Master of Library and Information Science

Get the expert guidance you need to build a career in librarianship and a variety of in-demand information system professions in this MLIS program.

As one of the two American Library Association (ALA)-accredited Master of Library and Information Science programs in the Chicago area, we offer a distinct degree experience. Here, you’ll earn an MLIS degree that upholds the core values of librarianship while giving you the skills you need to succeed in an ever-changing field.

Our Chicagoland location means you’ll be studying in an information-rich setting that is full of internship, practicum and employment opportunities in the field. And, you can study for a master’s in library and information science in a format that works for you.

  • Online or hybrid options
  • Online classes with synchronous or asynchronous delivery choices
  • Complete practicums and internships that build real-world skills
  • Connect to a strong alumni network of library leaders around the world

Take the next step. Request information

What You’ll Learn

Through our six required core MLIS courses, you’ll gain the fundamental knowledge and skills needed for a successful library and information science career.

You’ll graduate prepared to make ethical, value-centered decisions, facilitate user learning, organize knowledge systems, and make evidence-based decisions. You’ll also gain hands-on experience in an area of MLIS technology of your choosing.

Quick Degree Details
  • 36 credits
  • Offered online or in a hybrid format
  • Offered on our River Forest campus
  • Complete in as little as one year, or take up to 6 years
  • American Library Association (ALA) accredited*

SOIS Learning Goals and Outcomes (pdf)

MLIS Concentrations and Certificates

Add a certificate to your MLIS degree in an area of study that suits your long-term career goals. We offer a wide range of concentrations in in-demand areas:

These MLIS courses of study can also be taken as stand-alone certificates for Dominican graduates who have already earned their MLIS or MSIM degree (or its equivalent from an ALA-accredited graduate library program). Learn more about certificates

MLIS Dual Degrees

Expand your career potential by pairing your Master of Library and Information Science degree with another relevant area of study. Explore dual degrees

What to Expect as You Earn Your MLIS

At Dominican, we pride ourselves on the hands-on experiences and personal attention our students receive. You’ll get the benefit of a collaborative learning environment that will expand your knowledge, deepen your understanding and prepare you as a leader and advocate in library and information science.

Renowned School of Information Studies (SOIS)

As part of our School of Information Studies, our MLIS program sets the standard for excellence among other library studies graduate programs. We continually re-evaluate our rigorous academics to make sure our students gain the skills needed to be successful in today’s ever-changing environment. See what sets us apart

Nationally recognized faculty

Our MLIS professors have a broad range of experience, and our small class sizes allow them to get to know you—and become the foundation of your professional network. Meet our faculty

Areas of faculty expertise include:

  • Digital libraries and digital curation
  • Information policy
  • Media and services for youth
  • Archives and cultural heritage
  • Informatics
  • Cataloging and classification
  • School library media
  • Management
  • Leadership and advocacy
Strong graduate retention, achievement and career outcomes

MLIS students at Dominican University continue to meet and exceed program standards and completion rates—and enter into a wide variety of professional positions in the field upon graduation. See our graduates' completion, achievement and career outcomes (pdf opens in a new window)

Financing Your Degree

Along with opportunities for financial aid through loans and grants, the School of Information Studies offers a variety of departmental scholarships, including the Mary Wajer Scholarship for MLIS students, depending upon your area of study.

Contact our Office of Financial Aid to learn more. We can be reached at (708) 524-6809 or by email at finaid@dom.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What can I do with a master’s in library and information science?

As the nature of information studies grows more and more complex, so does the discipline of library and information science. As such, the field is no longer restricted to the traditional librarian role. Although you will earn the necessary credential for librarianship, you can also pursue a career as an expert in information studies. You will find Dominican MLIS graduates working in an array of settings:

“Traditional” Libraries
  • Chicago Public Library
  • University of Minnesota Library
  • State Law Library of Montana
  • Western Michigan University
  • Oswego East High School
  • and many more
Non-library Settings
  • Argonne National Laboratory
  • McDonald’s Digital Asset Department
  • WFMT’s Studs Terkel Radio Archive
  • BMO Harris Bank
  • DuPage County
  • BP
  • Law firms such as Sidley Austin
  • Consulting firms such as Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates
Cultural Institutions and Museums
  • Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture
  • Chicago Symphony Orchestra
  • Oswego History Museum
  • Theater Historical Society of America
  • Polish Museum of America
How do I apply?

To apply for our MLIS program, students must submit a completed online application, a personal essay and official undergraduate transcripts. Before you apply, make sure you review our full application and admission requirements.

Ready to take the next step? Apply now online

Prepare for a Career Where You Can Make a Difference

Library and information science is a complex and impactful area of study that helps preserve our history, inform our future and educate our communities. Be a part of something meaningful and in-demand. Request information today

* On January 20, 2023, ALA's Committee on Accreditation voted to continue the Dominican MLIS's full accreditation status for another seven-year term. The next comprehensive review will take place in 2029. View the 2022 MLIS program presentation (pdf opens in a new window).