Introduction
Chicago offers a wide variety of library science degree programs in addition to interesting educational alternatives. While ALA-accredited (American Library Association) MLIS (Master of Library and Information Science) programs remain the dominant path for those pursuing a career in library and information science, the Chicago area also offers less-traditional programs and resources for those interested in learning more about the field.
In addition, many of the city’s schools provide students the freedom to choose the right education for their personal, professional, financial, and scheduling needs. Many locations also offer fully-remote, on-campus, and hybrid formats, as well as financial aid and specialized program pathways, giving potential students more quality options.
Quick Facts
- MLIS Programs in the Chicago Area: 3
- ALA-Accredited Library Science Programs: 3
- Remote and Fully-Online Library Science Programs: 2
- PhD in Library Science Degrees: 2
- Average Credit Hours Per Program: 37
Library Science Degree Programs in Chicago
Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) in Chicago
Program: Dominican University Master of Library and Information Science Chicago, IL
Modality: Online, hybrid
GRE Required: No
Length: 36 credits
Tuition: $30,600
Overview:
Dominican University’s MLIS program offers Chicago-area students a quality library science education focused on a balanced curriculum of core values and up-to-date technology. In addition to strong academics, Dominican provides online and hybrid program models, allowing students greater flexibility than many other similar offerings. Its emphasis on real-world experience gives Dominican students the opportunity to see what a library or information science profession will entail, while equipping them with working knowledge of information resources, tools, and skills. The entire program can be fast-tracked in as little as a year, and for those with tighter schedules, in as long as six.
Key Highlights:
- Hybrid model allows for both in-person and fully online options, as well as a blend of the two.
- Fast-track option.
Additional Considerations:
- Students have the option of completing courses synchronously or asynchronously.
- Connected internships give students real-world library work experiences.
Accreditation: ALA
Program: University of Illinois MS in Library and Information Science Champaign, IL
Modality: Online or in-person
GRE Required: No
Length: 40 credits
Tuition: $12,720 Per Year (Illinois Residents) / $26,510 Per Year (Out-of-State)
Overview:
Ranked number one in its field, the University of Illinois’ MS in Library and Information Science has achieved continued ALA-accreditation since 1926 and offers students a fully remote education option that is both flexible and all-encompassing. However, for those desiring a more traditional approach, the program is also available in an on-campus format. The program requires only two core courses before students are able to customize their experience. Electives and pathways cover a spectrum of topics that include public librarianship, academic librarianship, youth services, and more. In addition, the iSchool Ambassador program, academic advisors, and strong faculty give students the support they need to navigate an ever-changing and complex discipline.
Key Highlights:
- iSchool ambassador program offers online support to students.
- Two required courses before program customization.
Additional Considerations:
- GRE not required but optional for submission if a student feels their scores reflect positively.
- Students must choose a “program code” (similar to a major) before admission.
Accreditation: ALA
Program: Chicago State University Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS) Chicago, IL
Modality: Online, hybrid, in-person (school libraries specialization may require in-person courses)
GRE Required: No
Length: 36 credits
Tuition: $9,750 (In-State) / $18,900 (Out-of-State)
Overview:
Chicago State University’s MSLIS program provides future librarians, archivists, and information professionals with a foundational education rooted in “essential theories, research and foundations of library and information science, management and organization of library and information services, organization of information, information sources and media, information literacy, information services, information technology for Library and Information Services, plus other LIS-related topics.” The school’s specialization frameworks allow students the opportunity to focus on specific sub-topics within the field, among them public librarianship, academic and school librarianship, and archives.
In addition to the MSLIS degree, the school also hosts a non-degree Endorsement in School Information Specialist for Licensed Teachers, as well as a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Archives and Records Management for those looking for alternatives to a traditional library and information science master’s program. As for program flexibility, the program also offers an online option for all of its current MSLIS courses. However, for those interested in the school librarianship option, some in-person fulfillments may still be required.
Key Highlights:
- Offers specializations in public libraries, school libraries, academic libraries, and archives.
- The 2024 statistics state that 86 percent of graduates were employed within one year of graduation.
Additional Considerations:
- A resume and essay are both required during application.
- The program is based upon coursework reflecting its stated learning outcomes.
Accreditation: ALA
Online Library Science Programs in Chicago
Online library science degrees enable students to study and complete their work from anywhere in the world, offering a high level of flexibility and freedom. In today’s busy atmosphere, remote library science programs attract a diverse range of students looking for various accommodations and educational opportunities. While Chicago only offers a handful of library science programs, the majority of these are offered fully online.
