Library science has remained a crucial field of work despite technological advancements introducing new trends. The best online library science bachelor’s degrees provide an easy route for those wanting to start a career in this field. A library science degree helps you equip yourself with the tools needed to manage and utilize information while working as a professional librarian.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 15,200 yearly job openings for library science careers which include librarians and library media specialists. There are many different possible career opportunities in this field, making it an important and in-demand degree. Many schools offer accredited bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in library science.
Where Can I Get a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Online?
You can get a library science bachelor’s degree online from schools such as Regent University, University of Maine Augusta, Northern Kentucky University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. These are some of the best schools to get an online Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science.
What Schools Offer the Best Library Science Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Regent University
- University of Maine Augusta
- University of Southern Mississippi
- The Northern Kentucky University
- Clarion University of Pennsylvania
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online library science bachelor’s degree are a completed application form, your official transcripts, your entrance test scores, and letters of recommendation. These requirements may vary depending on the school as each one has its own specifications and requirements regarding admissions.
For online library science programs, the application for admissions needs to be filled out online. Each student must meet the specified requirements to qualify for admission. The schools reserve the right to make the final decision regarding admission.
Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- School-specific application or the Common Application
- Official high school transcripts
- ACT/SAT
- Entrance test
- Letter or multiple letters of recommendation
How to Get a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Online
You get a library science bachelor’s degree online by fulfilling all of the graduation requirements. Each school will have its own specifications regarding the awarding of its degree but most have some common requirements. Here are what the typical requirements for an online library science program look like.
Library Science Degree Requirements
- 120 credits made up of general education courses, elective courses, and major-specific courses
- Capstone course
- Some programs will require their students to take on a for-credit internship
- Minimum GPA requirement, usually between 2.0 and 3.0
Best Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Clarion University of Pennsylvania | B.S. Integrative Studies-Library and Information Studies Concentration | Middle States Commissioner on Higher Education |
| Northern Kentucky University | Bachelor of Science in Library Informatics | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Arts in English | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Arizona Global Campus | Bachelor of Arts in Education Studies | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| University of Maine Augusta | Bachelor in Information and Library Science | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor in Information System Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Nebraska Omaha | Bachelor of Science in Education-Library Science | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Southern Mississippi | Bachelor of Science in Library and Information Science | Southern Association for Colleges and Schools Commission On Colleges |
| The University of Texas at San Antonio | Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Library Science: Top Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs
There are plenty of schools offering online Bachelor’s Degrees in Library Science. They offer different classes related to library and information science that develop the skills required to enter the workplace as a library science professional. Here are some of the best schools to earn an online Bachelor’s Degrees in Library Science programs.
What Is an Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree?
An online library science bachelor’s degree is a higher education academic program covering the fundamental concepts of library science. Typically, one of these programs takes four years to complete and requires at least 120 credits. An online library science bachelor’s degree prepares students to work for public and private libraries, educational institutions, and museums.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science trains its students on information handling methods including storage, retrieval, and usage. Students can often set the pace of their learning according to their convenience. Some programs even allow students to customize their course load. This diversification helps broaden their skillset and prepare them for the workforce.
Online vs In-Person Library Science Degrees
Library science degrees are available through in-person, online, and hybrid programs. Which one is better depends on your needs and preferences. Online and in-person bachelor’s degrees have their own pros and cons. Below are lists of top benefits of online vs in-person Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science
- Cost-Effectiveness. Enrolling in an online Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science can reduce many costs related to your commute and accommodation. The cost of tuition is also often less expensive than that of in-person degrees.
- Flexible Schedule. One of the best benefits of an online bachelor’s degree is the flexibility of the learning schedule. Because you don’t need to attend classes in person, you can learn from wherever you have access to the Internet.
- Work-Study Balance. Online programs enable students to more easily manage their professional lives during their studies. Oftentimes, online degree programs provide you with the flexibility to continue your part-time or even full-time job.
- Easy Access to Teachers. Thanks to modern technology, your professors will be extremely easy to access throughout your online bachelor’s degree. Although you’ll still have to schedule meetings according to their office hours for longer discussions, you’ll easily be able to have your questions answered through chatrooms and message boards.
- Career Guidance. To offset the lack of in-person networking opportunities, many online bachelor’s programs offer career guidance services such as portfolio and resume reviews to their students. This provides them with an easier route toward starting their careers.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science
- Dedicated Learning Environment. Attending college in person provides you with a dedicated learning environment that can reduce distractions and help you stay motivated. It’s also a great place for you to work with other people face-to-face.
- Lower Risk of Technical Issues. Attending online classes requires all technical components on your and your instructor’s side to work perfectly. A bad Internet connection, technical bugs, and glitches can all cause a less-than-pleasant classroom experience. In-person classes are less likely to experience these.
