M.Lib.Sc. (Master of Library Science): Fees, Exams, Admission 2024, Syllabus, Jobs, Salary
Shruti SharmaSenior Executive - Content
MLibSc or Master of Library Science is a postgraduate-level degree course in library sciences. The Master of Library Science course is designed to provide the aspirants with an understanding of the philosophy of library science, its basic principles, laws as well and social impact.
Students usually opt for BLibSc or Bachelor of Library Science at the undergraduate level and then pursue MLibSc at the postgraduate level. Admission to these courses is provided based on both merits as well as entrance exams, depending on the policy of the higher education institution to which a candidate is applying. Some of the popular entrance exams are SAT, CUET, JMI Entrance Exam, IIMC Entrance Exam, JNUEE, AMU Entrance Exam, etc.
The fees of library science courses range between INR 20000 to INR 2 lakh. The graduates of library science courses can work as Archivists, Cataloguers, Curators, Library Directors, Indexers, etc., and earn a salary ranging between INR 2 lakh to INR 5 lakh. MLibSc is a professional degree that readies students for positions in information and library science. Graduates of this advanced degree programme are prepared for employment in a variety of information-related disciplines, such as libraries, archives, museums, and other information organisations.
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- Master of Library Science Course Highlights
- Why Pursue Master of Library Science Course?
- 2.1 There are several reasons why students prefer to pursue a Master of Library Science course. Some of these are given below:
- Master of Library Science Course Eligibility Criteria
- Types of Master of Library Sciences Courses
- Online Master of Library Science Courses
- Master of Library Science Course Entrance Exams 2025
- Master of Library Science Course Syllabus and Subjects
- Best Colleges for Master of Library Science
- 8.1 Best Private Colleges for Master of Library Science
- 8.2 Best Government Colleges for Master of Library Science Course
- Bachelor of Library Science Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salaries and Top Recruiters
- 9.1 Job Profiles After Master of Library Science
- 9.2 Top Recruiters for Master of Library Science
- Master of Library Science FAQs: 2024
Master of Library Science Course Highlights
A master's degree in library science takes two semesters to complete, during which time information about managing and organising the library's diverse resources is covered in both theoretical and practical sessions.
Given below is everything you need to know about the librarian course in terms of its eligibility criteria, required skillset, course curriculum, job prospects, and more.
Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.
Quick Links About Master of Library Science Course:
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Q: What is Master of Library Science course?
Library science is an interdisciplinary field that involves the study of principles and practices of library administration. The major disciplines that are associated with library science include education, management, and information technology. The Master of Library Science course is offered as a full-time or part-time (distance learning) programme at various universities and colleges in India. The course serves as a foundation for candidates who wish to build their careers in the field of research or teaching.
However, the course also offers lucrative employment opportunities to candidates who wish to pursue jobs. Admissions to MLibSc courses are done mainly based on entrance exams conducted at the university/ college level. However, some institutions also provide direct admission to candidates based on merit determined through candidates' marks scored in the qualifying exam.
Q: What is M Lib course duration?
M Lib Sc is a one-year master's degree, unlike other master's degrees that are of 2-year duration in India. Though, some foreign universities may offer the course with a duration of 2 years.
Q: Is it mandatory to do Bachelor Library Science course before Master of Library Science?
No, it is not always mandatory to do B.Lib.Sc course before a M.Lib.Sc. Many universities accept candidates from any bachelor’s degree discipline, but some prioritize those students who have a B.Lib.Sc or equivalent background.
Not having a B.Lib.Sc does not impact the master’s study since many programs include introductory courses in M.Lib.Sc to help students who do have library Science background to speed up the progress.
Why Pursue Master of Library Science Course?
There are several reasons why students prefer to pursue a Master of Library Science course. Some of these are given below:
- Demanding Degree: Master of Library Science is a demanding degree for several librarian roles in libraries, including public libraries, academic libraries, school libraries, and special libraries. A high level of skill in library science is demonstrated by this professional certification.
- Diverse Career Opportunities: While library science is the main focus of a Master of Library Science programme, graduates frequently discover that their skills and knowledge are transferrable to other fields, such as information management, knowledge organisation, and information retrieval. This creates a wide range of employment prospects outside of the traditional roles of librarians.
- Advocate for Information Literacy: Master of Library Science graduates are prepared to advance information literacy and help people locate, assess, and use information efficiently. In the digital age, where information overload is a problem, this talent is becoming more and more valuable.
Q: What are the benefits of studying library courses?
