Information Studies (Ph.D.)

Offered by: Information Studies (Faculty of Arts)   
Degree: Doctor of Philosophy

Program Description

The Ph.D. program provides an opportunity to study interdisciplinary research topics within the field of library and information studies at the doctoral level. Students develop scholarly and innovative expertise in one of the four research areas within information studies:

1. information-seeking behaviour;
2. human-computer interaction;
3. information resources in context;
4. knowledge management and representation, as well as an awareness of the inter-relatedness of these areas.

Students begin with a set of common core courses and proceed to specialization through advanced coursework and dissertation topics focused on areas of expertise that are supported by the research interests of current faculty members.

Note: For information about Fall 2025 and Winter 2026 course offerings, please check back on May 8, 2025. Until then, the "Terms offered" field will appear blank for most courses while the class schedule is being finalized.

Thesis

A thesis for the doctoral degree must constitute original scholarship and must be a distinct contribution to knowledge. It must show familiarity with previous work in the field and must demonstrate ability to plan and carry out research, organize results, and defend the approach and conclusions in a scholarly manner. The research presented must meet current standards of the discipline; as well, the thesis must clearly demonstrate how the research advances knowledge in the field. Finally, the thesis must be written in compliance with norms for academic and scholarly expression and for publication in the public domain.

Required Courses (12 credits)

Students may also be required to take additional courses to prepare them for their research.

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INFS 701 Comprehensive Examination. is normally taken in the second year.