- 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.
Master of Science in Library and Information Science
Learn more about the Library and Information Science program at Chicago State by reviewing our latest newsletter, The Informatico!, and/or attending a virtual information session!
Please check back in 2021 for upcoming session dates.
The 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, most courses are offered in the online or hybrid course delivery formats.
There are several Library and Information Studies program options:
- Master of Science Degree in Library and Information Science with a specialization in school, academic, public or archives (M.S. LIS)
- 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 following specializations:
- School Libraries
- Archives and Record Management
- Academic Libraries
- Public Libraries
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 (2015).
Students master the following objectives by end of their programs study:
- 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.
- 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.
- Evaluate situations to determine the best technical solution.
- Effectively utilize technology to add value to the field.
- Assess how changing technologies impact the field.
- Demonstrate the knowledge and skills required to perform within his/her specific specialization.
Required Courses (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 (15- 43 credit hours)
Students will select one of the following specializations and complete the sequence of courses listed:
- 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
- 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
- LIS 5200: Archives and Records Administration
- LIS 5970 Field Practicum
- Four electives selected with an advisor (2 may be taken outside of the department)
- Professional Education Coursework Sequence (approx. 18 credit hours) for candidates without an Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL)
- LIS 5710: Literature and Services for Children
- LIS 5720: Literature and Services for Young Adults
- LIS 5520: Cataloging and Classification
- LIS 5 120: 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 (for candidates without PEL)
- LIS5990 MSLS Capstone (I credit hours)
- LIS 5980 Thesis/Project (3 credit hours)
The Master of Science in Library and Information Science program at Chicago State University is accredited by the American Library Association Committee on Accreditation, with the status of initial accreditation. The next comprehensive review visit is scheduled for a 2026.
Careers in Librarianship
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
- 5. Personal goals essay (a one to three page essay describing how attaining this degree will help you reach your professional goals)
For more information please contact Ms. Gloria Adams at gadams22@csu.edu or (773)995-4461.
More Information
Information is here
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
Payment Plans are available
The Bursar Office of the Bursar and Cashier
Bursar Tel: (773) 995-2470
Cashier Tel: (773) 995-2029
Email: bursar@csu.edu
Cook Administration Building - Room 212
Chicago, IL 60628-1528
Dr. Rae-Anne Montague
LIS Program Coordinator
Room 208
Phone: 773.995.2598
Fax: 773.821.2441
Email: rmontagu@csu.edu
Program Assessment - Student Learning Outcomes and Placement Information
Average time to degree (for graduates from fall 2016 to spring 2019): 2.8 years
Placement within 12 months of graduation (since fall 2016 to spring 2019):
- 57% School or Public Libraries
- 14% Additional graduate study
- 14% Small business/consulting in education
- 14% unknown
Retention Rates:
- Retention Rate (Fall 17 to Fall 18): 87.5%
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