phd admission library science

The Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science program, in the Department of Information culture and Data Stewardship (ICDS), prepares students for careers in research, education, and professional practice. The primary purpose of the PhD program is to develop an understanding of library and information science beyond the master’s degree, with particular emphasis on the conduct of original research, the production of significant research findings, and the contribution of such findings to public knowledge.

Admissions Requirements

The following are requirements for admission to the PhD/LIS Program:

• A master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association, a recognized international program, or the equivalent in a closely related field of study. Students must submit official transcripts as evidence.
• Attainment in previous graduate work of a minimum quality point average of 3.50 (on a scale with A having a value of four points per credit). An international student’s quality point average will be calculated on the basis of equivalency from universities that use a different scale.
• Submission of scores from a predictor test, such as the Graduate Record Examination (or other test listed below) taken within the last three years.
• At least three references from persons in the academic and professional communities. The LIS Committee on Doctoral Studies may, on occasion, require additional references.
• An interview (in person, by telephone or using web conferencing tools) may be required as part of the admissions process for selected candidates, after an initial screening of their application materials.
• Submission of an application fee.

The Department of Information Culture and Data Stewardship seeks students with diverse educational and career backgrounds. By nature, LIS degrees are multi-disciplinary, and we welcome applicants with Bachelor’s degree and/or advanced degrees from diverse disciplinary backgrounds. Our multi-disciplinary nature is reflected in the wide range of standardized tests that are accepted by our admissions committee, which include the GRE, MAT, MCAT, GMAT, and LSAT 

Supporting Documents for Admission

As evidence of the ability to undertake doctoral work, the student’s application must be accompanied by: 

• An essay (not exceeding 1,000 words) indicating, as specifically as possible, the student’s detailed academic and professional goals in relation to the Library and Information Science doctoral program and discussing in detail potential areas and/or topics in which the student expects to pursue dissertation research. Students SHOULD identify one or more ICDS faculty members with whom they want to work. 
• A complete curriculum vitae that provides an overview of education, publications, work, and other activities. 
• At least one example of scholarly research or professional writing in any format (print or electronic), which should be authored solely by the applicant. The applicant should explain the status of any published or unpublished research, thesis, contributions to the professional or scholarly literature, and other professional or academic experience relevant to an assessment of his or her capacity to pursue research successfully. If the only suitable writing sample available for submission is a co-authored publication, the applicant must explain the nature and extent of his or her contribution to the work (e.g., percentage of the finished work written by the applicant), and should attach additional evidence as verification (for example, a statement by the primary author or co-author of the work, confirming the parts of the work contributed by the applicant). 
• If the candidate has had appropriate professional work experience in libraries, information centers, publishing, the information industry, education, or similarly related areas of professional activity, a brief description should be provided. 

Credentials of prospective students are reviewed by the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies. 

However, students who are applying for financial aid should be aware that they must be admitted and meet financial aid deadlines to ensure consideration for funding. 

Beyond the criteria and materials previously outlined for application submission, these programs do not require specific coursework for admissions consideration. 

Application Deadline

All admissions materials must be submitted by January 15 th of each year for beginning studies in the forthcoming fall term and for consideration for financial aid.

Commencement of Study

PhD students may begin their studies only in the Fall Term in order to ensure a coherent program of study.

Matriculation

On-Campus English Proficiency Test: Upon arrival, students who have not met the minimum TOEFL or IELTS scores will be given the on-campus administered English Language Proficiency Test. If remedial courses in English as a foreign language are recommended, the student must complete the remedial course during the first two terms of study. This may extend the length of the program of study.

Academic Advising and Plan of Studies

An advisor will be assigned to the student upon entering the program; however, the student is free to select a different advisor for subsequent advising and registration. The PhD student should seek a faculty Program Advisor who is knowledgeable in the student’s major area of study. The advisor must be a member of the graduate faculty in the Information Culture and Data Stewardship Department who is able to spend the time and effort necessary for the advising role, will be available for examinations, and with whom a productive and comfortable working relationship can be established. 

Program Advisor 

The advisor selected by the student for the period before the dissertation stage of the program is the Program Advisor. The Program Advisor and the Dissertation Advisor may be the same person, but the student has the option to select a different advisor for the dissertation. Upon agreement of the faculty member to act as the student’s advisor, the signed agreement is placed in the student’s folder. Any subsequent change of Program Advisor should be submitted in writing to the Chair of the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies and placed on record in the student’s folder. 

Doctoral students are ultimately responsible for their own direction and progress through the program and are encouraged to seek advice from any member of the SCI faculty or other University faculty in this endeavor. The Program Advisor, however, is the one primarily responsible for providing guidance, insight, advice, information, explanation of University and School policies, and general assistance in the pursuit of the PhD degree. The Program Advisor will also approve those actions requiring a faculty signature. 

The Program Advisor assists the student in  

• developing a plan for the program of study and 
• arranging for the preliminary and comprehensive examinations.

Degree Requirements

This PhD degree requires a minimum of 54 credits beyond the master’s degree with a total credit minimum of 72. A minimum of 36 credits must be taken in advanced course work. The student must receive a letter grade in each course taken in this 36-credit requirement, except for the teaching practicum course.  

An additional 18 credits are required which must be applied to dissertation research and writing; however, regardless of the number of credits taken, no more than 18 credits for dissertation research and writing may be applied toward graduation. The grade for these credits will appear as an “S” on the student’s transcript. In order to register for, and successfully complete, dissertation credits, students must show evidence of work toward the dissertation by completing the “Dissertation Credit Tracking Checklist” and updating it at the end of the term.  

The minimum of 36 credits of course work, all of which must be on the graduate level, must be distributed as follows: 

• 3 credits: LIS 3000 - INTRODUCTION TO DOCTORAL STUDIES    
• 9 credits: 3000-level doctoral seminars offered by SCI
• 3 credits: LIS 3950 - TEACHING PRACTICUM    or FACDEV 2200 - PRACTICUM ON UNIVERSITY TEACHING    
• 6 credits: Courses in research methodology and statistics
• 6 credits: Courses in the cognate field
• 3000-level independent studies or doctoral seminars offered by SCI
• Additional 3000-level doctoral seminars offered by SCI
• Additional cognate courses (up to six credits)
• Additional research methodology courses
• 2000-level courses in SCI (subject to be approved by the student’s advisor)

Additional Requirements

Gpa requirement.

PhD degrees are conferred only on those students who have completed all courses required for the degree with at least a 3.50 GPA.

Cognate Requirement

Doctoral students are required to devote some portion of their studies to work on other disciplines in order to broaden their perspectives and deepen their understanding of library and information science. To fulfill the cognate requirement, students are required to take a minimum of six credits and a maximum of 12 credits in some area of graduate study outside the field of library and information science. These credits may be from more than one department or school. 

Students may enroll for all or part of their cognate course work at institutions other than the University of Pittsburgh, but only when prior approval has been obtained from the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies. Courses in the School of Computing and Information generally cannot be used to fulfill the cognate requirement. Cross-listed courses may be counted as cognates if they originate outside the School. SCI courses may occasionally be approved as cognate courses if the subject matter is highly specialized and distinct from the student’s disciplinary focus; students must petition the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies for approval in advance of registering for the course. Cognate areas and courses shall be selected with consultation and approval by the student’s advisor. 

If a student has significant course work at the graduate level or an advanced degree in another discipline and desires that it be considered as the cognate field, the student has the right to petition the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies for exemption from the cognate requirement. A minimum of 36 course credits and 18 credits of dissertation writing and research will still be required for the PhD students who opt to petition for exemption from the cognate requirement. Such a petition should be submitted as early as possible, preferably in the first term, in order to plan a coherent program of study. 

Research Methodology Requirement

Research methodology courses may include courses in statistical analysis, general research methodology, and specific research methods or research methods used in specific fields of study, for instance, historiography, ethnography, or case and field study. Doctoral students should work with their advisors to identify the appropriate research methodology courses.

Research methodology courses may be taken within SCI or in another School. Research methodology courses taken from schools outside SCI cannot be used to fulfill the cognate requirement.

The research methodology course requirement must be fulfilled prior to taking the Preliminary Examination.

Teaching Practicum

A three-credit teaching practicum is required for all doctoral students in order to provide the student with teaching experience that may become part of the student’s professional dossier. The teaching practicum is usually taken after the completion of two terms of study. The student is responsible for identifying an appropriate course related to their area of interest and obtaining the agreement of the instructor of record. Appropriate activities as part of the teaching practicum include involvement in course design, attendance at all class sessions, presentation of some course materials, office or tutorial hours, and involvement in grading. The student’s teaching responsibility should involve preparation and presentation of specific topics throughout the term and sole responsibility for at least one class session. The teaching practicum is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Doctoral students may also fulfill this requirement by completing the University Teaching Practicum course offered through the Faculty of Arts and Science. The course, FACDEV 2200   , is a graduate seminar designed for Teaching Assistants and Teaching Fellows who will be teaching a class independently for the first time.

