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Elementary, Middle Level, Library & Technologies Education

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Master of Library Science Degree

Earn an Affordable Online Master’s in Library Science

Quick Look

OFFERED AS:

Graduate

FORMAT:

Online

CREDITS REQUIRED:

36

Prepare to become a certified school librarian and instructional leader with Kutztown University’s Master of Library Science degree. Designed for educators and school library media specialists, this program equips you with the skills needed to support K–12 learning and literacy development in today’s schools.

Kutztown University’s flexible, online M.L.S. program prepares you to manage school library programs, collaborate with teachers and administrators, and integrate instructional technology into your curriculum. Whether you aspire to work in elementary, middle, or secondary schools, this degree positions you to make a lasting impact on student learning.

Why Choose Kutztown for a Master of Library Science Degree

Choosing the right graduate program matters, especially if your goal is to work in K–12 education. Kutztown University offers one of the region’s strongest school-focused library science programs.

Why Students Choose Kutztown:

  1. We support your passion for knowledge and information management

  2. We are flexible and fully online

  3. We offer affordable tuition rates

  4. We have a nearly 100% employment rate for graduates

  5. We are an American Association of School Librarians-recognized program for school library media specialists 

At Kutztown University, we are invested in your success as a school librarian. When you support student learning, literacy, and digital citizenship, entire communities benefit.

 

Female student pursuing a master of library science degree at Kutztown University.

Earn your Master of Library Science degree online from Kutztown University.

Master of Library Science Degree Highlights

Kutztown’s Master of Library Science degree is one of the top library science programs because you will gain a deep understanding of how school libraries function in the digital age, with a focus on information management, technology, research, and service to students.

 What Will You Learn Exactly?

  • Learn cataloging and classification, metadata, and information retrieval.
  • Create and manage digital collections and understand how library management systems and databases operate.
  • Analyze and organize large datasets and learn how to conduct research.
  • Develop services for diverse communities and promote library services for library funding.
  • Manage the daily operations of libraries, including budgeting, staffing, and policy development.

 

Student Learning Outcomes

  • Library Science (MLS)
    1. Students will research and synthesize professional resources to make critical recommendations regarding the curation of resources and development of information and media. 
    2. Students will be collaborative leaders who engage in ethical practices and research and analysis in the use of informational and instructional technologies. 
    3. Students will research, evaluate and recommend effective resources and activities that contribute to their own patrons' lifelong learning while accommodating a wide range or differences in learning styles, interests, and capacities.
    4. Students will research, evaluate and recommend resources and learning activities that represent a diversity of experiences, opinions, social and cultural perspectives, supporting the concept that intellectual freedom and access to information are prerequisites to effective and responsible citizenship in a democracy.
Quotation Mark

Kutztown University prepared me for a career that allows me to bring my world of interest together daily. Whether it is my love of historic reenactment, integration of technology into teaching and learning, and passion for instilling a love of reading.

Emily Calaman '17, Middle School Teacher, Schuylkill Valley

Master of Library Science Degree Frequently Asked Questions

  • What can I do with a Master of Library Science degree from Kutztown?

     Kutztown University offers one of the top library science programs because it prepares graduates for careers as certified school librarians and instructional partners in K–12 settings.

    According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2024), these are example career paths and national salaries for a graduate who intends to work in K-12 settings with a Master of Library Science degree:

    • School librarian (K–12): $64,320
    • Instructional coordinator: $74,720
    • Media specialist: $63,000+ (varies by district)
  • What are the admission requirements and deadlines?

    Application Requirements

    Admission Deadlines

    • Application
    • Official transcripts from all previous colleges or universities
    • Teaching Certification (not required if seeking initial certification at Kutztown)
    • Three letters of recommendation

    Fall semester: August 1st

    Spring semester: December 1st

    Summer sessions: May 1st

     

  • Does Kutztown University offer a Master of Library Science degree without certification?

    Yes. There are three degrees and certification options to choose from, depending on your goals and previous certifications.

    • Master of Library Science with Initial K-12 Library Media Specialist Certification (54 credits)
    • Master of Library Science with Extension of Initial Certification (36 credits)
    • Master of Library Science without Certification (36 credits)