Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM)
Top-Ranked School
#1 ranking in library and information studies, including #1 in information systems
U.S. News & World Report 2025
Find your Niche
Tailor your degree with professional pathway options.
Explore a Growing Job Market
Access to career services and internship opportunities.
Offered on campus only, the MS in Information Management prepares leaders in the field who develop services and systems to meet human information needs in a range of employment settings. This degree is designed to meet the demand for well-prepared information professionals who are skilled in using, managing and analyzing information.
Identify and land your dream job
Designed for career success
"Our MSIM program is designed to train the next generation of information professionals with advanced and diverse skill sets. Through our flexible curriculum, these students will not only be exposed to state-of-the-art technology (e.g., AI, machine learning, information consulting) but also gain a deep understanding of the organizational and social challenges around such technology."
Jingrui He, Professor and MSIM Program Director
Choose your pathway
With only three required courses—and a programming course if needed—the curriculum is very flexible and can be customized based on career interests. You have the opportunity to choose from two professional pathways at the intersection of people, information and technology:
- Data science and analytics
- Knowledge management and information consulting
Students work with professors and advisors to identify strengths and build the skills required to meet the needs of employers in that field. The MSIM helps you identify your dream job and then positions you for a successful career.
What are the requirements for admission?
- The MSIM program is flexible, and our application requirements are as well
- While a bachelor’s degree is required, your degree can be in any discipline.
- The MSIM degree is now test-optional for the standardized test requirements (i.e., GRE and GMAT). If you feel that your test scores reflect your potential and promise in graduate school, you may submit your scores for admission consideration.
How do I apply?
- For Fall 2026 admission, applications are due by January 30, 2026.
- At this time, applications are only being accepted for the MSIM on-campus program.
- Visit the Graduate College's application page, review the information, and select the "Apply Now" button.
Where do students get jobs?
- Amazon
- Caterpillar
- Spotify
- Argonne National Laboratory
- Guggenheim Museum
- Shedd Aquarium
- Library of Congress
- The American Library in Paris
What can you do with an MSIM degree?
Kameron Wells (MSIM '18) was recently promoted to the position of senior data engineer and team lead of Baseball Systems for the Boston Red Sox.
Hear more from others
Anveksha Vinod Pandey
Current MSIM Student
“What I appreciate most about the MSIM program is its flexibility. The program empowers students to chart their own path, whether that’s toward business-oriented roles like product manager or business analyst, or data-focused positions like data engineer or analyst. The supportive cohort and access to renowned faculty add immense value to the learning experience.”
Simit Tarun Shahr
Current MSIM Student
“I chose the MSIM program at the University of Illinois for its strong blend of data, technology, and business, along with access to world-class faculty and hands-on learning opportunities at the Research Park. But beyond academics, what really stands out about the program is the community. You’ll meet people from all over the world with diverse experiences, and you’ll grow through collaboration, leadership roles, and real-world projects.”
Jeremy Carnahan, MSIM '21
Computer Vision Engineer, Precision Planting
“For me, information management was a great fit for combining technical and sociological disciplines, which I felt would help me make better products for people. Other programs that I looked at focused too heavily on technical aspects and largely ignored the human-centered considerations that are core to the MSIM program.”
Divya Tantri, MSIM ’22
Technical Product Manager, Microsoft
“The MSIM program helped me develop a deep understanding of information systems, data management, business intelligence, and related topics. Its industry-related curriculum also gave me a strong foundation in the key areas required for effective product management. In addition, hands-on projects provided me with practical experiences in working on product-related initiatives and applying skills to solve complex problems.”
