Program Overview

Library and Information Science, Ph.D.

College of Information and Communications

This research-intensive degree prepares doctoral-trained teacher scholars for library and information science faculty and administrative careers at universities, research centers and private businesses.

Our graduates distinguish themselves in advancing the ways people and organizations create and use information. We emphasize the relevance of social justice in the study and practice of library and information science, and we encourage faculty-student mentorship through publishing, grant writing and conference presentations.

Program Highlights

• An Expert Faculty: Learn from faculty members who combine distinguished academic careers with extensive professional experience.
• Cross Disciplines: Learn to foster cross-disciplinary thinking with research and academic expectations.
• Funded Research Opportunities: Apply for funding for your research and travel through The Graduate School and the School of Information Science.
• Top Program: Study at a school ranked in the Top 20 of all American Library Association-accredited schools (U.S. News & World Report).

What You’ll Study

The program requires 54 credit hours beyond the master’s level, including 12 hours of dissertation preparation, with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above. You'll take 15 hours of core courses, two research methods courses, 12 hours of electives within your research area (with a goal of producing work for scholarly publication) and a nine-hour cognate.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

• Data Analysis: Examining and interpreting information to uncover insights and inform decision making
• Research: Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems
• Analytical Reasoning: Breaking down complex problems or situations to identify patterns, connections and solutions
• Collaboration: Working with others to achieve a common goal or objective
• Critical Thinking: Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments
• Communication: Exchanging information and ideas through speaking, writing or other means of expression

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

• Librarian
• Archivist
• Researcher
• Museum Director
• Professor

Workplace Settings

• Libraries
• Archives
• Museums
• Education

Advanced Degrees

Advance your career or options with post-graduate education.

• Combination Degree | Master's: Public Administration and Social Work, M.P.A. & M.S.W. (McCausland College of Arts and Sciences, College of Social Work)
• Doctorate: Social Work, Ph.D. (College of Social Work)