2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Texas
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Texas – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Texas
Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Texas
Texas is home to some of the nation’s leading Master’s in Library Science (MLS) and Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) programs. These programs cater to students aiming to excel in academic, public, and specialized library roles. With a mix of traditional and online learning options, Texas MLS programs are designed to meet the needs of aspiring library professionals across urban, suburban, and rural areas.
From managing academic archives to supporting public literacy initiatives, library science programs in Texas emphasize real-world application and specialized skills development. Graduates from these programs are equipped to contribute to the state’s educational, cultural, and information infrastructure.
2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Texas
Texas Woman's University
Denton, TX - Public 4-Year - twu.edu
Master's - Master of Library Science Degree (MLS)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's online Master of Library Science (MLS) is ALA-accredited and prepares graduates for diverse roles in libraries, archives, and information management. This flexible program offers specialization tracks and requires a 3.0 GPA, bachelor's degree, statement of intent, and resume for admission, with no entrance exam needed. Application deadlines are June 1 for Fall, November 1 for Spring, and April 1 for Summer. Ideal for working professionals, it features interactive online learning with experienced faculty.
- ALA-accredited online MLS program.
- Flexible program with specialization tracks.
- Prepare for various information environments.
Master's - Master of Library Science
Online Learning - Visit Website
Advance your career with Texas Woman's University's fully online, ALA-accredited Master of Library Science (MLS), which equips students for success in various information environments. The program includes a personalized study plan and practicum, tailored to career goals. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and other materials, with no entrance exam specified. Designed for career changers or those seeking advancement, it offers flexible online coursework to fit any life stage.
- ALA-accredited online program.
- Personalized study plan & practicum.
- Prepares for librarian/information specialist roles.
Master's - School of Library & Information Studies
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's School of Library & Information Studies provides an online Master of Library Science (MLS) with over 80 years of history and continuous ALA accreditation since 1938. It features affordable tuition, small classes under 25 students, and schedule flexibility, combining interactive online learning with expert faculty. Admission details vary, and no entrance exam is mentioned. Financial aid is available, making it accessible for students at different life stages.
- Fully online MLS degree.
- Continuous ALA accreditation since 1938.
- Affordable tuition and flexible scheduling.
Master's - Master of Library Science Degree (MLS)
Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's online Master of Library Science (MLS) prepares students for careers in libraries and information centers through a flexible curriculum covering information organization, technology, and management. It emphasizes serving diverse communities and developing skills in digital resources and research methods. The program is designed for working professionals, with no entrance exam required, and allows convenient online study from any location.
- Online program format
- Master of Library Science
- Flexible for professionals
- Covers information technology
- Serves diverse communities
Master's - Master of Library Science with Certificate in Community Information
Concentration: Community Information - Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University offers an online Master of Library Science with a Community Information concentration, focusing on specialized roles in community-focused information services. The curriculum includes information organization, community engagement, and digital resource management to serve diverse populations. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA, with no entrance exam needed. This flexible online program suits working professionals, with financial aid available to manage tuition costs.
- Online program delivery
- Community Information concentration
- Master of Library Science degree
- Flexible learning options
- Bachelor's degree required
- Minimum GPA requirement
- Graduate level tuition
- Financial aid available
- Information organization focus
- Community engagement training
Master's - Master of Library Science with Certificate in School Librarianship
Concentration: School Librarianship - Online Learning - Visit Website
Texas Woman's University's online Master of Library Science with a School Librarianship concentration prepares students for school library certification through coursework in library management, information technology, and youth services. Applicants need a bachelor's degree and must submit transcripts, with no entrance exam required. Financial aid options help with tuition, making it ideal for working professionals and career changers seeking flexible online learning for school library roles.
- Online program format
- School Librarianship concentration
- Master of Library Science
- Prepares for certification
- Flexible coursework
- Bachelor's degree required
- Transcripts submission needed
- Financial aid available
Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, TX - Public 4-Year - shsu.edu
Master's - Master of Library Science
Online Learning - Visit Website
Sam Houston State University's online Master of Library Science is a 36-credit-hour program that focuses on school librarianship, emphasizing information literacy, technology integration, and collection management. Delivered entirely online, it offers flexible enrollment in fall, spring, and summer terms. No entrance exam is required for admission. This program equips students with practical skills to impact young learners through modern library practices.
University of Houston-Clear Lake
Houston, TX - Public 4-Year - uhcl.edu
Master's - School Library and Information Science M.S.
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of Houston-Clear Lake offers an online Master of Science in School Library and Information Science, preparing graduates for careers as school librarians. This program emphasizes integrating technology into library services, collaborating with educators, developing information literacy curricula, and fostering a strong reading culture in schools. Faculty members bring extensive experience in school librarianship, including national board certification. The program is delivered entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals. Applicants should verify specific graduate admissions requirements, as entrance exam details are not explicitly stated in the provided information.
- Focuses solely on school librarianship.
- Faculty are experienced school librarians.
- Prepares you for leadership roles in education.
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Texas
Texas offers a variety of affordable MLS programs that cater to in-state residents while maintaining academic excellence.
- Texas A&M University-Commerce: With in-state tuition starting at $6,960 annually, this program is one of the most cost-effective in Texas.
- Texas Woman’s University: Known for its affordability, the program’s tuition of $7,704 per year for Texas residents provides an accessible option for students pursuing school library certifications.
- Sam Houston State University: This program offers competitive in-state tuition at $8,536 annually, coupled with flexible scheduling for working professionals.
Accelerated pathways and hybrid options make these programs ideal for students who want to complete their degree efficiently without sacrificing quality.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Texas
Texas libraries and information centers require professionals with expertise in a variety of MLS specializations, including:
- School Librarianship: Supporting K-12 schools by fostering literacy and integrating technology into learning environments.
- Digital Libraries: Managing digital collections and resources to ensure accessibility across diverse populations.
- Archival Studies: Preserving historical documents and records in institutions like the Texas State Library and Archives.
- Public Librarianship: Engaging with communities through literacy initiatives, programming, and resource management.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Protecting and promoting Texas’s rich cultural and historical resources.
These specializations align with the state’s focus on education, innovation, and cultural preservation.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Texas?
Texas MLS graduates are well-prepared for diverse careers in library science and information management, including:
- Public Librarian: Serving diverse communities in urban and rural areas, providing access to educational resources and public programming.
- School Librarian: Supporting K-12 education by managing library resources, developing literacy initiatives, and collaborating with educators.
- Archivist: Preserving historical records and artifacts at organizations like the Texas State Archives or regional museums.
- Digital Librarian: Overseeing digital resources and virtual collections to meet the needs of academic and public institutions.
- Corporate Librarian: Managing research and proprietary information for businesses in sectors like healthcare, law, and technology.
With Texas’s emphasis on educational access and cultural preservation, MLS graduates contribute significantly to the state’s library and information ecosystem.
