Texas Masters in Library Science Degrees
Helping people access the information they need is at the very heart of library science. The modern librarian must be an expert in information science, as they’ll need to know how to navigate many different information access systems.
Library science careers often mean getting a master’s degree in the field. There are many types of possible degrees that can help lead to careers in library and information science, and fortunately for people in Texas, there are multiple institutions offering such degrees. Let’s take a look at the degrees and what library and information science professionals can expect to earn in the state.
Master of Library Science Degree Programs in Texas
Depending on their ideal job, it may be critical for library science students to earn a master’s degree from an institution that’s been accredited by the American Library Association (ALA). Other certification requirements may apply, especially for those pursuing careers in schools.
SEE ALSO: Best Online Masters in Library Science Programs
The ideal degree will depend on the desired job, but there are several popular options in the field. These include Master of Library Science (MLS), Master of Science in Library Science (MS), Master of Information Science (MIS), Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) or Master of Science in Information (MSI).
Three library and information science degrees offered in Texas have earned the ALA’s seal of approval. Let’s check out some details about the schools and what they offer.
University of North Texas
- Institution type: Public
- Delivery method: Online, traditional, hybrid options
- Main campus: Denton (degree also offered at Houston campus)
- Master’s tuition: $8,266 in-state; $15,982 out-of-state
- Degrees offered: Master of Science in Library Science
- Graduate certificates offered: School librarian
The College of Information at the University of North Texas offers a Master of Science in Library Science that can be earned entirely online, but students also can choose to attend on-campus in Denton or through a program offered at UNT’s Houston campus.
Library students can choose from a variety of specialty areas, including archival studies and imaging technology, information organization, law librarianship and legal informatics, music librarianship and youth librarianship in addition to a school librarian certification.
Learn more
University of Texas
- Institution type: Public
- Delivery method: Traditional
- Campus: Austin
- Master’s tuition: $11,998 in-state; $22,966 out-of-state
- Degrees offered: Master of Science in Information Studies, PhD in Information Studies
- Graduate certificates offered: School librarian
The Master of Science in Information Studies (MSIS) offered at the main campus of the University of Texas gives students the option of pursuing a thesis capstone if they choose, while other students will probably be drawn to the school librarian certification offered through the program.
Several unique dual degree options are also available. These pair the MSIS degree with master’s degrees in a range of areas, including computer science, public policy, global studies, law, gender studies and more.
Learn more
Texas Woman’s University
- Institution type: Public
- Delivery method: Online
- Campus: Denton
- Master’s tuition: $7,662 in-state; $15,386 out-of-state
- Degrees offered: Master of Library Science, Master of Arts in Library Science
- Graduate certificates offered: School librarianship
Texas Woman’s University, the largest public university primarily for women (yes, men can enroll, too), offers a Master of Library Science degree that’s earned entirely online. Students can choose from a variety of program tracks, including public libraries, school, health science, information, technical services and more.
A certificate in school librarianship can be earned separately or as part of a master’s track.
Learn more
Texas Library Sciences Salaries & Job Outlook
On average, librarians and media collections specialists in Texas earn just over $61,000, which is a touch higher than the overall national average of about $58,000, according to information published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Library workers based in schools and other educational institutions earn a bit less than that, with an average wage for these workers of just over $51,000.
Across Texas, librarians in El Paso can expect to earn the highest average wage, as the typical librarian in that city earns more than $70,000 per year. Those in Laredo aren’t far behind, as they earn an average of $68,000. College Station offers the highest average wage for educational and instructional library workers ($73,670).
SEE ALSO: National Masters in Librarian Science Salary Outlook
On the other end of the spectrum, librarian salaries are lowest in Victoria ($40,830), while school-based library employees make the lowest average in Abilene, where they make just under $40,000. Tyler isn’t far ahead, though, with an average wage for school library workers of $40,570.
Job openings for librarians are expected to become much more common across the U.S. through the next decade. While data for Texas was not available, employment rates for librarians are expected to grow by 6.4% nationally, according to the Department of Labor, while school library employees should see openings grow by 5.7%.
Conclusion
With information and technology advancing at a rapid clip, it’s perhaps never been more important for training that prepares professionals to help others understand how to navigate the unending sea of information. Fortunately for people in Texas, multiple degree options can help them do just that.
Take the Next Step in Obtaining Your Degree in Library Science
The growing, thriving, and dynamic field of librarianship can open doors to a rewarding and inspiring career. Take the next step obtaining your master’s degree in library science from an accredited university and start your career journey today.