Drexel University's MS in Library and Information Science, housed in the College of Computing & Informatics, traces its ALA accreditation back to 1924, making it one of the longest-running accredited LIS programs in North America. The degree is available fully online, a format that has made it a go-to option for working professionals and career changers who cannot relocate to Philadelphia. For students comparing best online mlis programs 2026, Drexel consistently appears near the top of the list.

The practical tension is cost. At roughly $1,000 per quarter credit (45 credits required), Drexel's total price tag lands well above most public university alternatives. Whether that premium is justified depends on three factors: the depth of its specialization tracks, the flexibility of its asynchronous online format, and how well graduates convert the degree into roles that recoup the investment. Entry-level librarian salaries in many metro areas still cluster between $45,000 and $60,000, which makes tuition arithmetic a serious consideration.

Drexel MLIS Quick Facts

Drexel University's MS in Library and Information Science is one of the oldest continuously ALA-accredited LIS programs in North America, with roots dating back to 1924. The program is offered fully online through the College of Computing & Informatics, making it accessible to working professionals nationwide. Here are the essential details at a glance.

Is Drexel a Good MLIS Program?

Drexel University's MLIS sits within the College of Computing & Informatics (CCI), a home that shapes the program's DNA. If you are a working professional looking for an ALA-accredited degree you can complete entirely online, with a curriculum that leans into technology and digital services, Drexel deserves a close look. But the program is not the right fit for everyone. Here is an honest breakdown of its strengths, drawbacks, and the situations where you might want to explore other options.

Who This Program Fits Best

The ideal Drexel MLIS student is someone already employed in a library, archive, or information-adjacent role who needs schedule flexibility above all else. The program's long track record in online delivery (Drexel has offered distance learning options for over two decades) means the virtual classroom experience is polished rather than improvised. Students who want to layer a specialization on top of a general MLIS will also appreciate the embedded certificate options.

Key Strengths

• ALA accreditation: The program holds continuous accreditation from the American Library Association, which is the credential most public and academic library employers expect to see on a resume.
• Embedded certificate tracks: Students can earn a focused certificate in areas such as Archives and Preservation, Metadata and Digital Technologies, or Users and Library Services without adding significant time to the degree.
• Technology-forward curriculum: Because the MLIS lives inside a computing and informatics college, coursework naturally emphasizes data curation, digital asset management, and information architecture, skills you learn in MLS program courses that are increasingly in demand across library types.
• Proven online delivery: Drexel was an early mover in online graduate education and has refined its learning management tools, asynchronous lecture formats, and virtual advising over many cohort cycles.

Honest Drawbacks

No program is perfect, and Drexel's MLIS comes with trade-offs worth weighing before you apply.

• Higher price tag: As a private university, Drexel's per-credit tuition is notably higher than what you would pay at most public university MLIS programs. If minimizing student debt is your top priority, the cost gap matters.
• Quarter-system pacing: Drexel operates on a quarter calendar rather than traditional semesters. Each term is roughly ten weeks, which means coursework moves quickly. Some students thrive in that rhythm; others find it stressful, especially while balancing full-time work.
• Limited in-person networking: Fully online students miss the organic hallway conversations, local employer mixers, and faculty drop-in hours that on-campus peers enjoy. Drexel offers virtual networking events, but they do not fully replicate face-to-face relationship building.

When to Consider Alternatives

If your budget is the deciding factor, a public university MLIS, particularly one offering in-state online tuition, could save you thousands of dollars while still carrying ALA accreditation. If you prefer a slower academic pace, programs on a traditional 15-week semester schedule may be more comfortable. And if building a local professional network in a specific city or state is essential to your career plan, attending an on-campus program in that region could offer better long-term connections than a fully online degree from a Philadelphia-based institution. Students drawn to Drexel's tech emphasis but seeking a more affordable path may also want to explore an MLIS informatics degree online at a public institution.

Program Cost and Tuition

Drexel's online MS in Information, Library and Information Science concentration is one of the pricier MLIS options on the market, so understanding the full cost picture before you apply is essential. Below is a breakdown of tuition, fees, and ways to offset the sticker price.

Per-Credit Rate and Total Tuition

For the 2025-2026 academic year, Drexel charges online MLIS students approximately $1,000 per quarter credit hour.¹ The program requires 45 quarter credits to complete, which puts the baseline tuition at roughly $45,000.² That rate is specific to the online format and is notably lower than the university's general graduate tuition, which runs about $1,423 per credit hour for many on-campus programs.¹ Because Drexel is a private university, there is no in-state versus out-of-state distinction. Every online student pays the same rate regardless of where they live.

