2026 Best Online ALA-Accredited MLIS Programs

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What can I expect from an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

With over 120,000 professionals in this field holding a graduate degree, this is the established standard for the profession, and the programs reflect that.

You can expect a rigorous, graduate-level curriculum that is identical in quality and challenge to its on-campus equivalent. A common misconception is that "online" means easier or entirely self-paced, but that isn't the case for these programs. They are structured, often cohort-based, with regular deadlines and significant interaction with both faculty and fellow students using modern digital collaboration tools.

While a degree in database management focuses on the technical side of data, an MLIS program grounds you in the ethics and theory of information access. You're not just learning a technical skill; you're preparing for a career centered on community impact and the responsible management of knowledge.

Where can I work with an online ALA-accredited MLIS?

An online ALA-accredited MLIS prepares you for influential roles in any organization that values the strategic management of information. While high-paying opportunities exist in specialized sectors like federal agencies and scientific research, the primary employment areas provide a stable foundation for a long-term career.

According to 2024 industry data, the largest employers of librarians and information specialists are:

• Local Government: Employs 32% of graduates, primarily in public library systems that serve as vital community hubs for learning and access to information.
• Elementary and Secondary Schools: Employs 31% of graduates in essential roles as school librarians and media specialists who guide student research and digital literacy.
• Colleges and Universities: Employs a combined 18% of graduates as academic librarians and subject matter experts who support faculty research and student learning.
• Web Portals and Information Services: Employs 5% of graduates in a growing sector that includes roles in corporate knowledge management, digital asset management, and competitive intelligence for businesses and tech companies.

How much can I make with an online ALA-accredited MLIS?

Your salary will depend on factors like specialization, location, and, most importantly, the industry you choose. This credential is the key to accessing specialized, high-paying sectors that value expert information management.

As of 2024, several industries offer highly competitive average salaries for professionals with these skills:

• Federal, State, and Local Government: $102,320 per year
• Scientific Research and Development Services: $93,100 per year
• Legal Services: $90,840 per year
• Media Streaming and Social Networks: $84,400 per year
• Management of Companies and Enterprises: $81,260 per year

List of the Best Online ALA-Accredited MLIS Programs for 2026

1. Syracuse University - Library and Information Science Master’s Degree: School Media Concentration

Focused on information justice, equity, and human-centered design, the Syracuse University curriculum trains future school library media specialists with strong technological skills. The program also provides a direct route to New York Department of Education certification, preparing graduates to serve students and educators in today’s evolving learning environments.

• Program Length: 18 months
• Specializations: School Media; Archives and Special Collections; Children and Youth Services; and Digital Curation
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $1,945
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

2. University of Southern Mississippi - Library and Information Science (MLIS)

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a unique, community-focused online experience through live, synchronous classes that allow for real-time interaction. The affordable curriculum expands your knowledge in core areas like library management and web design, preparing you for the evolving information field.

• Program Length: 1-3 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 40
• Cost per Credit: $578.12
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

3. University of Alabama - Master of Library and Information Studies (MLIS)

The University of Alabama uses a cohort model to prepare students for leadership roles, providing a strong peer support network. The program emphasizes the socially responsible management of information and is custom-designed for busy professionals seeking career mobility in a fast-moving environment.

• Program Length: Less than 2 years
• Concentrations: Archival Studies; and School Library Media
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $480
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

4. University of Kentucky - Master's Degree in Library & Information Science (MSLS)

By emphasizing the connections between people, information, and technology, the University of Kentucky highlights its nationally ranked strengths in Health Information and Youth Services. The curriculum trains students to design and manage knowledge-organization systems, preparing them for roles across a range of professional environments.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $790
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

5. University of Maryland - Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)

The University of Maryland’s top-ranked program leverages its proximity to Washington D.C. to provide unparalleled opportunities with leading information agencies. The flexible, hybrid curriculum allows you to become an expert in areas like digital curation, information ethics, and youth learning.

• Program Length: 2.22 years
• Focus Areas: Archives and Digital Curation; Diversity and Inclusion; Youth Experience; Intelligence and Analytics; Legal Informatics; and School Library Certification
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $878 (in-state); $1,878 (out-of-state)
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

6. Drexel University - Master of Science in Information: Library & Information Science

Drexel University offers an innovative, tech-focused curriculum on a fast-paced quarter system, allowing you to earn your degree more quickly. The program is an industry leader in digital information management, with top-ranked specializations in Health Librarianship and Information Systems.

