Library School Rankings

In the 2010 edition of the U.S. News & World Report rankings for library and information science programs, two institutions emerged as the top choices for aspiring library professionals: the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, which tied for first place. These universities have long been recognized as leaders in the field, offering comprehensive and highly respected programs that prepare students for the evolving world of library science and information management. Following closely behind were Syracuse University and the University of Washington at Seattle, solidifying their reputations as key players in the education of future librarians and information specialists.

The Graduate School of Library and Information Science (GSLIS) at the University of Illinois is widely considered one of the top programs in the world. With a history of excellence in both education and research, GSLIS offers a range of degree programs, including the Master of Science (MS), Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), and the Certificate of Advanced Study. The school’s interdisciplinary approach to library and information science blends theory and practice, encouraging students to explore subjects as diverse as data science, digital archives, user experience, and information retrieval. Its research faculty, renowned for their contributions to the field, are key to the school’s global reputation, offering students unparalleled mentorship opportunities. The GSLIS at Illinois also maintains strong connections with library and information professionals around the world, providing students with opportunities to engage with real-world challenges through internships, fellowships, and collaborative projects.

Similarly, the School of Information and Library Science (SILS) at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a robust, multi-faceted program that prepares students for leadership roles in library science, information management, and digital archiving. SILS is known for its innovative curricula that encompass a wide array of disciplines, such as digital information management, knowledge management, and community informatics. The school’s flexible program offerings include the Bachelor of Science in Information Science (BSIS), Master of Science in Information Science (MSIS), and Master of Science in Library Science (MSLS), as well as a PhD program. The faculty at UNC Chapel Hill is highly regarded, with many professors contributing groundbreaking research in areas like digital preservation, information behavior, and the design of user-centered systems. The school also boasts a rich array of partnerships with libraries, museums, and other cultural heritage institutions, providing students with hands-on learning experiences that are crucial for career development.

Syracuse University’s School of Information Studies (iSchool) is another top contender in the field, ranked third overall in library and information science by U.S. News. The iSchool is particularly noted for its focus on technology and its integration of digital tools and practices into the traditional field of library science. This program prepares students for the challenges of managing both physical and digital information in a wide range of environments. With specialized concentrations in areas such as digital librarianship, school library media, and information technology, the iSchool offers students the flexibility to tailor their education to their interests and career goals. Syracuse is also known for its strong emphasis on research, with a focus on topics such as information policy, data management, and the ethics of information use. The iSchool’s partnerships with leading technology companies and research institutions ensure that students gain exposure to the latest trends in the industry and have the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

The University of Washington’s Information School is another leader in the field, ranking fourth overall for its Library and Information Studies program. The Information School is dedicated to exploring how information is collected, managed, and shared across various contexts, from libraries to corporations to digital archives. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes programs such as the Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS), PhD in Information Science, and a range of dual-degree options. The faculty at the University of Washington are deeply involved in cutting-edge research, particularly in the areas of information retrieval, human-computer interaction, and digital preservation. The university’s strong ties to the Pacific Northwest's tech industry also provide students with valuable opportunities for internships and job placements in leading tech companies, ensuring that they are well-prepared for the future of information management.

Completing the top five rankings is the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor, which has long been recognized for its innovative approach to library science education. Michigan’s School of Information offers a variety of programs designed to meet the evolving needs of the field, including the Master of Science in Information and the PhD in Information. The school’s research emphasis on information technology, social informatics, and digital archives has helped it maintain a reputation as one of the leading institutions for library and information studies in the country. Students at Michigan benefit from the opportunity to work with a diverse and internationally respected faculty, as well as access to a wide range of resources, including one of the largest research libraries in the world.

The field of library and information science has grown significantly over the past few decades, particularly with the rise of digital technologies and the increasing importance of managing information in all its forms. The universities ranked at the top of the U.S. News & World Report list have all embraced these changes and have shaped the future of the profession. With their commitment to research, technology integration, and real-world experience, these institutions continue to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in an information-driven world.

In conclusion, the rankings of the best Library and Information Studies programs in the 2010 U.S. News & World Report highlight the leading institutions in the field, with the University of Illinois and the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill claiming the top spots. Syracuse University, the University of Washington, and the University of Michigan complete the top five, each offering unique strengths in terms of curriculum, research opportunities, and industry connections. These programs are shaping the future of information science, preparing graduates to lead in a rapidly evolving field that is critical to the digital age.

 
Rankings of Best Library and Information Studies Programs (Top 20 list):
1 University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign Champaign, IL
1 University of North Carolina--Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, NC
3 Syracuse University Syracuse, NY
4 University of Washington Seattle, WA
5 University of Michigan--Ann Arbor Ann Arbor, MI
6 Rutgers, the State University of New Jersey--New Brunswick New Brunswick, NJ
7 Indiana University--Bloomington Bloomington, IN
8 University of Texas--Austin Austin, TX
9 Drexel University Philadelphia, PA
10 Simmons College Boston, MA
10 Univ of Maryland--College Park College Park, MD
10 Univ of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh, PA
10 Univ of Wisconsin--Madison Madison, WI
14 Florida State Univ Tallahassee, FL
14 Uniof California--Los Angeles Los Angeles, CA
16 Uni of Wisconsin--Milwaukee Milwaukee, WI
17 Uni of North Texas Denton, TX
17 Uni of South Carolina--Columbia Columbia, SC
17 Uni of Tennessee--Knoxville Knoxville, TN
20 Kent State Uni Kent, OH
20 Wayne State Uni Detroit, MI
Source: US News & World Report 2010