2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Ohio
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Ohio – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Ohio
Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Ohio
Ohio is home to a variety of high-quality Master’s in Library Science (MLS) and Master’s in Library and Information Science (MLIS) programs, preparing students for careers in public, academic, and specialized libraries. With a focus on practical training and cutting-edge technology, Ohio’s programs address the diverse needs of its communities, from large metropolitan areas to smaller rural regions.
Many of the state’s top institutions offer flexible online or hybrid learning options, allowing working professionals and students from all backgrounds to pursue their degrees. Ohio’s MLS programs emphasize community engagement, literacy promotion, and technological innovation, aligning with the state’s commitment to information accessibility.
2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Ohio
Kent State University
Kent, OH - Public 4-Year - kent.edu
Master's - Library and Information Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Kent State University at Kent offers an ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Science program in a hybrid format, preparing students for careers as librarians, archivists, and information professionals. The curriculum focuses on information organization, digital resource management, and research methods. This master's-level program does not require entrance exams and provides flexible scheduling options. Optional concentrations include Archival Studies and Medical Librarianship, allowing students to tailor their education to specific career paths in libraries, archives, museums, and other information settings.
- Accredited by the American Library Association.
- Offers concentrations in Archival Studies and Medical Librarianship.
- 100% online with flexible scheduling options.
Master's - Master of Library and Information Science (M.L.I.S.)
Concentration: Archival Studies - Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University's online Master of Library and Information Science with Archival Studies concentration prepares students for careers managing archives, museums, and cultural institutions. The program teaches preservation techniques, digital curation, metadata standards, and archival management of both traditional and electronic records. This master's-level program is delivered entirely online and does not require entrance exams. Students gain hands-on experience with historical materials and digital assets, developing skills in conservation methods, access policies, and ethical archival practices for working professionals.
- Online program format
- Archival Studies concentration
- Master's degree level
- Library science focus
- Information management training
Master's - Master of Library and Information Science (M.L.I.S.)
Concentration: Medical Librarianship - Online Learning - Visit Website
Kent State University's online Master of Library and Information Science with Medical Librarianship concentration specializes in healthcare information management for roles in hospitals, research centers, and healthcare organizations. The curriculum covers medical database management, health informatics, clinical research support, medical terminology, and evidence-based practice. This master's-level program is conducted fully online and does not require entrance exams. Graduates qualify as medical librarians and clinical information specialists, equipped to organize and retrieve complex medical information while managing healthcare knowledge resources effectively.
- Online program format
- Medical Librarianship concentration
- Master's degree level
- Library science focus
- Information management training
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Ohio
Ohio provides a range of cost-effective options for MLS students, with competitive in-state tuition rates and opportunities for financial aid.
- Kent State University: Offers an entirely online program at an affordable in-state rate of $11,766 per year.
Accelerated pathways at many of these institutions allow students to complete their degrees in two years or less, depending on course load and scheduling.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Ohio
Ohio’s MLS programs reflect the diverse needs of the state’s communities, with specializations in:
- School Librarianship: Preparing professionals to manage K-12 libraries and support student literacy.
- Digital Libraries: Equipping students with the skills to develop and maintain digital collections.
- Public Librarianship: Addressing the unique challenges of serving Ohio’s urban and rural populations.
Archival Studies: Focused on preserving historical documents and cultural artifacts. - Health Information Management: A growing field in Ohio, combining library science with healthcare.
These specializations ensure graduates are well-prepared to address the evolving demands of library and information science.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Ohio?
Ohio’s MLS graduates are equipped to pursue a variety of career paths:
- Public Librarian: Serving urban libraries in cities like Cleveland and Columbus, or managing rural libraries across the state.
- School Librarian: Supporting literacy programs and digital skills in K-12 schools throughout Ohio.
- Archivist: Preserving and managing historical collections at institutions like the Ohio History Connection.
- Digital Librarian: Overseeing digital resources and online collections for academic institutions.
- Community Engagement Specialist: Designing library programs that address the unique needs of Ohio’s diverse populations.
Ohio’s mix of urban and rural settings provides MLS graduates with opportunities to make a significant impact in their communities while pursuing rewarding careers.
