Different Types of Library Science Degrees and Their Salaries in 2026

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The demand for skilled professionals in library science continues to grow as information management and digital resources become increasingly vital across industries. According to recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in this field is projected to increase steadily in the coming years, reflecting expanding opportunities and competitive salaries for qualified graduates. Selecting the right educational path is crucial to capitalize on these emerging trends, ensuring both career success and financial reward.

This article provides a detailed overview of the various types of library science degrees available and the salary expectations associated with each, offering clear guidance for prospective students and graduates navigating their options.

Key Points About Different Types of Library Science Degrees and Their Salaries

Obtaining an associate degree in library science can lead to entry-level roles such as library assistant or technician with median salaries around $35,000, but these positions often offer limited advancement opportunities compared to higher degrees.
A bachelor's degree in library science or a related field typically opens doors to more specialized roles like library paraprofessional or administrative assistant, where the average salary can reach approximately $45,000 annually, reflecting moderate career growth potential.
Master's degrees in library science, particularly the MLS or MLIS, are generally required for professional librarian positions, with median salaries averaging $60,000 to $65,000, and they provide the strongest long-term career advancement and leadership opportunities in the field.

What Are the Different Types of Library Science Degrees Available?

Understanding the different types and levels of library science degrees is crucial for students before choosing a program because each option serves various educational backgrounds and career objectives. Selecting the right degree helps align your skills with your professional goals, ensuring the best academic preparation.

The main types of library science degrees each offer unique focuses and coursework designed to build specific knowledge and skills, and these differences are essential to consider before enrolling in a program such as a best 6 month associate degree.

Associate Degree in Library Science: Introduces fundamental concepts of library operations, cataloging, and customer service. It covers practical skills for supporting library users and managing library resources, providing a foundation for entry-level roles.
Bachelor's Degree in Library Science: Emphasizes information management, research methods, and cataloging techniques. Students gain experience with organizing various information types and using emerging digital library technologies.
Master of Library Science (MLS) / Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS): Offers advanced study in areas such as digital libraries, information retrieval, user services, and information policy. Coursework combines traditional library skills with modern issues in managing collections.
Master's in Archival Studies: Focuses on the management and preservation of historical records and digital archives. Topics include archival theory, digital preservation, and organizing special collections.
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Library and Information Science: Provides a research-intensive program involving advanced studies in information science, technology, and policy. Students conduct original research and develop theories related to complex information systems.

What Specializations Are Available in Library Science Degrees?

Specialization is a crucial factor when choosing a library science degree because it allows students to focus their education on areas that align with their career goals and personal interests. By selecting a specialization, students acquire targeted skills that can enhance their job prospects and earning potential in specific fields within the broader library profession.

Below are some common library science specializations that illustrate the variety of paths available to students:

Archives And Records Management: This specialization emphasizes the preservation, organization, and curation of historical documents and digital records. Key skills include cataloging, metadata creation, and digital preservation. Graduates often pursue careers as archivists, records managers, or special collections librarians.
Art Librarianship: Focused on supporting art collections, museums, and galleries, this area develops expertise in art history, collection management, and research services. Career opportunities include art librarians, museum curators, and visual resources specialists.
Children's And Young Adult Services: Specializing in literacy development and outreach for youth, this track focuses on educational programming, reader's advisory, and advocacy. Graduates typically work as children's librarians, teen librarians, or literacy specialists.
Data Science In Library Science: Combining data management with library contexts, this specialization trains students in data analytics, digital curation, and research methods. Graduates may become data librarians, research analysts, or web analytics directors.
Digital Content, Curation, And Collections: Concentrating on digital resources, students learn digital asset management, metadata standards, and digital archiving. Careers include digital collections librarians, digital archivists, or electronic resources managers.
Health Informatics And Medical Librarianship: Preparing graduates to handle health information in medical and research settings, this path stresses health data management, research support, and information retrieval. Medical librarians, health information specialists, and research information analysts are common career outcomes.
Law Librarianship And Legal Information: This specialization focuses on legal research, document management, and supporting legal professionals. Skills include legal research, information organization, and reference services, leading to roles such as law librarians or legal information managers.
Library Management And Administration: Centered on organizational leadership, policy, and library service administration, students develop skills in management, budgeting, and personnel administration. Graduates often become library directors, administrators, or department heads.

For those exploring options, understanding what is the easiest associate's degree to get? can also be helpful when considering foundational education pathways in library science.

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How Long Does It Take to Complete Each Type of Library Science Degree?

Understanding how long it takes to complete each type of library science degree is crucial for students planning their education and career timelines. Knowing the typical duration helps in setting realistic expectations and coordinating other life commitments. Here is an overview of the main library science degree types and their average completion times.

