How to get a Master's Degree in Library Science

Finding the Perfect Master's Program

Some choose to get a Master's degree in Library Science to become a school librarian. Others want to be able to work at a top university doing research. Getting this degree can be fairly easy since there are many schools that have this Master's program. The trick is finding one that will fit into the lifestyle, time limitations, and financial situation of the applicant.

Look for an Accredited Master's of Library Science Program

Not college and university's programs for a Master's in Library Science have been accredited by the American Library Association. For some, this might not be a big deal considering the field that they are going into. For others, it could be a problem. Be sure to talk to a career counselor to see if accreditation is a must for a future job.

Visit the ALA's website for a list of colleges and universities that are currently accredited. Call potential colleges if they are not on the list to find out why they are not accredited and if they are taking steps to become so.

Decide on a Traditional, Online, or Distance Master's Degree in Library Science Program

Many people prefer a traditional classroom setting where it is very structured and they get to socialize with other students face to face. For many, however, a college that offers a Master's of Library might not be close by or the times the classes are offered cannot be taken due to a busy work schedule. These students might prefer to get their degree online. Some traditional colleges, such as Florida State the University of Tennessee, Knoxville do offer the Master's of Library Science degree as a distance learning program. In this case the student participates in class via technology and has real time interaction with classmates and their professor.

On the American Library Association's website, they have a list of ALA-accredited schools and they can be sorted by how the classes are delivered. Visit the website and click on "Education and Careers" then "Education for Librarianship" then "ALA-accredited master's programs" then "ALA-accredited programs in a searchable database format." This will bring up a page with a link that says "Search the database of ALA-accredited programs." From there the programs can be searched by state and method of delivery.

Talk to Numerous Library Science Programs

Make a list of programs that spark an interest. Contact each one to find out about cost, financial aid, travel requirements (even some distance programs require at least two visits to the university), academic requirements, how long degree completion typically takes, and the type of classes offered.

Keep a notebook handy whenever talking to an admissions personnel and take detailed notes. Be sure to request information from each university by either email or traditional mail. Organize all of the different information and keep it in one spot in the house. That way nothing will be lost and all of the information will be together when deciding on which college to attend.

Deciding on a Master's in Library Science Program

Take some time to look over all of the information from the different programs. Don't jump at the first program that looks good because it might not being the best one out there. This is a very important decision that does not need to be made quickly. If possible, try to talk to people who have competed the program and ask for their input.

Pay attention to that "gut feeling." It is usually almost always the best choice. If a certain program just feels right, it is probably the best one suited to fit your needs.

Financial Aid for a Master's Degree

Unfortunately, most people think that a Master's degree must be paid for out of pocket or financed by student loans. This is not true. There are many scholarships out there for people seeking post-graduate degrees. Look on fastweb.com or writemypaperbro.com to look for scholarships. ALA has a list of scholarships on their website specifically for those getting a degree in library science. Talk to the university where the Master's degree is going to be earned to see if they offer any scholarships for graduate students.

Employers will sometimes offer to pay for the degree or at least cover some of the costs in exchange for so many years of service once the degree is completed. Also, look into grants and see if any graduate assistant programs are offered.

Taking these small steps can go a long way towards getting a very useful degree in Library Science and hopefully it will help to land a dream job. Just remember to take it slow and gather as much information about each program and financial aid opportunity as possible before making a final decision.