Kent State University Online Library Science Masters Review
Kent State University’s online Master of Library and Information Science degree is Ohio’s only graduate degree in library science accredited by the prestigious American Library Association.
Let’s learn more about what prospective students should know about this program, whether they live in Ohio or elsewhere, as well as what the biggest benefits and drawbacks are of the Kent State program.
About the Program
Before we dig deep into the pros and cons of Kent State’s program, let’s check out the basic facts and figures that apply.
Basics
- Institution type: Public
- Campus: Kent, Ohio
- Accreditation: American Library Association (ALA)
- Program format: 100% online
Tuition and fees
- Expected total tuition: $26,800 in-state; $27,200 out-of-state
- Per credit-hour tuition: $725 in-state; $735 out-of-state
Degrees & requirements
- Library science degrees offered: Master of Library and Information Science, Master of Science in Knowledge Management, MLIS/MBA
- Number of credit hours required: 37
- Estimated time to completion: 24 months
- Optional specializations: Health Informatics, Knowledge Management, User Experience Design
Biggest Pros
What aspects of the Kent State MLIS program are most attractive for the average student?
Accreditation
As the only ALA-accredited master’s degree in library science in the state of Ohio, Kent State’s program is unique in the state. ALA accreditation is mandatory in most states for the licenses required to work in many public spaces, including schools and libraries.
Cost
Kent State’s library science program reflects the value potential that’s inherent in most public universities. The average student, even outside of the state of Ohio, will spend less than $30,000 on tuition, which makes the program among the most affordable in the country.
Dual degrees
Several dual degree options are available, including an MLIS/MBA that’s ideal for students who want to pursue careers in library and information science leadership. Such education could provide students with the business training necessary for upper-management positions.
Biggest Cons
What factors about Kent State’s MLIS program are likely to be least appealing to the average student?
Few specializations
A limited number of specialty options are available in Kent State’s program, so students whose interests lie outside that range but for whom a generalist degree isn’t ideal may be better off considering another school.
Focus on public institutions
The specializations, graduate certificates and other degrees within the Kent State School of Information make it clear that the broad focus of the program is on information as it relates to public institutions, like schools, hospitals and libraries. While this may appeal to many students, the field of library science is ever-evolving, and many students may find the programmatic focus limiting.
Kent State Online Library Science Program FAQs
Here’s a look at some of the most commonly asked questions about the Kent State University Master of Library and Information Science online degree.
Do I need to take the GRE?
Most students will not need to submit a score for the Graduate Records Examination. The exception is if the applicant’s undergraduate (or highest degree level earned) GPA is under 3.0; these candidates will be asked to submit a GRE score.
Is a thesis required?
No, the Kent State MLIS program doesn’t require students to complete a thesis project; however, students must assemble and present an electronic portfolio that represents their experiences throughout the program.
Do I need to complete an internship to earn my degree?
Kent State’s MLIS degree does not have an internship requirement, but iSchool students may have access to a broad range of internship opportunities, particularly in the state of Ohio. Recent postings have included internships at such sites as the Western Reserve Historical Society, Historic Zoar Village and the Greater Cincinnati Library Consortium (Swon Libraries).
Conclusion
Completing graduate study in any field is a major accomplishment, and for those who are planning for careers in library and information science, a master’s degree is typically a mission-critical component. Fortunately for students in Ohio and beyond, the Kent State online MLIS degree is among the most affordable in the country, putting such education in reach of most prospective professionals in the field.