Public Presentation Requirement

During the course of the PhD program, each student is required to make a formal presentation to faculty and students in the School or in another academic setting. The topic of this presentation may be a research project the student is engaged in or preliminary results of the dissertation project. This presentation may be a guest lecture in a course, a public colloquium, a presentation sponsored by the Doctoral Guild or a presentation at an academic conference. Documentation of the presentation should be provided for inclusion in the student’s file.

Attendance at colloquia is required of students in their term of residence and is recommended throughout the PhD program.

Probation and Termination

All students pursuing the LIS doctoral degree are required to maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 after admission to graduate study for all course work applicable to the degree. Students are automatically placed on academic probation when their cumulative GPA falls below 3.5. The graduate faculty may choose to terminate students on probation for two consecutive terms. A cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better is required for admission to LIS doctoral study and for the award of the LIS doctoral degree. In addition, students must show adequate progress in the subsequent benchmark examinations and defenses.

Each student will submit a LIS Doctoral Student Annual Progress Report in the spring term for review by the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies.

Residence and Registration Guidelines

The University’s Regulations Pertaining to Doctoral Degrees contains myriad policies related to registration and residence. Students must review these regulations as well as those governed at the School level.  In addition, PhD students should adhere to the following guidelines. 

A student may not register for dissertation credits until the successful completion of the preliminary exam. 

Full-time dissertation study is achieved once all required courses (36 credits minimum) and all dissertation credits (18 credits of LIS 3999 minimum) are completed. Once the preliminary exam is successfully completed (after a minimum of 24 credits of coursework) students may begin taking a combination of dissertation credits and required credits until both requirements have been completed. Students may, with the approval of their dissertation advisor, register for up to nine dissertation credits per semester until the 18 credits are achieved, but a combination of dissertation credits and required coursework can also be taken in each semester, so long as at least nine credits of one or the other or both are taken in each fall and spring semester. If additional coursework (beyond the required 36 credits) is desired by the student or recommended by the advisor (for example, classes in statistical methods, programming, additional cognate courses, etc.), a mix of dissertation credits and such additional coursework may be taken as well (for example, six credits of dissertation and one three-credit additional course, or three credits of dissertation and six credits of additional coursework). 

Doctoral students who have completed all credit requirements for the PhD degree, including the 36 required credits and the 18 dissertation credits (54 credits total), have had their Dissertation Proposal approved, and are working full time on their dissertations, should register for “Full‐time Dissertation Study.” Enrollment in this course fulfills the University requirements for registration in the term of graduation. 

International students studying on an F-1 visa must maintain full-time registration status on an exact and regular basis that is stricter than the residency rules required by the school as stated above. Due to federal immigration regulations, if the term preceding a student entering full-time dissertation status occurs during the fall or spring terms, the student must enroll full-time (nine or more credits). A “reduced course load” request cannot be approved by the Office of International Services (OIS) unless the request is made for the student’s term of graduation. Even if a student needs to complete only six credits before entering full-time dissertation status, federal regulations trump the school’s program requirements and they must enroll full-time in all fall and spring terms excepting their term of graduation. 

Preliminary Examination

Eligibility.

To be admitted to the preliminary examination a student must:

• Have completed 24 credits of study or be completing 24 credits in the exam term, including 6 credits from courses in research methodology and/or statistics
• Be registered in the term in which the preliminary examination is taken;
• Apply in writing and with the advice and consent of a faculty advisor to ICDS support staff by the announced deadline.

Students (whether full‐time or part‐time) are encouraged to take the preliminary examination, with the advice of the faculty advisor, as early as possible. Full-time students MAY take the preliminary examination near the end of the 1st year spring term and SHOULD take it no later than the 2nd fall term.

Preliminary Examination Procedure

Upon completion of 24 credits of coursework, the student will submit a portfolio comprising the best representation of their work completed so far to the faculty for review. Each student will also be required to present this portfolio to the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies as a whole, and the whole committee will vote on whether or not the portfolio is acceptable. A date for the portfolio presentation for the Preliminary Examination will be set at the beginning of each term. Students are required to submit their portfolio to ICDS Department support staff two weeks in advance of the Preliminary Examination. Preliminary Examinations are held in the fall and spring terms.

Preliminary Examination Portfolio

The preliminary evaluation will be based on the breadth and depth of knowledge as addressed through coursework, as well as whether the coursework taken will support the research plan of the student. This portfolio will minimally consist of the following elements:

1. Course plan

• List of courses completed with dates
• Projected list of remaining courses with dates
• Notations concerning how all course requirements are to be met

2. Research prospectus

• Research prospectus or plan and how this relates to coursework (taken and planned). This section will consist of a proposed area of concentration for the dissertation, justification for the research, and description of the methodological approach in some detail. It will also include an analysis of what types of resources will be needed to carry out the plan and to support the student through the completion of the dissertation.

3. Two examples of major work

• Two examples of major work completed while working towards the PhD (for example, a substantial coursework assignment, and a published or submitted conference paper or journal article). At least one of these should be a significant piece of writing, authored solely by the candidate. The other can also be a paper or could be another type of work demonstrating depth of knowledge and research in an area. If a jointly authored paper is included in the portfolio, the candidate should be named as the first author, and they must explain the nature and extent of the contributions of each co-author.

4. Additional items

• Professional activities (e.g., papers presented at conferences)

Preliminary Examination Outcomes

The Chair of the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies will respond to the presentation with an evaluation memo to the student either noting the acceptability of the portfolio or noting the areas in which the student is deficient. The memo may be very specific and prescribe specific types of courses, work products, or other elements necessary for the student to complete their research plan or the required course work. If a portfolio is not passed by a majority of those hearing the case, the student may make a second attempt in a later term.

With the successful completion of the preliminary examination, the Chair of the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies will notify the student in writing of admission to doctoral study and will note the results on the Preliminary Examination Results Form .

Failure to pass the Preliminary Examination on the second attempt will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

Failure to pass the Preliminary Examination by the end of the second spring term (or third spring term for part-time students) will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

Comprehensive Examination

To be admitted to the comprehensive examination a student must:

• Have completed 36 credits of study
• Be registered in the term in which the comprehensive examination is taken;
• Apply in writing using the Application to Sit for the Comprehensive Exam form and with the advice and consent of a faculty advisor to the ICDS Department support staff at least six weeks before the scheduled exam time.

Full-time students should take the comprehensive exam in the fall or spring term of the second year. All students must successfully complete the Comprehensive Exam within 18 months of passing the preliminary examination (24 months for part-time students).

Comprehensive Examination Procedure

In the Information Culture and Data Stewardship Department, the Comprehensive Examination will have written and oral components, and will normally be offered in the fall and spring terms. Students will notify their advisor and the Chair of the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies of their interest in taking the Comprehensive Examination at least six weeks before the examination date, using the form provided. The dates for each student will be determined in consultation with the student and the student’s comprehensive examination committee. 

Students will be examined in two areas: 

• A broad perspective on current issues in library and information science, or archival studies, and 
• The student’s designated research focus. 

In the PhD Library and Information Science program, the following procedures apply: 

• The examination will be conducted by a three-person committee: the student’s advisor and two faculty members chosen by the student and the faculty advisor. Faculty members chosen to serve on the committee must give their consent. 
• The examination will consist of two parts: a written, take-home exam over two weeks (three weekends) and an oral examination conducted by the student’s committee. 
• The written examination will consist of four questions, two in each of the areas of the examination. The student will choose one of the two questions in each area. Though the student is required to answer only two questions, there is the expectation that the response will be comprehensive and include a high level of analysis of the material. In terms of length, 12-15 pages would constitute a minimal answer for each question though longer papers are expected. The student will be given two weeks (including three weekends) to complete the written examination. 
• The second part of the examination will be an oral examination expanding on any points from the written work that the committee wishes to address or any questions arising from the broad, general area of interest. The oral examination (approximately two hours) will take place as soon as possible after the written component has been evaluated. 

Comprehensive Examination Outcomes

The result of the comprehensive examination will be a pass or fail. If a student fails, they may retake the exam one more time. Students use the Comprehensive Examination Results Form to document this benchmark. Failure to pass the Comprehensive Examination on the second attempt will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

Failure to pass the Comprehensive Examination within the required time frame of within 18 months of passing the preliminary examination (or 24 months for part-time students), will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

Dissertation

Dissertation advisor.