Due to the high value of books and artefacts both domestically and abroad, the investment is definitely worthwhile. Your passion for and commitment to your profession will ultimately have a big impact on how happy you are and how successful you are in your job. If library science is truly your passion, earning an MLibSc may be more fulfilling.
If you truly love information, libraries, and knowledge management, an MLibSc programme can provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to continuously learning and adjusting to new technologies and trends.
Q: Why do librarians need a master's of library science degree?
To acquire the knowledge and abilities required for managing library resources, offering information services, and organising and protecting information, librarians usually need a master's degree in library science.
To effectively serve library clients and satisfy the different requirements of the community, this advanced degree offers instruction in areas like collection development, cataloguing, reference services, information technology, and library management. Furthermore, a master's degree in the relevant discipline is often required for professional staff members at libraries and information centres.
Q: Is it mandatory to do master of library Science to become a librarian?
No, to become a librarian, especially at the entry-level positions, a Bachelor of Library Science (B.Lib.Sc) degree is also sufficient. This will help you get a job as a librarian in schools, public libraries, etc. But an important point to note is that many universities, research institutions, and specialised libraries always give preference to candidates who hold M.Lib.Sc for advanced roles as this course equips them with specialised skills and knowledge.
Master of Library Science Course Eligibility Criteria
Those who desire to pursue a profession in library science can enrol in the Master of Library Science programme. The eligibility criteria for admission to the Master of Library Science programme differ in every college. However, some of the common points that a student is required to fulfil are mentioned below:
- Candidates should pass graduation in any stream with at least 50% - 60% aggregate marks to meet the eligibility criteria for the MLibSc course.
- It may be noted that candidates with a background in library science are sometimes preferred for admission.
- It may also be noted that the MLibSc eligibility criteria mentioned above are basic and might vary depending on the college/ university to which a candidate is applying for admission.
Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.
Q: How do I become a librarian?
Q: How can I become a government librarian in India?
Q: What is the qualification of Librarian?
Types of Master of Library Sciences Courses
Master of Library Science programme can be classified into various modes depending on the mode of education. The course can be pursued in regular mode, distance mode and online mode. Candidates are advised to opt for the mode based on their preference, convenience and job prospects associated with the course.
Given below are the various types of Master of Library Science courses:
| Types of Master of Library Science Courses |
Description |
|---|---|
| Full-time Master of Library Science Course |
A full-time Master of Library Science course is a regular classroom programme wherein students are expected to attend regular college. This has been the conventional mode and most pursued mode of education for the course. More than 100 colleges in India offer Master of Library Science course in regular mode. |
| Distance Master of Library Science Course |
There are a few colleges that offer Master of Library Science course in distance mode. In this mode, the candidates do not attend regular college and study with minimum guidance from the faculty. |
| Online Master of Library Science Course |
Several course providers offer Master of Library Science course online. It is believed that in the coming years, the online mode of education will become the most preferred by students. |
Online Master of Library Science Courses
Many universities and institutions around the world offer Master of Library Science courses online, allowing students to earn a degree without having to attend classes on campus. While considering online Master of Library Science courses, it's essential to research the specific program's accreditation, course offerings, faculty qualifications and the level of flexibility it offers. Candidates can also refer to Master Of Library Science Online Courses & Certifications.
Candidates can check the table below to learn about some Master of Library Science courses list for online mode:
| Online Master of Library Science Courses |
Offered By |
Course Duration |
Average Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 year |
- |
||
| 24 months |
17.54 Lakh |
||
| 24 months |
13.13 Lakh |
Note: The online master of library science course fees mentioned above may vary depending on the course provider.
Q: Can I pursue Master of Library Science course after BSc?
Yes, you can pursue Master of Library Science course after completing BSc course. Many candidates, who wish to change their field and explore a career in the field of Library Sciences, can pursue the course.
Q: Can I apply for MLib course after completing BA course?
Yes, you can apply for the MLibSc or Master of Library Science course after completing BA. As per the minimum eleigibility criteria you should be a gradute to apply for the course. Make sure that you have scored at least 50% in your graduation.
Master of Library Science Course Entrance Exams 2025
The aspirants who wish to pursue a profession in library science can enrol in the Master of Library and Information Science programme. The eligibility criteria for admission to the programme differ in every college.