Associate Degree in Library Science: Generally takes about two years to complete when enrolled full-time. Part-time study can extend this timeline. Some community colleges offer accelerated or online formats, allowing flexibility for working students.
Bachelor's Degree in Library Science: Typically requires four years of full-time study. Students with transfer credits from an associate degree or community college can finish sooner. Many programs provide online courses or evening classes to accommodate different schedules.
Master's in Library Science (MLS): Usually takes one to two years of full-time study. Part-time enrollment can lengthen the duration to three or more years. Accelerated and fully online programs exist, making this degree accessible for professionals seeking advancement.
Doctorate in Library Science: Completion usually takes four to six years, depending on research scope and whether the student studies full or part-time. Online and hybrid doctoral programs are increasingly available but often require on-campus residencies or intensive research periods.

Are There Accelerated Library Science Degree Programs?

Accelerated library science degree programs in the United States offer a streamlined path for students to earn both a bachelor's and a master's degree in less time than traditional routes. These programs often enable undergraduates to start taking graduate-level courses during their senior year, with those credits applying toward both degrees. For example, some universities provide options to complete the combined degrees in as few as five years, compared to the standard six or more years. Common program formats include condensed courses or shorter academic terms, year-round enrollment that incorporates summer sessions to boost yearly credit accumulation, and dual-credit courses which satisfy requirements for both degree levels. Additionally, transfer or advanced placement credits can sometimes reduce the undergraduate portion even further.

Despite their appeal, accelerated library science programs come with important considerations. Students face a notably intense workload because they must manage graduate-level material alongside remaining undergraduate responsibilities. Eligibility often requires a solid academic record, with minimum GPA requirements typically ranging from 2.75 to 3.5, as well as early application deadlines, usually during the junior year. Prospective students should assess their readiness for this rigorous pace and confirm that programs they consider hold American Library Association accreditation, a critical factor for career prospects. Many librarians with a master's degree earn salaries in the range of about $61,660 to $64,180 annually, reflecting the profession's demand for advanced qualifications.

When speaking with a graduate of an accelerated library science degree program about his experience, he described the journey as both demanding and rewarding. Balancing graduate coursework alongside senior-year undergraduate studies pushed him to develop strong time management skills and a disciplined study routine.

"There were moments I questioned whether I could keep up, especially with the faster pace and higher expectations," he admitted. However, he found the condensed format allowed him to stay focused and avoid the fatigue that sometimes comes with longer programs. Taking advantage of summer sessions was crucial, as it helped distribute the workload more evenly. Reflecting on the experience, he emphasized that having clear goals and support from faculty made the difference. "The accelerated path wasn't easy, but it felt like an efficient way to launch my career earlier than I expected," he concluded, highlighting that the challenge strengthened both his academic and personal resilience.

Are Online Library Science Degrees as Credible as Traditional Ones?

Online library science degree programs today maintain academic standards that closely mirror those of traditional on-campus programs. At many leading institutions, the same faculty teach both formats, using identical curricula and adhering to the same accreditation requirements, most notably by the American Library Association (ALA). In fact, about three-quarters of all ALA-accredited library science degrees can be earned entirely online, with 40 out of 54 accredited U.S. programs offering online options.

These online programs often include practical components such as internships, thesis projects, and e-portfolios to ensure students gain real-world experience. The flexibility of online learning-whether synchronous or asynchronous-allows working professionals and those with geographic constraints to pursue advanced training without sacrificing academic quality.

Recent trends show growing employer acceptance of online library science degrees, especially when the program is ALA-accredited. Employers in the library and information science field tend to prioritize the reputation and accreditation status of the institution over the mode of study. Graduates from reputable online programs are now considered alongside traditional graduates for roles like public librarian, school librarian, and digital archivist.

Salaries for graduates with a master's in library science generally range from $50,000 to $70,000 annually, varying by specialization and location. Ultimately, the credibility of a library science degree depends much more on the institution's accreditation and professional standing than whether the coursework was completed online or in person.

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How Much Does Each Type of Library Science Degree Typically Cost?

Understanding the tuition differences across degree levels in library science is essential for effective budgeting and long-term financial planning. Costs vary considerably based on degree type, institution, and delivery method. Below is an outline of the typical tuition ranges for each major type of Library Science degree to help guide prospective students in their decisions.