• Program Length: 1 year
• Embedded Certificates: Archives and Curation; Metadata and Digital Technologies; and Users and Library Services
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 45
• Cost per Quarter Credit: $1,000
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

7. University of Washington - Master of Library and Information Science

The University of Washington’s nationally top-ranked program prepares you to be a changemaker in your community, with a strong emphasis on diversity, inclusion, and social justice. The curriculum allows you to customize your learning with experiential fieldwork and research opportunities.

• Program Length: 3 years (Part-time)
• Required Quarter Credits to Graduate: 63
• Cost per Quarter Credit: $961
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

8. Louisiana State University - Master of Library & Information Science

Designed for working professionals, the Louisiana State University program is delivered fully online and 100% asynchronous for maximum flexibility. As the state’s only ALA-accredited option, it carries a long tradition of preparing graduates for careers in librarianship, digital content management, and archival work.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $560
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

9. Simmons University - Master of Library and Information Science (MS)

Simmons University is home to the nation's top-ranked Archives Management program and offers a highly customizable "Design-Your-Own" curriculum. This flexible program allows you to integrate theory with practice through extensive internship and work opportunities across New England.

• Program Length: 2 years
• Concentrations: Archives Management; Cultural Heritage Informatics; Information Science and Technology; Libraries and Librarianship; and School Library Teacher
• Required Credits to Graduate: 36
• Cost per Credit: $1,415
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

10. University of Missouri - Mizzou Online - Master of Library and Information Science

As part of the international iSchools coalition, the University of Missouri combines fully online coursework with a required practicum to ensure hands-on experience. With its emphasis on research and leadership, the program also offers the distinctive opportunity to earn a dual degree alongside a Master of Public Affairs.

• Program Length: 2-4 years
• Required Credits to Graduate: 39
• Cost per Credit: $589.90
• Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)

How long does it take to complete an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

Most programs take about two years to complete if you are a full-time student. If you choose a part-time track, which is very common for working professionals, you can expect to finish in three to four years.

A key thing to understand is that while online programs offer a great deal of flexibility, they are not completely self-paced. You'll still have a structured semester with deadlines for assignments and projects. The flexibility comes from being able to complete that work on your own schedule during the week, rather than having to be in a specific classroom at a specific time.

Finding the Right Pace for You

Choosing between a full-time and part-time schedule is a critical decision. Many of these programs are designed with the working professional in mind, so the part-time route is a well-supported path. This allows you to continue building your career and apply what you're learning in real time, which is a significant advantage.

The main thing to be realistic about is the time commitment. A part-time graduate program is still a demanding schedule. Before you commit, take a serious look at your work and personal obligations to ensure you can dedicate the necessary time to your studies without risking burnout. This foresight is key to a successful experience.

For those considering careers in library science, it’s also worth noting the question many prospective students ask: do you need a masters to work in a library? While some entry-level library positions may accept a bachelor's degree, most professional roles, especially in academic or specialized settings, require a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) for full career advancement and leadership opportunities.

How does an online ALA-accredited MLIS program compare to an on-campus program?

From an employer's perspective, there is no difference. The curriculum, the faculty standards, and the final degree you earn are all equivalent.

This is because the American Library Association (ALA) accreditation is the great equalizer. It is a rigorous process that holds every accredited program—whether it's delivered online or on-campus—to the exact same high standard. For hiring managers in this field, that accreditation is the only quality signal that truly matters.

The Modern Employer's Perspective

Any bias against online degrees is a relic of the past. The professional world has fully embraced remote and hybrid work, and employers now recognize the unique advantages that graduates of online programs bring to the table.

When you complete ALA-accredited online MLIS programs, you are demonstrating advanced skills in digital collaboration, remote project management, and self-direction. These are no longer just convenient skills; they are core competencies for the modern workplace. The danger isn't in choosing an online program. The real risk, and the one employers will penalize you for, is choosing a program that is not accredited.

What is the average cost of an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

You should expect a wide range in tuition costs, with the total investment for a degree typically falling between $17,000 and $67,000. This variation depends on the institution, whether it's public or private, and the specific program.

It's important to remember that with ALA-accredited online MLIS programs, you eliminate significant expenses associated with on-campus study, such as relocation, campus-specific fees, and daily commuting costs. This makes the total financial commitment often much lower than it appears at first glance.

Understanding the Return on Your Investment

The most effective way to think about the cost is as a strategic investment in your future earning potential. While the average salary for a librarian is around $65,000, an accredited degree is your pathway to the higher end of that scale.

With the right specialization and career focus, you can position yourself for roles that pay significantly more. Top earners in the field, often in specialized corporate or federal positions, can make $94,000 or more. This is where the initial investment in a quality degree pays clear dividends over the course of your career. The chart below breaks down the salary potential you can work toward.

