25 Best Affordable Online Library Science Degree Programs (Master’s) 2020

Commerce, Texas

Texas A & M University-Commerce (TAMUC, est. 1889) is a public institution that is part of the Texas A&M University System — one of the largest systems in the country, with 11 universities. Originally founded as a private teachers college, it now serves a diverse group of students at seven campuses and learning centers, plus online. Its diversity includes a growing Hispanic student population, bringing TAMUC closer to an official designation of HSI (Hispanic Serving Institution). The university’s collective offering has earned it, its faculty or students awards, grants (NSF), rankings and more.

TAMUC offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees — with over 140 areas of study and over 100 degree programs. Graduate school itself offers over 40 accredited programs. This includes a 100% online Master of Education or Master of Science in Educational Technology Library Science (MSETLS) degree program. This online degree requires 36 credits for completion and follows a Learning Technology and Information Systems major. While the 12 required courses (including one elective) primarily cover general Library Science technology topics, an “Administration of the School Library” course. A practicum is part of the curriculum. A School Librarian professional certification program is also available (Texas only), which incorporates a Master’s degree (if not already earned), two years classroom teaching experience, and a TExES test.

Valdosta, Georgia

Valdosta State University (VSU, est. 1906) is a public institution serving students at over 100 locations worldwide, on campuses, learning centers and through academic partnerships. It opened in 1913, originally as a women’s college, admitting men in 1950, and becoming part of the University System of Georgia in 1993. The campus earned a coveted Tree Campus USA designation, and U.S. News & World Report ranked VSU in their 2018 Best Colleges report (#107 Best Online Bachelor’s Programs, plus topical graduate rankings), as well as in multiple previous years. Notable alumni of Valdosta include actress Pauley Perrette (who is leaving her long-time role of Abby on NCIS), TV host Nancy Grace, Debra Fordham (writer/ producer of the hospital sitcom Scrubs), and many others.

VSU offers associate’s through doctorate degrees, plus certificate programs — over 100 majors, including over 50 online programs. The university’s Odum Library and the Dewar College of Education and Human Services (CEHS) collectively have multiple relevant programs: online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS); online Master of Education (MEd) in Instructional Technology – P12 School Library Media study track (ITLM); ITLM Media Specialist Certification; Library Media Certification. The MLIS degree requires 39 credits and is a non-thesis program, with a focus on preparing students for librarian careers (academic, public, special).

Denton, Texas

Texas Woman’s University (TWU, est. 1901) is a public institution originally founded as a women’s college. While it remains the largest American university having primarily female students, it admitted male students starting in 1972. It serves students on three campuses, plus online. TWU has collected accolades from several prestigiou sources, including: Victory Media (Military Friendly School 2018); Military Times (Best Colleges 2018); U.S. News & World Report; Forbes; Washington Monthly, and more. Notable alumni of TWU include: Michelle Tribble (recent winner of the cooking reality TV series Hell’s Kitchen, with host Chef Gordon Ramsay); Olympian Louise Ritter (1988 gold medalist, high jump) and many others.

TWU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – over 240 academic programs in total. The School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) offers several relevant programs, all of which can be completed online, with degrees accredited by the ALA (American Library Association): Master of Library Science (MLS) with optional School Librarian Certification Focus; Master of Arts in Library Science (MALS); Dual MLS/ MS in Health Studies; Graduate Certificate in School Librarianship; Graduate Certificate in Evidence-Based Health Science Librarianship. Both library science degree programs require 36 credits for completion, with the MLS offering 12 credits of electives and the MA having six elective credits. Students completing either online degree are prepared for information environments such as libraries (academic, public, school, special, health science), information technology, technical services/ cataloging, community informatics.

Denton, Texas

University of North Texas (UNT, est. 1890) is a public institution boasting nearly 10 libraries and related media collections. It is a top-tier university in its category for research, amongst the top in the state for granting doctoral degrees. In the area of student diversity, UNT ranks in several categories, as per several sources: Winds of Change Magazine (Top Colleges for Native Americans); Hispanic Outlook in Higher Education (#34 nationally); Diverse Issues in Higher Education magazine (#36 for minority undergrad degrees). Its campus has won recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation (Tree Campus USA) and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (#111 nationally for green power usage), as well as a Green College ranking from Princeton Review.

