Basics of a Masters Degree in Library Science
The concept of the library has changed over recent years owing to the impact of technology. Consequently, students participating in a Masters Degree in Library Science program can expect to enroll in classes such as library programming, cataloging and classification, collection development and library automation. Prospective degree candidates can also choose an optional concentration within the curriculum such as archival studies, youth services or knowledge management. Masters Degree in Library Science programs are offered both online and in traditional classroom settings.
What Can I Do With a Masters Degree in Library Science
A Masters Degree in Library Science is the entry-level degree needed for most library positions. Librarians working in small libraries will generally handle all tasks relating to the functioning of the library including reviewing new publications, purchasing new books for the collection, maintaining the catalog and helping with customer inquiries. Librarians employed at larger libraries will often specialize in one specific area such as acquisition or bibliography. In addition to working as a librarian, the Masters Degree in Library Science can prepare students for corporate jobs such as knowledge management specialists or competitive intelligence analysts.
Employment Outlook for Careers Related to a Masters Degree in Library Science
Despite slow growth predicted for librarians over the next decade, job opportunities are predicted to be favorable for Library Science Masters Degree holders owing to the large number of librarians due to retire in the coming years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median salary of Librarians as of 2006 was just over $49,000, while the median salary for information scientists was $93,950 (www.bls.gov).
