Master of Science in Library and Information Science (MSLIS)

The Master of Science in Library and Information Science program at Chicago State University is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) Committee on Accreditation, with the status of initial accreditation. The next comprehensive review visit is scheduled for 2027.

Learn more about the Library and Information Science program at Chicago State University by reviewing our latest newsletter, The Informatico!; perusing bios of some community members; and/or reading this feature on CSU alumna K.C. Boyd, School Librarian of the Year! #CSUProud

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Learn more via the CSU LIS FAQ and/or this recording from a recent information session helpful. Spring 2025 applications are due by Dec 17th.

About the Program

The Chicago State University Library and Information Science Program prepares future librarians, archivists, and other information professionals to work in a variety of settings including schools, colleges and universities, public and state libraries, and other settings. The program offers courses in both the theoretical foundations and practical application of various subjects in Library and Information Science, which include the 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 program offers a Master of Science degree in Library and Information Science with a specialization in the following areas:

School libraries (initial licensure, advanced master’s degree/endorsement to become a School Library Information Specialist in the state of Illinois)
Archives and Records Management
Academic Libraries, and
Public Libraries.

In addition to the master's degree, the program offers an endorsement-only option in the area of School Library Information Specialist to licensed teachers in Illinois and a post-baccalaureate certificate in archives and records management.

The program received approval from the Higher Learning Commission in 2013 to offer more than 50% of its program of study online. Currently, all of the MSLIS courses are offered online. [Note: Those pursuing school library specialization may still need to complete in-person and additional requirements.]

Library and Information Science Program Options:

Master of Science Degree in Library and Information Science with a specialization in school libraries, academic libraries, public libraries, or archives and records management (MSLIS)
Non-Degree Endorsement in School Information Specialist for Licensed Teachers
Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Archives and Records Management

The Master of Science degree in Library and Information Science (MSLIS) prepares professionals to design and manage library and information services in a variety of settings. The program is designed to reflect an urban focus with the specializations of students' choice. The student learning objectives for the Master of Science in Library and Information Science program are based on the American Library Association’s Standards for Accreditation of Master’s Programs in Library & Information Studies.

Students master the following objectives by end of their programs study:

Manage Recordable information and knowledge

Describe the social, political, ethical, cultural, economic and legal aspects of information creation, access, and use.
Demonstrate the knowledge necessary to sustain the cycle of recordable information and knowledge in society.

Provide information and instructional services to address the diverse needs of users

Assess user information needs in order to determine what is needed to improve service for constituents.
Develop and implement information and instructional services to address specific needs.
Demonstrate leadership in the provision of information and instructional services.

Integrate and use current research to advance the LIS professions

Leverage the evolving body of knowledge from relevant fields to guide decisions and practices.
Conduct original research that advances the field’s knowledge base and candidate’s professional knowledge.

Employ information technologies to enhance services

Evaluate situations to determine the best technical solution.
Effectively utilize technology to add value to the field.
Assess how changing technologies impact the field.

Provide specialized LIS services

Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform within his/her specific specialization.

MSLIS Curriculum

The MSLIS is based on 12 courses (~36 credit hours) of coursework plus a 1-credit portfolio.

M.S. in Library and Information Science Curriculum

Required Courses - all specializations (15 credit hours)

LIS 5050: Foundations of the Information Professions
LIS 5060: Organization of Information
LIS 5070: Introduction to Reference Services
LIS 5080: Information Technology for Library and Information Agencies
LIS 5090: Research Methods in Library and Information Science

Directed Electives (18 credit hours)

Students will select one of the following specializations and complete the sequence of courses listed:

Specialization: Academic Libraries

LIS 5300: The Academic Library
LIS 5390: Management and Organization of Libraries
LIS 5510: Database Design for Information Storage & Retrieval
LIS 5970: Field Practicum
Two electives selected with an advisor
More information

Specialization: Archives and Records Management

LIS 5200: Archives and Records Administration
LIS 5970 Field Practicum
Four electives selected with an advisor (2 may be taken outside of the department)
More information

Specialization: Public Libraries

LIS 5350: The Public Library
LIS 5390: Management and Organization of Libraries
LIS 5510: Database Design for Information Storage & Retrieval
LIS 5970: Field Practicum
Two electives selected with an advisor
More information

Specialization: School Libraries

LIS 5710: Literature and Services for Children
LIS 5720: Literature and Services for Young Adults
LIS 5520: Cataloging and Classification
LIS 5120: Administration of Media Centers
LIS 5130: Curriculum in the Media Center
LIS 5180: Clinical Experiences in School Library Media Centers
LIS 5185: Certification Exam Review
LIS 5190: Student Teaching and Seminar plus Professional Education Coursework Sequence (approx. 18 credit hours additional courses required) for candidates without an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
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Concluding Courses (4 -7 Credit Hours)

LIS 5980 Project (3 credit hours)
LIS 5990 MSLIS Capstone (1 credit hour portfolio)

LIS students work with their academic advisor to develop cohesive programs of study. Some course substitutions are permissable with instructor and/or advisor persmission.

How to Apply To CSU's LIS Program

A complete application includes:

Completion of the online application
Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
Payment of the application fee
Resume
Personal goals essay (a one to three page essay describing how attaining this degree will help you reach your professional goals)

For more information about admissions, please contact Ms. Gloria Adams at gadams22@csu.edu or (773)995-2404.

More Information

Financial Aid

Scholarships

Tuition & Fees

Financial Aid is available

Tel: (773) 995-2304

Toll Free: 877-278-8898

Email: csu-finaid@csu.edu

Office of Student Financial Aid
ADM 207

CSU scholarships

General scholarships for LIS