Refreshed by Sydney Smith Hamrick, MLIS (University of North Carolina Greensboro)
March 2026
Illinois is home to three ALA-accredited library science programs, each designed for a different type of student, from research-focused paths to flexible, career-changing options. Home to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Dominican University, and Chicago State University, Illinois’ Master of Library and Information Science offerings are among some of the best in the nation. Illinois boasts over 1,000 public library locations statewide, and this figure doesn’t include the K-12 school, academic, and special libraries.
This guide breaks down library science degree options in Illinois, including ALA-accredited MLIS programs, doctoral pathways, and certificate opportunities.
Quick Facts: Library Science Programs in Illinois
- Number of ALA-accredited MLIS programs offered in Illinois: 3
- Number of fully online MLIS programs: 2
- Number of program pathways, concentrations, and/or specializations for MLIS programs: 26; The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers seven, Dominican University offers 15, and Chicago State University offers four
- Number of MLIS programs that require prospective students to have undergraduate backgrounds in library or information science: 0
(related academic or professional experience may still strengthen applications)
- Average tuition cost for an Illinois-based MLIS program: $25,000 to $30,000; averages vary based on the student’s choice to attend online or in-person classes
Fast Comparison: Which Illinois MLIS Program Is Right for You?
Best for research and prestige: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Best for flexibility and working adults: Dominican University
Most affordable option: Chicago State University
Most specialization options: Dominican University
Best for academic or research careers: UIUC
Best for career changers balancing work/life: Dominican
If you’re deciding quickly, this is the simplest way to narrow your options before diving deeper into each program.
Typical MLIS Courses
Most MLIS programs in Illinois follow a similar curriculum structure built around core competencies in librarianship and information science.
Core Courses
- Information Organization (cataloging, metadata, classification)
- Reference and Information Services
- Research Methods in Library Science
- Library Management and Leadership
- Information Technology and Systems
Electives and Specializations
Students can customize their degree with courses such as:
- Digital archives and preservation
- Youth and children’s services
- Academic librarianship
- Data and information management
- User experience (UX) for libraries
Capstone or Practicum
Many programs conclude with:
- A capstone project
- A professional portfolio
- A field-based internship
These experiences allow students to apply theory to real-world information environments.
Library Science Programs in Illinois
Online Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS) in Illinois
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Program Name: Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS)
- Modality: 100% online or in-person
- GRE Required?: No, but GRE scores can be considered in some application situations
- Program Length: Approximately 2 years, though some of the joint degree programs can take longer.
- Tuition: $14,000/year for in-state; $30,000/year for out-of-state
- Program Overview:
- UIUC’s MSLIS is one of the most research-focused library science programs in the country. It’s a strong fit for students interested in academic librarianship, data science, or leadership roles in large institutions. The program emphasizes theory, research, and advanced information systems, with opportunities to work alongside faculty on research projects.
- Key Highlights:
- Top-ranked iSchool program
- Strong research focus
- Huge alumni network
- Many research and assistantship opportunities during study
- Boasts that 100% of graduates find employment within six months of finishing the program
- Additional Considerations:
- This program has highly competitive admissions. Its cost is notably higher for non-residents than other programs like it in Illinois.
- This program is best for students who want long-term career mobility or research-oriented roles, but it may feel less practical for those looking for a quick, skills-only path into librarianship.
- Accreditation status: This program is ALA-accredited.
- Dominican University
- Program Name: Master of Library and Information Science
- Modality: 100% online, hybrid, or in-person
- GRE Required?: No
- Program Length: 1-6 years – the program boasts flexibility
- Tuition: $15,000/year
- Program Overview:
- Dominican’s MLIS is built for flexibility. Students complete six core courses and then shape the rest of their degree through a wide range of specializations, including UX, data, and youth services. The program is designed to support working adults, with multiple formats and a customizable pace.