Associate Degree in Library Science: Tuition at public community colleges for in-state students generally falls between $3,000 and $8,000 per year. These programs often represent the most affordable pathway and online options may offer additional savings. Students can usually access federal financial aid, state grants, and need-based scholarships to help offset costs.
Bachelor's Degree in Library Science: On average, in-state tuition runs around $10,671 annually at public colleges, while out-of-state students may face costs near $29,108. Private institutions often set higher tuition rates. Key factors influencing price include residency status, campus versus online courses, and school reputation. Financial support frequently comes from Pell Grants, work-study opportunities, and institutional merit scholarships.
Master's in Library Science (MLS, MLIS): Tuition varies widely, with in-state full program fees typically between $10,000 and $22,000, whereas out-of-state or private school tuition may exceed $35,000. Online program options can sometimes reduce expenses. Many graduate students benefit from assistantships, scholarships, and loan programs to manage tuition.
Doctoral Degrees in Library Science: These less common programs often cost $15,000 to over $40,000 annually. Total program expenses at top-tier schools can be significantly higher. Nonetheless, doctoral candidates frequently receive tuition waivers, stipends, or research assistantships that alleviate financial burdens.

A graduate of a library science degree program I spoke with reflected on her financial journey, emphasizing the importance of early planning and resourcefulness. She shared how she combined a part-time job with on-campus assistantships, which covered a significant portion of her tuition while providing valuable professional experience.

"Balancing work and study was challenging, but those opportunities made the cost manageable and enriched my education," she explained. Her practical approach not only reduced her debt but also opened doors in her career, confirming that understanding and tackling tuition costs proactively can yield lasting benefits beyond the classroom.

What Jobs Can You Get with Each Type of Library Science Degree?

The level of a library science degree greatly influences the range of career opportunities and the types of roles graduates are qualified for, with higher degrees opening doors to advanced and specialized positions. Understanding these differences can help students choose the right educational path for their career goals. The following list outlines common jobs associated with each library science degree type to provide clear direction for prospective graduates.

Associate degree in Library Science: Graduates typically find work as library assistants, library technicians, or library clerks. These positions involve tasks such as managing circulation desks, shelving books, helping patrons with basic reference questions, and maintaining library records, mostly in public or school library settings.
Bachelor's degree in Library Science: This degree qualifies individuals for roles like library supervisor, library aide, or library technical assistant. Duties often include supervising staff, managing small branches, or overseeing specific operations. Some may also work in information management or as records clerks in corporate or government environments.
Master's degree in Library Science (MLIS/MLS): The master's degree is the standard credential for professional librarian roles, including public librarian, academic librarian, school librarian, archivist, digital collections specialist, and library director. MLIS holders work in diverse settings such as public libraries, universities, schools, museums, and specialized research organizations. Graduates can explore careers in information technology, digital curation, data management, and user experience research. For those interested in fast paced master's degree programs, options that accelerate this qualification can be particularly appealing.
Doctorate in Library and Information Science (PhD): Doctorate holders often become library science professors, researchers, or senior administrators. Their work includes teaching at universities, conducting original information science research, leading academic libraries, and influencing policy in large institutions and government. These roles generally provide the highest salaries and leadership opportunities.

How Do Salaries Differ by Library Science Degree Type?

Degree level often significantly influences earning potential in the field of library science. Understanding these differences can help students make informed decisions about their education and future careers. Below is an overview of typical salary ranges associated with each degree type in library science.

Associate Degree in Library Science: Entry-level positions such as library assistants or technicians usually require this degree. Average starting salaries range from $29,100 to $35,700 annually, though pay varies depending on location and employer type. Advancement opportunities and long-term salary growth are limited without further education.
Bachelor's Degree in Library Science: This degree qualifies graduates for paraprofessional roles, with average salaries between $32,700 and $40,000 per year. Factors like urban versus rural settings and public versus academic employer impact pay, but most professional librarian roles require a master's degree.
Master's Degree in Library Science (MLS, MLIS, MSLS): The standard credential for professional librarians, with a median annual wage of approximately $64,320 as of 2024. Salaries vary by state from about $42,000 to $68,000, while school and academic librarians often earn higher averages, near $69,880 and $68,570 respectively. This degree opens pathways to supervisory and specialized roles.
Doctoral Degree in Library and Information Science: Generally required for faculty or research positions, doctoral holders earn the highest salaries in the field. Average pay for library science professors is around $76,300 annually, with full-time faculty potentially earning over $100,000 depending on rank and institution. This degree offers the greatest long-term earning potential, especially in academia and research.

For prospective students considering where to pursue their studies, exploring options at top ranked online universities can provide flexible pathways to earn these degrees and enhance career prospects.

Is There High Demand for Library Science Degree Holders in the Job Market?

There is steady but moderate demand for library science degree holders in the US job market, influenced by several key factors. Employment of librarians and library media specialists is projected to grow by 5 percent from 2019 to 2029, reflecting growth about as fast as the average for all occupations, with approximately 13,800 openings expected annually. Regional differences are significant; for example, New York anticipates a higher growth rate of 12.6 percent from 2018 to 2028, while states like Colorado, Tennessee, Virginia, and New Hampshire also foresee above-average increases. The evolving nature of libraries, which now often emphasize digital resources, information management, and community outreach, drives this demand for skilled professionals.