Some colleges provide admission based on entrance exams for MLibSc, while some offer admission based on merit. Students need to appear in the below-mentioned entrance tests:
| Master of Library Science Entrance Exam | Registration Dates | Exam Dates |
|---|---|---|
| CUET PG | 13th -31st March, 2025 | CUET PG Exam Schedule |
| PUBDET | Jan' 2025 (Tentative) | PUBDET Exam Schedule |
| JMI Entrance Exam | Jan' 2025 (Tentative) | JMI Entrance Exam Schedule |
| Punjab University Common Entrance Test- Postgraduate (PUCET PG) |
Jun '25 (Tentative) |
|
| University of Rajasthan Admission Test for Post Graduates (URATPG) |
Jul' 25 (Tentative) |
Note: This information is sourced from the official website of the institute/exam.
Important Exam Dates
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
18 Nov '24 - 06 Mar '25 | Azim Premji NET 2025 applications - Cycle 2 ONGOING |
14 Nov '24 - 31 May '25 | CGC Josh 2025 Registration Stage 1 ONGOING |
14 Nov '24 - 31 Aug '25 | CGC Josh Exam 2025 ONGOING |
15 Jan '25 | Last Date of AAT 2025 Applications (Round-2) |
25 Jan '25 | Ashoka Aptitude Assessment Round-2 |
Feb '25 - Mar '25 | PUBDET 2025 Applications TENTATIVE |
21 Feb '25 | SAT Registration Deadline for March Test |
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
08 Dec '24 | Ashoka Aptitude Assessment Round-1 |
27 Nov '24 | Last Date of AAT 2025 Applications (Round-1) |
10 Oct '24 | Ashoka Aptitude Test 2025 Applications Open |
Q: Where can I get the CUET PG Syllabus?
CUET PG 2025 syllabus released by NTA on January 2, 2025. Candidates preparing for CUET PG 2025 can download the CUET PG syllabus 2025 pdf by visiting the official website of CUET PG 2025 or can check out in this Shiksha page.
It is also observed that the CUET PG syllabus doesn't this year, so candidates are suggested to either go to the CUET PG 2024 official website and search for CUET PG syllabus there.
NOTE: As per the new changes introduced by NTA in the CUET PG examination for the academic session 2025-2026, the General paper syllabus of LLB and MBA courses will be redesigned to cater to skill-based.
Q: When is the CUET PG 2025 exam notification releasing?
CUET PG exam is being conducted by NTA, national testing agency every year. For the academic session 2025-2026, CUET PG exam schedule released by the examination body on January 2, 2025.
The CUET PG 2025 exam will be conducted from March 13, 2025, to March 31, 2025, at centers across the nation and overseas. candidates need to fill out the registration form. CUET PG application form 2025 has been released on February 2, 2025 at the official website. The last date to fill out the CUET PG registration form 2025 will be February 1, 2025 tilll 11:50 pm
Q: How to prepare for CUET PG 2025 examination?
Aspirants should check the following steps to start with the preparation process of CUET PG 2025.
Step 1: Know the CUET PG syllabus thoroughly.
Step 2: Understand the CUET PG exam pattern and marking scheme.
Step 3: Get the best books to study for CUET PG and other study material.
Step 4: Make a monthly time-table, a weekly time-table, and a daily time-table.
Step 5: Solve past years’ question papers, sample papers, and mock tests.
Master of Library Science Course Syllabus and Subjects
It takes two semesters to complete the Bachelor of Library Science programme. Also, institutions offer theoretical and practical classes during these two semesters to teach students how to manage various library materials. A few colleges and institutions also host internship programmes at the end of the semester. After completing the Bachelor of Library Science Syllabus, students can go for the Master of Library Science course.
It is designed by well-trained people so that it provides a deep understanding of the subjects to the aspirants. Given below is an overview of the subjects taught in the BLibSc course in both semesters for the reference of candidates:
| Master of Library Science Syllabus for Semester 1 | |
|---|---|
| Introduction to Library and Information Sciences |
Knowledge Organisation: Classification and Cataloguing (Practical) |
| Knowledge Organisation: Classification (Theory) | School and Media Librarianship |
| Knowledge Organisation: Cataloguing (Theory) |
Public Library System |
| Master of Library Science Syllabus for Semester 2 | |
| Management of Library and Information Centres |
Basics of Information and Communication Technology |
| Information Sources and Services | Technical Writing |
| Soft Skills for Library Professionals |
------ |
Relevant Link: Library and Information Science Syllabus
Q: Can I pursue distance course in librarian?
Best Colleges for Master of Library Science
To enrol in a top-notch college, students need to explore the colleges offering Master of Library courses and identify them as per their suitability. Every year, students compete for seats in the top institutions offering this course. Some of these top colleges include government and private institutions. The colleges mentioned in the table are listed alphabetically and not in any order of ranking hierarchy.
