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 have mastered the following objectives by the end of their programs of 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.

M.S. Library and Information Science Curriculum

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:

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

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

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)

School Libraries

• 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)

Concluding Courses (4 -7 Credit Hours):

• 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 Spring 2026.

 

Careers in Librarianship

There is general information about careers in librarianship here: http://www.ala.org/educationcareers/libcareers

Information on careers in archives is available here: https://www2.archivists.org/ careers/beanarchivist

How to Apply To CSU’s LIS Program

Application to a graduate program at CSU is a two-step process.  First, you apply to the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies.  Once they have received all of your paperwork and processed it,  it moves to the second step – approval by the program.

Step 1 – Apply online here: https://www.csu.edu/graduateschool/admissions/gradadmission.htm

A complete application includes:

1. Completion of the online application

2. Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended

3. Payment of the application fee

4. 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 about the Graduate Studies Office or this part of the application process, please contact Ms. Gloria Adams at  gadams22@csu.edu  or  (773)995-4461.

Step 2 – After you have completed Step 1, the Office of Graduate and Professional Studies will forward your application to the program for an admissions decision.  For assistance at this stage of the process, please contact the program at 773-995-2598 or email kblack21@csu.edu for help.

More Information – Tuition and Fees, Financial Aid and Payment

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and Fee information is here - https://www.csu.edu/ financialaffairs/bursar/ tuition/

Financial Aid

Financial Aid is available - https://www.csu.edu/ financialaid/

Financial Aid Tel: 773-995-2304

Toll Free: 877-278-8898

csu-finaid@csu.edu

Chicago State University

Office of Student Financial Aid

9501 South King Drive / ADM 207

Chicago, Illinois 60628-1598

Payment Plans are available - https://www.csu.edu/financialaffairs/bursar/paymentplans/

Tuition Bill and Payment Inquiries

Questions about your bill should be addressed by the Bursar - https://www.csu.edu/ financialaffairs/bursar/

Bursar Tel: (773) 995-2470

Cashier Tel: (773) 995-2029

bursar@csu.edu

The Bursar Office of the Bursar and Cashier

Cook Administration Building - Room 212

9501 South King Drive

Chicago, IL 60628-1528

 

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%

The last three years of program assessment trend data is available here

 

For more information, contact:

Dr. Kimberly Black, Chairperson, Department of Information Studies

9501 South King Drive

Education Building, Room 208

Chicago, IL 60628-1598

Phone: 773.995.2598

Fax: 773.821.2441

Email: kblack21@csu.edu