2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Hawaii
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Hawaii – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Hawaii
Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii’s Master’s in Library Science (MLS) and Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) programs reflect the state’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and supporting diverse communities. Hawaii offers programs designed to serve its multicultural population, emphasizing skills in digital library management, cultural preservation, and community-focused library services.
These programs provide flexible online and hybrid learning options, catering to working professionals and students across Hawaii’s islands. With a focus on practical fieldwork and partnerships with local organizations, Hawaii’s MLS programs prepare graduates for meaningful careers in public, academic, and specialized libraries.
2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Hawaii
University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, HI - Public 4-Year - manoa.hawaii.edu
Master's - College of Social Sciences: Library and Information Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Hawaii at Manoa offers a 39-credit hybrid Master of Library and Information Science program through its College of Social Sciences, blending online coursework with some in-person requirements. This flexible graduate degree allows students to customize their education through electives and choose between a thesis or professional ePortfolio as a culminating experience. The program emphasizes service design, technology application, cultural analysis, and information management, with a distinctive focus on Asia-Pacific information contexts. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in libraries, archives, and information centers. No entrance exam is required for admission to this master's level program.
- 39-credit hybrid master's degree
- Six core student learning outcomes
- Thesis or ePortfolio options
- Professional pathway options
- School librarian licensure pathway
- Asia-Pacific information focus
- Flexible elective curriculum
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Hawaii
Hawaii’s MLS programs balance affordability and accessibility, making them ideal for students seeking flexible, cost-effective options:
- University of Hawaii at Manoa: While tuition for out-of-state students is higher, Hawaii residents benefit from a competitive in-state rate of $12,186 per year. The program’s focus on indigenous and Pacific Islander knowledge makes it a standout choice.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Hawaii
Hawaii’s MLS programs address the state’s unique needs, offering specializations in:
- Cultural Heritage Preservation: Focusing on safeguarding Hawaiian and Pacific Islander cultural artifacts and documents.
- School Librarianship: Preparing professionals to manage K-12 media centers and promote literacy in Hawaii’s diverse schools.
- Digital Libraries: Training librarians to develop and manage online collections, ensuring access for remote island communities.
- Archival Studies: Emphasizing the preservation of historical documents and indigenous records, with a focus on Hawaii’s rich history.
These specializations equip students to serve the state’s educational, cultural, and informational needs.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Hawaii?
Graduates of Hawaii’s MLIS programs have opportunities to work in various sectors, including:
- Public Librarian: Serving local communities through literacy programs, outreach, and digital resource management at libraries like the Hawaii State Public Library System.
- School Librarian: Managing school media centers and integrating information literacy into K-12 curricula, supporting Hawaii’s educational initiatives.
- Archivist: Preserving historical records and artifacts for institutions like the Bishop Museum or state archives.
- Academic Librarian: Assisting students and faculty at universities such as the University of Hawaii system, providing research support and curating academic resources.
- Cultural Heritage Specialist: Working with indigenous organizations to preserve and promote Hawaiian and Pacific Islander culture.
- Digital Librarian: Developing and managing online collections for libraries and educational institutions to serve Hawaii’s geographically dispersed population.
