online Program APplication
Entrance to the Liberal Studies online program is selective and the number of students admitted each semester is limited. The program has posted priority dates for completing the application process. If space remains after the priority date, applications will continue to be reviewed on a monthly basis. If you have any questions about availability, please contact the program coordinator.
Before we can make an admission decision, you must complete the application process:
- Fill out the UIS admissions application, including signature sheet and application fee.
- Send transcripts from each of your past colleges or universities.
- Provide the written statement described below.
- Ensure that your equipment meets the university's Computer Requirements (listed below).
The online program does not support lower-level coursework. For this reason, an applicant must be prepared to enter at the junior level. Those who have not yet completed lower-level coursework are encouraged to do so at another college or university of their choice, then transfer into our program.
The program will consider all of the information provided by the applicant, but pay particular attention to the applicant’s written statement and background in general education courses. Applicants must have completed Composition I and II to be admitted to the online program.
Students who are not accepted will be notified as quickly as possible so that they can consider alternatives. In some cases, the program may be willing to admit an applicant for a future semester if he/she is willing to address areas of concern noted in the program review. In these cases, the program will work with the applicant as closely as necessary to assist them.
Download an admissions application or apply online: www.uis.edu/admissions/apply.html
The Written Statement
This statement will play a major role in admission to the online program. It should be approximately two pages and reflect junior-level college writing skills.
Your statement should include:
- A clear, concise statement of your academic and/or professional goals.
- Why you believe that a non-traditional, interdisciplinary program is the pathway to these goals.
- A discussion of things you have taught yourself outside of an academic environment.
- A discussion of your online and/or technical skills.
- A discussion of the skills and/or resources you possess that will help you succeed as an LIS online student, as well as the challenges that may interfere with your success – time management, access to a computer and the Internet, or other factors.
- Whenever possible, please include details and examples to illustrate your ideas.
You should also address any issues that you think may have an impact on your admission to the LIS online program. For example, if you had problems in your previous academic work, you should explain them in full and what you have done to rectify them. It is okay if this additional detail increases the length of your statement, but please be concise.
Your statement should be mailed to:
University of Illinois at Springfield
Liberal Studies Program, University Hall 3038
One University Plaza
Springfield, IL 62703
Or emailed to our program coordinator.
Application review will begin on the following dates and continue through the start of each semester:
- Summer – March 15
- Fall – March 15
- Spring – October 15
Computer Requirements
The Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning suggests that your computer meets minimum requirements to take an online course at UIS. Visit the UIS Online website to learn about these requirements.