Mandatory Fees to Factor In

Tuition alone does not capture the full cost. Drexel assesses an annual general fee of $125 per year.¹ Depending on how quickly you move through the program, that could add $250 to $375 over the typical two-to-three-year timeline. Additional costs may include a graduation fee and course-specific materials. While these extras are modest compared to tuition, they are worth budgeting for so the final bill does not catch you off guard. When you account for fees, the realistic total lands in the range of $45,250 to $45,500 or slightly higher.

How Much Does Drexel's Online MLIS Cost in Total?

The short answer: expect to invest approximately $45,000 to $46,000, depending on the length of your enrollment and any incidental fees. That figure places Drexel well above the cost of most public university MLIS programs, which often fall between $15,000 and $30,000 for the full degree. If budget is your top priority, our list of the cheapest library science degree online options can help you identify more affordable alternatives.

Financial Aid and Scholarship Opportunities

Several avenues can help reduce that price tag:

• Federal student loans: Online MLIS students are eligible for federal Direct Unsubsidized Loans and Grad PLUS Loans after completing the FAFSA.
• Drexel partner discounts: Drexel maintains employer and organizational partnerships that offer tuition reductions of 10 to 30 percent.² If your employer is a partner institution, this discount can cut thousands off the total cost. Check Drexel Online's partner list before you apply.
• Employer tuition assistance: Many libraries, school districts, and corporations offer tuition reimbursement for graduate study. Pairing employer assistance with a Drexel partner discount, where available, can substantially lower your out-of-pocket expense.
• Graduate assistantships: On-campus students may have access to graduate assistantship positions that include tuition remission, though these opportunities are limited for fully online learners.
• Scholarships: Drexel's College of Computing and Informatics periodically offers merit-based scholarships for incoming graduate students. Availability and amounts vary by term, so contact the admissions office early to ask about current offerings.

For a broader look at funding options, see our guide to mlis scholarships and financial aid resources. Given the overall investment, prospective students should exhaust every discount and aid option before committing. The next sections on curriculum and career outcomes will help you weigh whether the return justifies the cost.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Curriculum and Specializations

Drexel's MS in Library and Information Science program is built around a mix of foundational coursework, guided specialization tracks, and elective flexibility. The total program requires 45 quarter credits, which roughly translates to the equivalent of a 36-credit semester-based degree. That structure gives students room to develop depth in a chosen area while still covering the top skills employers look for in library science degree graduates and the core competencies expected by the ALA.

Core Coursework

Every student completes a set of core courses that establish a shared professional foundation. These typically include:

• Information Services and Resources: Introduces reference services, user needs assessment, and resource evaluation.
• Organization of Information: Covers cataloging, classification systems, and metadata fundamentals.
• Foundations of Library and Information Science: Explores the history, ethics, and evolving role of information professionals.
• Information Technology: Addresses the technical infrastructure underpinning modern libraries and information systems.

Core courses account for roughly one-third of the total credit load, leaving a significant portion of the degree open for electives and specialization.

Embedded Certificate Tracks

Drexel offers three embedded graduate certificate tracks that students can complete within the MLIS without adding extra credits or time. Each track bundles a focused set of electives around a professional niche:

• Archives and Preservation Management: Prepares students for careers in archival science, digital curation, and records management. Coursework covers appraisal, arrangement and description, and preservation strategies.
• Digital Libraries: Focuses on metadata standards, digital asset management, and the design and deployment of digital collections and repositories.
• Youth Services: Geared toward students interested in public library work with children and young adults, covering programming, collection development, and literacy initiatives.

Completing one of these tracks adds a credential to your transcript and signals specialization to hiring committees. Students drawn to archival work can learn more about the archivist career requirements before choosing that track.

Capstone and Culminating Experience

Students finish the program with a culminating experience, which can take several forms. Options typically include a practicum placement at a library or information organization, an independent study project, or a professional portfolio that demonstrates applied competency across core areas. The practicum option is especially valuable for career changers, offering supervised field experience that strengthens a resume.