UNT claims being the first American institution to offer a completely online school library certification program. Its College of Information Library Science (CILS) programs have earned several rankings from U.S. News & World Report (#10 graduate School Library Media, #21 Best Master’s in Library and Information Science, #6 graduate Medical Librarianship/ Health Informatics, #20 graduate Library and Information Sciences, plus nearly 70 topical rankings in the top 100; #4 nationally for online graduate education; #47 for online bachelor’s programs). Other accolades and rankings come from several sources, including: Forbes (America’s Best Value Colleges, America’s Top Colleges); Military Times (#42 Best Colleges); Money magazine (Best Colleges); Princeton Review (Best in the West colleges, Green College, Best Buy, plus topical rankings); Victory Media (Military Friendly School, Top 10 Military Friendly Tier One Research Institutions); Washington Monthly (Top National Universities, #6 most affordable national universities – middle class families).

Faculty members have collectively earned awards, scholarships and fellowships such as Fulbrights, Guggenheims, Grammies, Emmies, Pulitzers and more. UNT’s most notable alumni arguably includes singer/ musician Dr. Phil, Roy Orbison (deceased), Pat Boone, Don Henley (Eagles), Meatloaf, Norah Jones, Stone Cold Steve Austin and many more.

UNT offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 220 degree programs alone, of which 25 are online (excluding certificate programs). Relevant programs include the Master of Science in Library Sciences (MS-LS), which is accredited by the ALA (American Library Association). It prepares students for library science/ information careers in libraries of all types (public, academic, special collections) run by in various sectors (government, law firms, museums and more). Students can complete the program primarily online either full- or part-time, but must appear in-person for 8-9 days (as part of UNT’s “Web Institute.” The curriculum has three core courses, two major courses, seven elective courses, a 120-hour practicum/ internship (or a paid 6-month field experience, for professionals having ), and a final exam (no thesis). Students have a choice of six focus areas in this master’s: General program of study; Archival Studies and Imaging Technology; Distributed Learning Librarianship; Information Organization; Law Librarianship and Legal informatics; Youth Librarianship. There are also a number of graduate certificate programs in Library and Information Science. The university ranks #3 nationally for the largest endowment amongst institutions that offer library and information science programs.

Greenville, North Carolina

East Carolina University (ECU, est. 1907) is a public institution with a strong leaning towards STEM or healthcare studies (over 40% of students enrolled in Fall 2016). It even has a health sciences library (in addition to the main library and a music library). ECU has received recognition from multiple sources, including: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 – Best Online Programs and Top Public Schools; Best Colleges 2016, plus various online graduate topical rankings over multiple years); Washington Monthly (Best Bang for the Buck – #1 2015 Southeast); Princeton Review (Best Colleges – 2017 Southeast, plus topical rankings); Insight into Diversity magazine (Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award – multiple years); Victory Media (Military Friendly School Gold 2017, Military Spouse Friendly School); Washington Monthly (Top 50% nationally; America’s Best Bang for the Buck); Social Mobility Index (2017). Notable ECU alumni include: actress Sandra Bollock; wrestling entrepreneurs Vince and Linda McMahon of WWE fame; several athletes including NFL football players and gold- and silver-medal-winning Olympians; a half-dozen Pulitzer Prize or Emmy Award winners, amongst others.

ECU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 200 programs in total, and over 40 online degree programs. ECU’s College of Education offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library Science (MLS), which is accredited by the ALA (American Library Association). The program, which caters particularly to non-traditional students, requires a minimum of 39 credits (depending on study track selected) and has eight core courses. Concentration options are: School Library Media; Public Library; Academic Library. Students graduating from the MLS are prepared for librarian and information professional roles in academic (Pre K-12 schools, universities, community colleges) and public libraries. They also qualify for North Carolina Public Library Certification.

Durham, North Carolina

North Carolina Central University (NCCU, est. 1909) is a member of the public University of North Carolina System. It is an HBCU (Historically Black College/ University — over 75% of students at NCCU are African-American) with four libraries, including music and law libraries. NCCU has received recognition from several sources for academic offerings: Diverse Issues in Higher Education magazine (2017 Top 100 Minority Degree Producers); HBCU Digest (2016 HBCU of the Year); U.S. News & World Report (2017 Best Colleges – HBCUs; Best Colleges – Online Bachelor’s Programs; plus topical online graduate rankings); Washington Monthly (Best Bang for the Buck – #19 Colleges Southeast, plus topical master’s rankings). Notable NCCU alumni include actress/ comedienne Kim Coles (In Living Color, Living Single) and Maynard Jackson (the first African-American mayor of Atlanta), amongst others.

