2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Minnesota

Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Minnesota – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Minnesota

Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Minnesota

Minnesota offers exceptional opportunities for students pursuing a Master’s in Library Science (MLS) or Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS). With its commitment to education, literacy, and cultural preservation, the state’s programs are designed to equip future librarians with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in various library and information roles.

Minnesota’s MLS programs combine innovative coursework, practical training, and access to extensive library networks, including partnerships with public libraries, schools, and cultural institutions. Flexible online and hybrid options make these programs accessible for working professionals and students from all regions.

2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Minnesota

If you want to earn a Master's in Library Science online in Minnesota, you have some great choices. mastersinlibraryscience.org ranks the best online programs to help you find one that fits your needs. These distance learning options let you study from home, which is perfect if you have a job or live far from a campus. You can gain skills for library careers without moving. This flexibility makes virtual education a smart way to advance. For details on how we create our rankings, check out our methodology page: https://www.mastersinlibraryscience.org/rankings-methodology/

St Catherine University

Saint Paul, MN - Private 4-year - stkate.edu

Master's - Master of Library and Information Science

Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

St. Catherine University offers the only ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) program in Minnesota, delivered in a hybrid online format. This 36-credit program spans 28 months and costs $850 per credit, totaling $30,600 for 2025-26, with scholarships available. Students can customize their studies through pathways in academic, public, school, digital libraries, archives, or a personalized option, emphasizing ethical information management, technological literacy, and community engagement. No entrance exam is required for admission, and applications are accepted in Fall, Spring, and Summer semesters, supporting strong career outcomes in diverse library settings.

Minnesota State University-Mankato

Mankato, MN - Public 4-Year - mnsu.edu

Master's - School Library and Information Studies MS

Online Learning - Visit Website

Minnesota State University-Mankato's online School Library and Information Studies MS program prepares educators for K-12 library roles through a curriculum focused on information literacy, collection development, and technology integration. This program meets Minnesota licensure requirements and emphasizes practical skills for managing school libraries, supporting diverse learners, and utilizing digital resources. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and teaching license; no entrance exam is required. With affordable graduate tuition and fully online delivery, students gain expertise in instructional collaboration and library management tailored to educational settings.

Online program delivery.
Master of Science degree.
Focus on K-12 libraries.
Meets state licensure requirements.
Information literacy curriculum.
Collection development training.
Technology integration emphasis.
Affordable graduate tuition.
Bachelor's degree required.
Teaching license needed.

*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 dataset.

Top MLIS Programs in Minnesota Ranked for 2025

MastersInLibraryScience.org uses the following rankings methodology to rank MLS/MLIS degree programs.

St. Catherine University – MLIS Degree

St. Paul, MN

St. Catherine University offers an ALA-accredited MLIS program with a focus on ethics, leadership, and social justice. Specializations include school librarianship, information technology, and archives, providing students with tailored pathways to meet their career goals.

What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Minnesota?

Graduates of Minnesota’s MLS programs are prepared for a variety of rewarding careers, including:

Public Librarian: Supporting literacy and managing resources in libraries across the state, including in rural and underserved communities.
Academic Librarian: Assisting students and faculty at Minnesota’s renowned universities, such as the University of Minnesota and St. Catherine University.
School Librarian: Promoting literacy and technology integration in Minnesota’s K-12 schools.
Archivist: Preserving historical documents at institutions such as the Minnesota Historical Society or local museums.
Digital Librarian: Managing online collections and digital resources for educational and cultural organizations.

Minnesota’s strong library networks and educational institutions provide ample opportunities for MLS graduates to thrive in their chosen fields.

Popular MLIS Specialties in Minnesota

Minnesota’s MLS programs align with the state’s diverse library and information needs. Popular specializations include:

School Librarianship: Preparing librarians to support K-12 education with technology integration and literacy programs.
Archival Studies: Training students to preserve historical records and manage archives for museums and cultural institutions.
Public Librarianship: Emphasizing community engagement and resource management in public library systems.
Digital Libraries: Equipping graduates with skills to manage and curate digital collections for libraries and organizations.

These specialties ensure students graduate with expertise tailored to Minnesota’s unique library and information science needs.