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Online Master of Science in Library & Information Science

Develop In-Demand Library and Information Skills

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Flexible Format Designed for Working Adults
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Building Expertise for Evolving Information Environments

The online library science graduate program at St. John’s Online sharpens your ability to navigate and influence today’s fast-changing information landscape. In this ALA-accredited program, research rigor and ethical practice guide impactful work across libraries, archives, and knowledge-driven organizations.  

Through a flexible online format, you’ll deepen your understanding of how information is created and organized and build the practical skills that drive meaningful access, community connection, and effective knowledge management, preparing you to advance in your current role or step into new opportunities across the field.

Our program is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) Committee on Accreditation with the status of Continued Accreditation. The program is also guided by the Vincentian Mission of St. John’s, which emphasizes service and social justice. All academic programs at St. John’s emphasize the integration of the liberal arts and focus on ethical decision-making based in Catholic social teaching. 

Time to Complete

24 months 

Application Deadlines

Rolling admission with priority deadlines of April 1 (fall) and October 1 (spring)

Credit Hours

36

Cost per Credit

$1,640

Program Details

The online M.S. in Library and Information Science at St. John’s Online gives you a focused, flexible way to build real expertise in how information is organized, accessed, and used today. Our program grounds you in essential research methods for information professionals, then lets you shape the rest of your experience through electives and specialization options that align with your career goals. Designed as a flexible program for working library professionals, it makes it easy to dive into the tools, technologies, and practices shaping modern libraries and information services while keeping pace with your life. 

Curriculum

Build the Skills That Power Modern Research and Learning

The ALA-accredited MSLIS curriculum pairs essential training in information organization and cataloging foundations, research, user services, and management with the flexibility to dive deeper into specialized areas like archives, academic librarianship, youth services, public librarianship, and records management. As you earn your degree online, you’ll shape your path through electives, concentrations, and certificate options while learning the tools and methods that drive today’s information professions, including digital curation and information access.

What You’ll Experience:

  • Core courses that ground you in how information is organized, accessed, evaluated, and managed across settings
  • Specialized electives that let you tailor your studies to libraries, archives, technology, youth services, public institutions, or records management
  • Hands-on learning through applied projects, digital tools, and a capstone or professional experience that ties your coursework together 

Admission & Aid

St. John’s works to make your library science master’s program both affordable and accessible. The admissions process is designed to be clear and flexible, with a holistic review of your academic background and interests, plus an online portal that keeps every requirement in one place from application to decision. Students seeking federal aid assistance like federal student loans are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). St. John's University's Federal School Code is 002823. Visit studentaid.gov to review basic eligibility requirements, program details, and to complete the FAFSA. 

Your Next Steps: 

Drive Your Career in Information

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this MSLIS degree online?

Yes. This St. John’s Online program is offered 100 percent virtually, giving you the flexibility to complete coursework from anywhere and on a schedule that fits your life.

How long does it take to finish the online library science graduate program?

Most students complete the program in about 24 months of part-time study, though your timeline may vary based on course load or transfer credits.

Do I need a specific undergraduate major to apply?

No. Students from any academic background are welcome. The program provides the foundational skills you need to succeed in libraries, archives, and other information settings.

Are GRE scores required for admission to the library science master’s program?

No. GRE scores are not required, and your application will be reviewed holistically based on your academic history, experience, and goals.

What career paths can this degree prepare me for?

Graduates pursue roles in public and academic libraries, archives, youth services, records management, digital asset management, and emerging information-focused fields in nonprofits, corporations, and government.

Can I customize my degree with a specialization?

Yes. You can choose from five specializations – Academic Librarianship, Archival Studies, Public Librarianship, Records Management, and Youth Services – to tailor your coursework to your interests and career goals.

Build Access to Information That Matters

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