Elective Flexibility and Additional Pathways

Beyond the embedded certificates, the elective pool is broad enough for students to build a de facto specialization in areas such as data science, competitive intelligence, or health informatics. Students interested in school librarianship should note that Drexel offers coursework aligned with online school librarian master's programs accredited for certification in Pennsylvania and several other states, though certification rules vary by state, so verifying your state's specific requirements early in the program is essential.

This combination of structured tracks and open electives makes the curriculum adaptable whether you are aiming for a traditional public library role, an archival position, or a technology-forward information science career.

Admissions Requirements

Drexel's MLIS program welcomes applicants from virtually every academic background. You do not need a specific undergraduate major or prior library experience to apply. A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in any field is the only prerequisite¹, which makes the program accessible to career changers coming from education, the humanities, technology, or any other discipline. If you are still exploring what a graduate library science degree involves, our overview of mlis degree requirements can help you understand the broader landscape.

Required Application Materials

To complete your application for the 2025-2026 cycle, you will need to submit the following:

• Official transcripts: From every college or university you have attended.
• Statement of purpose: A written essay explaining your interest in library and information science and your professional goals.²
• Resume or CV: Documenting your academic, professional, and volunteer experience.
• Letters of recommendation: One to two letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your qualifications.²
• Application fee: A non-refundable fee of $65.³

International applicants must also provide English language proficiency scores. Drexel accepts a TOEFL minimum of 90, an IELTS minimum of 6.5, or a Duolingo English Test minimum of 115.³

GPA Expectations and GRE Policy

Drexel requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale for admission.² Applicants with a GPA in the 3.0 to 3.3 range are generally considered competitive, though stronger academic records naturally improve your chances, especially during high-demand intake periods.

One of the most common questions prospective students ask is whether Drexel requires the GRE for MLIS admission. The answer: a GRE waiver is available.² This means you are not automatically required to submit GRE scores, though the program may request them in certain circumstances, such as when an applicant's GPA falls near the minimum threshold. If you are a borderline applicant, strong GRE results or compelling professional experience can help support your case through a provisional or conditional admission pathway. Drexel is one of several programs that have adopted flexible testing policies; you can browse a broader list of no GRE masters in library science options for comparison.

Application Deadlines and Intake Windows

Drexel does not offer rolling admissions for the MLIS program. Instead, applicants should plan around specific deadlines. The upcoming deadline for the fall 2026 quarter is July 15, 2026.² Because Drexel operates on a quarter system, there may be distinct fall, winter, and spring intake windows. Prospective students should check the Drexel CCI program page or contact the graduate admissions office directly to confirm whether winter or spring entry points are available for the current academic year.

Conditional Admission for Borderline Applicants

If your GPA falls slightly below the 3.0 minimum or your application is otherwise on the margin, Drexel may offer conditional or provisional admission. This typically involves maintaining a specified GPA during your first few courses to remain in good standing. A well-crafted statement of purpose, relevant work experience, and strong recommendation letters can all strengthen a borderline application and improve your chances of admission.

Drexel MLIS Admissions at a Glance

Applying to Drexel's MLIS program follows a straightforward quarter-based admissions cycle. Here is what the process looks like from start to finish, so you can plan your timeline and gather everything you need.

Online and Flexible Learning Options

One of the most common questions prospective students ask is how Drexel's online MLIS actually works day to day. The answer matters, especially if you are balancing coursework with a full-time job or family responsibilities. Here is a detailed breakdown of the format, pacing, and time commitment you can expect.

Synchronous vs. Asynchronous Delivery

Drexel's MLIS is delivered primarily in an asynchronous format, meaning you can complete most lectures, readings, and assignments on your own schedule each week.¹ That said, certain courses include occasional live sessions, typically conducted through Zoom and integrated directly into the learning management system, Brightspace by D2L.² These synchronous components are not a surprise: instructors communicate any required live meeting dates in the course syllabus before the quarter begins, giving you time to plan.¹ Some exams may also use a proctored format with advance notice, though many assessments follow an asynchronous timed window instead.¹

This hybrid approach gives you the convenience of a largely self-paced schedule while still offering real-time interaction with faculty and classmates when it adds value. No campus visits or in-person residencies are required to complete the degree.

Quarter-System Pacing and Time to Completion

Drexel operates on a quarter calendar rather than a traditional semester system, and the MLIS requires 48 quarter credits.³ You can start in fall, winter, spring, or summer, which means you do not have to wait until September to begin.