- Increased Networking Opportunities. Networking is crucial in today’s dynamic world. Attending college in person provides you with increased networking opportunities as you can make more personal connections with both classmates and teachers who will be able to help you in the future with your career.
- Development of Interpersonal Skills. As much as employers want to hire people with the right skills, they also want to hire people who will create a positive working environment. Attending college in person will let you develop the interpersonal skills employers look for when hiring new employees.
- More Hands-On Learning Experiences. An in-person bachelor’s program provides more opportunities to learn through hands-on projects and coursework. These hands-on experiences will do a better job of preparing you for the real-world tasks you’ll perform on a daily basis once you graduate.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Library Science?
You can get different types of online Bachelor’s Degrees in Library Science. The most common options include Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts. The first will have more math and science-related classes, while the second focuses more on humanities-related subjects. You can choose any degree with a concentration in library and information science.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Library Science?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Library Science as the increased amount of math and science-related classes you’ll take will provide you with a more in-depth technical knowledge of in-demand library science skills. Currently, the field of library science requires sound technical knowledge for effective information handling and management.
A Bachelor of Science allows you to get hands-on experience with the current technological tools used in the field. In turn, you’ll have more career opportunities working for larger organizations employing modern technology. A Bachelor of Science increases your chances of employability and earning potential.
How Much Does a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
A library science bachelor’s degree costs an average of $24,575 according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This cost includes tuition fees and other educational expenditures for an online degree. This is less than the average on-campus bachelor’s degree cost, which is around $35,331.
You can benefit from financial aid programs offered by federal and private institutions to make your degree more affordable. Your choice of financing options is done at the time of applying for admission. You can also apply for bursaries and scholarships to help cover the cost of tuition.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes four years to get a library science bachelor’s degree online when taking a full course load. The average bachelor’s degree requires the completion of 120 credits to qualify for graduation. While this may vary slightly depending on your school and program, 120 credits is what you should prepare for.
To graduate in four years, a student must take 15 credit hours per semester to meet the requirement of 120 credits. Some schools allow you to add an extra three credits per semester to your courseload if you demonstrate a high-enough GPA. To work as you study, consider only taking 12 credits per semester. There’s nothing wrong with taking longer to finish your degree.
Are Online Library Science Degrees Respected?
Yes, online library science degrees are respected. In 2019, 2,449,559 students exclusively took online courses at the undergraduate level, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Online degrees are acknowledged and accredited by accreditation institutions. As long as your skills are sharp, employers will not care whether or not your education was online.
Is Library Science Hard to Learn Online?
No, library science is not hard to learn online. A major part of the subject is based on theoretical learning, which can be carried out conveniently in online classes. An online degree develops digital literacy among its students which helps them use the tools used for storing and retrieving information in library science jobs.
Why You Should Get a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get a library science bachelor’s degree online if you need the extra flexibility, learn better from home, or want to study at an institution far from where you live but can’t move to study there. An online library science bachelor’s degree is often a more affordable alternative to an in-person library science bachelor’s degree.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Library Science?
The courses you can take in an online bachelor’s degree program in library science are focused on library and information management. They consist of courses that build skills used in operating information management tools. Core Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science courses include information literacy, library management, and digital library technology among others.
Information Literacy
Information literacy is primarily focused on developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills for the effective use of information. It develops the ability to find, organize, evaluate, and use the information to its fullest potential. This is a crucial skill for an information-centered field such as library science.
Library Management
Library management is a core course that develops your abilities with performing routine tasks as a librarian or archivist. The course focuses on the maintenance of data stored in physical and digital resources. It also deals with the management of electronic resources in a library.
Digital Library Technology
A course on digital library technology provides training with the most in-demand technologies currently used in libraries. This prepares prospective students to manage digital and special libraries more efficiently. Students learn fundamental knowledge about databases and their operations.
Cataloging Processes
Cataloging is one of the main duties of a librarian. This course trains students on how to use modern cataloging processes. Cataloging processes courses cover topics such as subject analysis, creating bibliographic descriptions, and proper notation.
Intellectual Property and Information Rights
The correct use of intellectual property and information is vital to physical and digital libraries. Library science graduates must have a strong base of knowledge concerning the laws and regulations concerning the use of intellectual property. This course teaches everything future librarians and archivists need to know concerning intellectual property and information rights.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path for online library science bachelor’s degree graduates is getting a Master’s Degree in Library and Information Science. After graduating, they can immediately apply for an in-person or online Master’s Degree in Library Science. Alternatively, grads can earn certifications to boost their professional profile and knowledge.
Related Online Library Science Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best library science bachelor’s degree programs are the program’s accreditation, cost, flexibility, and concentration options as well as the school’s student-to-teacher ratio. These factors can significantly impact a program’s compatibility with your needs and wants.
