You don't have to be on campus to have access to a top education at the iSchool. Our popular online learning option provides you with the flexibility to engage with peers and faculty in real-time virtual classrooms. No matter where you are in the world, you can expect rigorous academics, intriguing dialogue, and a collaborative environment that will prepare you for a successful career in the information professions.
Can't come to us? We'll come to you.
At the iSchool, we understand the importance of flexibility, both in terms of course delivery and the ability to tailor your degree according to your career aspirations.
Most of our degree programs are available both on campus and online. Click below to decide which one is right for you.
We know how to deliver online learning because we've been doing it for more than 20 years, continually implementing best practices—starting first with the online “Leep” program for our MS in library and information science (MS/LIS). Our experience and commitment to innovation provides an unparalleled professional education that meets your needs.
*As an academic unit, the iSchool is the fifth largest home for international students on campus. According to the 2018 Open Doors report, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is the second top destination for international students attending public universities in the U.S.
The MS/LIS online program, Leep, enabled me to pursue and complete my degree without disrupting my family responsibilities and other obligations. I still enjoyed the experience of real-time engagement with my professors and peers, while living and working at home. I've been through many types of online learning, and the design of Leep most closely models the traditional on-campus classroom experience.
David Kalat (MS '11), Director, Berkeley Research Group, LLC
Welcome Weekend for MS/LIS Leep students
As an MS/LIS online (Leep) student, you'll participate in our three-day orientation on campus called Welcome Weekend.* This experience helps build community from the very beginning of your experience as an iSchool student. Welcome Weekend occurs approximately 4 weeks into the fall semester (late September) for students admitted in summer or fall, and 4 weeks into the spring semester (late February) for students admitted in spring. You will visit our world-class iSchool, attend workshops designed for your success as an online student, and meet peers, faculty, and advisors face to face, all of which leads to stronger connections and collaborations online and beyond.
*A residential component is not required for MS/IM online students.
Welcome weekend was a really unique experience, and I found a lot of value in being able to meet many of my professors face to face. The best part, though, was meeting my cohort; over the weekend we were able to bond in a way that really helps when class might feel overwhelming. I really appreciate how many friends I've made, and how many people stay in touch.
Kevin Kelley , MS/LIS online (Leep) student
Welcome Weekend Sample Session Titles:
I enrolled in the online MS/IM program to get a better understanding of the data challenges and issues we're working on at NCSA as well as the solutions we're developing. Although I work on campus and live in Champaign, I work full time and sometimes travel. The online format gives me the flexibility to attend class regardless of my physical location. Plus, there are more evening options with online courses.
Kandace Turner, Program Manager, National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA) & current MS/IM student
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