Students must gain the agreement of a member of the ICDS graduate faculty to chair the Dissertation Committee that will advise on the area of research and the design of the study. The advisor’s agreement must be obtained and recorded in the student’s file. Any request to change the Dissertation Advisor must be submitted in writing to the Chair of the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies after discussion with the Dissertation Advisor. Students retain the right to change advisors with impunity. It is important for students to be aware of and sensitive to various issues, including: 1) the importance of mutual consideration in the relationship between advisor and advisee; and 2) the academic benefits of continuity in the relationship with a major advisor and other members of the dissertation committee. Approval for the change and the selection of another Dissertation Advisor is filed in the student’s folder. 

The student’s dissertation advisor: 

• Assists in choosing the members of the Dissertation Committee and in confirming the eligibility of all members selected; 
• Arranges with ICDS support staff to schedule the dissertation proposal presentation; 
• Reviews progress toward completion of the research; 
• Arranges with LIS support staff to schedule the dissertation defense; 
• Chairs the dissertation defense; 
• Secures appropriate signatures from Dissertation Committee members and assures that all required paperwork is submitted in accordance with the ICDS, School of Computing and Information, and University procedures. 

Dissertation Committee

The Dissertation Committee, selected by the student and major dissertation advisor, shall consist of at least four members, with the majority being from the graduate faculty of the School of Computing and Information. At least one, but not more than two, should be from another School of the University. Work in the cognate area may provide the student with the opportunity to select an appropriate outside member for the Dissertation Committee from a discipline related to the student’s area of specialization. Upon the recommendation of the Dissertation Advisor, and with the approval of the LIS Committee on Doctoral Studies, a member may be appointed from outside the University. Outside members of the Dissertation Committee are not obligated to attend dissertation related events in person. If an outside person from another University or agency does attend in person, the ICDS Department is not responsible for covering any expenses involved in the attendance of the outside member at meetings. Finally, the major advisor proposes the members of the committee for approval to the ICDS Doctoral Program Chair and the Dean, using the Doctoral Committee Form found under “PhD Student Forms” to document approval of committee composition.

Meetings of the doctoral candidate and the Dissertation Committee must occur at least annually from the time the student gains admission to Doctoral Candidacy. During these meetings, the committee should assess the student’s progress toward the degree, discuss objectives for the following year, and project a timetable for completing degree requirements.

Any language requirement relates to proficiencies necessary for successful completion of doctoral research. Depending upon the student’s program, proficiencies in modern languages, linguistics, and/or computer languages may be specified. The student’s Dissertation Advisor will determine the language requirement in consultation with the Dissertation Committee at the time the proposal is accepted. 

Dissertation Procedural Requirements

The student must submit all forms, letters, and questionnaires related to the dissertation research to the ICDS members of the Dissertation Committee for approval before any such documents are publicly distributed.

The student is also responsible for meeting University requirements when human subjects are used in research. These requirements are enforced by the University’s Human Research Protection Office (HRPO) and the Institutional Review Board (IRB). The school has a faculty representative on the Institutional Review Board who may be contacted with questions of procedure.

Bibliographic style is best determined by the subject of the dissertation; a style manual of the student’s choice may be used for the content of the dissertation and must be applied consistently throughout.

The final approved version of the dissertation must be submitted electronically to the University. For the full instructions on the formatting and submission of Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD), please visit the University’s ETD Web site and the SCI Current Student Web site .

Dissertation Proposal Defense

Before scheduling the dissertation proposal defense, the student must have completed all required coursework, and successfully completed the Preliminary and Comprehensive Examinations, which may not be scheduled in the same term as the dissertation proposal defense.  Please complete the required form containing the scheduling information and the abstract .

The student should defend the proposal of the dissertation within 18 months of successfully completed the comprehensive exam (24 months for part-time students). All students must successfully complete the Dissertation Proposal Defense within 24 months of passing the Comprehensive Examination (36 months for part-time students). Failure to successfully complete the dissertation proposal defense within the required period of time will result in dismissal from the doctoral program.

The student should work closely with the Dissertation Advisor during the preparation of the proposal for dissertation research. Only when the proposal is reviewed and approved by the Dissertation Advisor will the student initiate the proposal defense process. The proposal must be submitted to the members of the Dissertation Committee at least two weeks before the scheduled time of the proposal defense. The presentation portion of the proposal defense is an open event and will be announced to the faculty and students in the school. If scheduling problems for committee members occur, telephone conferencing may be used. Faculty discussion about the presentation is closed and only the members of the Dissertation Committee will participate.

The Dissertation Committee must unanimously approve the dissertation topic and research plan before the student may be admitted to candidacy for the doctoral degree. However, approval of the proposal does not imply either the acceptance of a dissertation prepared in accordance with the proposal or the restriction of the dissertation to this original proposal. Please use this Proposal Defense Results form to document the results of the defense. 

For admission to formal candidacy for the PhD in LIS degree, a student must have fulfilled the following requirements:

• Passed the Preliminary Examination;
• Completed a minimum of 36 credits beyond the master’s degree with a GPA of 3.5 or higher;
• Passed the Comprehensive Examination;
• Successfully defended the dissertation proposal and received permission from the Dissertation Committee to begin research.

When these steps have been taken, the chairperson of the student’s Dissertation Committee will notify the Chair of the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies, the Chair of the Information Culture and Data Stewardship Department, and the Dean of SCI that the student has achieved formal candidacy.

In accordance with the University Regulations Pertaining to the Doctor of Philosophy, each student must write a dissertation that presents the results of a research project carried out by the student. An appropriate research project involves a substantive piece of original and independent research, grounded in an appropriate body of literature, and employing systematic methods and procedures to investigate a defined question or problem. It is relevant to an identifiable field as it is currently practiced, and provides a significant contribution or advancement in that field. It presents either a hypothesis tested by data and analysis, or an analysis of data supporting the development of a theory, or leading to new or substantially improved insights. It is the responsibility of the student’s doctoral committee to evaluate the dissertation in these terms and to recommend the awarding of the doctoral degree only if the dissertation is judged to demonstrate these qualities.

Characteristics which a dissertation should demonstrate are: 

• The establishment of a historical context for the presentation of an innovative and creative approach to the problem analysis and solution; 
• A clear understanding of the problem area as revealed by analysis and synthesis of a broad literature base; 
• A well-defined research design; 
• The clarity in composition and careful documentation; 
• Results of sufficient merit to be published in refereed journals or to form the basis of a book or monograph 
• Sufficient detail so that other scholars can build on it in subsequent work; 
• The preparation of the author to assume a position within the profession. 

Dissertation Defense

The student should work with the Dissertation Advisor to decide the right time for their dissertation defense. The student must obtain the Dissertation Advisor’s approval before initiating the dissertation defense process. The student is responsible for presenting one copy of the dissertation in final form to each member of the Dissertation Committee at least two weeks before the date of the defense. The deliverable format is to be determined by each individual committee member.

The date, time, location, and subject of the dissertation defense shall be publicized in The University Times four weeks before the defense is held. All members of the Dissertation Committee and such other persons as are interested may attend the final defense, but acceptance of the dissertation is determined by a vote of members of the Dissertation Committee. Only members of the Dissertation Committee may be present during the final deliberations and may vote on the passing of the candidate. A report of this examination, signed by all the members of the Dissertation Committee, must be sent to the ICDS Department Chair and the Dean. If the decision of the committee is not unanimous, the case is referred to the Dean for resolution. The Chair of the Dissertation Committee should ensure that the dissertation is in its final form before requesting signatures of the members of the committee.

A student who defends the dissertation, but with conditions to be met before the degree can be awarded, must meet those conditions within the required time frame: 

• Minor corrections (largely presentation, e.g., typographical errors) - to be completed within one calendar month, subject to approval by the Dissertation Advisor; 
• Substantial amendments (involving more significant revisions and/or additions, e.g., rewriting sections of chapters) - to be completed within three calendar months, subject to approval by members of the Dissertation Committee. 

In both of the above cases, the student’s statute of limitations will automatically be extended if necessary for the period specified, without the need for a petition.

A student who does not successfully defend the dissertation may revise and resubmit the dissertation for examination within the time frame allowed by their statute of limitations.

Students must be registered for at least one credit or full-time dissertation credit in the term in which they defend their dissertation. 

The student must have successfully defended their dissertation and received final approval of the dissertation, including all corrections, by the Dissertation Committee. All students apply to graduate; receipt of the graduation application initiates a review of the student’s coursework, grades, and milestone completion. As well, an international student’s SEVIS record will be updated with a new “program end date.” Registration is required for a minimum of one credit (or full-time dissertation) in the term of graduation although exceptions may be approved by the Dean’s Office on a case-by-case basis. Finally, the student’s Dissertation Chair and the School’s Director of Records must approve the submission and publication of the Electronic Thesis and Dissertation (ETD). 