NCCU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 80 degrees and 140 programs in total, including seven by distance/ online. Relevant programs include a fully online Master of Library Science (MLS) degree. The MLS — the sole program nationally amongst HBCU’s — is offered by the School of Library and Information Science, and is accredited by the American Library Association. It requires 36 credits for completion, and students can choose from seven concentration focus areas: Academic Librarian; Archives and Records Manager; Digital Librarian; Law Librarian; Public Librarian; School Media Coordinator; Special Librarian. The MLS is also offered as part of a joint degree with the Juris Doctor program — through the School of Law, which National Jurist magazine ranked amongst the 10 most popular law schools.

Huntsville, Texas

Sam Houston State University (SHSU, est. 1879) is a public institution and a member of the Texas State University System. It serves students on two campuses plus online. Recognition for SHSU includes that from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Online Programs 2018, including #1 for graduate criminal justice, #28 for online graduate education topics including the Master of Library Science, #47 for online bachelor’s programs, plus other topics; Best Colleges 2016 – Best Online Graduate programs in five topics, plus Best Online Bachelor’s Programs); Victory Media (Military Friendly School 2016 for SHSU Online division); Forbes; Washington Monthly. Notable SHSU alumni includes; award-winning TV journalist Dan Rather (CBS Evening News); director Richard Linklater (Dazed and Confused, Slacker, School of Rock) and others.

SHSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – with over 170 fields of study, and over 35 online programs. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHSS) offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library Science (MLS) degree. The 36-credit MLS program is recognized by both NCATE (National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education) and AASL (American Association for School Librarians, part of the ALA). It prepares students with information literacy and technology skills necessary for library and multimedia collection management, and for several school library roles including school library, teacher-librarian and others. The MLS degree is a minimum requirement to qualify for the TExES School Librarian Certification (via a written exam).

Boone, North Carolina

Appalachian State University (ASU, est. 1899) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina System, which consists of 17 colleges/ universities. It boasts a freshman retention rate of 89% (compared to a national average of 68%), is a top institution for the number of students studying abroad (Open Doors 2017 report), and offers several 4+1 accelerated programs, which allow undergrad students to complete a bachelor’s and master’s degree combo sooner than if the programs were taken separately.

The university has received recognition from several sources for its overall sustainability initiative, including: SIERRA magazine (Coolest Schools 2017); Princeton Review (Guide to Green Colleges 2017); Second Nature (Climate Leadership Award); STARS (Gold rating for sustainability). Additional accolades from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Graduate Schools 2019, with several topical rankings; Best Online Programs 2018); Forbes (America’s Top Colleges 2017); Kiplinger’s (Best Values in Colleges 2018); Victory Media (Military Friendly School). Amongst the numerous notable ASU alumni are; musicians Jason Roberts (Norah Jones collaborator) and Eric Bachmann (Archers of Loaf); naturalist Eustace Conway, who’s book is the basis for the TV series Mountain Men; and author Mary Ellen Snodgrass (twice winner of the New York Public Library award).

ASU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 150 degree programs alone, and over 60 graduate programs. The university offers one relevant program: an online Masters of Library Science (MLS) prepares students for careers in school (K-12), public or adult services librarianship, media coordinator and more . The program is recognized by the AASL (American Association of School Librarian) and accredited by CAEP (Council for Accreditation of Educator Preparation). Students take the program part-time and need 36 grad credits for completion. Courses are available online either in synchronous or asynchronous format. The Library Science program offers its graduates (in-state students only) several state licensure options: Media Coordinator; Public Librarian; School Librarian.

Warrensburg, Missouri

University of Central Missouri (UCM, est. 1871) is a public institution boasting a 92 percent rate of employment for graduates six months hence. Students collectively participate in giving back to the community through various initiatives, including Habitat for Humanity. Awards and accolades for UCM including that from Victory Media (Military Spouse Friendly School – #1 2017; Gold rating in 2016) and Princeton Review (Best Midwestern Colleges). Notable UCM alumni include Dale Carnegie, author of the popular book “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” and actor Brian Thomas Smith (The Big Bang Theory).