- Key Highlights:
- Big variety of certifications and pathways of study
- Very flexible timeline for program completion; ideal for students who also need to balance work, family, and other responsibilities alongside school
- Leads to strong Chicago-area professional connections
- Additional Considerations: Dominican is often the best choice for career changers or working professionals who need flexibility, though it’s less research-intensive than UIUC. This program is more expensive than other opportunities in the area, but it does offer a heavy focus on the specialization track.
- Accreditation status: This program is ALA-accredited.
- Chicago State University
- Program Name: Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS)
- Modality: 100% online, though K-12 school library students do have some in-person attendance requirements
- GRE Required?: No
- Program Length: Two to three years
- Tuition: $9,750/year for in-state; $18,900/year for out-of-state
- Program Overview: Chicago State’s MSLIS focuses on practical training for careers in public, school, and community-based libraries. The curriculum covers core library skills alongside applied learning, making it a straightforward path into the profession, especially for students prioritizing affordability.
- Key Highlights:
- Most affordable library science program option in Illinois
- Strong focus on community and school librarianship opportunities
- Additional Considerations: This is the most budget-friendly option in Illinois and a solid entry point into librarianship, though it currently offers fewer specialization and research opportunities than other programs. As of March 2026, this program’s accreditation status is in the initial stages; it is a younger program, so it has fewer concentration options at this time.
- Accreditation status: This program is ALA-accredited (initial accreditation status), meaning it is a newer program that meets ALA standards but is still undergoing ongoing review.
Bachelor’s in Library Science in Illinois
Currently, there are no bachelor’s degree programs with a library science focus in Illinois. However, students can take advantage of other bachelor’s degree programs to prime them for entry into an MLIS program after completing their undergraduate studies. Master of Library and Information Science programs generally do not require a candidate to have a bachelor’s degree in library and information science to apply. Students can pursue related undergraduate degrees and later specialize through MLIS programs or certificate pathways.
Certificate Programs in Library Science in Illinois
In addition to full degree programs, some Illinois universities offer certificate and endorsement options that allow students to specialize in specific areas of library and information science.
Dominican University
Dominican offers a wide range of graduate certificates that can be completed alongside an MLIS or as standalone credentials. These include:
- Digital Libraries
- User Experience (UX)
- Web Design
- Health Informatics
- Library and Information Center Administration
Chicago State University
Chicago State offers:
- A post-baccalaureate certificate in Archives and Records Management
- A School Library Information Specialist endorsement for licensed teachers
These certificate options are ideal for students who want to build specialized skills or enhance their career opportunities without committing to an additional full degree program.
PhD and Doctoral Programs in Library Science in Illinois
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
- Program Name: PhD in Information Sciences
- Modality: In-person
- GRE Required?: No
- Program Length: Approximately five years
- Tuition: Around $27,000/year, though PhD students accepted to this program typically receive funding for four to five years of their educational experience.
- Program Overview: Students in this program work closely with faculty advisors to create educational experiences both within and outside the classroom to support their professional goals. With only two required courses – History and Foundations in IS (IS 509) and Research Design in IS (IS 519) – students can customize their degrees through a broad range of electives. The program consists of 48 hours of coursework and 32 hours of dissertation work.
- Key Highlights:
- One of the top information science doctoral-level programs in America
- Fully research-focused
- Recent graduates obtained fields in library settings as well as other fields, such as government work and technology
- Additional Considerations: Typically, students receive up to five years of funding; additional funding sources may be required if the student needs more than five years to complete the program.
- Accreditation status: Not applicable for doctoral programs
- Dominican University
- Program Name: PhD in Information Studies
- Modality: Online/in-person hybrid with less residency requirements than University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s program
- GRE Required?: Scores are conditional – students may submit them during the application process if they are needed to strengthen their applications.
- Program Length: Approximately three to five years
- Tuition: Approximately $54,000 for the entire program
- Program Overview: Dominican’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Information Studies program puts students on the path to rewarding faculty and research positions in academia, as well as senior leadership roles in libraries, information centers, and a multitude of other data- and information-rich settings. Unlike traditional residential programs, Dominican’s PhD program allows a student to complete their coursework and dissertation in just three years.