For the full instructions on the formatting and submission of ETDs, please visit the University’s ETD Web site and the SCI Current Student Web site .

Statute of Limitations

All requirements for the PhD degree must be completed in not more than six calendar years from the time of first registration (or eight calendar years for part-time students). Students may, in extenuating circumstances, submit a formal request for extension of their statute of limitations or for a leave of absence from the program. Requests for either an extension to a statute of limitations or for a leave of absence are submitted through online forms; these forms are shared with the student’s advisor and then presented to the ICDS Committee on Doctoral Studies for a decision.

In all other matters of policy, see the University and School’s Catalogs, then consult with the School’s Director of Academic Records. 

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Library and Information Science PhD

Our PhD in Library and Information Science  empowers students to learn and analyze the information needs of users — applying a variety of tools and technologies to locate and evaluate information and to organize, manage, and preserve information and materials so they become accessible sources of knowledge.

Our flexible program allows you to take classes fully online, at our Boston campus, or a combination of both. Core courses are offered in synchronous and asynchronous online formats with electives that may be taken either online or face-to-face. You'll work closely with experienced faculty and other master's and doctoral students through analytical papers, experience reports, teaching and service activities and self-reflective essays. Our students emerge from this degree with a record of publications, professional experience and an extensive portfolio.

The School of Library and Information Science has an established reputation for producing leaders in professional service at local, national and international levels. You'll benefit from an extensive alumni community (and the New England LIS community) that enriches the doctoral experience. Our program emphasizes scholarship, teaching, and service and prepares students for research and faculty positions.

Students are required to complete 36 credit hours to achieve the Ph.D. degree. Of these 36 credit hours, 15 are devoted to required coursework and three are devoted to the dissertation. The remaining 18 credits are elective courses. Students often take independent study courses for their research projects or research-related courses at the masters' level or at the doctoral level of other disciplines.

One of the following:

Below is a listing of the required courses:

The PhD program in Library and Information Science (PhD/LIS) is composed of a cohesive and collaborative cohort of students who are mentored from enrollment through completion of the dissertation. This flexible PhD/LIS program is unique in its guided preparation in the three areas of research, teaching, and service.

During the program, students are able to research a variety of dissertation topics within library and information science as well as information professions. Students emerge from the program with a strong research record, solid teaching experience, a high professional activity standing, and a portfolio documenting their academic achievements and scholarly expertise in their areas of study. Students work with a faculty advisor to tailor the program to their interests and career goals.

Recent Doctoral Topics of Research Include:

• Envisioning the library’s role in scholarly communication in the year 2025 
• Tips, tools and tendencies: Toward a grant management theory 
• Evaluation of strategic plans in academic medical libraries 
• Leading from the middle of the organization: An examination of shared leadership in academic libraries 
• Strategic Priorities and Change in Academic Libraries 
• Diversity in graduate archival education programs
• Repurposing digital objects: Seven case studies across the publishing and information industries

Through a combination of required and elective courses, independent study, workshops, and guided experiences, the PhD focused on library and information science prepares students for lifelong activity in research, scholarship, teaching, and service. Students work closely with faculty as they progress through the degree, and are guided by faculty advisors and annual reviews of progress as evidenced by analytical papers and other course work, experience reports related to teaching and service activities, and self-reflective essays. The doctoral program is a small, strong program composed of students who form a cohesive and collaborative cohort, and who will be nurtured from enrollment through to completion of the dissertation.

Program Attributes

• The program provides guided preparation in the three areas of scholarship, teaching, and service.
• Students emerge from the degree with a record of publications, teaching experience, a professional activity record, and a portfolio.
• Simmons is small and personal, but at the same time has excellent bibliographical and technological resources and can draw on a robust local library and information community.
• There are rich opportunities for synergy between the doctoral and master's students. Collaborative research and group work enriches the learning experience and fosters a stimulating classroom environment. Doctoral students offer colloquia open to master's students, and mentoring opportunities are available.
• SLIS has an established reputation for producing leaders in professional service at local, national, and international levels. Interaction with the SLIS alumni community (and the New England LIS community) enriches the doctoral student experience.

Areas of Study

Doctoral studies can be conducted at various intersections of setting, audience, and activity. Some examples of study areas which build on strengths among our faculty include archives and preservation, reference, metadata, scholarly communication, information retrieval and visual information systems.

Student Learning Outcomes

A graduate of the Simmons SLIS PhD program:

• Demonstrates in-depth familiarity with scholarship in the field of library, archival, and information science;
• Articulates prominent theories in the field of library, archival, and information science;
• Identifies researchable problems and applies relevant research studies, research designs, and methodologies to tasks requiring problem solving and critical thinking;
• Analyzes and presents information, including research proposals and findings, clearly and accurately in a variety of formats;
• Conducts qualitative, quantitative or mixed method research studies by engaging in reflective inquiry, performing data collection and analysis, composing research reports, and producing publications and a dissertation;
• Engages in teaching activities, develops appropriate unit- or course-level student learning outcomes, and plans and implements learning experiences that assist students to achieve those outcomes; and
• Leads service activities for local, national, or international professional associations and communities.

Approved by SLIS Faculty on October 18, 2017.

Our Faculty

Adam Kriesberg

Assistant Professor and Co-Director of Dual Degree MS LIS-Archives and MA History Program

Daniel Joudrey

Professor and Director of Libraries and Librarianship Concentration

Assistant Professor

Katherine Wisser

Associate Professor and Masters Program Director, Director Archives Concentration, and Director of Archives Certificate Program

Laura Saunders

Professor and Associate Dean of SLIS

Lisa Hussey

Kyong Eun Oh

Associate Professor and Director PhD Program

Melanie Kimball

Associate Professor and Director, School Library Teacher Concentration

Naresh Agarwal

Professor and Director of Information Science & Tech Concentration

Peter Botticelli

Associate Professor and Director, Cultural Heritage Informatics Concentration

Rebecca Stallworth

Rhiannon Bettivia

Sanda Erdelez

Dean, School of Library and Information Science

Professor Emerita

Heather Hole

Professor and Director of Arts Administration

Spotlight on Library and Information Science PhD Students and Alums

Library and Information Science PhD Student Named Acting Director of IMLS

Cyndee Landrum, a student in the Simmons University Library and Information Science PhD, has been named Acting Director of the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS).

• Awards and Honors
• Internships & Careers

Simmons School of Library and Information Science Student Empowers LGBTQIA+ Community

Jason Homer ’11MS, ’26PhD, Executive Director of the Worcester Library, works with his community to promote inclusivity, challenge pre-existing assumptions, and empower library patrons. Homer spoke with MassLive about his journey.

Boston Public Library President David Leonard Ph.D. ’25 Discusses How Libraries Create Meaning and Belonging

SLIS doctoral student David Leonard presides over one of the greatest libraries in the country. He spoke with us about his longstanding fascination with libraries and the significant role that libraries play for their communities. How did you become interested...

Dr. Brenda Mitchell-Powell '75 '08MS '15PhD Publishes Breakthrough Book on Civil Rights History

In her new book, Public in Name Only: The 1939 Alexandria Sit-In Demonstration (University of Massachusetts Press), SLIS alumna Dr. Brenda Mitchell-Powell uncovers a little-known library demonstration which, she argues, was an important moment in civil rights history. What is...

When Protests Erupt: Alameda County Librarian Cindy Chadwick ’17PhD Shares Tips for Safe Library Events

On June 11, 2022, a Drag Queen Story Hour held at the Alameda County (CA) Library was disrupted by Proud Boys protestors. This event was part of the month-long Pride Celebration held by Alameda County Library, and many public libraries...

• Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
• Social Justice & Advocacy

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Doctor of Library Science Programs in America

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UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies

• Los Angeles, CA ·
• University of California - Los Angeles ·
• Graduate School
• · Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

University of California - Los Angeles ,

Graduate School ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I went to the UCLA Teachers Education Program to be a teacher. Overall, the program was good and very aligned with its focus (social justice). Because I graduated from UCLA, it was pretty easy to... .

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School of Information and Library Science - University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Chapel Hill, NC ·
• University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ·

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ,

CHAPEL HILL, NC ,

University of Wisconsin - Information School

• Madison, WI ·
• University of Wisconsin ·

University of Wisconsin ,

MADISON, WI ,

LaFetra College of Education

• University of La Verne ·
• Graduate School ·
• LA VERNE, CA
• · Rating 4.44 out of 5   9

School of Computing and Information - University of Pittsburgh

• University of Pittsburgh ·
• PITTSBURGH, PA
• · Rating 2.5 out of 5   2

College of Law and Public Service - University of La Verne

• ONTARIO, CA
• · Rating 3.75 out of 5   8
• Pittsburgh, PA ·
• · Rating 2.5 out of 5   2 reviews

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University of Pittsburgh ,

PITTSBURGH, PA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 2.5 stars.