UCM offers bachelor’s and master’s degrees, as well as certificate programs — around 150 programs in total. Relevant programs offered through the College of Education/ Library Science and Information Services department include: an online Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS), which prepares students for school librarian roles. The curriculum consists of a minimum 35 credits (12 courses), including a Practicum (three credits), a Research paper (two credits) and one elective. Students already having a master’s (library science or education) may be interested in the on-campus Educational Specialist in Human Services – Learning Resources program. In-state students graduating from either of these two programs qualify for Missouri School Library Media certification.

Emporia, Kansas

Emporia State University (ESU, est. 1863) is a public institution overseen by the state’s board of regents, and a Yellow Ribbon participating school for military veterans. Accolades earned include those from Washington Monthly and U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 – #2 for lowest student debt Midwest Region; 2016 – #1 statewide for online graduate education/ online non-MBA programs; plus previous years). Notable ESU alumni include television writer Kay Alden (General Hospital, The Young and the Restless, All My Children, The Bold and the Beautiful, One Life to Live).

ESU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs. The School of Library and Information Management (est. 1902, and reputedly the oldest in the western USA) offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library Science (MLS). This degree program — the only one in the state accredited by the ALA (American Library Association) — requires 36 credits for completion and includes seven required courses, 14 credits of electives, and a 1-credit Capstone course. Elective credits can be used towards “concentrations, licensures, or certificates.” Students completing this online degree are prepared for careers in libraries (public, academic, school, government, etc.) and information agencies. The program’s retention rate is nearly 90%, and two years is a typical completion time. A School Library Media Licensure program (on-campus) is available to in-state students who complete this master’s degree. Students wishing to pursue a related PhD can choose the (on-campus) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Library and Information Management.

Greensboro, North Carolina

University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG, est. 1891) is a member of the public University of North Carolina System. It boasts five libraries, including a music library and an interior architecture library. Accolades and awards for UNCG come from top sources, including: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 – Best Grad Schools, which covers 18 graduate programs, including #22 Master’s in Library and Information Studies; plus other rankings in previous years); Princeton Review (Best Colleges in multiple years); Victory Media (Best for Vets: Colleges); Washington Monthly (top universities for contributing the most public good). Amongst UNCG’s most notable alumni is singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris.

UNCG offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 190 degree programs alone. UNCG offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS) — the oldest ALA-accredited such program in the state. Students must complete 36 credits and a Capstone course (instead of a thesis). In total, there are five required courses, one technology course and the remainder are elective courses. (Online courses are primarily synchronous.) The program prepares students for information, archival, museum and library (academic, public, school, special) professions. While a MAT or GRE score is accepted for admission, the latter requirement can be waived in certain circumstances (GPA >= 3.5, or having a non-library-science master’s degree). Note: licensure programs are available for in-state students.

Hattiesburg, Mississippi

University of Southern Mississippi (USM, est. 1910) is a public institution serving students on two campuses (with libraries at each location), five teaching/ research sites and online. Students have earned Goldwater Scholarships, amongst others, and USM has earned recognition from several sources: Military Times (Best for Vets: Colleges 2018); U.S. News & World Report (Top 20 Most Popular Universities – National; plus various topical rankings in multiple years); Princeton Review (Green Colleges); Washington Monthly (Top 70 Colleges for contributions to public good). Notable USM alumni include: singer/ songwriter Jimmy Buffet and celebrity chef Cat Cora (Iron Chef America).

USM offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, and certificate programs — including over 130 bachelor’s and nearly 100 graduate degree programs. The School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) offers one relevant program: an online Masters in Library Information Science (MLIS). The program has eight required courses (24 credits), 15 elective credits, and a comprehensive exam. For those taking the optional School Library – Media Specialist Licensure, a 3-credit Master’s project is required. Students can also participate in SLIS’ dual-master’s program and take a second master’s degree in any of the following: Master of Science in Instructional Technology (MSIT); History; Anthropology; Political Science. Note: SLIS offers an online Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science (BSLIS).

