Average Salary with a Master of Library Science Degree

Earning your master’s degree in library science prepares you to work in the information and reference field as a librarian, so you can help users find the references they need and keep archives organized. Many librarian jobs actually require you to have at least a master’s degree, so going back to school makes sense if you want to qualify for better jobs that come attached to higher salaries. But just what can you expect to earn once you have you master of library science?

Librarian Salary

The amount you can expect to earn as a librarian depends on a number of factors, least of which is not your job title. With a master of library science, you can consider many different types of librarian jobs, working as everything from a typical public library worker to being the director of a medical library at a hospital. Here are just a few of the more popular library-related jobs, along with the salary range you can expect, according to Payscale.com:

  • Librarian $39,799 – $50,868
  • Reference Librarian $39,659 – $55,008
  • Medical Librarian $34,286 – $55,631
  • Librarian, Special Library $35,608 – $63,871
  • Head Librarian $49,735 – $68,227
  • Library Director $48,000 – $99,526

You can also go back to school to get a degree in education and earn your teaching certification. This allows you to work at a school or college, helping students or even teaching classes. In addition, you can also go on to get a doctorate degree in this field or a related field, which will help you qualify for the top positions in the library industry.

Other Factors that Effect Librarian Salary

Getting your master’s degree in library science is just one of the ways to increase your salary if you want to work in this field. Other factors that can lead to a raise in your salary include moving to a higher-paying location, gaining experience by working in the field, and taking on a leadership position. Certain employers also pay better than others. For example, you’ll typically make more money working for a private college than you will working for a community public library system or school library. At some libraries, you can also head committees and take on extra tasks, which can lead to an increase in salary. For instance, some libraries sponsor after school programs or summer reading programs for students.

Top Online Masters in Library Science & Related Degrees

Library science (also referred to as librarianship or library & information science) applies the tools of administration, information technology (IT), education, and management to library collection and organization. Holders of a library science, LIS, or simliar degree generally become librarians, archivists, researchers, information architects, curators, or teachers, just to name a few professions. The schools listed below all offer online degree programs in library science or similar subjects.


MS in Library & Info Science
MS/LIS: Competitive Intel
MS/LIS: Digital Libraries
MS/LIS: Information Services
MS/LIS: School Library Media
MS/LIS: Youth Services
Drexel University. The MS in Library and Information Science program offered by Drexel University prepares students for careers in a large number of careers which include digital librarians, internet content specialists, web developers, and competitive intelligence experts. The school offers specializations across multiple subjects, including competitive intelligence, digital libraries, information services, school library media, and youth services. This program is intended for students with a strong technological background and focuses on cutting edge technologies promising to continue to shape the future needs of business organizations. The program has been recognized as being highly innovative and covers the wide spectrum of topics that encompass Information Management. These programs are fully accredited by the American Library Association.
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MA/Edu: Library & Media
Ashford University. Ashford University offers an online MA in Education with a specialization in library & media. This program is designed to build student competence in 21st century library skills, with an emphasis on information technology, information literacy, young adult literature, and instructional leadership.
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Master of Information Systems
MA/Ed: Teacher Leadership
MA/Ed: Computer Education
University of Phoenix. A Master of Information Systems from the University of Phoenix is focused on teaching you the theory behind Information Technology and the application of it in business settings. A Master of Education in Teacher Leadership will prepare you for increased responsibilities in an academic setting. The Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction (Computer Education) offered at the University of Phoenix will enable you to integrate modern technology breakthroughs into classroom settings.
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MS in Information Technology
MS/IT: Business IT
MS/Ed: K-12 Technology
MS/Ed: Higher Ed Technology
MS in Organizational Tech
Kaplan University. The Master of Science in Information Technology from Kaplan University will help you gain the skills necessary for a rewarding career in today's business environment ranging from networking to software support. An Master of Science in Education with an emphasis in Instructional Technology (K-12) will prepare you to teach younger students in classroom settings across America. The MS of Education in Instructional Technology (Adult Learning/Higher Education) will allow you to become familiar with the technology used to teach students in less traditional settings such as virtual classrooms. An MS of Education in Instructional Technology (Adult Learning/Organization) prepares students to meet the education demands of different business units across a wide array of settings.
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MS/Ed: Classroom Technology
MS/Ed: Education Leadership
Walden University. The MS in Education with an emphasis in Integrating Technology offered Walden University is a strong program that keeps pace with the rapid advance of technology. This program is designed for students that desire to utilize today's technology in order to support their organization and remain on top of the rapid technological changes taking place everyday. The Master of Science in Educational Leadership helps grow leadership skills resolution skills within students making them ready for their lifelong career path.
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MS in Information Technology
MS in Education Administration
MS in Higher Ed Leadership
Capella University. The Master of Science in General Information Technology from Capella University will allow you to embark on an in-depth study of real life situations preparing you to meet the demands of your future career. You can also earn an MS of Leadership in Educational Administration to gain a better understanding of the complex demands of students and how to assess their needs. If you are interested in pursuing a career in higher education, the MS in Leadership for Higher Education is a great option promising a rewarding career.
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M.Ed. in Technology
M.Ed. in Edu Administration
Grand Canyon University. Students that graduate with an Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Technology learn the latest theories and technical teaching skills required to meet the needs of today's students. The Master of Education in Education Administration will prepare you for the management and other leadership roles within in academic settings.
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M.Ed. in Education Technology
M.Ed. in Education Leadership
M.Ed. in Org. Leadership
Northcentral University. Earn a Master of Education in Education Technology at Northercentral University via e-learning to gain the specialization needed to teach in online classroom settings. You can also obtain a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and explore the types of activities that engage and stimulate students. The Master of Education in Organizational Leadership program is offered which will develop your skills to become a strong leader in the diverse array of educational fields.
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