2026 Best Online Master’s in Library Science MLIS Degrees in Illinois
Discover the best Master’s in Library & Information Science degree programs in Illinois – Rankings list of schools for MLS and MLIS degrees in Illinois
Best Online Master’s in Library Science Programs in Illinois
Illinois is a hub for library and information science, offering some of the most renowned MLS and MLIS programs in the country. With a strong emphasis on innovation, diversity, and accessibility, the state’s programs prepare graduates for careers in public libraries, archives, schools, and corporate settings. Illinois is home to several prestigious universities offering flexible online or hybrid MLS programs tailored to meet the demands of the modern information landscape.
Whether students are pursuing digital librarianship, school media roles, or public service positions, Illinois programs emphasize practical experience, ensuring that graduates are job-ready. The state’s proximity to major metropolitan areas like Chicago also provides unique networking and internship opportunities.
2026 Best Online Master's in Library Science Programs in Illinois
Chicago State University
Chicago, IL - Public 4-Year - csu.edu
Master's - Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentration: Public Library - Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University's online Master of Science in Library and Information Science with a Public Library concentration equips students for leadership roles in public libraries through comprehensive training in information organization, community outreach, and digital resource management. The curriculum emphasizes collection development, reference services, and library administration tailored to diverse populations. This flexible online program accommodates working professionals with multiple start dates and requires a bachelor's degree for admission; no entrance exam is needed. Affordable tuition and financial aid options support career advancement in public library settings.
- Online program format
- Public Library concentration
- Master of Science degree
- Library and Information Science
- Chicago State University
Master's - catalog
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Chicago State University's hybrid Master of Science in Library and Information Science, accredited by the American Library Association, offers specializations in school libraries, archives, academic libraries, or public libraries. The program blends theory with practical application to prepare for diverse roles, featuring flexible curriculum options and mentorship from experienced faculty. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, and no entrance exam is specified. This format suits busy schedules, enabling career transformation in library and information science.
- ALA-accredited MSLIS program.
- Specializations available.
- Prepare for diverse library roles.
Master's - Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentration: Public Library - Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University's online Master of Science in Library and Information Science with a Public Library concentration focuses on managing public library services and enhancing community information access. Students develop skills in information organization, digital literacy, and public service management through a flexible online format ideal for working professionals. The curriculum addresses practical applications for diverse needs, requiring a bachelor's degree with a competitive GPA for admission; no entrance exam is mentioned. Competitive tuition, financial aid, and multiple yearly application deadlines facilitate convenient enrollment.
- Online program format
- Public Library concentration
- Master of Science degree
- Library and Information Science focus
- Flexible scheduling options
- Career preparation focus
- Bachelor's degree required
- Competitive tuition costs
- Financial aid available
- Multiple application deadlines
Master's - Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentration: Archives and Records Management - Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University's online Master of Science in Library and Information Science with an Archives and Records Management concentration prepares students for careers in managing historical documents and digital records. The curriculum covers archival theory, preservation techniques, and information technology to organize, preserve, and provide access to valuable materials. Delivered entirely online, it offers flexibility for working professionals and requires a bachelor's degree for admission; no entrance exam is needed. Competitive tuition rates address the growing demand for skilled archivists across various sectors.
- Online program delivery
- Archives and Records Management concentration
- Master of Science degree
- Library and Information Science focus
- Flexible for working professionals
- Prepares for archival careers
- Covers preservation techniques
- Includes information technology
- Requires bachelor's degree
- Competitive tuition rates
Master's - Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentration: School Library Information Specialist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University's online Master of Science in Library and Information Science with a School Library Information Specialist concentration prepares for school library careers through flexible, asynchronous online coursework. The curriculum includes information organization, technology integration, and educational leadership, aligning with state certification requirements. Admission requires a bachelor's degree and transcripts, with no entrance exam specified. Financial aid and support for working professionals make this program ideal for career changers and educators seeking advancement in K-12 settings.
- Online program format
- School Library concentration
- Master of Science degree
- Flexible coursework
- State certification aligned
- Information organization focus
- Technology integration topics
- Educational leadership elements
- Bachelor's degree required
- Transcripts needed for admission
Master's - Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Concentration: School Library Information Specialist - Online Learning - Visit Website
Chicago State University's online Master of Science in Library and Information Science with a School Library Information Specialist concentration focuses on preparing graduates for K-12 library roles. The flexible online coursework covers information literacy, collection development, and educational technology, providing practical skills for managing school libraries and supporting student learning. Admission requires a bachelor's degree, and no entrance exam is mentioned. Affordable tuition and straightforward requirements cater to career changers and current educators aiming for advancement in educational environments.
- Online program format
- School Library Information Specialist concentration
- Master of Science degree
- Library and Information Science focus
- Prepares for K-12 library roles
Dominican University
River Forest, IL - Private 4-year - dom.edu
Master's - Master of Library and Information Science
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Dominican University's ALA-accredited Master of Library and Information Science program offers flexible online and hybrid formats, allowing completion in as little as one year or up to six years. This 36-credit program emphasizes ethical decision-making, knowledge organization, and evidence-based practices, with specializations available in areas like Digital Libraries and Archives and Cultural Heritage. No entrance exam is required for admission. Located in the Chicagoland area, it provides extensive internship and career opportunities, along with financial aid options including departmental scholarships.
- ALA-accredited MLIS program.
- Online & hybrid learning options.
- Numerous specializations available.
Fast & Affordable MLIS Programs in Illinois
Illinois offers affordable MLS programs with flexible online options for in-state residents.
- Chicago State University: The most affordable ALA-accredited program in the state, with in-state tuition starting at $9,728 annually.
- University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign: While more expensive, this program provides excellent value with its top national ranking and diverse specializations.
Accelerated options allow students to complete their degrees in as little as 18 months, making Illinois a prime destination for students seeking affordable, high-quality education in library science.
Popular MLIS Specialties in Illinois
Illinois’ MLS programs cater to a wide range of specializations, including:
- Digital Libraries: Managing online collections and digital resources in academic and public libraries.
- Archival Studies: Preserving historical documents and artifacts for institutions like the Chicago History Museum.
- School Librarianship: Supporting K-12 education through media services and literacy programs.
- Corporate Librarianship: Providing information management services for businesses and organizations in Chicago’s corporate sector.
These specializations align with Illinois’ diverse job market, ensuring that graduates are equipped for success.
What Careers Can I Pursue with an MLIS in Illinois?
Illinois’ MLS graduates have access to a variety of career paths, including:
- Public Librarian: Working in community libraries to provide resources and programming for diverse populations.
- Academic Librarian: Supporting research and curriculum at universities such as UIUC or the University of Chicago.
- Digital Archivist: Managing digital collections for museums or corporate organizations.
- School Librarian: Promoting literacy and managing media services in Illinois’ public and private schools.
- Corporate Information Specialist: Providing research and data management services for businesses in Chicago’s financial and tech industries.
With Illinois’ focus on education and technology, MLS graduates are well-positioned for success in the state’s robust job market.