Best Private Colleges for Master of Library Science
The list of top private colleges offering Master of Library Science course are:
| Master of Library Science Private Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Amity University, Noida | 84,000-13 lakh |
| Adamas University, Kolkata | 1 lakh-4 lakh |
| Christ University, Bangalore | 30,000-6 lakh |
| Kristu Jayanti College, Bangalore | 11,000-2 lakh |
| Loyola College, Chennai | 45,000-1 lakh |
| Mount Carmel College, Bangalore | 1 lakh-4 lakh |
| Mithibai College of Arts, Mumbai | 30,000-97,000 |
| Symbiosis College of Arts and Commerce, Pune | 77,000-2 lakh |
| Stella Maris College, Chennai | 54,000-2 lakh |
| St. Joseph's University, Bangalore | 96,000-3 lakh |
Best Government Colleges for Master of Library Science Course
The course can also be pursued by government colleges. Students can have a look at the table below to know the renowned institutes and their fees.
| Master of Library Science Government Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
|---|---|
| Daulat Ram College, Delhi | 35,000-62,000 |
| Gargi College, Delhi | 24,000-49,000 |
| Hindu College, Delhi | 36,000-53,000 |
| Hansraj College, Delhi | 432-15,000 |
| Lady Shri Ram College for Women, Delhi | 2,000-67,000 |
| Miranda House, Delhi | 17,000-51,000 |
| Madras Christian College, Chennai | 56,000-63,000 |
| Maharshi Dayanand University, Rohtak | 800-30,000 |
| Ramjas College, Delhi | 17,000-52,000 |
| T C Business School, Jaipur | 44,000 |
Note: This information is sourced from official website/ counselling body and may vary.
#44 The Week
Q: Which are the best Private Colleges for Master of Library Science?
The list of top private colleges offering Master of Library Science course are:
Master of Library Science Private Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
84,000-13 lakh | |
1 lakh-4 lakh | |
30,000-6 lakh | |
11,000-2 lakh | |
45,000-1 lakh | |
1 lakh-4 lakh | |
30,000-97,000 | |
77,000-2 lakh | |
54,000-2 lakh | |
96,000-3 lakh |
Q: Which are the top Government Colleges for Master of Library Science Course?
The course can also be pursued by government colleges. Students can have a look at the table below to know the renowned institutes and their fees.
Master of Library Science Government Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
35,000-62,000 | |
24,000-49,000 | |
36,000-53,000 | |
432-15,000 | |
2,000-67,000 | |
17,000-51,000 | |
56,000-63,000 | |
800-30,000 | |
17,000-52,000 | |
44,000 |
Popular Private M.Lib.Sc. (Master of Library Science) Colleges in India
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Bachelor of Library Science Career Scope: Job Profiles, Salaries and Top Recruiters
The Master of Library Science programme is extremely successful. Demand for students studying library courses has increased recently. This is because as each day goes by, there is an increasing number of schools and a corresponding rise in the demand for highly qualified librarians.
Job Profiles After Master of Library Science
A MLibSc graduate can find jobs in both public and private sectors at organisations with large information handling requirements, foreign embassies, museums, galleries, news agencies, photo & film libraries, schools, colleges, universities, etc. Have a look at various job profiles related to MLibSc course below:
| Job Profile | Job Description | Average Salary (in INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Archivist | An archivist is a professional who is responsible for assembling, cataloguing, preserving as well as managing valuable collections of historical information. An archivist can work with a range of public and private sector organisations for various roles. | INR 2-3 lakh |
| Cataloguer | A cataloguer manages the catalog of different materials at a library. The professional prepares bibliographic and item records for journals, monographs, and other library material. | INR 3-4 lakh |
| Consultant |
A library consultant consults as well as provides problem-solving assistance to administrators and governing boards related to library plans, management, governance, funding, etc. | INR 8-9 lakh |
| Curator |
A curator is responsible for assembling, classifying, managing and presenting the collection of books in a library. | INR 4.5-8 lakh |
| Deputy Librarian |
A deputy librarian supports the work of Assistant Librarian as well as Library Assistant. The professional usually reports on library improvement, development and budgeting issues. | INR 5-7 lakh |
| Library Director |
A director checks books in and out for customers, overseas employees and staff members and ensures the smooth running of the daily operations of the library. The responsibilities of a director increase according to the size of the library. | INR 3.5-6 lakh |
| Library Assistant |
A library assistant compiles records, sorts as well as shelves books, and issues and receives library materials like pictures, cards, slides etc. The assistant also locates library material and replaces it in shelves, stacks, or files as per the identification number and title. | INR 2 to 4.5 lakh |
| Law Librarian | A law librarian works for law schools or law firms and provides complete support to law customers. Their major job responsibilities include managing different library operations, helping with research, monitoring budgets, etc. | INR 4.7-6 lakh |
Note: This information is sourced from multiple sources on the web. Hence, is subject to vary.
