Having a Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree can open doors to many different career opportunities in the library and information science fields. Earning an MLIS degree is an investment in yourself, as it provides the necessary education, training and skills to succeed in a range of library and information science related jobs. This blog post will discuss the wide variety of career options that are available to individuals with an MLIS degree. It will also provide insight into what types of roles can be pursued, the common duties of each role, and the salary expectations for each. We will also provide helpful information regarding job search strategies and resources available to individuals with an MLIS degree. With the right preparation, an MLIS degree can provide the foundation for an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling career path.
What is the difference between an MLIS degree and an MLS degree?
The Master of Library Science (MLS) and MLIS degrees are comparable, but there are a few significant differences. The addition of the “I,” which stands for information, makes up the majority of the difference between an MLIS and an MLS. Although some universities still make separate distinctions, many universities refer to these degrees interchangeably. The MLS is the more traditional of the two degrees and is focused on the study of library classification systems, cataloging, and archiving. It is the older of the two degrees. Some common library duties include:
Many degree programs added the information component of the degree in more recent years as technology developed, covering more of the technological aspect of information sharing and storing. There are more subjects in the curriculum that include more computer and information science components, such as:
What is an MLIS degree?
For those who want to work in a field related to libraries or become librarians, an MLIS degree is a popular choice. MLIS stands for Master of Library and Information Science. Students frequently learn about research, databases, and information organization while pursuing this degree. Additionally, students in this degree program have the option of writing a thesis with a specific focus.
A bachelor’s degree in a field like information technology or library science is frequently required of students pursuing an MLIS degree, but other undergraduate degrees are also accepted. An MLIS degree typically takes two years to complete once you’ve been accepted. Students with this degree have a variety of career options after graduation.
What can you do with an MLIS degree?
With an MLIS degree, you can enter a wide range of career fields, such as:
Library
Many MLIS graduates follow the traditional career path of working in a library system because this degree program can prepare you with knowledge of library organizational systems and databases. There are numerous career opportunities in library systems due to the wide variety of libraries and their numerous locations. You could work in public, private, or academic libraries and pursue specializations in areas like children’s librarianship, volunteer work, or data management. Work as a librarian, library secretary, or archivist, for example.
Marketing
You can also prepare for a career in marketing with an MLIS degree. The fundamental components of marketing strategies are research and data management, and an MLIS degree can teach you these abilities. You can look into positions like social media management, marketing research, and data analysis if you’re interested in working in marketing.
Translating or interpreting
The profession of translating or interpreting is another one that is expanding. A MLIS degree and fluency in a second language can help you land a promising job. Both translating and interpreting involve conveying information while ensuring that all parties can understand one another.
Both of these might necessitate in-depth research and writing abilities, and many individuals, organizations, or even governments might utilize these services. When communicating, translating is frequently done through writing, whereas interpreting is done in person or live. You might consider careers as a foreign language translator, escort interpreter, health or medical translator, or educational interpreter as relevant professions.
Medicine and healthcare
A person with a master’s in library and information science may have many career options in the medical field as medical information and research continue to advance. There are potential career opportunities in research and data management.
You can manage billing data and information or keep records at a hospital or doctor’s office with an MLIS degree. You could work as a health science librarian, support genetic research, and assist with maintaining and observing medical data and research. Medical librarian, medical billing specialist, clinical data manager, data analyst, medical records data specialist, and medical records clerk are a few relevant job titles.
Technology in business
Numerous businesses communicate and store data and information using a variety of technologies. You may be qualified to assist in developing, designing, maintaining, and supporting a variety of information technologies that a company might use if you have a master’s degree in library and information science.
You may oversee information management, but you should also assist with workflow and communication management. You could support technologies like learning or training systems, communication systems, and data management systems. Database administrator and user interface designer are some relevant job titles.
Online retail
The number of jobs available in this industry is increasing as online shopping and commerce become more common. Those with an MLIS degree have a wide range of opportunities. A person with an MLIS degree could help with website upkeep, customer data management, and data organization for the online business.
Master of Library Science: What You Should Know
FAQ
What kind of jobs can you get with MLIS?
- Archivist.
- Preservationist.
- Curator.
- Project manager.
- Knowledge manager.
- Researcher.
- Data analyst.
- Writer.
Is an MLIS degree worth it?
Overall, according to the survey, librarians are happy with their MLIS degree and would suggest it to others. Nine out of 10 (89%) said they felt the degree was worth the time and money they invested in it Only slightly fewer (86%) said they would recommend the degree to others
What other jobs can school librarians do?
- Academic adviser.
- 2. Development coordinator.
- Writer.
- Professor.
- Archivist.
- Content strategist.
- Database administrator.
What is the highest paying library job?
- Research Librarian. Salary range: $69,000-$87,000 per year. …
- Law Librarian. Salary range: $47,000-$81,000 per year. …
- Head Librarian. Salary range: $37,000-$80,000 per year. …
- Systems Librarian. …
- Library Sales Consultant. …
- Hospital Librarian. …
- Library Manager. …
- Medical Librarian.