How long the program takes depends on how many credits you carry each quarter:

• Full-time (9 credits per quarter): Approximately 18 months to completion.³
• Part-time (6 credits per quarter): Approximately 24 months to completion.³
• Light part-time (3 credits per quarter): Up to 48 months, suited for students who need maximum flexibility.³

The quarter system moves faster than semesters, with each term lasting roughly 10 weeks. That compressed pace can feel intensive, but it also means you accumulate credits quickly. Students exploring fastest online MLIS programs ALA accredited will find that Drexel's 18-month full-time track is among the more competitive timelines.

Weekly Time Commitment

Planning your weekly schedule around coursework is essential, and the workload scales predictably with the number of courses you take:

• One course (3 credits): Expect roughly 9 to 12 hours per week of reading, assignments, discussion posts, and any live sessions.¹
• Two courses (6 credits): Plan for 18 to 24 hours per week.¹
• Three courses (9 credits, full-time): Budget 27 to 36 hours per week, comparable to a demanding part-time job on top of any other obligations.¹

For working professionals, the part-time track at one or two courses per quarter is the most manageable path. If you can dedicate close to full-time hours each week, the 18-month option lets you finish faster and begin earning a return on your investment sooner.

The program was designed with working adults in mind, and the combination of asynchronous coursework, quarterly start dates, and flexible enrollment intensity makes it one of the more adaptable online MLIS options available.³ Just be realistic about the quarter-system pace: shorter terms leave less room for catching up if you fall behind, so consistent weekly effort is key.

Career Outcomes and ROI

A graduate degree in library and information science opens doors well beyond the traditional library desk. Drexel's MLIS curriculum, with its emphasis on technology, metadata, and user experience, positions graduates for a range of library science careers across multiple sectors. But with tuition costs that can exceed $60,000, the return on investment deserves a clear-eyed assessment.

Where Drexel MLIS Graduates Work

Drexel MLIS alumni hold titles that span the full spectrum of information professions:

• Academic librarian: managing collections and research services at colleges and universities.
• Public librarian: serving community patrons in municipal and county library systems.
• Metadata specialist: organizing and standardizing data for discovery in digital repositories.
• Digital archivist: preserving and providing access to born-digital and digitized materials.
• UX researcher: applying information science principles to improve software and web interfaces.
• Information architect: structuring content and navigation for websites, intranets, and apps.

Graduates find employment across public libraries, academic institutions, corporate and tech companies, healthcare organizations, and government agencies. Drexel's location in Philadelphia offers a geographic advantage, placing students near a dense cluster of research universities, major health systems, museums, and federal offices throughout the mid-Atlantic corridor. Alumni networks in the region are active, and local employers are familiar with the program's reputation.

Salary Expectations

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for librarians and library media specialists was approximately $64,370 as of the most recent published data, while librarians in management or specialized technology roles can earn considerably more. Information professionals who move into UX research, data management, or information architecture in the corporate or tech sector often see salaries in the $75,000 to $100,000-plus range, depending on experience, location, and industry. For a broader look at compensation across the profession, see our breakdown of library science salary by state.

Drexel does not widely publish program-specific placement rates or median graduate earnings in a single public dashboard. Prospective students should ask the admissions office directly for the most current employment outcome data.

Is Drexel's MLIS Worth It for Career Outcomes?

The honest answer depends on the career path you choose and how you finance your degree. If total tuition lands near $65,000 and your first position pays in the low-to-mid $50,000s (common for entry-level public or academic librarian roles), the payback period can stretch to a decade or more, particularly if you carry significant student loan debt. On the other hand, graduates who leverage Drexel's strong technology and digital focus to enter corporate information roles, UX research, or data-oriented positions can recoup costs more quickly.

To improve your ROI calculus, consider the following:

• Apply aggressively for scholarships and graduate assistantships through Drexel's College of Computing and Informatics.
• Pursue practicum placements in sectors that align with higher-paying career tracks.
• Take advantage of the Philadelphia job market during your studies to build professional contacts before graduation.

Drexel's MLIS carries strong name recognition and ALA accreditation, both of which matter in a field where credential quality influences hiring. The degree is a sound investment for students who enter with a clear career strategy and realistic salary expectations, especially those targeting technology-forward information roles where earning potential is highest. If you are still weighing options, our guide on how to choose a library science program can help you compare programs side by side.