- Key Highlights:
- Two areas of focus: Information Management or Library and Information Science
- Only four in-person weekend meetings are required during the two years of coursework. The remaining class meetings will be held entirely online and on weekends only.
- Additional Considerations: This program is ideal for working students or students who need to balance coursework with other responsibilities, such as families or caregiving.
Compare Library Science Programs in Illinois
| School | Program | Format | ALA Accredited | GRE | Tuition (Approx) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | MSLIS | Online/In-person | Yes | Optional | $14K–$30K/yr |
| Dominican University | MLIS | Online/Hybrid/ In-person | Yes | No | ~$15K/yr |
| Chicago State University | MSLIS | Online | Yes | No | $9,750–$18,900/yr |
*as of March 2026
How to Choose the Right MLIS Program in Illinois
- Choose UIUC if you want a research-focused or academic career path
- Choose Dominican if you need flexibility while working
- Choose Chicago State if cost is your main concern
What Hiring Managers Look for in Librarians
Employers across Illinois libraries consistently look for candidates with a mix of technical, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
Core Skills
- Information organization (cataloging, metadata)
- Research and reference services
- Digital literacy and database navigation
- Community engagement and programming
- Collection development and evaluation
What Makes Candidates Stand Out
- Internship or practicum experience
- A portfolio (digital collections, research guides, archives work)
- Experience working in libraries (even part-time roles)
Credentials That Matter
- MLIS from an ALA-accredited program
- Teaching license + endorsement (for school librarians)
- Specialized certifications (archives, data, UX, etc.)
Illinois programs, especially UIUC and Dominican, emphasize hands-on learning and specialization, helping graduates align with these expectations.
Career and Licensure Requirements for Librarians in Illinois
Like most other states across America, Illinois has some specific requirements for librarians to meet prior to employment in different types of library facilities across the state.
- Public and Academic Librarians
Librarians seeking employment in public or academic libraries do not need a specific type of license to qualify for a position, but there are generally some educational requirements to meet:
- Complete an MLIS program from an ALA-accredited university (though not every library requires an ALA-accredited degree it is important to check with individual library systems and colleges to determine their hiring preferences).
- K-12 School Librarians
Illinois does have specific qualifications. K-12 school librarians must meet to be considered for employment, as outlined by the Illinois State Board of Education:
- Have (or obtain) an Illinois teaching license. Typically, these are completed during an undergraduate educator preparation program. Applicants without an educational background can often complete required teaching credentials as part of an MLIS program designed for school librarianship.
- Add a Teacher Librarian endorsement to that license. This is a credential from the Illinois State Board of Education that qualifies prospective librarians for K–12 school library positions.
- Complete a teacher-librarian preparation program that includes specific coursework and supervised field experience, such as student teaching or an internship (often part of or connected to your MLIS or education graduate study).
- Demonstrate competence through state-approved coursework or similar criteria.
Salary and Job Outlooks for Librarians in Illinois
The Bureau of Labor Statistics currently lists the following salary averages and growth projections for librarians in America:
- Average yearly salary: $64,329 (around $30.92 per hour)
- Growth projections: The employment of librarians is expected to grow by 2% between 2024 and 2034. While this growth rate is slower than average, around 13,500 openings are projected each year – this accounts for retirements, career changes, and other openings.
How do these numbers compare to Illinois’ data?
- Average yearly salary for an Illinois librarian: The median annual wage for librarians and media specialists in Illinois hovers around the mid-60,000 to low 70,000 range, making it slightly higher than the national average. Like most other states, salaries in Illinois can vary.
- Various factors, including location, institution type, and local cost-of-living adjustments, influence this average. In Illinois, librarians working in larger urban areas – such as Chicago – and in academic libraries tend to see higher salaries.
Growth projections in Illinois: Because many librarian jobs in K-12 schools, public libraries, academic libraries, and special libraries require master’s‑level credentials (or even specialized degrees), turnover and retirements mean there will continue to be openings for qualified librarians with proper certifications.
Where Librarians Work in Illinois
Graduates of MLIS programs in Illinois work across a wide range of settings, reflecting the evolving role of information professionals.