Emerging technologies have broadened career opportunities for those with a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS), leading to roles such as digital collections specialist and emerging technologies librarian. This shift reflects the increasing importance of digital skills along with traditional library expertise.

Data from Syracuse University's 2024 graduates shows a 96% employment rate post-graduation, with 81% securing jobs before completing their degree. Salary data further highlights the variation by setting: academic librarians had a median annual income of $65,120 in 2019, while K-12 school librarians earned $62,370. Overall, the national median salary across all library science roles was $54,000 in 2023. For those considering where to study, exploring online universities that are nationally accredited can be a practical choice for gaining the necessary qualifications.

What Factors Should You Consider When Picking a Type of Library Science Degree?

Choosing the right level of library science degree is a critical decision that ensures your education aligns with your long-term career goals and personal circumstances. This choice impacts your job opportunities, salary potential, and professional growth. To make an informed decision, students should carefully evaluate several key factors:

Career Goals: Different roles in library science require different degrees. Most professional librarian positions in the U.S. demand a master's degree in library and information science (MLIS) accredited by the American Library Association (ALA), while entry-level or paraprofessional roles may accept a bachelor's degree. Consider your desired position to determine the appropriate degree level.
Accreditation: An ALA-accredited degree is often essential for professional jobs and certification in many states. Accreditation ensures the program meets industry standards and that your degree will be recognized by employers across the country.
Specialization Options: Many programs offer electives or tracks in niche areas like digital archiving, youth services, or health sciences librarianship. Choosing a specialization can increase employability and earning potential in specific fields, so consider which focus aligns with your interests.
Time Commitment: Bachelor's degrees generally take about four years, whereas master's degrees typically require one to two years of full-time study. Reflect on your ability to study full-time or part-time and whether online or on-campus programs better suit your schedule.
Cost and Financial Aid: Tuition can vary widely, and some master's programs offer scholarships or assistantships specific to library science students. Assess your budget and weigh it against potential salaries-for instance, the median pay for U.S. librarians was $61,660 in 2023-to determine if the investment makes sense.
Geographic and Delivery Flexibility: Online programs offer convenience for working professionals or those who can't relocate, while on-campus programs may provide richer networking and hands-on experiences. Consider which format best fits your lifestyle and learning preferences.

What Library Science Graduates Say About Their Degree and Salary

Jude: "Completing my master's in library science was a transformative experience that opened doors I hadn't imagined. The program's strong emphasis on digital librarianship gave me cutting-edge skills to thrive in today's tech-driven environments. Starting my career at a public library, I immediately felt equipped to lead community programs that promote literacy and lifelong learning. It's fulfilling to see how my expertise positively impacts people from all walks of life, fostering a love for knowledge and connection. This degree truly prepared me to advance professionally and embrace the evolving role of librarians. "

Rome: "Reflecting on my journey through the bachelor's degree in library science, I realize how it grounded me in the fundamentals of information organization and critical thinking. This foundation was essential for my role in an academic library, where I help students and researchers navigate complex resources. The collaborative projects during my studies built confidence and a sense of responsibility toward supporting scholarly communities. Personally, earning this degree enriched my worldview and strengthened my commitment to education and equity in access to information. "

Shelley: "My doctoral degree in library science challenged me intellectually and personally, pushing me into advanced research and leadership roles. It uniquely positioned me to influence policy development and innovate library services on a broader scale. I take pride in mentoring emerging professionals and fostering inclusive practices within our networks. The demanding workload cultivated resilience and strategic thinking that continue to benefit my career growth and contributions to the field. Earning this degree was a pivotal step toward shaping the future of libraries as vibrant, adaptive institutions."

Other Things You Should Know About Library Science Degree Programs & Salaries

What is the average salary for a librarian with a master's in library science?

The average salary for librarians holding a master's in library science is approximately $60,000 per year in the United States. Salaries can vary depending on the region, type of institution, and years of experience. Public libraries typically offer somewhat lower wages compared to academic or corporate libraries.

Do library technicians with associate degrees earn significantly less than librarians?

Library technicians with associate degrees generally earn less than librarians with bachelor's or master's degrees. Their average salary ranges from $30,000 to $40,000 annually since their roles are more supportive and administrative. In contrast, librarians undertake more specialized duties with higher compensation.

Can obtaining a doctoral degree in library science increase earning potential?

Yes, a doctoral degree in library science can increase earning potential by qualifying individuals for senior leadership, research, or academic roles. Doctorates often exceed $80,000 per year but are less common and usually require several years of advanced study beyond the master's level.

How do salaries differ between public and academic library science professionals?

Academic library science professionals often earn higher salaries than those working in public libraries. Academic roles typically range from $55,000 to $70,000 annually, reflecting higher education institutions' funding, while public library salaries average slightly lower, around $45,000 to $60,000.