Academic Librarians' Attitudes about Advanced-Subject Degrees

Academic librarians have various opinions on the importance of advanced-subject degrees in addition to a master's in library science (MLS). The authors conducted an online survey to collect opinions from academic librarians on this topic. Arguments in favor of having advanced-subject degrees include development of research skills, credibility, and overall improved job performance. Arguments against it include the fact that the MLS is — and should continue to be — our terminal degree, inadequate salaries, and the validity of developing subject expertise via other means. The need for advanced-subject degrees may vary by many factors, including individual career goals and local institutional culture.