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College of Information Studies - University of Maryland

• College Park, MD ·
• University of Maryland - College Park ·

University of Maryland - College Park ,

COLLEGE PARK, MD ,

School of Informatics, Computing and Engineering - Indiana University - Bloomington

• Bloomington, IN ·
• Indiana University - Bloomington ·

Indiana University - Bloomington ,

BLOOMINGTON, IN ,

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Rutgers University School of Arts and Sciences

• New Brunswick, NJ ·
• Rutgers University–New Brunswick ·
• · Rating 4.2 out of 5   5 reviews

Rutgers University–New Brunswick ,

NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says I had a lot of support, I met a lot of great people, we grew together and guided each other. The housing situation was also pretty decent. They have a large variety of programs and a lot of electives... .

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College of Information and Communications - University of South Carolina

• Columbia, SC ·
• University of South Carolina ·

University of South Carolina ,

COLUMBIA, SC ,

University of Arizona College of Science

• Tucson, AZ ·
• University of Arizona ·

University of Arizona ,

TUCSON, AZ ,

College of Organizational, Computational, and Information Sciences - Simmons University

• Boston, MA ·
• Simmons University ·

Simmons University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

Dominican University School of Information Studies

• River Forest, IL ·
• Dominican University ·

Dominican University ,

RIVER FOREST, IL ,

School of Library and Information Management - Emporia State University

• Emporia, KS ·
• Emporia State University ·
• · Rating 4.71 out of 5   7 reviews

Emporia State University ,

EMPORIA, KS ,

7 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Great professors, relevant curriculum! Online program makes it possible for me to work full time and work towards achieving a degree. Good experience. .

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College of Arts and Sciences - Texas Woman's University

• Denton, TX ·
• Texas Woman's University ·
• · Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Texas Woman's University ,

DENTON, TX ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Coming to Denton, Texas from Nampa, Idaho to start graduate school was incredibly intimidating. Going into the JMSW program blind, I did not know any of my professors, let alone any of my classmates,... .

College of Liberal and Creative Arts - San Francisco State University

• San Francisco State University ·
• SAN FRANCISCO, CA

San Francisco Bay University

• FREMONT, CA
• · Rating 3 out of 5   2

College of Health and Social Sciences - San Francisco State University

• · Rating 4 out of 5   1

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Best Doctorates in Library Science: Top PhD Programs, Career Paths, and Salaries

A PhD in Library Science can open up a world of opportunities for library professionals. With a PhD, you can work as a librarian in a public or academic library, conduct research, or teach at the college or university level. There are many library science jobs available to those with a library science PhD degree .

So if you’re looking to level up your career and want to enroll in the best PhD in library science, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll discuss the top PhD programs in library science, as well as career opportunities and salaries for those with a library science degree.

Find your bootcamp match

What is a phd in library science.

A PhD in Library Science is a research degree that prepares students for careers in library and information science. Students in a library science PhD program conduct research on topics such as information retrieval, library management, digital libraries, and user behavior. They also learn about the history of libraries and the ways they have changed over time.

How to Get Into a Library Science PhD Program: Admission Requirements 

The requirements to get into a library science PhD program are a Master’s Degree in Library Science, school transcripts, and an acceptable GPA. some library science programs require that you take the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). You’ll also need to provide a statement of purpose, a written sample of your previous research, and letters of recommendation.

Admission requirements for library science PhD programs vary. Some strictly require a master’s degree from an American Library Association (ALA) accredited institution, while others don’t. Some programs may also require you to have experience working in a library.

PhD in Library Science Admission Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Library Science from ALA-accredited institute
• Transcripts of all previous education
• Statement of purpose
• Writing sample of prior research
• Letters of recommendation

Library Science PhD Acceptance Rates: How Hard Is It to Get Into a PhD Program in Library Science?

It’s hard to get a PhD in Library Science. In fact, getting admission in PhD in any subject is not easy. The acceptance rate for library science PhD programs varies but is generally very competitive. For instance, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill only has a 24 percent overall school acceptance rate, which also indicates that PhD acceptance there can be challenging.

How to Get Into the Best Universities

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Best PhDs in Library Science: In Brief

Best Universities for Library Science PhDs: Where to Get a PhD in Library Science

Some of the best universities for library science PhD include Simmons University, University of South Carolina, and University of Pittsburgh. You’ll also get the best library science doctoral degree from Indiana University, Rutgers University, and Emporia State University. In this section, you’ll learn about more of these schools and their library science PhD programs.

Dominican University was founded in 1890 as a private university. It comprises eight schools, offering 19 master's and PhD programs. The student-to-faculty ratio is 10-to-one, making it easier for students to get individualized attention. Dominican University is consistently ranked as the fourth best value school by US News & World Report .

PhD in Library and Information Science

This PhD program is an accelerated four-year degree. The first year of the program is dedicated to graduate-level coursework, and the next three years are devoted to PhD study. Some of the major courses offered include Studies in Core Values, Ethics, and Issues in the Library and Information Professions, Organization of Knowledge, and Big Data & Competitive Intelligence.

PhD in Library and Information Science Overview

• Program Length: 4 years
• Acceptance Rate: 76% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $850/credit
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, financial aids

PhD in Library and Information Science Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institute
• 1500-word statement of purpose and resume
• Research writing sample
• Official transcripts of all educational degrees

Emporia State University (ESU) has one of the oldest schools of library sciences in the western half of the US. This public research university was founded in 1863. Now, it has more than 200 academic programs across four colleges.

PhD in Library and Information Management

The program consists of four advanced courses, four research courses, and four foundational courses in a concentration. It’s offered in three concentrations: Instructional Design and Technology, Information Systems, and Informatics. This doctorate program prepares students for higher education roles, such as researchers, instructors, and administrators.

PhD in Library and Information Management Overview

• Program Length: 3 years
• Acceptance Rate: 86% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $3,467/semester (in-state), $7,425/semester (out-of-state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Graduate assistantships, scholarships, fellowships

PhD in Library and Information Management Admission Requirements

• Cumulative GPA of 3.25 in master’s degree
• Minimum GRE score of 304
• 3 letters of recommendation
• 200-300 word statement of purpose
• Written work sample

Indiana University Bloomington is a public research university. Founded in 1820, it’s the main campus of Indiana University and the largest of its seven campuses by enrollment. Over 43,000 students are enrolled in this school, making it the largest campus of Indiana University. Most of Indiana University Bloomington's programs are highly ranked nationwide.

PhD in Information Science

Indiana University Bloomington is one of the oldest information science doctoral programs in the nation. Areas of research include archives, critical information, library science, digital libraries, philosophy of information, and information ethics. The program has produced many notable alumni who have gone on to careers in academia and industry.

PhD in Information Science Overview

• Acceptance Rate: 80% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $7,092/semester (in-state), $20,967/semester (out-of-state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, scholarships

PhD in Information Science Admission Requirements

• CGPA of 3.2 in bachelor’s degree and 3.5 or better in master’s degree
• Writing sample (may be a publication, a grant proposal, or a technical white paper)

Rutgers University is known as a research powerhouse. This university has three campuses, 29 schools and colleges, and more than 300 research institutes throughout New Jersey. It offers more than 400 graduate programs and is home to nearly 69,000 students. The university was founded in 1766 and is one of the oldest and largest universities in New Jersey.

PhD Library and Information Science

Rutgers University is a world-renowned institution for PhD in Library and Information Science. The program faculty are at the forefront of knowledge in their fields, with numerous publications to their credit. The research areas in this PhD program include but are not limited to human information behavior, information retrieval, and information and technology.

PhD Library and Information Science Overview

• Acceptance Rate: 67% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $43,807/year (in state), $61,892/year (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, graduate assistantships, and fellowships, grant funding

PhD Library and Information Science Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s and master’s transcripts
• Personal statement
• Writing sample

San Jose State University (SJSU) is located at the center of Silicon Valley, making it a prime location for students interested in technology and innovation. The university is research-focused and is known for its world-class education. SJSU was founded in 1857 as a state normal school, and today has nine colleges and 36,000 enrollments.

Gateway PhD in Library and Information Management

SJSU's Gateway PhD in Library and Information Management is an international doctoral degree program that partners with Manchester Metropolitan University, England. It’s focused on research and prepares scholars for faculty and research positions. Students have the opportunity to get knowledge, supervision, and experience from the faculty of both universities.

