MLS Career Paths

Because many MLS career paths require extensive knowledge of a second discipline, IU-SLIS has developed Joint Degree Programs, enabling students to earn a Masters in Library Science and another subject at the same time. Participating programs include: Law, Art History, Comparative Literature, History, History and Philosophy of Science, Journalism, Music, Russian and East European Studies and Public Affairs (Information Systems Management).

Students who do not wish to obtain a full masters in a second subject can still choose to tailor their MLS degree to meet the demands of a specific market by taking a concentration of coursework satisfying the requirements for an area of specialization. Approved Specializations within the Masters programs include: Specialization in African Studies Librarianship, Chemical Information Specialist and Specialization in Music Librarianship.

There are still many other ways to specialize your MLS degree. The list of Career Paths below, can help you identify ways of focusing your professional interests and obtain the knowledge and skills needed for working in a particular aspect or area of Library Science. These paths can help familiarize you with various career options, but you will want to work closely with your adviser to ensure that you are taking the best courses to meet your career objectives and all degree requirements.

Check out the journal Research & Creative Activity issue: Librarians at Work