Accreditation
A school cannot legitimately provide a bachelor’s degree without accreditation. During your school search, make sure the program you’re interested in is accredited. A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution looks much more impressive on your resume than a certificate from an unaccredited school or company.
Cost
While a more expensive degree can often signify that it is more prestigious or provides its students with more resources, you need to consider what you can afford. When comparing different programs, compare the upfront cost of each degree as well as the financing options such as loans, scholarships, and bursaries are available to you privately or through the school.
Concentration Option
If you are unable to attend a program fully dedicated to library science, you can get a degree closely related to the field. If you are doing so, make sure the course load will help you develop the same or similar skills needed for a career in library sciences or that will let you eventually get a master’s in the field.
Flexibility
Whether you are a student or a working professional, an online degree program that you can easily fit around your routine is extremely beneficial. When looking at the different curriculums, consider whether or not they will allow you to work and maintain your social or family life while studying.
Student-to-Teacher Ratio
A high student-to-teacher ratio is often an indicator that the instructors dedicate less individual attention and feedback to each student. During your school search, try looking for a school with a low student-to-teacher ratio if a more personal learning experience is what you need.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online library science bachelor’s degree is the University of Maryland Global Campus which charges $7,704 in tuition fees for in-state students. According to the National Center of Education Statistics, the total cost of tuition for in-state students over four years is $30,816 while for out-of-state students is $49,344.
Can I Get a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you can’t get a library science bachelor’s degree online for free. All degree-awarding institutions offer their programs for a cost. That being said, you can benefit from scholarships, grants, and student loan offers through federal and private sponsors. These can significantly reduce the upfront cost of your degree.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Students who graduate from an online bachelor’s degree program in library science will have many doors open to them for their future careers. There are several job opportunities grads will be able to apply for including both entry and mid-level jobs.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Library Science Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a library science bachelor’s degree as there are many internships and job opportunities available. The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 10 percent growth for library occupations between 2020 and 2030. Some schools even provide career services such as job placement programs, interview training, and resume reviews for their students.
What’s the Average Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a library science bachelor’s degree is $64,000 per year, according to Payscale. The annual salary of a library science professional with a bachelor’s degree will vary based on their experience, location, and the institution or company they work for.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online library science bachelor’s degree include working as a middle school teacher, high school teacher, library technician and assistant, archivist, and librarian. You can become a librarian by completing the requirements of an online bachelor’s degree course.
Library Science Degree Jobs
- Archivist
- High School Teacher
- Middle School Teacher
- Librarian
- Library Technician
Potential Careers With an Online Library Science Degree
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You can make between $29,360 and $61,350 per year with an online library science bachelor’s degree, depending on which career path you choose. Prospective career opportunities for library science bachelor’s degree grads are primarily in academic libraries and schools in the public and private sectors.
Some of the highest-paying online library science bachelor’s degree jobs include working as a library assistant or teacher. There are a wide variety of job options available to you, so pick one based on your personal preferences and career goals.
Highest-Paying Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Library Science bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| High School Teacher | $61,820 |
| Middle School Teacher | $61,320 |
| Librarian | $61,190 |
| Archivist | $51,120 |
| Library Technician | $34,050 |
Best Jobs for Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online library science bachelor’s degree grads lead include a wide variety of career options. These include teaching jobs, library jobs, and archival jobs. As you advance in your career, gain experience, and earn more qualifications, you can apply for better jobs with much higher pay. Getting your master’s degree is a great way to do this.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online library science bachelor’s degree is worth it if you want to pursue a career as a librarian, archivist, or teacher. An online Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science qualifies you for internships at libraries as well as many entry-level positions. After graduating, you can apply for additional certifications or further degree programs to access higher positions.
When searching for the perfect online bachelor’s degree for you, make sure to thoroughly research each program and school. Consider your available options and compare them to your learning objectives, budget, and career goals.
Additional Reading About Library Science
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Online Library Science Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Library science certifications include a Library and Information Science Diploma, Public Library Management Certificate, and other post master’s certificates. These certifications in library science are available to help working professionals upskill and boost their career growth potential. They are all short-term certifications lasting a few weeks to a year.
Yes, you can become a librarian with a Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science. Although most jobs for librarians require a minimum of a master’s degree, some companies hire librarians with only a bachelor’s degree. Keep in mind that your earning potential may be significantly lower than someone with a master’s.
Yes, library science is a good career as it is in high demand. The Bureau of Labour Statistics predicts a positive career growth in the field, meaning there will be many opportunities for a long career in this profession. You can easily get an entry-level job in library science and work your way up to a senior-level position.
You can expect to learn how to use the tools and strategies needed to work as a librarian or archivist from an online Bachelor’s Degree in Library Science. You’ll get training in problem-solving, decision making, critical thinking, communicating, and customer service practices.
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