Gateway PhD in Library and Information Management Overview

• Program Length: 4-7 years
• Tuition and Fees: $10,794/year
• PhD Funding Opportunities: No funding opportunities

Gateway PhD in Library and Information Management Admission Requirements

• Master's Degree in Communication, Information Science, Library Studies, Media Studies or another related academic or professional field
• A minimum 3.5 GPA from a relevant master’s degree
• Demonstrate research experience gained in master’s (master’s thesis or the research publication at master’s level)
• 250-word statement of interest and a letter of recommendation
• 500-word research proposal and a resume
• Copies of transcripts of all previous degrees

Simmons University is a private research university founded in 1899 focused on advancing education for women. With over 4,500 graduate students, it’s now a coeducational university offering more than 60 majors and programs. Simmons University is committed to providing students with opportunities for both on-site and off-site research.

Simmons University is one of the nation's leading institutions for library and information science. Its Library and Information Science program is ranked 11th in the country by US News & World Report. The program is focused on envisioning the library's function in academic communication, strategic priorities in academic libraries, and library technology management.

• Acceptance Rate: 83% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $1,345/credit
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Teaching assistantships, scholarships, fellowships
• Master’s degree
• Statement of purpose 
• Character references (academic or professional)
• Official transcript of previous education

University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill is one of the oldest public research universities in the US. This school was chartered in 1789. It now offers over 160 graduate and doctoral degrees and is known for its high-quality and affordable education. It’s also ranked as the sixth most innovative university in the World by Reuters.

PhD in Information and Library Science

UNC at Chapel Hill offers an outstanding Doctor of Philosophy in Information and Library Science program. It provides students with opportunities in research, leadership, and teaching. Admission to the program is competitive. Scholars who complete the program have career opportunities in schools, corporate settings, and government libraries.

PhD in Information and Library Science Overview

• Acceptance Rate: 24% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $586/credit (in state), $1,602/credit (out of state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Financial aid, research and teaching assistantship, fellowships, external awards

PhD in Information and Library Science Admission Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or higher
• Unofficial transcripts of previous education
• Resume 

University of Pittsburgh is one of the most prestigious public universities in Pennsylvania. Founded in 1787, the university has grown to include four regional campuses, 16 schools and colleges, and 645 degree and certificate programs. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 14-to-one, the University provides its students with an intimate and interactive learning experience.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science program prepares scholars for careers in education, research, and professional practice. Students will learn about archives and information science, school librarianship, and web-based information systems. The program requires a minimum of 54 credits of coursework and 18 credits of research and dissertation.

• Acceptance Rate: 64% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $1,031/credit (in-state), $1,767/credit (out-of-state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, awards, fellowships, assistantships
• Master’s degree accredited by American Library Association (ALA) in a related field
• Minimum of 3.5 GPA
• Essay 
• Letters of reference (academic or professional)
• Official transcripts

Founded in 1801, University of South Carolina (USC) has 13 graduate schools offering over 250 graduate programs. USC is an R1 institution designated by the Carnegie Research Classifications. It has 56 graduate programs ranked nationally. USC has over 6,000 graduate students and is committed to the diversity and inclusion of African-Americans.

The PhD program is research-intensive and trains students for jobs as academics and administrators in research institutes and universities. Admission to this PhD program is competitive. This 54-credit curriculum covers a broad range of topics, so students may do research in a number of areas with the aid of this program.

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• Acceptance Rate: 68% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $599/credit (in-state), $1,257/credit (out-of-state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Sponsorships, awards, grants
• Official transcripts from previous colleges and universities
• Minimum of 3.0 GPA 

Founded in 1848, University of Wisconsin-Madison is one of the leading research institutions in the US. It’s among the top schools for research spending and has Nobel Prize winners among its faculty. It has 13 schools and colleges, including over 160 master's and doctoral programs, and about 9,700 graduate students.

PhD in Library and Information Studies

The program is highly writing-intensive, with all students required to complete a comprehensive dissertation prior to graduation. Classes in this PhD degree program are small, with only a handful of students admitted each year. The program offers two concentrations, which include information studies and print culture history. PhD students may get a five-year fully funded scholarship.

PhD in Library and Information Studies Overview

• Program Length: 3-5 years
• Acceptance Rate: 57% (overall school acceptance rate)
• Tuition and Fees: $12,220/year (in-state), $25,548/year (out-of-state)
• PhD Funding Opportunities: Scholarships, assistantships, loans, research and travel grants, fellowships

PhD in Library and Information Studies Admission Requirements

• Master’s degree in a related field 
• Minimum of 3.0 GPA

Can You Get a PhD in Library Science Online?

Yes, you can also get a PhD in Library Science online. Some universities offer online programs for Library Science degrees that are flexible and convenient for working professionals. Some of the best online PhDs in library science are given in the below table.

Best Online PhD Programs in Library Science

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Library Science?

It typically takes three to five years to complete a PhD in Library Science. This time is spent on earning coursework credits, conducting research, and writing a dissertation. The first year is usually spent on coursework, while the rest is spent on your research, thesis, and final defense.

Is a PhD in Library Science Hard?

Yes, a PhD in Library Science is hard because you have to work independently most of the time. Plus, the burden of meeting deadlines is only on you. In fact, taking a PhD in any subject is challenging to complete, as it requires discipline, dedication, and hard work.

However, the rewards of obtaining a PhD are many. With a Doctorate in Library Science, you can pursue a career in library science in the academia or research fields. You’ll also be able to command a higher salary.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a PhD in Library Science?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), it costs an average of $19,792 per year to get a PhD in Library Science. The average cost to get a PhD from a public university is $12,410 per year. In comparison, the average cost of getting a PhD from a private university is $26,597 per year, according to NCES.

How to Pay for a PhD in Library Science: PhD Funding Options

You can pay for a PhD in Library Science through student loans, scholarships, or fellowships. Some students also apply for grants from their schools, the government, or private organizations. Others may work as research assistants or teaching assistants to help pay for their education.

Best Online Master’s Degrees

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What Is the Difference Between a Library Science Master’s Degree and a PhD?

The main difference between a Library Science Master’s Degree and a PhD is that a doctoral degree is more of a research degree, while a master’s degree is a professional degree. A PhD prepares students for careers in academia or research. A master’s degree prepares students for careers as librarians or information professionals.

Another difference between these two is the program length. A PhD in Library Science typically takes three to five years to complete. A Master’s Degree in Library Science can be completed in one and a half to two years.

Master’s vs PhD in Library Science Job Outlook

The job outlook for both Master’s and PhD Library Science graduates is positive from 2020 to 2030. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job projections for librarians with master’s degrees will grow by nine percent . On the other hand, the job growth forecast for those with PhD degrees is 12 percent .

Difference in Salary for Library Science Master’s vs PhD

The difference between the salaries of master’s and PhD holders is not significant. According to the BLS, the median salary for PhD degree holders is $1,909 per week. The median weekly salary for those with a master’s degree as their highest educational attainment is $1,574.

Related Library Science Degrees

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Why You Should Get a PhD in Library Science

You should get a PhD in Library Science if you’re looking for a career in academia or research. With a PhD, you’ll be able to teach at the university level and conduct research. You’ll also have the opportunity to work in high-level positions in libraries or information organizations.

Reasons for Getting a PhD in Library Science

• More job opportunities. With a PhD in Library Science, you’ll have access to more job opportunities than with a master’s degree. You’ll also be qualified for jobs that require higher levels of education and experience.
• Higher salary. If you have a PhD in Library Science, you can pursue higher-level positions and command a greater salary. Having a PhD will give you an edge in the job market and help you land the job of your dreams.
• Research contribution. A Doctorate in Library Science gives you the opportunity to conduct research and investigate different library practices. You can contribute to the knowledge base in the field. Your research can be used to inform policy decisions and help shape the future of libraries.
• High expertise. A PhD in Library Science makes you an expert in your field. You’ll be able to offer leadership and direction to library services. You’ll conduct research, manage projects, and help people find the information they need.

Getting a PhD in Library Science: Library Science PhD Coursework

The coursework for a library science PhD program covers a broad range of topics including archival arrangement, information retrieval, and organization of knowledge. Students also learn about information technology and research in library and information science. Below are brief descriptions of each course.

Archival Arrangement

In this course, students will learn about the principles of archival arrangement. They will learn about different archival theories and practices, such as provenance and original order. They will also learn about how to arrange digital archives.

Organization of Knowledge

In this course, students will learn about different models of organizing knowledge, such as the Dewey Decimal System and the Library of Congress Classification system. They will also learn about how knowledge is organized in digital environments.

Information Retrieval

This course covers different aspects of information retrieval, such as search engines and information literacy. Students will learn about different information retrieval systems, such as Boolean searches. They will also learn about how to evaluate and select information sources.

Information Technology

This course covers different aspects of information technology, such as hardware and software. Students will learn about different types of information technology, such as databases and digital libraries. They will also understand how to manage information technology projects in relation to library science.

