Introduction
A Masters in Library Science (MLS) is a great way to pursue a career in librarianship or information science. It’s also a big investment of both time and money. Before you decide to pursue a degree in library science, it’s important to understand the cost of earning a masters degree so that you can plan accordingly and make the best decision for your future.
A Comprehensive Guide to the Cost of Earning a Masters in Library Science
When considering the cost of any degree program, there are several factors to consider. The cost of a library science degree includes tuition, books and supplies, room and board, and other expenses. Let’s break down each of these costs to get a better understanding of what you might need to invest to earn a Masters in Library Science.
Tuition
The biggest expense of any degree program is tuition. Different schools charge different tuition rates, so the cost of tuition will vary depending on the school you choose to attend. On average, the tuition for a Masters in Library Science is between $10,000 and $30,000 per year. Some schools offer discounts for online programs, so if you’re considering an online degree, you may be able to save some money on tuition.
Books and Supplies
In addition to tuition, you’ll need to factor in the cost of books and supplies. On average, students spend around $1,200 a year on books and supplies. Depending on the courses you take and the materials required for each course, this number could be higher or lower.
Room and Board
If you’re attending a traditional school, you’ll need to factor in the cost of room and board. The cost of room and board varies widely depending on the school and the type of housing you choose. On average, students spend between $7,000 and $15,000 per year on room and board.
Other Expenses
In addition to tuition, books and supplies, and room and board, there are other expenses associated with earning a Masters in Library Science. These expenses include transportation costs, fees, and living expenses such as food and utilities. On average, students spend around $5,000 a year on other expenses related to their degree.
The Price Tag on Pursuing a Masters in Library Science
Now that we’ve looked at the individual costs associated with a Masters in Library Science, let’s look at the total cost of earning a degree. The total cost of a Masters in Library Science will depend on the school you attend, the type of housing you choose, and other factors. On average, the cost of earning a Masters in Library Science is between $25,000 and $50,000 for two years of study.
According to a survey by the American Library Association, the average cost of tuition for a Master’s in Library Science was $20,804 for the 2019-2020 school year. The average cost of books and supplies was $1,271, while the average cost of room and board was $9,851. Other expenses added up to an average of $5,323.
How to Budget for a Masters in Library Science
Pursuing a Masters in Library Science is an expensive endeavor, but there are ways to save money on your degree. Here are some tips for saving money on a Masters in Library Science:
- Look for scholarships and grants. Many libraries and organizations offer scholarships and grants to help fund library science degrees.
- Choose an online program. Online programs often have lower tuition rates than traditional programs.
- Live off campus. Living off campus can save you money on room and board.
- Take advantage of free resources. Many libraries offer free access to books and other resources.
In addition to looking for ways to save money on your degree, it’s important to develop a budget and stick to it. Having a budget will help you stay on track and ensure that you’re not overspending on your degree.
Calculating the Cost of Earning a Masters in Library Science
Before you decide to pursue a Masters in Library Science, it’s important to calculate the total cost of the degree. To do this, add up the cost of tuition, books and supplies, room and board, and other expenses. Then, add in any additional costs such as travel expenses or fees. Finally, look into financial aid options to see if there are any grants or scholarships that could help reduce the overall cost of the degree.
For example, the University of Washington offers several scholarships for library science students, including the Doreen Valentine Scholarship and the Esther J. Piercy Memorial Scholarship. In addition, many employers offer tuition reimbursement programs or other forms of financial aid. It’s important to research all of your options so that you can make an informed decision about whether or not pursuing a Masters in Library Science is right for you.
Conclusion
Earning a Masters in Library Science is a significant investment. It’s important to understand the cost of the degree before you make the decision to pursue it. The cost of a Masters in Library Science depends on the school you attend, the type of housing you choose, and other factors. On average, the cost of a Masters in Library Science is between $25,000 and $50,000 for two years of study. To save money on your degree, look for scholarships and grants, choose an online program, live off campus, and take advantage of free resources. Finally, make sure to research financial aid options to see if there are any grants or scholarships that could help reduce the overall cost of the degree.
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