Top Recruiters for Master of Library Science
Graduates of MLibSc course can find employment in a variety of industries, including news agencies, public and private libraries, museums and galleries with reading rooms and research facilities, and photo and film libraries. Major recruiters for candidates who have a degree in B.Lib course are mentioned below.
| Top Recruiters for Master of Library Science |
|
|---|---|
| Newspaper agencies |
National Level Documentation Centers |
| News channels | Libraries of Radio Stations |
| WHO | UNESCO |
| National Museum and Archives |
World Bank |
Quick Links Related to Master of Library Science Course:
Q: What are the job profiles that one can pursue after completing Master of Library Science course?
Candidates with a MLibSc degree can secure jobs at different places such as libraries (public or private), news agencies, embassies, photo/ film libraries, information/ documentation centers, information handling divisions, museums and so on. Some of the popular job profiles for candidates who have successfully completed MLibSc course include:
- Library Director: A library director is a professional who checks books in and out for customers along with performing some other administrative duties that lead to smooth running of the library.
- Information Architect: An information architect is responsible for ensuring the user-friendly design of websites and other software applications in a library.
- Library Assistant: A library assistant compiles records, sorts and shelves books, and issues and receives library materials such as pictures and card. The assistant also locates library material and replaces it in shelves, stacks, or files.
- Library Science Teacher: A library science teacher imparts library science education to school students. The teacher also prepares different course materials such as syllabus and homework assignments for students.
- Indexer: An indexer works with a variety of documents such as books, periodicals, and manuscripts to review them and compile indexes to make information searches easier.
- Cataloguer: A cataloguer is a trained professional who manages the catalog of different materials at a library. The professional prepares bibliographic records for library material like journals and monographs.
Q: Who can be called a librarian?
Librarians are experienced and qualified individuals who organise, maintain and distribute library resources (books, magazines, journals, digital recordings and so on) to customers. Librarians are in charge of the library's inventory, as well as classifying materials and conducting frequent audits.
To become a Librarian, candidates must first complete library Science courses at the certificate, diploma, undergraduate or postgraduate levels. A bachelor's degree in library and information science and a bachelor's degree in library science are two of the most common courses pursued by prospective librarians in India.
Q: What is the starting salary of a librarian?
The starting salary of a librarian in India is between INR 2.5 to INR 4.5 LPA. Entry-level positions mostly open up in small public libraries, schools, or private institutions which is approximately INR 2.5 LPA, whereas if you qualify for a master’s degree, you can grab positions in larger universities, colleges, and government institutions.
M.Lib.Sc graduates and experience in digital and information management can bag higher salary, especially in specialised or senior roles.
Master of Library Science FAQs: 2024
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on MLibSc Course:
Q: How do I become a library assistant?
Q: What should I do to take admission in librarian course?
News & Updates
Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered 2 months ago
The course can also be pursued by government colleges. Students can have a look at the table below to know the renowned institutes and their fees.
Master of Library Science Government Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
35,000-62,000 | |
24,000-49,000 | |
36,000-53,000 | |
432-15,000 | |
2,000-67,000 | |
17,000-51,000 | |
56,000-63,000 | |
800-30,000 | |
17,000-52,000 | |
44,000 |
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
The list of top private colleges offering Master of Library Science course are:
Master of Library Science Private Colleges | Average Fees (in INR) |
84,000-13 lakh | |
1 lakh-4 lakh | |
30,000-6 lakh | |
11,000-2 lakh | |
45,000-1 lakh | |
1 lakh-4 lakh | |
30,000-97,000 | |
77,000-2 lakh | |
54,000-2 lakh | |
96,000-3 lakh |
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
No, to become a librarian, especially at the entry-level positions, a Bachelor of Library Science (B.Lib.Sc) degree is also sufficient. This will help you get a job as a librarian in schools, public libraries, etc. But an important point to note is that many universities, research institutions, and
M
Contributor-Level 10
Answered 2 months ago
No, it is not always mandatory to do B.Lib.Sc course before a M.Lib.Sc. Many universities accept candidates from any bachelor’s degree discipline, but some prioritize those students who have a B.Lib.Sc or equivalent background.
Not having a B.Lib.Sc does not impact the master’s study since many progr
M
Contributor-Level 10
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