Common Work Environments
- Public libraries (e.g., Chicago Public Library system)
- Colleges and universities
- K–12 school systems
- Museums and archives
- Government agencies
- Corporate and research organizations
Emerging Roles
In addition to traditional librarian positions, MLIS graduates may work in:
- Data management and information architecture
- Digital archives and preservation
- User experience (UX) and information design
- Knowledge management and research analysis
Library science graduates are increasingly employed in roles that extend beyond libraries into broader information- and data-focused industries.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for Library Science Students in Illinois
Illinois doesn’t have many library science-specific scholarship opportunities compared to other students, but there are a few opportunities available, such as…
The CARLI Scholarship is specific to students enrolled in the University of Illinois Urbana‑Champaign MLIS program who work for CARLI governing member libraries. The award amount is at least $1,000. To qualify, applicants must provide proof of enrollment in the University of Illinois program and references. Employees of CARLI libraries are given priority.
AISLE offers multiple scholarship opportunities for students pursuing school librarian licensure, including the Marilyn Kay Maynard Scholarship, the Esther Baker Scholarship, and other grants for continuing education and conference attendance.
- Dominican University School of Information Studies
Dominican University School of Information Studies offers departmental scholarships that can cover tuition costs for the first and last programs in an MLIS or PhD program. Awards are based on academic merit and financial need, so students must have a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is on file to qualify. There isn’t a separate application for these – eligible students are contacted directly if they qualify.
Professional Associations and Networking in Illinois
Librarians and library workers in Illinois have a variety of state and regional professional associations for networking.
ILA is the largest state library professional association representing public, academic, school, and special libraries and library workers in Illinois. The ILA offers its members advocacy, networking opportunities, conferences, forums, and leadership opportunities.
This professional association is chartered in Illinois to support the professional interests of librarians and library workers, including advocacy and certification beyond the initial MLIS degree. Though it is chartered in Illinois, it is closely tied to the overall ALA structure.
This regional Illinois organization is focused on continuing education and networking for library staff and directors, especially in Northeastern Illinois.
Conclusion
Illinois offers a small but highly respected group of library science programs, all with ALA accreditation and flexible pathways for students at different stages of their careers. Whether you’re looking for a top-ranked research institution, a flexible program that fits around your life, or an affordable entry point into the field, Illinois provides strong options.
As the role of librarians continues to evolve, expanding into digital literacy, data management, and community engagement, earning an MLIS can open doors across public, academic, and specialized environments.
The next step is to explore program websites, connect with admissions teams, and determine which path aligns best with your goals.
FAQs about Library Science Programs in Illinois
Do You Need a Master’s Degree to Be a Librarian in Illinois?
It depends! Some library systems will require applicants to hold a master’s degree in library and information science to be qualified for a librarian position, and others will allow librarians to enter the field with adequate supplementary education and/or experience. Before applying, read through job postings carefully to determine what education or certifications you need.
Are There Online ALA-Accredited Programs Available for Illinois Library Science Students?
Yes. All three Illinois MLIS programs offer online options, though some tracks (such as school librarianship at Chicago State) may include in-person requirements.
How Long Does it Take to Earn an MLIS?
Typically, a student can earn their MLIS within two to three years. This can depend on various factors, such as:
- Whether the student takes classes full-time or part-time
- Whether the student fails a class or needs to withdraw from a course and retake it later
- Other schedule obligations that may cause a student to slow down their coursework, such as balancing a job or family responsibilities with school
While two to three years is typical, some students can earn their MLIS more quickly or more slowly. It is largely dependent on the student’s specific circumstances and needs. Illinois’ various MLIS and PhD-level information science programs offer flexibility, giving students the time they need to progress through a program as quickly or slowly as desired.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Library Science Degree in Illinois?
Illinois offers a variety of job opportunities for people with MLIS degrees, such as…
- Public librarian
- K-12 school librarian
- Academic librarian
- Library director
- Law librarian
- Digital archivist
- Data manager
- Cataloger
- User experience (UX) design for libraries
- Medical/corporate archivist
