The iSchool at Illinois has retained its top spot in U.S. News & World Report's 2025 ranking of graduate schools offering a master's degree in library and information studies. The iSchool has held the number one ranking for nearly three decades.
"We are honored to have the MS degree in library and information science [MSLIS] recognized for its excellence once again," said Interim Dean Designate and Professor Emily Knox. "The program continues to innovate to meet the needs of information institutions in a rapidly changing world."
The MSLIS degree program, which is offered both online and on campus, provides an exceptional education that prepares graduates to be leaders in LIS. With only two required courses, our flexible curriculum can be customized by students based on their career interests. Graduates hold positions in a variety of information settings, including public, academic, and school libraries as well as health care, business, and science.
"The MSLIS program is committed to the education of outstanding information professionals," said Maria Bonn, associate professor and MSLIS program director. "It's always gratifying to see the excellence and hard work of our faculty and staff garnering this national recognition."
In addition to retaining the top position overall, the iSchool also ranked in the top ten in the areas of specialization:
- #1 in Services for Children and Youth
- #2 in School Library Media
- #2 in Digital Librarianship
- #4 in Information Systems
- #7 in Archives and Preservation
U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on the results of a peer assessment survey sent in fall 2024 and early 2025 to deans, directors, and senior faculty in 56 programs accredited by the American Library Association. The last ranking for graduate programs in library and information studies occurred in 2021.
Congratulations to faculty, staff, students, and alumni for their contributions in making the iSchool the national leader in library and information studies. For the full list of rankings, visit the U.S. News & World Report website.