What are the financial aid options for students enrolling in an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

Thinking about the investment is smart, and the good news is you have several avenues to fund your degree. Many people assume aid is only for full-time, traditional students, but that's not the case. A variety of options are available, and you should explore all of them.

Federal Financial Aid

The first step for any U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This is the gateway to federal programs, including direct loans and grants, and it's a foundational piece of any funding strategy.

Scholarships and Grants

Beyond federal aid, a wealth of scholarships and grants are available specifically for MLIS students. Professional organizations, most notably the American Library Association (ALA) itself, offer numerous awards to support the next generation of information professionals.

Employer Tuition Assistance

For working professionals, this is a key and often underutilized resource. Many organizations offer tuition assistance or reimbursement programs for employees pursuing relevant graduate degrees. Check with your HR department to see what benefits may be available to you.

Beyond Tuition: The Value of Professional Benefits

When you're weighing the cost of the degree, it's also important to consider the stability of the profession you're entering. This career path is known for offering strong benefits, which are a critical part of your total compensation. For example, the vast majority of librarians have access to excellent health coverage, which adds significant financial value and security over the long term. The chart below shows a typical breakdown of these benefits.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

Admissions committees for these ALA-accredited online MLIS programs use a holistic review process, meaning they look at your entire profile, not just one or two numbers. They are actively seeking candidates with diverse backgrounds and professional experience. Here are the core components you’ll need to prepare for your application.

• Bachelor's Degree: You must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Admissions committees value the critical thinking and communication skills gained from many programs, and some of the best applicants come from backgrounds strengthened by top humanities online degrees.
• Minimum GPA: Most programs look for a GPA of 3.0 or higher in your undergraduate coursework, but this is often not a rigid cutoff. Lower GPAs can frequently be offset by strong professional experience.
• Letters of Recommendation: You will typically need to submit two or three letters of recommendation. It's a good strategy to get these from a mix of academic and professional references who can speak to your abilities.
• Statement of Purpose: This is your chance to make a direct case for your admission. You'll explain your career goals, why you are pursuing the degree, and how your professional experience has prepared you for graduate-level study.

For experienced professionals, your statement of purpose and letters of recommendation are where you can really stand out. This is where you connect your past work to your future ambitions and show the admissions committee the unique value you'll bring to the program. These factors are especially important for those seeking the best online master's in library science no GRE, where admissions emphasize professional readiness and holistic qualifications over standardized test scores.

What courses are typically in an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

You can expect a curriculum that gives you a strategic toolkit for the modern information landscape. The coursework is designed to blend the foundational theories of information science with the practical, technical skills that employers demand. While ALA-accredited online MLIS programs have their own unique electives, you will find a core set of courses across all accredited programs.

Here are some of the typical courses you will encounter:

• Information Organization: This foundational course covers the theories and practices of cataloging, metadata, and classification systems that make information discoverable.
• User Services and Instruction: Here, you'll learn how to assess community needs, conduct effective reference interviews, and design programs that teach information literacy.
• Research Methods: This course provides the skills to critically evaluate professional research and use data to make evidence-based decisions in your own work.
• Database Management: You'll gain hands-on experience with database design and management, a critical skill for organizing large collections of digital information. For students interested in deepening this expertise, a masters in database management online can complement your MLIS studies by providing advanced training in relational databases, SQL, and data architecture, preparing you for highly technical roles in libraries, archives, and corporate information centers.
• Digital Preservation: This focuses on the strategies and technologies used to ensure long-term access to digital materials, from documents to multimedia files.

This curriculum provides the high-level strategic knowledge to manage information systems. For those in more technical roles, like systems librarianship, many choose to supplement their degree with a top CompTIA Network plus certification online to deepen their expertise in managing IT infrastructure.

What types of specializations are available in an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

A specialization is how you customize your degree to target a specific, high-demand career path. Nearly every online ALA-accredited MLIS program offers a range of options to help you align your education with your professional goals.

Archival Studies

This track is for you if you're passionate about preserving and managing historical records, artifacts, and primary source materials. Modern archival work increasingly involves securing sensitive digital collections. This requires a strong understanding of cybersecurity, a skill set that aligns with the training in the best CompTIA CYSA+ online certification.

Digital Curation/Asset Management

This is one of the fastest-growing and most lucrative specializations. It focuses on managing the entire lifecycle of digital information—from creation and storage to preservation and access. This is the direct path to roles like Digital Asset Manager in corporate, government, and scientific research settings.