Norman, Oklahoma

University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus (OU, est. 1890) is a public institution and a member of the University of Oklahoma System. It serves students on two campuses plus online. OU’s Bizzell Memorial Library earned a top-18 ranking from Architectural Digest magazine. Other recognition for OU includes that from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018: Best Online Programs – Bachelor’s, top 100 National Universities, plus topical rankings); Princeton Review (#1 for student happiness – national, public universities, plus topical rankings); INSIGHT Into Diversity (HEED Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award 2017, 2016). OU is also an Apple Distinguished School for the 2017-2019 period (Apple Inc.). Notable OU alumni include actors Ed Harris (Westworld, Glengarry Glen Ross) and Olivia Munn (X-Men: Apocalypse, Ocean’s 8), numerous athletes, including football linebacker Brian “The Boz” Bosworth (NFL, Seattle Seahawks).

OU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, and certificate programs — with over 170 majors. The School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS). The program requires a minimum of 36 credits and is accredited by the ALA (American Library Association). Students may also be able to take advantage of SLIS’ dual-master’s degree program and add any other master’s, assuming the latter department’s approval. Another alternative is SLIS’ dual bachelor’s/ master’s accelerated program, whereby undergrad students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in Information Studies (on-campus) with the MLIS degree.

Houston, Texas

University of Houston-Clear Lake (UHCL, est. 1971) is a member of the public University of Houston System, and an official HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution) with over 30% Hispanic/ LatinX students as of Fall 2017. Accolades and recognition that UHCL has earned include that from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 Regional Universities West – #63 main ranking, #16 Top Public Schools, #33 Best Colleges for Veterans, plus national topical undergrad and graduate rankings; 2017 Regional West; 2016 Best Online Programs -graduate topical). UHCL notable alumni include many astronauts – amongst them Guion Bluford (the first African-American astronaut), author Kevin Kwan (Rich People Problems), and others.

UHCL offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs plus certificates — over 250 academic programs in total. UHCL’s College of Education offers one relevant program: an online Master of Science in School Library and Information Science (MS-SLIS). The program is accredited by CAEP (Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation) and requires 33-34 credits for completion, taking at least 18 months. Students are prepared for careers that integrate technology and learning in schools (elementary, middle, high school). School Librarian Certification is included, and a Practicum is part of the curriculum. To also earn the Master Technology Teacher Certification, the master’s plus dual-certification program is 46-48 credits.

San Jose, California

San Jose State University (SJSU, est. 1857) is a public institution (the oldest on the West Coast) and part of the California State University System — the flagship of the system. It brags a milestone of having the first joint city and university library in the United States — the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Library. SJSU is also home to a 40,000-item John Steinbeck collection, including first editions, manuscripts, letters and more. The campus itself is “wired,” offering well over 500 points of network access — ideal for online students who wish to use physical resources. SJSU ranks highly nationally for graduating minority students, and is an HSI (Hispanic-Serving Institution), with nearly 30% of undergrads in Fall 2017 being of Hispanic/ LatinX origin. SJSU is also a top-200 university for research spending (as per National Science Foundation). The university’s offering has earned a ranking of top 15 master’s-level public universities West from U.S. News & World Report. Notable SJSU alumni are numerous and include: Dian Fossey (gorilla researcher); Amy Tan (novelist, “The Joy Luck Club”); Ray Dolby (Dolby Labs founder); numerous athletes, including over a dozen Olympic medalists; and others.

SJSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – 145 areas of study, excluding 100+ concentrations. SJSU’s School of Information offers one relevant program: an online Master’s Degree of Library and Information Science (MLIS). All work is completed online, and most courses are asynchronous, allowing students to choose when to study classes, at their convenience. No GMAT or GRE test is required, nor are letters of recommendation or a resume. Students who graduate from this program are prepared for information profession careers, which includes roles such as Multimedia Librarian, Digital Archivist, Informatics Specialist and more.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Indiana University-Purdue University-Indianapolis (IUPUI, est. 1969) is a public institution that is part of both the Indiana University System and Purdue University System — each highly-regarded on their own. IUPUI has received recognition from U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges; Up-and-Comers; plus topical undergrad and graduate rankings), Princeton Review, QS World University Rankings and others. Notable IUPUI alumni include two U.S. Vice Presidents, Mike Pence (current) and Dan Quayle (former).