Program: Dominican University Master of Library and Information Science Chicago, IL
Modality: Online
GRE Required: No
Length: 36 credits
Tuition: $30,600
Overview:
As stated above, Dominican University’s Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) degree is one of Chicago’s top cutting-edge library science programs. One of its most attractive and contemporary features is its remote coursework option. While the program can be completed in a hybrid format, Dominican also allows students to conduct their education fully online. In addition, the online format offers both synchronous and asynchronous courses, enabling students to choose the learning style most suited to their needs.
Key Highlights:
- Allows added certificate programs that run concurrently with MLIS.
- Can be completed in as little as a year.
Additional Considerations:
- The program contains six required courses, more than some of the other schools.
- Application process includes a personal essay portion focusing on student intentions.
Accreditation: ALA
Program: University of Illinois MS in Library and Information Science Champaign, IL
Modality: Online
GRE Required: No
Length: 40 credits
Tuition: $12,720 Per Year (Illinois Residents) / $26,510 Per Year (Out-of-State)
Overview:
In addition to being one of Chicago’s preeminent institutions, the University of Illinois is also part of the iSchool system, a consortium of universities offering fully remote educational options. The iSchool’s online MLIS degree option provides students with the tools needed to navigate today’s complex information landscape while doing so in a fully remote format.
Key Highlights:
- Consistantly ranks as one of the top online MLIS programs in the US.
- Part of the iSchool system.
- Offers numerous extracurricular resources, including networking opportunities and hands-on experience.
Additional Considerations:
- 40 credits required in contrast to the more common 36-credits.
- Not all courses are available every semester.
Accreditation: ALA
PhD and Doctoral Programs in Library Science in Chicago
Program: Dominican University Doctor of Philosophy in Information Studies Chicago, IL
Modality: Hybrid
Length: 36 credits
Tuition: $33,600
Overview:
Dominican’s Doctor of Philosophy in Information offers information professionals the opportunity to broaden their studies while developing a dissertation focusing on leadership, theory, and education. The program’s weekend and hybrid format allows busy professionals to pursue their doctorate without sacrificing concurrent work obligations. In addition, students can complete their degree in as little as three years.
Key Highlights:
- Ranked as one of the top PhD programs in Illinois with the “best value.”
- Allows majority of coursework to be conducted remotely.
Additional Considerations:
- Four in-person meetings required.
- Three-year timeline.
Accreditation: ALA
Program: University of Illinois PhD in Information Sciences Champaign, IL
Modality: On campus
Length: 80 credits
Tuition: $14,578 per year for Illinois residents and $27,530 per year for nonresidents
Overview:
The University of Illinois’ PhD in Information Sciences is an interdisciplinary doctorate program with a diverse academic range and an esteemed reputation. The school offers assistantships and fellowships aimed at integrating real-world information environments with education.
Key Highlights:
- Students are guaranteed funding for a total of five years via fellowships and alternative opportunities.
- Faculty advisors aid candidates in navigating their program and dissertation.
Additional Considerations:
- Fully on campus setting.
- Required field exam is a part of the program’s milestones in addition to dissertation.
Accreditation: ALA
Career and Licensure Requirements for Librarians in Chicago
Chicago’s career and licensure requirements for librarians depend upon the type of position, the type of librarianship, and the qualifications set forth by a given employer. In general, to become a public or special librarian, most Chicago residents will need to hold an MLIS from an ALA-accredited school. This is true in most other states as well. In addition, school librarians may be required to complete additional certification like the Professional Educator License (PEL) from the Illinois State Board of Education, and/or a Library Information Specialist (LIS) endorsement.
Salary and Career Outlook
Library professionals experience a wide range in salaries due to the varied library and information center types, as well as individual levels of experience in the field. Here are some current statistics on salary and career outlook for Chicago area information professionals:
- Average librarian salary in Chicago: Approximately $68,000–$71,000 annually
- Library managers and senior librarians: $68,000 and up
- High-level and director positions: $120,000 and up
- Library career outlook: Chicago’s growth is similar to the national average at a rate of 2% over the next decade, relatively slow compared to historical rates. At approximately 610 job openings a year, the majority of Chicago’s open roles will result from turnovers and retirements rather than newly developed positions.
FAQs
Does a library science education mean I can only be a librarian?
No; library science encompasses a wide range of careers. From public librarian to data asset manager, an information or library science degree can open the door to a diverse list of creative, intriguing, and challenging roles.
Is an archivist the same as a librarian?
No; while having some things in common, an archivist typically deals more with primary source materials such as diaries, personal papers, and manuscripts, while a librarian often handles only secondary source materials like published works and finished products. However, the two roles often require similar educational backgrounds which is why you may see librarians with archives degrees and vice versa.
Can an MLIS graduate excel in roles outside of the information sciences?
Of course! Many MLIS graduates go on to work in big data, business, and even creative roles.