School Librarianship

This specialization prepares you for a vital role in education, focusing on managing K-12 school libraries and media centers. A major part of this work is teaching students the critical skills of digital and information literacy, preparing them for success in college and their future careers.

Choosing a specialization is a direct response to market needs. With 74% of organizations concerned about attracting and retaining tech talent, they are actively searching for specialists. A focused credential signals to employers that you have the specific, in-demand expertise they need to manage their most valuable asset: their information.

How to Choose the Best Online ALA-Accredited MLIS Program

With so many options available, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. A common mistake is to focus on university brand names or flashy marketing. The key to making a safe and strategic choice is to follow a clear, hierarchical process that prioritizes substance.

1. Verify ALA Accreditation first. This is the single most important, non-negotiable step in your search. Only consider programs currently accredited by the American Library Association, as this is the universally recognized standard that guarantees professional legitimacy and employer recognition.
2. Evaluate the curriculum and specializations. Once you have a list of accredited programs, look closely at their course offerings. Ensure the program has a strong specialization that aligns directly with your specific career goals, whether that's in corporate knowledge management, archival studies, or another niche.
3. Research the faculty's expertise. Look at the profiles of the full-time faculty members. A quality program will have instructors with deep research interests and practical, real-world experience in the areas you want to study.
4. Investigate graduate outcomes and career support. A strong program should be transparent about where its graduates are employed. Look for dedicated career support services that can help you connect with alumni and find opportunities in your chosen field.

For students exploring broader technology-related career paths, these same principles apply when considering IT education. Understanding accreditation, program rigor, faculty experience, and career outcomes is crucial for success. This approach is an excellent foundation for those wondering how to start a career in IT, ensuring you make informed choices that set you up for growth in the tech industry.

What career paths are available for graduates of an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

Graduating from an online ALA-accredited MLIS program positions you for a wide range of mission-driven careers. While a database management degree might lead to a purely profit-focused role, an MLIS prepares you for work that serves communities, preserves knowledge, and supports organizational strategy.

The "Great Crew Change"—a massive wave of retirements in the field—is creating a significant leadership vacuum. This means newly accredited professionals are perfectly positioned to step into influential roles across several key sectors.

Academic and Public Librarianship

This is the foundational career path, with roles centered on serving communities in universities, colleges, and public library systems. You'll be a key resource for education, digital literacy, and equitable access to information.

Corporate Knowledge Management

In this lucrative sector, you will work inside businesses, law firms, and other corporations to organize internal data, manage proprietary research, and provide competitive intelligence. This role often involves managing digital assets stored in the cloud, where skills from a CompTIA Cloud+ certification boot camp online can be a powerful booster.

Archives and Museums

As an archivist or curator, you will work for cultural heritage institutions, government agencies, and corporations to preserve and provide access to invaluable historical records and artifacts.

These paths are all part of a massive and growing information economy. To understand the scale, consider that there are a projected 317,700 job openings each year in the broader computer and information technology sector. Your role as an information professional is to provide the essential structure, ethics, and accessibility that make that entire ecosystem function.

What is the job market for graduates of an online ALA-accredited MLIS program?

While the overall growth for the profession is projected at 2%, the reality is that the market is stable and healthy. There are approximately 13,500 job openings projected each year. This high number is driven by replacement demand—the "Great Crew Change" of experienced professionals retiring. The largest segment of the current workforce is between 40 and 54 years old, creating a clear and predictable need for newly accredited professionals to step into these roles.

The AI Effect: A New Demand Driver

Far from making the profession obsolete, the rise of AI is making it more essential than ever. As organizations pour resources into artificial intelligence, they are creating a massive need for professionals who can manage data ethically, ensure its integrity, and build trustworthy information systems.

Worldwide spending on AI is expected to grow at an annual rate of 29% through 2028. This trend is creating a new and vital role for information professionals as "Ethical Guardians." You are the expert who ensures the data powering AI is sound and that its outputs are reliable. Combining your MLIS with advanced skills from a program like a top online CCSP training positions you as a leader in securing the very information that will shape our future.

Should I Combine My Online MLIS with EdD online programs for Leadership Roles?

An integrated academic approach can broaden your career trajectory by blending specialized information management with executive leadership training. An online MLIS provides robust expertise in digital curation, ethical data governance, and community-focused knowledge management, while supplementing it with advanced leadership studies, such as from EdD online programs, can prepare you for senior roles in education, corporate learning environments, or public service. Assess how the curriculum, networking opportunities, and mentoring components of leadership programs align with your career objectives to ensure a synergistic advancement in both academic and practical arenas.

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