https://www.uky.edu/studentaccount/tuition and look for “Graduate Students Enrolled Exclusively in Distance Education Courses -- full-time.” This is the per semester rate you will pay when enrolled for 9 or more credit hours. Please note, this rate only applies to programs using the standard graduate tuition rate.
What tuition assistance is available for graduate students?
Graduate students should review the Student Funding information available through the Graduate School. Specific programs may offer additional funding that is unique to that program. Contact the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) in the department in which you wish to enroll with questions about the availability of assistantships and the application process.
I'm not in Kentucky. What's my tuition rate?
For our fully online programs, state of residence does not affect tuition rate. Tuition is the same no matter where you live.
Online Learning
Should I enroll as a full-time graduate student?
This depends on each student and their ability to manage the heavy course load of enrolling full-time, which is 9 credit hours (typically, 3 classes) per semester. Students who enroll full-time may find it difficult to keep even a part-time job. Students who are able to manage a full-time courseload can take advantage of our Graduate Tuition Cap and save on tuition, which offers a flat tuition rate per semester when enrolled in 9 or more credit hours.
Will I have to attend class at a specific time?
No, all classes are asynchronous. This means that students complete the course requirements according to the syllabus and deadlines, but they have flexibility within their own schedule to complete coursework at times that work best for their schedule. We recommend students log in everyday to ensure they are staying on top of communication and assignments.
What should I expect in online classes?
It's important to know how to approach learning in an online program. Online classes are not harder nor easier than in-person classes, but they are different due to their asynchronous modality. This means students should expect to:
Develop a routine: Login to your online class routinely (we recommend at least once daily) to receive updates and contribute meaningfully to any ongoing discussions.
Be good time managers: Determine when you have time to work on coursework throughout the week so you don't fall behind or put off assignments until the last minute.
Communicate: If you are having any trouble, message your peers and/or your instructor right away to ask for help or clarification. Never be afraid to reach out to your instructors or Student Affairs if you need assistance--we have many resources to help you, but we need to know your situation to act accordingly on your behalf.
If you need additional support in navigating the online classroom, Canvas (our learning management system) has a number of helpful tools, including a module for new students that walks through everything you need to know about navigating information in your online class.
Will my degree say “online”?
No, you are awarded the same diploma from UK as students who take classes in-person. There is no denotation of “online” on your diploma or your transcripts.
Can I meet with faculty even though the program is online?
Yes. Our faculty are happy to meet with our students by phone call, email, or an online meeting. You are also welcome to set up an in-person appointment if you ever find yourself in Lexington.
Are there any on-campus requirements?
No, there is no on-campus requirement.
Internship / Practicum
What enrichment opportunities exist in the MSLS program?
All students are encouraged to pursue a practicum placement for which they can receive academic credit. Additionally, students have the option to take independent studies to help further their expertise in a specific area. We also offer a competitive Alternative Spring Break program to our students each spring. Students are placed at institutions like the National Library of Medicine and the Library of Congress. We also have a student chapter of the American Library Association which regularly sponsors activities for students.
Ready to Take Your Next Step?
Our team is here to help you with the next stage of your journey. Reach out to us today!
Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure
Where you live matters when completing distance education activities. If you will live outside of Kentucky while completing your program, please check the Distance Learning Authorization & Licensure page to confirm that the program can be offered in your state or country, and if relevant, that it meets professional licensure requirements in your state. Please note: Admission and enrollment in a fully-online program can NOT lead to the issuance of a J-1 or F-1 student visa.
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