2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Arizona
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Arizona – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Arizona
2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Arizona
University of Arizona
Tucson, AZ - Public 4-Year - arizona.edu
Master's - Library and Information Science Master of Arts
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona offers the only ALA-accredited Master of Arts in Library and Information Science program in Arizona, delivered fully online. This comprehensive 37-credit curriculum covers library science disciplines, ethics, and values, preparing graduates for diverse careers. Students can specialize in areas like archival studies, academic librarianship, digital information management, or legal information. The program does not require an entrance exam. Tuition is $900 per credit, with flexible scheduling for working professionals.
Master's - Master of Arts in Library and Information Science
Concentration: archival studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
This online Master of Arts in Library and Information Science with an Archival Studies concentration focuses on preparing students for careers in archives, museums, and cultural institutions. The curriculum emphasizes preservation techniques, digital archiving, collection management, metadata standards, and ethical practices. Students gain skills in appraising, arranging, and describing historical materials. The program does not require an entrance exam and offers flexible scheduling for working professionals and career changers.
- Online program format
- Archival studies concentration
- Master of Arts degree
- Library and information science
- Graduate level program
Master's - Master of Arts in Library and Information Science
Concentration: academic or public librarianship - Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Arizona's online Master of Arts in Library and Information Science offers concentrations in academic or public librarianship. This program explicitly states no GRE requirement for applicants with strong academic backgrounds. Students develop practical skills in information organization, digital resources, and community engagement through a curriculum that balances theory with real-world applications. The online format provides flexible scheduling with multiple start dates throughout the year, making it ideal for working professionals seeking career advancement.
- Online program delivery
- Academic librarianship concentration
- Public librarianship concentration
- Master of Arts degree
- Library science focus
- Information science curriculum
- Flexible scheduling options
- Career advancement preparation
- Working professional friendly
- Multiple start dates
Master's - Master of Arts in Library and Information Science
Concentration: digital information management & curation - Online Learning - Visit Website
Focusing on digital information management and curation, this online Master of Arts in Library and Information Science prepares students for modern information careers in digital collections, data preservation, and information organization. Applicants need a bachelor's degree with a 3.0 GPA and must submit transcripts and a statement of purpose, but no entrance exam is required. The program offers competitive tuition with financial aid options and flexible scheduling for working professionals seeking advancement in libraries, archives, or corporate information roles.
- Fully online program
- Digital curation concentration
- Master's degree level
- Library science focus
- Information management specialization
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Arizona
Arizona boasts several affordable options for MLS and MLIS programs, particularly for in-state residents. Accelerated pathways allow students to complete their degrees in as little as two years, depending on their chosen program and schedule.
- University of Arizona: While tuition is higher, the University of Arizona provides robust financial aid options and a flexible online format for its MLIS program, enabling students to balance work and study.
- Arizona State University: Offers related programs with competitive tuition rates for in-state students and accelerated coursework.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Arizona
Libraries and information centers in Arizona face unique challenges, creating demand for MLS graduates specializing in:
- Archival Studies: Focusing on preserving historical documents, particularly related to the state’s indigenous and desert heritage.
- School Librarianship: Supporting K-12 students and educators, with programs tailored for diverse communities.
- Digital Libraries: Developing digital collections to ensure access for remote and underserved populations.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Managing artifacts and records that reflect Arizona’s rich multicultural history.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Arizona?
Graduates of Arizona’s MLS programs are prepared for a variety of roles, including:
- Public Librarian: Working in public libraries across urban centers like Phoenix and rural communities, promoting literacy and access to information.
- Digital Archivist: Managing and preserving digital resources for institutions like the Arizona Historical Society.
- Academic Librarian: Supporting students and faculty at the University of Arizona or Arizona State University.
- Cultural Heritage Specialist: Collaborating with museums and tribal organizations to preserve Arizona’s diverse cultural history.
Arizona offers a wealth of opportunities for library science professionals to make a meaningful impact in education, preservation, and community engagement.
