Masters in Library Science

[Anonymous]

Does anyone know which institutions on DC offer a masters in library science program? And which are considered the "good" programs? tia

[Anonymous]

Catholic University and University of Maryland in College Park. Both schools have good reputations in the area but Maryland is probably the stronger program at the moment. More stability in faculty and innovation.

[Anonymous]

If you are a Maryland or Virginia resident you can get in-state tuition at UMD College Park, which is MUCH less expensive that CUA's program.

Here's a list of accredited--MUST get MLS from an accredited school--programs from the American Library Association.

http://www.ala.org/ala/educationcareers/education/accreditedprograms/directory/pdf/lis_dir_20082009.pdf

This has a bunch of other info, too.

A have a few friends who've gotten their MLS online; University of Illinois has a well-regarded online program, and I believe Drexel in Philly does, too.

Good luck--it's a pretty great and adaptable degree to have.

[Anonymous]

19:51: I am thinking about getting MLS, but wonder if I'll be able to get a job. What makes it an adaptable degree to have? I'm over 50 and have young kids (older mom), so I'm trying to re-enter the work force in a recession. Will an MLS help?

[Anonymous]

I looked into getting an MLS (to switch careers) -- the thing that shocked me was how low the salaries were for librarians, etc. I could not justify taking the 1.5/2 years off to get the degree.

[Anonymous]

My sister has a Masters in LS (information sciences, actually). MLS is a great degree to have, and high-paying if you work for a law firm as a legal librarian, the Library of Congress, or certain high-paying large companies that need librarians. Otherwise, it does not pay well at all.

[Anonymous]

My sister with an MLS has been a media specialist at various public schools in MC. I don't know what her salary is , but probably similar to a teacher, I am guessing.

[Anonymous]

It can be a great degree but a lot depends on the setting you're interested in. You could work with kids, with the general public, at a university, in a hospital, for a government agency (local, state, federal), for any corporation, nonprofit, etc.

You can do work that ranges from repetitive (cataloging, acquisitions) to everchanging (reference/research). For reference, you really need to enjoy the thrill of the hunt. This is good if you're the type that when asked any random question, HAS to find the answer. You can also get to management level if you want.

It's not an easy job at all, and you don't just read books all day (as every ignorant person you meet will ask). It can be very intellectual and satisfying if you land in a good place.

Federal librarians in the DC area tend to make decent money - most are GS 11/12 with some experience. But you need to come in at a high level or you'll be stuck with a low salary forever. Managers are 13/14, with a very rare 15.

And go to Maryland! It's cheaper and better.