
Information is Power
Earn an advanced library degree or certificate online from The University of Alabama.
The University of Alabama offers you a variety of innovative pathways to enhance your career in librarianship.
Where Legends Log In
Our experienced faculty members create virtual classrooms through live, interactive class meetings to engage with students. The online options include graduate certificates in Archival Studies and and Youth Literature & Services, MLIS options that can be tailored with career-specific concentrations, an EdS in School Library Media and a PhD in Communication and Information Sciences.
Lead the Way
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Earn Your Degree or Certificate From a Name You Know and Rise With the Tide!
Select the program names below to learn more about each degree option.
MLIS
This program boasts a proud history of educating and training librarians for service across the country. The curriculum will establish a solid foundation of the core principles of librarianship, while also providing the opportunity for you to tailor the coursework with electives that suit your interests and career goals.
MLIS, concentration in Archival Studies
The Archival Studies concentration prepares you for work with manuscripts, rare books, historical records and digital media. The program curriculum will equip you with a deep understanding of the theory and practice of preserving these artifacts for future generations.
MLIS, concentration in School Library Media
The School Library Media concentration prepares you for Alabama Class A Certification in School Library Media (or equivalent) and is designed to fit the schedule of a full-time educator. Graduates will be specifically taught to enhance and expand K-12 library and information environments to meet student needs.
Graduate Certificate in Archival Studies
The Archival Studies graduate certificate provides 15 hours of graduate level coursework focused on archival work to supplement an MLIS or other degree. This prestigious credential will complement your education and career experience by providing a comprehensive foundation for the theory and practice of archival work.
Graduate Certificate in Youth Literature & Services
The graduate certificate in Youth Literature & Services will expand your understanding of the informational and literacy needs of children, tweens, teens and young adults. In this program, you will develop specialized knowledge and skills to support those needs. Discover how to create dynamic literacy-based programs, and learn to select the best books and digital materials for youth.
EdS in Educational Leadership, concentration in School Library Media Specialist
The EdS in Educational Leadership with a concentration in School Library Media Specialist offers interdisciplinary instruction from the School of Library and Information Studies and the College of Education. The curriculum includes topics such as leading collaboration, outreach to diverse populations, cultural diversity and youth programming. You can tailor the coursework to your individual goals through electives to prepare yourself for your dream career in library and information environments.
PhD in Communication and Information Sciences
The PhD in Communication and Information Sciences allows you to pursue doctoral study related to library and information studies. The curriculum includes mass communication theory, cultural and critical theory, and quantitative, qualitative and humanistic research methods. Tailor the program to your goals by designing your program of study and dissertation around your interests under the guidance of your faculty advisor.

UA Online Is Affordable
We believe a quality education should be available at an accessible cost. Our students all benefit from the same distance learning tuition rate, regardless of their state of residency. Financial aid and scholarships are also available for those who qualify.
First Class Free Tuition Grants
We offer multiple tuition grants that cover the tuition cost of your first class. Find out if you qualify for one, and let us show you why UA Online is your best choice in higher education.
Designed for UA alumni returning to earn their next degree with UA Online.
Benefitting prospective students referred by a UA Online student or alum.
Supporting faculty and staff members from Alabama or partner community colleges enrolling in a UA Online degree program.
You must meet the grant’s specific requirements, apply by the deadline and be in your first semester in one of our online programs.
UA Online and other departments also offer scholarships exclusively for distance students. For more information, visit our scholarships and grants page.

The UA Online Advantage
The Same Degree
A degree earned online from UA is identical to one earned on our main campus! The online format allows you the flexibility to meet life's other demands while you complete your degree. Graduates of our online programs are invited to participate in the same commencement ceremonies as main campus students.
A Respected University
Join a community of legends when you earn a degree from The University of Alabama. With graduates around the globe, the University has a robust alumni network who will greet you with that familiar "Roll Tide" when they find out you're part of the family.
Military Friendly
Our Military Tuition Grant covers tuition costs not paid by military tuition assistance for active-duty military, National Guard and reserve service members pursuing a degree through UA Online. The University of Alabama is a gold-level Tier 1 Research Institution Military Friendly® School, an unlimited Yellow Ribbon School and a top Veteran-Friendly School.
Student Support Services
Your success is why UA Online exists. We provide student success coaches, 24/7 tech support, access to all libraries, mental health services, trainings, workshops and more to keep you on track to achieve your goals.
Take Your Next Step
Our admissions team is ready to provide more information or review your application.