Research in Library and Information Science

This course covers research methods and design in library and information science. Students will learn about different research approaches , such as qualitative and quantitative research. They will also learn how to develop research proposals and conduct literature reviews.

Best Master’s Degrees

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How to Get a PhD in Library Science: Doctoral Program Requirements

The requirements to get a PhD in Library Science include a comprehensive exam, coursework credits, teaching practicum, dissertation process, and final thesis defense. It also requires getting taking a research methodology course and maintaining a required GPA.

The comprehensive exam is a written and oral examination that tests your knowledge of library science. You’ll be expected to answer questions about library theory, research methods, and information technology.

You’ll need to complete a certain number of credit hours to graduate with a PhD in Library Science. The required coursework credits vary by school, but most programs require between 36 and 60 credit hours.

Most PhD in Library Science programs require a research methodology course. This course will teach you about different research methods. You’ll learn about how to design research studies, collect data, and analyze data.

Many PhD programs in Library Science require a teaching practicum. This is an opportunity for you to gain experience teaching library science courses. You’ll be required to teach one or two classes during your practicum.

To graduate with your PhD in Library Science, you’ll need to maintain a certain GPA. The required GPA varies by school, but most programs require a GPA of 3.0 or higher.

A thesis is required for a PhD in Library Science. Your thesis will be a research project that you complete during your time in the doctoral program. You’ll need to choose a topic, conduct research, and write a dissertation.

After you complete your thesis, you’ll need to defend it before a panel of faculty members and students. During your defense, you’ll be asked questions about your research. You’ll need to convince the panel that your research is valid and that your conclusions are sound.

Potential Careers With a Library Science Degree

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PhD in Library Science Salary and Job Outlook

PhD in Library Science salary and job outlook are good. With a PhD, you can become a postsecondary teacher, librarian, archivist, or library media specialist. The job outlook for these positions ranges from eight to 19 percent, which is as fast or faster than the outlook of other occupations. The demand for qualified librarians is expected to grow in the coming years.

What Can You Do With a PhD in Library Science?

There are many different types of jobs that you can get with a PhD in Library Science, including digital librarianship, archive manager, and information scientist. You can also be a postsecondary teacher and database administrator.

Best Jobs with a PhD in Library Science

• Computer and Information System Manager
• Database Administrator
• Librarian and Library Media Specialist
• Library Science Postsecondary Teacher

What Is the Average Salary for a PhD in Library Science?

The average salary for a PhD in Library and Information Science is $55,000 per year, according to PayScale. However, the average annual salary for a PhD degree holder in any subject is $100,000. Ultimately, the salary of a library science PhD holder depends on the school they graduated from, the position they assume, and the experience they have, as seen in the table below.

Highest-Paying Library Science Jobs for PhD Grads

Best Library Science Jobs with a Doctorate

The best library science jobs with a doctoral degree are those that are in high demand, have a positive job outlook, and offer a good salary. Some of the best jobs for library science PhDs are discussed below.

A computer and information system manager is responsible for the overall planning, implementation, and maintenance of an organization's electronic data and information systems. They are also in charge of the security of an organization's electronic data.

• Salary with a Library Science PhD: $165,940
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 482,000
• Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey, Washington, District of Columbia

Database administrators (DBAs) use specialized software to store and organize data. They make sure that users can access the information easily. DBAs develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure the database is used effectively. They also maintain and update the databases.

• Salary with a Library Science PhD: $98,860
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 168,000
• Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Massachusetts, Washington, New York, Rhode Island

Library science postsecondary teachers teach courses in library science in universities. They prepare and deliver lectures, create syllabi, and assess student learning. They also conduct research and publish scholarly papers.

• Salary with a Library Science PhD: $77,100
• Job Outlook: 12% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,276,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, South Carolina, Indiana, Rhode Island, Oregon

Librarians and library media specialists are responsible for library administration, including acquisition, cataloging, and circulation of library materials. They also provide reference materials and research services to library patrons. They may also develop and implement library programs.

• Salary with a Library Science PhD: $62,550
• Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 143,500
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, California, Maryland, New York

Archivists preserve historical records. They organize and store records, documents, and artifacts. Archivists also provide reference services to library visitors. They also protect the old records by making digital copies of them.

• Salary with a Library Science PhD: $50,120
• Job Outlook: 19% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 35,000
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Maryland, Connecticut, New York, Rhode Island

Is a PhD in Library Science Worth It?

Yes, a PhD in Library Science is worth it. With a PhD, you’ll be able to work as a professor and researcher. You can also become a librarian, archivist, information officer, or library media specialist. If you’re interested in research, a PhD in Library Science will give you the skills you need to conduct research and write scholarly papers. Overall, a PhD in Library Science is a good investment.

Additional Reading About Library Science

[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-schools-for-library-science/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/how-to-become-a-librarian/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-schools-for-information-science/

PhD in Library Science FAQ

Based on our list, the salary for library science professions ranges from $50,120 to $165,000 per year. This pay may vary depending on the role, tenure, and years of experience.

Yes, a Postdoc in Library Science can be worth it if you’re a knowledge-seeker and you want to further pursue your career in research and academia. A postdoc may give you an edge in getting a promotion in academia. If you’re a librarian, archivist, information specialist, or in any library science field other than academia, you’re not required to get a postdoc.

The four types of libraries are public libraries, academic libraries, school libraries, and special libraries. Public libraries serve the general public. Academic libraries serve the students and faculty of colleges and universities. School libraries serve the students and faculty of K-12 schools. Special libraries serve specific organizations or groups of people.

Yes, library science is in demand, with the job outlook for library science professions ranging from eight to 19 percent. There is a growing need for qualified librarians and library media specialists. This is due to the increasing use of libraries and the increasing amount of information that needs to be organized and accessed.

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Ph. D. in Library and Information Science | Ph.D. LIS

Department of Library and information Science offers Doctor of Philosophy in Library and Information Science program to those who are interested in research, and offers advanced knowledge which enables one to become specialized in an area of study related to librarianship, library management and information and communication technology. The emphasis is on conducting original research with production of significant research findings, and there by contributing such findings so that it becomes an accessible source of public knowledge. The DLIS, Somaiya Vidyavihar University has an eminent research guide with professional and teaching experience in the field of Library and Information Science. 

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Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS)

The Master of Library & Information Science (MLIS) program at UCLA provides students with a blend of conceptual and theoretical knowledge and practical experience. In the classroom, students acquire a solid foundation in contemporary library, archival, and information science theory, information seeking and retrieval skills, and information technology expertise.

Outside the classroom, the internship program, involving over 250 organizations across Southern California, extends classroom learning by giving students the opportunity to apply their theoretical insights and practical skills in a professional environment.

Our students are mentored for leadership in whatever field of information work they choose to enter. The program has near 100% work placement within six months of graduation. We do this by providing:

• Face-to-face classroom instruction
• A wide choice of specializations and course offerings
• Internship opportunities
• Individual advisors
• Mentoring programs
• Teamwork experience
• Support for student participation in professional organizations
• The opportunity for students either to compile a portfolio in which they assess and present their career-related activities to date, or to write a thesis presenting the results of original research

The UCLA MLIS program is accredited by the American Library Association (ALA) and is one of the most innovative and comprehensive in the country. Our graduates are highly successful and accomplished information professionals who work in a wide variety of institutions after graduation.

Academic Information

Program overview.

The goals of the UCLA MLIS program include:

• To provide students with a coherent program of study that includes broad preparation in foundational knowledge and skills as well as opportunities to cultivate more specialized areas of interest
• To ensure that students have the cultural competency to engage with and advocate for a diverse range of information environments
• To provide students with the technological and intellectual fluency, ethics, skills and knowledge necessary to thrive, innovate and critically intervene in a diverse range of information environments
• To ensure that all students are enabled to take advantage of a broad array of professionally appropriate internship and field experience opportunities

Program Specializations

Archival Studies

Courses in this area explore the full spectrum of archival materials (e.g., paper and electronic records, manuscripts, still and moving images, oral history), the theory that underlies recordkeeping, archival policy development, and memory-making, and the historical roles that recordkeeping, archives, and documentary evidence play in a pluralized and increasingly global society. In addition to covering traditional archives and manuscripts theory and practice, this area of specialization addresses the dramatic expansion of the archival field. Advanced seminars and an outstanding array of internship opportunities prepare students to play leadership roles in archives and manuscripts administration, records management, archival education and training, preservation, digital curatorship, recordkeeping policy development, archival systems design, electronic records management, and digital asset management.

