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What are good undergraduate majors for a person wanting to pursue a Masters of Library Science (MLS) and become a librarian?

I am a student who is interested in becoming a librarian and plan to pursue my Masters of Library Science (MLS, MLIS, etc.) after undergraduate school. However, I need to get my Bachelor's degree first! I am curious as to what sorts of majors librarians would recommend that help them with their job and/or getting into an MLS program/graduate school. #librarian

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bridget’s Answer

Hi Cierra: There isn't a definitive answer to this....that's for sure!


You might begin thinking about an area of specialty. i.e. are you thinking you would like to be a Law, General, Medical, or Elementary school librarian? Do you want to be an archivist? Consider complimentary bachelor's degrees (i.e. criminal or political science for Law, biology for Medical, Education for school or public libraries)


Perhaps your interests are more in obtaining data? If you're undecided, I would most definitely encourage you to obtain a BS in MIS (management information systems) or CIS. Those skills will help you immensely in understanding how information is handled in today's day and age. I received my undergrad in English/Political Science and successfully entered into the rigorous IS program at the University of Texas - my peers there were from many different educational backgrounds, not one predominated. I focused on information systems during my Masters studies and now work as a software development manager!


If you simply love reading and books of all sorts and want to surround yourself with like minded people, an English, Writing and/or Literature degree.


Kind regards,


Bridget
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Jodi’s Answer

There isn't one answer for this and any would likely get you into Graduate Library school. If you want to work in a science library, then you will mostly want to get a science degree for example. There are so many different types of libraries, so research them to find out what type(s) interest you. Some universities require you to have two masters to work at an academic library - one in your undergraduate field and your MLIS.

I have an undergraduate degree in English Language and Literature before getting my MLIS. I know work as a corporate libraran/research manager in a professional services firm.
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David’s Answer

Hi, Cierra! Yep, as others have pointed out, it sort of depends on what area of librarianship you want to focus on. If you want to get into special libraries, take courses in your intended subject specialty. If a public library is your interest, how about Psychology (this could help in understanding the public!). These are suggestions for working in public services. I'm not sure what to recommend if you are interested in technical services--maybe others can chime in here on this. Good luck and enjoy!
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