Nevada Library Science Degrees

School	Program	More Info
Syracuse University	Online MS in Library and Information Science ALA-accredited. Multiple professional pathways or specializations available. No GRE required to apply. Complete in as little as 18 months.	Website
University of Denver	Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) ALA-Accredited, No GRE Required. Complete in as few as 21 months.	Website
St. John's University	Online M.S. in Library and Information Science ALA Accredited, 24 months to complete. 4 specializations and 2 certificate options.	Website

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Click to view more featured accredited online library science programs that are currently taking applications for 2024!

At this time, there are no library science degree programs with ALA accreditation in Nevada. The University of Nevada Las Vegas does offer a Library Science Program Certificate, where formal admission to UNLV is not required.

Nearby colleges with a library science degree

Students interested in library science may consider one of the many library science degrees in California. The University of Southern California (USC) and University of California-Los Angeles (UCLA) have opportunities in Southern California, while San Jose State University (SJSU) has an online MLIS option in the Bay Area. The University of Idaho also has online library science courses but not a formal degree.

You might also consider an online library science degree below.

Are There Online Library Science Degrees in Nevada?

No universities have an online library science program in the state of Nevada at this time. In previous years, the University of Nevada-Reno and University of Nevada-Las Vegas (UNLV) have held library science certification options. The prior universities listed, such as USC and San Jose State, have online study available for their degrees.

USC's Master of Management in Library and Information Science requires 31 total credit hours across 13 courses. The main curriculum and three elective options may dive into topics such as information technology and archival management. The Master of Library and Information Science distributed by SJSU has optional pathways to completion, such as an e-portfolio or thesis paper.

ALA Accreditation

The online experience does vary, but ALA-accredited schools will often have similar core content. This is due to the accreditation standards that need to be met, including a focus on research methods and innovative technology that is brought into the library field. Electives and certification preparation is where options may alter based on the university selected.

Courses

Course distribution and online format may feature an asynchronous or synchronous learning experience. This means that the student may be able to study completely on their own time, or they may need to meet for live course sessions at specific times of the week. Typically, there is a blend of both options, but programs tend to feature more freedom for students to complete their studies while satisfying professional work and other life obligations.

Technology standards are important to meet for a smooth online experience. Students must review the requirements or recommendations that have been set by the university. Typical requirements include having a compatible web browser for the learning management system used, high-speed internet access, and accessories such as a webcam or microphone.

List of the best campus-based and online CAEP, AASL, or ALA-Accredited library science degree programs in Nevada

Consider a Sponsored Online Library Program Taking Applications

Finding Campus Based Nevada Library Science Degrees

Individuals looking for higher education in preparation for an advanced library or media specialist opportunity should consider a library science degree. These offer a blend of teaching, communication, and technology skills that are used to improve library services and internal management. Graduates often go into positions such as collection management, solve any problems or issues with research methods, and develop more impactful services.

Prospective students looking for a graduate degree should look at options that have accreditation by the American Library Association (ALA). These fall directly under the disciplines of Library Science, Library and Information Studies, or a slight variation these titles. In many cases, there are options for on-campus or online study, and they take approximately one to two years to complete.

Nevada Career Options in Library Media

Nevada has slightly lower employment in the librarian field when compared to surrounding areas such as California, Utah, and Arizona. As of May 2020, the US Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates librarian and media collection specialists to represent around 500 people in the work force. Much of this is found in public libraries and institutions, such as UNLV.

Most of the employment is found in the Las Vegas metropolitan area, which includes Henderson and Paradise. Both Las Vegas and Henderson are the two largest cities in Nevada, combining for over one million residents. Reno, located in the opposite northwestern corner with over 266,000 residents, sees the next-highest employment in the state.

Education and Licensure for Jobs in Nevada

For some public library positions in the state, at least 21 credit hours are needed at the graduate level at an accredited college. This work should be focused on education and/or librarianship. In addition, three credit hours must have a specific focus on a particular aspect of the profession, such as literature collection for a certain age or library administration.

Individuals looking at a school library position must hold a teaching license and a Master’s degree. That discipline must be in the field of library media. Programs with ALA accreditation are recommended, or one that falls under the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).

Nevada Library Association

Formed in 1946, the Nevada Library Association (NLA) is an organization that recognizes state library workers and focuses on improving services and skills for the profession. One of its biggest accomplishments has been advocacy for legislation, being part of each piece that has been passed by state government. This association is headquartered in Henderson.

One day each year is specifically focused on legislation, which occurs early in March. Other services the organization provides are connections with the California Library Association for conference and networking opportunities, scholarships for ALA-accredited programs, and mentorship. Rates for membership are based on student or professional level and the salary being earned.

Salary Estimates in Nevada

While there may be less job opportunities in comparison to nearby states, Nevada is one of the top-paying locations according to the BLS. This is due to opportunities in Las Vegas and Reno, which are in proximity to higher salaries in California cities. In comparison, the average mean wage in Las Vegas is $74,300 annually and Reno comes in at $68,180 annually.

Looking at the state in general, the average annual salary is estimated at $71,670, with the top 10 percent of earners making over $93,800 annually. These higher-paying positions are generally reserved for those that work in universities or have director roles in a public or academic library setting. Salary estimates are higher than many neighboring states, with an over $20,000 difference when comparing Idaho and Utah.