Perceived value of advanced subject degrees by librarians who hold such degrees

This article discusses the results of a survey of librarians who hold a subject master's degree in addition to the MLS. What is the perceived value of such degrees to their work, salary, and career advancement? The 1988 Directory of Library & Information Professionals yielded 2,976 records of U.S. librarians who hold both an MLS and subject master's degree. A total of 782 questionnaires were sent to all MBAs and MPAs represented (199 and 99, respectively), and to a probability-based random sample of 484 who were drawn from the remaining subject master's degree holders. A total of 645 completed questionnaires were returned from the three groups for an average return rate of 82%. Survey results were tabulated by the Kwikstat statistical package. The three categories of respondents (MBA, MPA, and other) were compared to see if any statistically significant differences exist among the groups. The majority of all respondents are between the ages of 40 and 49, and work in academic libraries. All perceive their second degree as important to their career advancement, are satisfied with their current job, and if they had it to do over again, would earn their subject master's degree. However, a larger percentage of MBAs and MPAs are directors and associate/assistant directors and have higher salaries than those with other subject master's degrees.