2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Florida
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Florida – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Florida
Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Florida
Florida offers a robust selection of Master’s in Library Science (MLS) and Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) programs, reflecting the state’s dedication to education, technology, and cultural preservation. With some of the nation’s leading universities, Florida provides a mix of traditional, online, and hybrid learning opportunities tailored to the needs of aspiring librarians and information professionals.
Students in Florida benefit from access to diverse internship and networking opportunities, ranging from public libraries and academic institutions to archives and corporate information centers. Whether your goal is to specialize in school librarianship, digital archives, or public library management, Florida’s MLS programs equip graduates with the skills and credentials necessary for success.
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - Public 4-Year - fsu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Information
Concentration: Public, Academic, and Special Libraries - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida State University's online Master of Science in Information with a concentration in Public, Academic, and Special Libraries prepares graduates for leadership positions across diverse library environments. This fully online program emphasizes information organization, management techniques, and specialized service delivery tailored to public, academic, and special library contexts. Designed for working professionals, it offers flexible scheduling with multiple annual start dates. The program requires a bachelor's degree for admission but does not mandate entrance exams. Competitive tuition and financial aid options make this an accessible path to advanced library science careers.
- Online program format
- Public libraries concentration
- Academic libraries focus
- Special libraries specialization
- Master of Science degree
- Information science curriculum
- Flexible scheduling options
- Working professional friendly
- Leadership role preparation
- Library management training
Master's - Master of Science in Information
Concentration: School Libraries - Online Learning - Visit Website
Florida State University's online Master of Science in Information with a School Libraries concentration specifically prepares educators for K-12 library media specialist roles. This digital program develops expertise in collection development, information literacy instruction, and educational technology integration for school settings. Graduates qualify for certification while benefiting from the program's flexible online format accommodating working professionals. Admission requires a bachelor's degree with competitive GPA and professional recommendations, though no entrance exam is necessary. With standard graduate tuition and multiple enrollment terms annually, this program offers practical preparation for modern school library careers.
- Online program format
- School Libraries concentration
- Master of Science degree
- Prepares for K-12 roles
- Flexible scheduling options
- Information literacy focus
- Collection management skills
- Educational technology integration
- Certification qualification
- Graduate level coursework
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - Public 4-Year - usf.edu
Master's - M.A. Library and Information Science
Online Learning - Visit Website
The University of South Florida's fully online, ALA-accredited Master of Arts in Library and Information Science provides flexible career advancement without a specified concentration. This program does not require an entrance exam and offers a curriculum covering core library and information science competencies with elective specialization options. Students can develop leadership skills, implement innovative services, and apply theoretical knowledge practically. Scholarship opportunities are available through USF and the School of Information, supporting diverse learners in dynamic information environments.
- Fully online, ALA-accredited program.
- Flexible learning for diverse life stages.
- Specialization options available.
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Florida
Florida’s MLS programs cater to a wide range of students, offering affordability and accelerated completion options.
- Florida State University: With tuition starting at $10,500 for in-state students, this program offers flexibility and a range of specializations in an online format.
- University of South Florida: Tuition rates of $8,350 annually make this one of the most affordable options in the state, with the added benefit of asynchronous learning for working professionals.
Students seeking accelerated pathways can often complete their degrees in 18 to 24 months through full-time enrollment and summer coursework.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Florida
Florida’s MLS programs reflect the state’s educational and technological needs, preparing students for high-demand specializations, including:
- School Librarianship: Training librarians to manage media centers and promote literacy in K-12 schools.
- Digital Libraries: Developing skills for managing digital archives and virtual collections to enhance remote access.
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Focused on safeguarding Florida’s diverse cultural artifacts and historical records.
- Public Librarianship: Preparing graduates to serve communities through public library management and programming.
These specialties align with Florida’s unique demographic and professional landscape, ensuring graduates are prepared for impactful careers.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Florida?
Graduates of Florida’s MLS programs have access to diverse career opportunities, including:
- Public Librarian: Managing library services and programming in community libraries like those within the Miami-Dade or Orange County systems.
- Academic Librarian: Supporting research and education in Florida’s universities, such as Florida State University or the University of Florida.
- School Librarian: Promoting literacy and managing media centers in K-12 schools statewide, supported by Florida’s strong emphasis on education.
- Archivist: Preserving and cataloging historical documents at institutions like the Florida Historical Society or regional museums.
- Digital Librarian: Overseeing online collections for academic, public, or private libraries, ensuring accessibility for remote users.
- Corporate Information Specialist: Managing proprietary data and resources for Florida’s corporate offices, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors.
Florida’s MLS graduates play a pivotal role in enhancing access to information and preserving cultural and educational resources.