IUPUI offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 350 academic programs in total. IUPUI’s School of Informatics and Computing (SOIC) offers one relevant program: a fully online Master of Library Science (MLS) degree, which is accredited by the ALA (American Librarian Association). Students learn not just library science aspects, but also about “copyright law, freedom of speech, and ethical and policy issues arising from the digital age.” SOIC also offers two graduate library-related certification (license) programs. Some careers for graduates of this program include Digital Collections Librarian, Media Specialist, Library Director, Information Architect and several others. A dual-degree option allows MLS students to simultaneously earn an Master of Arts in History.

Murfreesboro, Tennessee

Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU, est. 1911) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher’s training school. MTSU’s University Honors College claims an “Ivy-league experience for high ability students.” Amongst public universities in the state, MTSU ranks #1 for adult (25+) and low-income graduates, and #2 for graduates. It is also recognized as a Military Friendly School by Victory Media, and a Best for Vets: Colleges by Military Times. Notable MTSU alumni include: Senator Albert Gore, father of former U.S. VP Al Gore; George S. Clinton, film composer (Austin Powers, 3000 Miles to Graceland, The Astronaut’s Wife, Beverly Hills Ninja); and Lady Antebellum music arts Chris Young and Hillary Scott.

MTSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 140 degree programs alone, and 300+ academic programs in total. MTSU offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library Science, which is in pre-candidacy status with ALA (American Library Association). (The program is NCATE-accredited and eligible for CAEP accreditation.) The program requires 36 credits for completion. Courses are primarily online, with the exception of two field experiences. In-state students who complete this program are eligible for School licensure. Those with licensure can add an endorsement.

Cedar Falls, Iowa

University of Northern Iowa (UNI, est. 1876) is a public institution serving students on one campus and online. It has earned a number of military-related rankings, including from Military Times (Best for Vets: Colleges 2016) and Victory Media (Military Friendly School and 2017 MF Bronze). U.S. News & World Report (USNWR) also supplied a similar ranking, amongst others: (Best Colleges – 2017 Regional Universities Midwest (#2) and Midwest Public and For Veterans Midwest, plus topical rankings). Other rankings from: Washington Monthly (Best Bang for the Buck 2015 – Midwest, and #50 for master’s universities); Kiplinger’s Personal Finance Magazine (Top 100 Best Value Colleges – 2016 Public). Notable alumni include U.S. Ambassador Nancy Jo Powell (Nepal and India), and Internet entrepreneur Chris Pirillo, amongst many others.

UNI offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs — over 140 academic programs in total. One relevant program is offered: an online Master of Arts is School Library Studies (MA-SLS). The program requires 33 credits, including a Practicum, and the “curriculum is aligned with the ALA/AASL Standards for Initial Preparation of School Librarians.” It prepares students for careers as teacher librarians (K-12), who influence the learning for an entire school, and become leaders in the combined areas of technology and literacy, amongst other roles. The program takes into consideration that students are likely working full-time (mostly as teachers) and limits in-person on-campus requirements to one Saturday session. (See site for details.) In-state students completing this online degree qualify for a K-12 teacher librarian endorsement.

Tuscaloosa, Alabama

University of Alabama (UA, est. 1820) is a public institution (the oldest such in the state) and part of the University of Alabama System. The university achieve a record enrollment of over 38,500 in Fall 2017 (with nearly 2,500 in Honors College), and is #1 nationally for the number of enrolled National Merit Scholars (500+). Alumni and graduates have collectively earned many dozens of awards/ scholarships — including Boren, Fulbright, Goldwater, Hollings, Rhodes, Truman — while faculty have earned NSF Career Awards and more. The university has ranked on a number of college review lists, including from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges – #51 2018 Public Universities; School of Information Studies – #28 nationally and #25 national publics; plus topical rankings and previous years); Princeton Review; Washington Monthly; Forbes and others. UA’s notable alumni list is immense, and includes: Pulitzer-Prize-winning author Harper Lee (To Kill a Mockingbird); author/ journalist Gay Talese; actress Sonnequa Martin-Green (The Walking Dead, Star Trek: Discovery)

UA offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — including over 150 graduate programs alone. The School of Library and Information Studies, within the College of Communication and Information Sciences, offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS), accredited by the ALA (American Library Association). The program, which requires an in-person orientation and 36 credits for completion, uses a cohort model and synchronous online classes (usually once per week). It prepares students with knowledge of the organization and management of information for library/ information-related careers.

