ŷ����ַ

Prepare to Lead in the Information Age

ŷ����ַ’s Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Information Studies program will put you on the path to rewarding faculty and research positions in academia, as well as senior leadership roles in libraries, information centers and a multitude of other data- and information-rich settings. Unlike traditional, residential programs, ŷ����ַ’s PhD program allows you to complete your coursework and dissertation in just three years—all without putting your professional and personal life on hold. Only four in-person weekend meetings are required during the two years of coursework. The remaining class meetings will be held entirely online and on weekends only.

As a PhD student at ŷ����ַ, you can choose to concentrate in library and information science or information management. You’ll have the support of a cohort of fellow students and expert faculty who are committed to your success and eager to collaborate with you.

Information is at the heart of innovation, progress and the search for answers to the world’s most pressing questions and challenges. As an information leader, you’ll be at the center of it all, working to speed the flow of knowledge, to educate and to inform our society. Be part of something meaningful and in tremendous demand.

A PhD Program Designed for the Busy Professional

With all the demands of home and career, who has time to earn a PhD? You do. This program is designed for working professionals. Only four in-person weekend meetings are required during the two years of coursework. The remaining class meetings will be held entirely online and on weekends only. All this means that you no longer have to interrupt your career to significantly advance your professional education. What’s more, unlike traditional residential programs at big universities, ŷ����ַ’s PhD program can be completed in just three years.

Take a closer look at how our primarily online PhD in Information Studies program is designed to fit almost any schedule:

• Classes meet on weekends only and primarily online via Zoom
• Our cohort model encourages intellectual engagement, collaboration and professional development; new cohorts are launched every two years
• You’ll work closely with faculty members with years of professional and scholarly experience
• A team of advisors, faculty members and peers will counsel you on achieving your goals
• Connect to a strong alumni network of information leaders around the world

ŷ����ַ’s Program At a Glance 

Together with your cohort, you will complete 12 intensive courses over six semesters (two years). You’ll take two courses each semester in the fall, spring and summer terms. The third year is devoted to individual dissertation work.

The curriculum includes courses in information policy, information systems research, library leadership and much more. You’ll gain the advanced knowledge and skills needed for expansive service in the indispensable field of library and information science or information management.

You’ll graduate prepared to advance your career and secure high-level research, teaching and leadership positions. You’ll also gain hands-on research experience through your dissertation work. The possibilities are limitless, and you and your team will find the focus that’s right for you. To see a sample of the wide-ranging research options, browse recent  by PhD students at ŷ����ַ’s School of Information Studies.

Quick Degree Details

• 36 semester hours in addition to dissertation
• Expect to attend class six weekends per semester—five weekends online and only one in-person weekend per semester. In-person weekends are required in the Fall and Spring semesters only.
• Designed for working professionals with a master’s degree (not necessarily in library and information science)
• Complete in as little as three years, or take up to five years

What to Expect as You Earn Your PhD in Information Studies

At ŷ����ַ, we pride ourselves on the hands-on experiences and personal attention our students receive. Whether you study online or in person on campus, you’ll get the benefit of a collaborative learning environment that will expand your knowledge, deepen your understanding and prepare you as a leader and advocate in library and information science, and information management. 

Our faculty come from across the country and around the world. They bring visionary approaches to advancing the complex and flourishing field of information studies. Our cohort model ensures deep intellectual engagement and powerful professional development within a close-knit, collaborative learning environment. A team of advisors, professors and peers will accompany you as you work to achieve your academic, research and professional development goals. New cohorts start every two years. You can choose a concentration in library and information science or information management. This demanding yet flexible program prepares you for expansive service in a stimulating and indispensable profession.