Are you driven to shape the future of information? Do you aspire to lead and innovate within the evolving landscape of libraries and information science? A Doctorate In Library Science offers a powerful pathway for creative and energetic individuals like you to become pioneering thinkers and impactful leaders. Our rigorous yet adaptable program provides a stimulating environment where your interests and ambitions align with faculty expertise, fostering opportunities for cutting-edge research, impactful teaching, and transformative leadership across diverse sectors.
In today’s information-driven society, the field of library and information science demands visionary leaders capable of identifying critical challenges, conducting robust research, and translating findings into actionable strategies. Our doctorate in library science, also known as a Ph.D. in Information and Library Science, is meticulously designed to equip you with the intensive and customizable preparation necessary for thriving careers in academia, research institutions, and leadership roles across industries. Recognized as a STEM-designated program, our doctorate extends opportunities for eligible international graduates to apply for a 24-month OPT extension, further enhancing career prospects in the U.S.
Charting Your Career Path with a Doctorate in Library Science
Graduates of our doctorate in library science program are highly sought after and have consistently secured prestigious positions after defending their dissertations. Our alumni are making significant contributions as tenure-track faculty in leading information schools, research scientists in prominent corporate and government laboratories, and chief information officers in a wide array of organizations. A doctorate in library science from our program empowers you to make a tangible difference in the world.
Exemplary Career Trajectories of Our Doctoral Graduates:
- Academia: Many graduates transition into professorships, shaping the next generation of library and information science professionals. Examples include Eliot Hauser (Assistant Professor, University of Texas at Austin), Colin Post (Assistant Professor, University of North Carolina at Greensboro), Megan Threats (Assistant Professor, Rutgers University), and Sarah Beth Nelson (Assistant Professor, University of Wisconsin, Whitewater).
- Research & Development: The analytical and research skills honed during a doctorate in library science are highly valued in research-intensive roles. Alumni like Sandeep Avula (Research Scientist, Amazon), Yinglong Zhang (Research Scientist, Google), and Kathleen Brennan (Senior Researcher, Google) exemplify this path, contributing to innovation in technology and information management.
- Information Leadership & Management: A doctorate in library science prepares graduates for leadership roles requiring strategic thinking and deep understanding of information systems. Jay Dominick (Vice President and CIO at Princeton University), Meredith Weiss (Vice President for Administration at Virginia Commonwealth University), and Meredith Evans (Director, Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum & 74th President of the Society of American Archivists) demonstrate the diverse leadership positions our alumni attain.
- Specialized Library & Information Roles: Graduates also pursue specialized roles leveraging their doctoral expertise in areas like digital curation, scholarly communication, and research data management. Consider Heather Barnes (Digital Curation Librarian, Wake Forest University), Shenmeng Xu (Scholarly Communications Librarian, Vanderbilt University), and Jonathan Crabtree (Assistant Director of Research Data Information Systems, Odum Institute, UNC-CH).
Smiling group of PhD students standing together
Financial Pathways to Your Doctorate in Library Science
We are committed to making our doctorate in library science program accessible to talented individuals. SILS typically provides robust financial support for full-time doctoral students during their initial five years of study. To receive full consideration for financial aid opportunities, prospective doctoral applicants should ensure their applications are submitted by the priority deadline of December 10th. We encourage you to explore our comprehensive Financial Information page for detailed insights into funding options, including assistantships, fellowships, and other resources available to support your doctoral journey in library science.
Are You the Ideal Candidate for a Doctorate in Library Science?
Our doctorate in library science program seeks individuals who are:
- Visionary Information Leaders: Aspiring to lead and innovate in the dynamic information landscape of the 21st century.
- Intellectually Curious: Drawn to library and information science as a multidisciplinary field embracing diverse theoretical perspectives and a broad spectrum of research methodologies.
- Independent and Collaborative Researchers: Possessing the self-discipline and determination to conduct independent investigations, coupled with the vision and communication prowess to become influential leaders in the field.
- Dedicated to Scholarly Inquiry: Committed to a lifelong pursuit of research and scholarly exploration, addressing critical questions shaping the future of information.
- Analytical and Critical Thinkers: Thriving on intellectual challenges and demonstrating strong analytical and critical thinking capabilities.
Admission to the Doctorate in Library Science Program
Admission to our doctorate in library science program is highly competitive and based on a holistic review of each applicant’s qualifications. Key factors considered include the strength of your academic background, standardized test scores (GRE may be optional – please check current admissions policies), relevant work experience, a compelling statement of research interests, and performance during a personal interview. A crucial aspect of admission is aligning your research interests with those of our esteemed faculty, ensuring a faculty member is available and enthusiastic to serve as your advisor and mentor throughout your doctoral studies.
For comprehensive details regarding application requirements and deadlines, please visit our dedicated ADMISSION INFORMATION page.
Questions About Your Doctorate in Library Science Journey?
For any inquiries regarding the doctorate in library science program, please do not hesitate to contact:
Eleni Papadoyannis
Doctoral and Special Programs Coordinator
[email protected]
We look forward to welcoming the next generation of library and information science leaders to our doctoral program!