Kent, Ohio

Kent State University (KSU, est. 1910) is a public institution that is part of the Kent State University System. It has a strong research activity, boasting nearly 200 active U.S. research patents. The campus is home to the Liquid Crystal Institute, where LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) components were created. The university’s faculty members have collectively earned numerous awards/ scholarships, including Pulitzer Prizes, Guggenheim Fellowships, teaching awards and more. In the category of sustainability, KSU has earned a Tree Campus USA designation over 10 straight years, and has 11 LEED-certified buildings. Other recognition is from: U.S. News & World Report (top tier Best National Universities 2018; top 20 graduate programs in library and information science 2017; top 100 public schools 2016;plus topical rankings); INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine (Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award 2017 and previous years); Princeton Review (Green Colleges 2016; plus topical rankings). KSU has a long list of notable alumni, including athletes, educators, entertainers, educators, politicians, etc. A few such include: actor/ TV hosts Steve Harvey, Arsenio Hall and Drew Carey; musicians Chrissie Hynde (The Pretenders), Joe Walsh (Eagles) and Mark Mothersbaugh (Devo, TV and film composer); producer/ screenwriter Brannon Braga (Star Trek, 24, Orville, Salem); novelist Stephen R. Donaldson (Thomas Convenant series, Rings series); boxing promoter Don King.

KSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 280 degree programs alone. The School of Information (SOI, formerly the School of Library and Information Science) offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) — the only such program in the state that is ALA-accredited. It prepares students for information professions including librarian leaders. Ambitious students interested in obtaining dual master’s degrees can pair the MLIS with one of the following programs: MA History; MS Information Architecture and Knowledge Management (concentration in Health Informatics); Master of Business Administration (MBA); Master of Education + K-12 School Library Media Licensure. In most cases, up to 12 graduate credits can be double-counted (towards both master’s degrees). As well, undergrad students taking a bachelor’s degree program may be able to pair it with the MLIS.

New Haven, Connecticut

Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU, est. 1893) is a public institution and a member of the Connecticut State University System. Originally founded as a teachers college, SCSU’s current campus has earned several awards/ rankings for sustainability initiatives. In addition to having a LEEDS Gold-certified building, it has rankings from both Princeton Review (Green Colleges 2017 and previous years) and Sierra Club/ Sierra Magazine (Cool Schools 2015). Notable SCSU alumni include athletes and coaches, entertainers, authors, educators. One such is actor Dan Lauria (The Wonder Years, Cagney and Lacey, Party of Five).

SCSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — nearly 230 academic programs in total. The Department of Information and Library Science (ILS) offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree, which has ALA (American Library Association) Candidacy status, and is accredited by the Board of Regents (BOR) for Higher Education (State of Connecticut). Note: ILS also offers an on-campus School Media Specialist Certification program (for Connecticut state).

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Western Kentucky University (WKU, est. 1906) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher’s college, which now serves students on four campuses and online. The university has earned recognition in the form of college review rankings from multiple sources, including: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 – #12 Best Online Bachelor Degree Programs, plus a number of top-15 and top 25 graduate rankings, and previous years; Best Colleges 2016 – Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans, online and traditional); Military Times Edge (Best for Vets 4-year Colleges); Victory Media (Military Friendly School – multiple years, plus top 100 in 2016); MONEY magazine (top 25 Great Colleges for Veterans); Forbes; Washington Monthly. Notable WKU alumni include film director/ writer John Carpenter (Halloween, The Fog, Escape from New York, Escape from L.A., Ghosts of Mars, Vampires) and actor Charles Napier (deceased, voice of the Sheriff in Squidbillies).

WKU offers associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 300 academic programs in total, including over 50 online degree programs alone. The university offers one relevant program: an online Master of Science in Library Media Education (LME), which is accredited by NCATE (National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education), and recognized by AASL (American Association for School Librarians). The program requires 30-33 credit, depending on which of two concentration options are selected: Library Media Specialist; Educational Technology. Students who graduate from this program are prepared for a variety of career roles, including library media specialists, educational technology specialists, information service specialists and more. In-state students completing this master’s degree are eligible for School Media Librarian certification. Note: An undergrad minor in LME is also available, though only 3-9 credit hours can be taken online, and that through Bluegrass Community and Technical College. (Contact WKU for details.)