How Drexel Compares to Other MLIS Programs

Choosing an MLIS program often comes down to balancing cost, flexibility, and the depth of specialization options. Drexel's program sits in a distinctive middle ground: it offers more specialized tracks and a stronger online infrastructure than many budget-friendly public programs, while remaining more accessible and flexible than elite private alternatives. The table below highlights how these three archetypes stack up across key dimensions.

Should You Apply to Drexel's MLIS Program?

This is the decision point. Use the framework below to cut through the noise and determine whether Drexel's MLIS is the right investment for you.

Apply If

• You want a tech-forward, ALA-accredited online MLIS. Drexel's program is built for working professionals who need full online flexibility without sacrificing accreditation or academic rigor.
• Embedded certificates appeal to you. The ability to earn stackable credentials in areas like digital libraries, youth services, or competitive intelligence adds tangible resume value on top of the degree itself.
• You can handle the cost. Drexel is a private university, and tuition reflects that. If you have employer tuition assistance, savings, or access to strong financial aid, the investment can make sense given the program's reputation and career network.

Consider Another Program If

• Budget is your top concern. Public university MLIS programs, particularly those offered online at in-state rates, can cost a fraction of Drexel's total price tag. The quality gap is often smaller than the cost gap.
• You prefer semester-system pacing. Drexel operates on a quarter system, which means shorter, faster-moving terms. Some students find this energizing; others find it stressful.
• You want extensive in-person networking. While Drexel offers some on-campus events and residency options, the program is primarily online. Students who thrive on face-to-face cohort experiences and local professional meetups may feel more connected at a campus-based program in their region.

Bottom Line

Drexel's MLIS is a strong choice for self-directed learners who value flexible online delivery, a technology-rich curriculum, and the credibility of an established ALA-accredited program. If cost is not a dealbreaker and you are drawn to the embedded certificate model, it belongs on your short list. If affordability matters most, explore comparable public programs first and weigh what you gain against what you pay. Not sure where to start? Our guide on how to customize library science degree program to fit career goals can help you evaluate your priorities before committing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drexel's MLIS Program

Prospective students often have similar questions about Drexel's MLIS program, from accreditation status to total cost and career value. Below are concise answers to the most common questions, drawn from current program details.

Is Drexel's MLIS program ALA-accredited?

Yes. Drexel University's MS in Library and Information Science is accredited by the American Library Association. ALA accreditation is widely considered essential for most professional librarian positions in public, academic, and school library settings. Prospective students should verify the current accreditation period directly with the ALA or Drexel's College of Computing and Informatics.

How much does Drexel's online MLIS cost in total?

Drexel's MLIS requires a minimum of 45 quarter credits. At published per-credit tuition rates, the estimated total cost typically falls in the range of roughly $50,000 to $60,000 before financial aid. Exact costs vary by enrollment pace and any applicable fee changes. Students should confirm the latest tuition schedule with Drexel, as rates are subject to annual adjustment.

What are the admission requirements for Drexel's MLIS program?

Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, official transcripts, a statement of purpose, a current resume, and two or more letters of recommendation. There is no strict minimum GPA cutoff published, but a competitive academic record strengthens your application. International students must also submit English proficiency scores.

How long does it take to complete Drexel's online MLIS?

Most students complete Drexel's online MLIS in about two years of full-time study. Part-time students often finish within three to four years. Drexel operates on a quarter system with multiple start terms per year, which gives students flexibility to accelerate or slow their pace depending on work and personal obligations.

Does Drexel require the GRE for MLIS admission?

Drexel does not require the GRE for admission to the MLIS program. This policy removes a common barrier and cost for applicants. Admissions decisions focus on your academic background, professional experience, statement of purpose, and recommendations rather than standardized test scores.

Can I earn a school librarian certification through Drexel's MLIS?

Yes. Drexel offers a School Library Media specialization within the MLIS that is designed to prepare students for school librarian certification in Pennsylvania. Students pursuing certification in other states should check their state's specific requirements, as additional coursework, testing, or field hours may be needed beyond what the Drexel program provides.

Is Drexel's MLIS worth it for career outcomes?

Drexel's ALA-accredited MLIS carries strong name recognition and a well-established alumni network, particularly in the mid-Atlantic region. Graduates pursue roles in public, academic, school, and special libraries, as well as information management positions in corporate and nonprofit sectors. The higher tuition compared to public university alternatives means students should weigh the cost carefully against expected librarian salaries in their target market.