Consider Your Future Goals
When searching for the right online library science master’s program, it is important to consider your professional and personal goals. Your master’s degree in library science can open up various career opportunities, such as working in libraries or becoming a museum archivist. Some programs have partnerships with employers, leading to internships and job opportunities after graduation, particularly if you attend schools near museums. If you are interested in pursuing a career in academia or research, it may be beneficial to look for universities with relevant doctoral programs. Attending the same school for your master’s and doctoral programs can allow you to transfer credits and shorten the overall program timeline.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options
Attending a master’s program requires both time and money. The National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) provides data on typical tuition costs for graduate degrees. In the 2020-21 school year, the average tuition and fees for in-state public schools were $12,394, while private institutions averaged $26,621 in costs.

When it comes to online library science master’s programs, the annual tuition costs can vary significantly. They range from approximately $5,200 on the lower end to nearly $34,000. On average, the annual tuition cost for programs on our list is $22,601.

To ease the financial burden, financial aid options are available. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) can help you connect with loans, which need to be repaid. However, it is recommended to prioritize funding methods such as scholarships, grants, and fellowships that do not require repayment. There are graduate-level fellowships that may involve working in exchange for tuition remission and a stipend. Additionally, institutions and private organizations offer grants and scholarships specific to library science master’s students. For instance, the American Library Association provides several scholarships in this field.