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM, est. 1956) is a public institution and a member of the University of Wisconsin System – the latter’s most diverse, in terms of student population. The university has earned recognition from multiple sources, for various offerings, including from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 – Best Online Bachelor’s Program and #30 Best for Veterans, plus topical rankings and previous years, including for #14 2017 graduate Library and Information Systems); Sierra Club (Top 50 Cool Schools – #45 2017for sustainability); AASHE/ Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (STARS Gold rating); Princeton Review (Guide to Green Colleges); U.S Department of Education (Green Ribbon Award for sustainability); League of American Bicyclists (Bicycle Friendly University: Gold 2016) and others. UWM’s immensely long list of notable alumni include multiple Academy-Award-nominated actor Willem Dafoe (The English Patient, The Boondock Saints, Shadow of the Vampire, Spider-Man).

A top research university, UWM offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 190 academic programs in total, including 135 graduate programs. The School of Information Studies (SOIS) offers one relevant program: an online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS). The program requires 36 credits (30 in library and information science) and prepares student for career roles as librarians or information professionals. There are four Concentration options to choose from: Archival Studies, Information Organization, Information Technology, Public Library. Thanks to a joint effort between SIS and three UWM colleges, students taking this master’s degree can participate in a dual master’s program, with a choice of the MLIS and one of 10 other master’s degrees (some of which may be online).

Baton Rouge, Louisiana

Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College (LSU, est. 1860) is a public institution and a member of the Louisiana State University System. LSU has earned accolades from various organizations, including: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges 2018 – Best Online Programs; plus various topical rankings); Forbes (America’s Best Value Colleges 2018 – #44 publics and #88 overall); INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine (2017 HEED/ Higher Education Excellence in Diversity Award and previous years); President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll; University Business magazine (Spring 2016 Models of Excellence winner); Kiplinger’s Personal Finance (Best Values – 2013 Public Colleges); Princeton Review (100 Best Value Colleges 2013); Payscale.com and others. Some of LSU’s most notable alumni are arguably: former NBA basketball champion Shaquille O’Neal; Oscar-winning film composer William Conti (Rocky, The Karate Kid, Dynasty); and former U.S. Vice President Hubert Humphrey Jr. (under President Lyndon Johnson).

LSU offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs, in over 235 fields of study. The School of Library and Information Science (SLIS) offers one relevant degree: an online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), with eight optional specializations. This program requires a minimum of 36 credits for completion, half (six) of which are elective courses. Courses can be taken part- or full-time, but students must complete the degree within five years. SLIS also offers several online certificate programs: School Librarianship (graduate); Library Science (post-baccalaureate). There is also an online undergrad minor in Library Science.

Lexington, Kentucky

University of Kentucky (UK, est. 1865) is a public institution boasting 14 libraries or information centers. The university has earned accolades from: U.S. News & World Report (Best Colleges – Best Graduate Schools 2017, including a #5 ranking for the School of Information Science’s (SIS) Health Librarianship program and other programs, and a previous #25 ranking for SIS itself; Top Public Schools – #64 2013); Military Times (Best for Vets: Colleges, including topical rankings). Notable UK alumni include: David Horace Clift (deceased), one-time president of the American Library Association; numerous Nobel Prize winners and other academicians; teacher/ football John T. Scopes, the defendant in the Scopes Monkey Trial of 1925; and Matt Cutts, former Google software engineer who advised SEO (Search Engine Optimization) experts on best practices for achieving high rankings for Web sites in Google Search.

UK offers bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs — over 200 academic programs in total. The School of Information Science offers one online program: a fully online Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS). The program requires a minimum 36 credits and is ALA-accredited (American Library Association). Classes are online and asynchronous, for maximum schedule flexibility, and a Practicum and Study abroad may be options. Students can choose the Generalist concentration, or one of six other options: Academic Libraries; Health Information; Information Systems; Public Libraries; School Librarian (certification for careers in school libraries or media centers); Youth Services and Literature. This master’s program prepares students for careers in public, academic, school, or health science libraries. Notes: online students pay in-state rates; in-state students are eligible for School Librarian Certification.