Informatics

The field of informatics is premised on the observation that successful integration of information services into society requires a sophisticated understanding of the ways in which information technologies function as vehicles of power and social action. Students who complete this specialization will be uniquely well-equipped to design modern information services, including digital libraries, data repositories, metadata services, and search engines, in a wide variety of institutional contexts, such as community archives, cultural heritage, e-commerce, electronic publishing, and government. Courses explore theories of information-seeking behavior and information use, user-centered approaches to information system design, human-computer interaction, database design and management, and information policy, including intellectual property, informational privacy, and internet governance.

Library Studies

Students selecting this specialization learn about the functional activities associated with the profession of librarianship, such as collection development, public services, cataloging and classification, service to children and young adults, and outreach to underserved populations. Students may also take classes that prepare them to work in a particular type of library, such as public, academic, or corporate. The specialization stresses the core values of the profession as articulated by the American Library Association: access, confidentiality and privacy, democracy, education and lifelong learning, intellectual freedom, preservation, the public good, professionalism, service, and social responsibility. When students graduate, not only will they have the basic professional skills expected of all beginning librarians, they will also have an understanding of the dynamic nature of the field that will enable them to develop as leaders for the profession.

Media Archival Studies

The Media Archival Studies (MAS) specialization focuses on the full range of historical, contemporary, and emergent media-making contexts and formats and the unique challenges they pose, from 19th-century optical devices through classical Hollywood cinema to the emerging sound, image, and video formats of today. Students in this specialization explore how theories and concepts of archival practice are most effectively applied to the particular needs and characteristics of all kinds of recorded media. This broad-based approach to media making, description, preservation and management encourages students to develop a highly adaptable professional skill set that allows them to keep pace in an environment of constant technological change. Classes and seminars are complemented with opportunities for practicum and internship experiences at world-class archives, major motion picture studios, and technical service providers in Los Angeles and beyond.

Rare Books/Print and Visual Culture

This specialization provides a foundation in the history of literacy technologies, from early writing and manuscript culture through print and digital format, and addresses contemporary challenges for thinking about digital scholarship and special collections. It engages in active discussion of the ways legacy collections meet diversity initiatives in expanding horizons for scholarship and research. Drawing on archival science, bibliography, digital humanities, and librarianship, courses explore the professional and historical aspects of activities in rare books, print history, and visual resources, including ongoing scholarship about the nature of literacy, cataloging and metadata, intellectual property, the politics of publishing and distribution, and the creation and use of digital and digitized special collections.

MLIS Internship Program

The UCLA Department of Information Studies operates a dynamic and progressive internship program.

This program provides students enrolled in the MLIS or Ph.D. degree programs with a wide range of opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in a structured professional environment under the supervision, guidance and mentoring of current practitioners in the information profession.

The internship program has been in place since the 1970s and has grown to include nearly 250 sites. Our Los Angeles location allows us to offer an exciting and diverse range of local internship sites. Our program is highly regarded among local organizations and companies.

Internship Sites

Among those working with UCLA to offer internships to our students are:

• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art
• Los Angeles Public Library Huntington Library
• Statewide California Electronic Library Consortium (SCELC)

More than 20 internships are also available within UCLA, such as:

• Fowler Museum
• UCLA College Library
• UCLA Digital Collections Services
• UCLA Ethnomusicology Archive
• UCLA Film and Television Archive
• UCLA Special Collections

MLIS Core Curriculum

The MLIS core curriculum provides a coherent program of study for all MLIS students. Each core course is taught face-to-face by a member of regular faculty. Each course includes the needs and perspectives of every MLIS specialization, and each addresses issues relating to ethics and values.

After completing the MLIS core, students will be able to articulate key concepts, advocate fundamental values, formulate policies, and demonstrate the advanced intellectual, technological, and managerial skills needed to practice, lead, and innovate in the information professions. They will also be able to apply the highest ethical standards in their professional information practice. They will appreciate the needs of diverse communities and be able to design and provide systems and services that are appropriate in a multicultural society. Every core course is offered every year. Full-time MLIS students are normally expected to complete all of the core courses during their first year.

What Graduates Do

MLIS alumni go on to do amazing work in their fields. This information is designed to provide an introduction to the diverse research interests of MLIS scholars.

Lauren Trujillo

Trujillo created an online archive of mourning for the victims of the Isla Vista shootings which took place near the University of California, Santa Barbara in May of 2014. Trujillo earned her MLIS with a specialization in Media Archival Studies. She has served internships at the Santa Barbara Mission Archive Library, IV Memorial Project, the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, La Casa de la Raza, and the Self Enquiry Life Fellowship.

Jesse Erickson

’14, mlis; ’16, ph.d..

Erikson serves in three interconnected positions at the University of Maryland: coordinator of special collections and digital humanities at the University of Delaware Library, Museums, and Press; assistant professor in the Department of English; and associate director of the Interdisciplinary Humanities Research Center.

Eva Mitnick

Mitnick serves as director of the Los Angeles Public Library’s Engagement and Learning Division, creating, overseeing, and supporting a wide range of LAPL programs throughout the system’s 72 branches and the Central Library on 5th Street. Her career at the LAPL began when she served as a children’s librarian at various branches from 1989 to 2005.

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Shape the future of information..

At the College of Information Science, you'll gain the skills you need to thrive in tomorrow's information-savvy workforce, whether you're on campus or online.  

About the College

What is Information Science?

Arizona's Information Science College

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"The InfoSci experience holds profound significance for me as it represents a journey of discovery, growth and transformation towards a bright future!" Vivian Huynh, BS in Information Science '26

OUR PROGRAMS

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   This AI-generated image highlights innovative possibilities. At the College of Information Science, where we focus on the intersection of people, information and technology, you'll earn how to harness AI ethically and responsibly while ensuring human creativity and insight remain at the forefront.

LATEST NEWS, ANNOUNCEMENTS & PROFILES

What Role Do Avatars Have in Language Learning? InfoSci Affiliate Professor Jonathon Reinhardt Provides Insight for The Washington Post

Jonathon Reinhardt, a professor of English and second language acquisition who holds an affiliation with the College of Information Science, was quoted in The Washington Post about how the use of video games such as The Sims can help players learn a new language.

U of A School of Information is Now the College of Information Science

We are delighted to share a transformative milestone in our institution’s history: the University of Arizona School of Information is now the College of Information Science, reflecting our growing commitment to excellence and innovation in the field of information and library science while expanding programs in data science, game design and development, and more.

New Edition of Acclaimed ‘Humans R Social Media’ Crafted from Faculty-Student Collaboration

The newest edition of Associate Professor Diana Daly's acclaimed, open-access textbook on social media, new media and participatory culture, Humans R Social Media, welcomes additional authors and features contributions by students to help readers understand how we as humans shape social media, and how social media in turn shapes our world.

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In the BA IS&ES, you'll explore the intersection of technology, information management and social dynamics, preparing you for a robust career with industry-essential skills in digital literacy, content creation and data-driven decision-making.  

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As a graduate student, you may need to complete a thesis or dissertation as part of your program's graduation requirements. While theses are common among master’s students and dissertations among doctoral students, this may not apply universally across all programs. We encourage you to reach out to your program adviser to determine the specific requirements for your culminating project.

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The Office of Theses and Dissertations is the unit of the Graduate School responsible for certifying that theses and dissertations have been prepared in accordance with formatting requirements established by the Graduate School, the University Libraries, and the graduate faculty of Penn State. We are here to help you navigate the review and approval process to ensure you are able to graduate on time.

The Thesis and Dissertation Handbook explains Penn State formatting requirements for all master’s theses and doctoral dissertations. It covers the submission process and approval deadlines, the responsibilities of each student, and provides page examples. We highly recommend all students doing theses or dissertations to carefully review the handbook.

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Admission guidelines.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is competitive and is based on a holistic review of a student’s educational background, work experience, statement of research interests and personal interview.

If you’re interested in applying for our Ph.D. program at the School of Information Science, here’s what you will need:

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in this country, or its equivalent from a foreign institution. Applicants will also possess a master's degree or equivalent from an institution of recognized standing.
• Official academic transcripts from all colleges and universities - whether or not you earned a degree.
• Graduate School application form and application fee.  You must  apply online.
• The supplemental application, which includes writing an essay responding to the statements on the application. It is available through the online application.
• A grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Three letters of recommendation. Letters should evaluate your undergraduate or graduate academic performance or your job performance. Letters from friends and relatives about your personal attributes will not be accepted. If you have questions, call the admissions coordinator at 803-777-3887 for guidance.
• International applicants whose native language is not English are required to submit a satisfactory score on the TOEFL or the IELTS International Academic Course Type 2 exam. A TOEFL score of at least 570 on the paper-based test or 80 on the internet-based test is required, or an IELTS score of at least 6.5.
• Resumé showing educational and professional experience.

Our students also have to be interviewed by a doctoral committee.

More details are available in our doctoral handbook (pdf).

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