UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Sciences
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
7.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Research-intensive degreeFocus on independent research and discovery
- Interdisciplinary approachEngage with diverse subfields of information science
- Global systems understandingExplore the impact of complex global information, social, and technical systems
- Faculty expertiseResearch areas include data analytics, digital humanities, privacy, ethics, and more
- Respected iSchoolPart of a leading School of Information Sciences
The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Information Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a research-focused degree program offered by the School of Information Sciences (iSchool). This program equips students with the advanced knowledge and skills to conduct independent, impactful research in various areas of information science. It emphasizes a deep understanding of complex global information systems, intellectual reasoning, creative inquiry, social and cultural awareness, and leadership in community engagement. The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 48 graduate hours of coursework and 32 graduate hours of thesis credit. Key components include foundational seminars, research methods, electives, a field exam, and dissertation research. Students are encouraged to develop expertise across subfields of information science and to engage in interdisciplinary research. The program aims to prepare graduates for academic careers, research positions, and leadership roles in diverse information-related fields.
Curriculum
The Ph.D. program requires a minimum of 48 graduate hours of coursework and 32 graduate hours of thesis credit, with a minimum of two years in residence for coursework and an additional year for the thesis. Specific requirements vary based on whether students enter with an approved Master's or Bachelor's degree.
- Year 1-2 (Coursework)
- History and Foundations of Information ScienceIS 509
- Research Design in Information ScienceIS 519
- Doctoral ProSeminarIS 529
- Additional Methods Course
- Ph.D. Electives
- M.S. equivalent (if applicable)
- Thesis Research
- Thesis ResearchIS 599
Careers
The Ph.D. in Information Sciences prepares graduates for diverse research and leadership roles. The program fosters skills applicable to academic positions, research institutions, and information-intensive industries.
- Academic Faculty
- Researcher
- Information Scientist
- Data Scientist
- Information Architect
- Library Director
- Archivist
- Information Policy Analyst
Frequently asked questions
- What are the admission requirements for the Ph.D. in Information Sciences program?
- You need a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in a Master's program, or a strong Bachelor's background in computing and mathematics. Evidence of leadership, relevant work experience, and strong references are also considered. Proof of English proficiency is required, with minimum scores of 104 on TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on IELTS in each section.
- How much does the Ph.D. in Information Sciences cost?
- Information on specific international tuition amounts is not provided. However, assistantship awards can include a tuition waiver and stipend. International students must demonstrate they can fully support themselves to obtain a visa.
- What is the duration of the Ph.D. program?
- The program requires a minimum of 48 graduate hours of coursework and 32 graduate hours of thesis credit. This typically involves at least two years for coursework and an additional year for thesis research.
- What career opportunities are available for graduates of this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Faculty, Researcher, Information Scientist, Data Scientist, Information Architect, Library Director, Archivist, and Information Policy Analyst.
- What financial aid or scholarships are available?
- The program offers Graduate Assistantships, which may include a stipend and tuition waiver, awarded by the iSchool or other university units. A limited number of fellowships are also available through the iSchool.
- How do I apply to the Ph.D. in Information Sciences program?
- You must submit an online graduate application with supporting documents including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Crucially, international applicants must also provide proof of financial support to be considered for admission.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA minimum GPA of 3.0 (A=4.0) in the master's program is required for CAS program admission.
Bachelor's DegreeA strong background in information science is recommended, including undergraduate-level computing and mathematics.
TOEFL (iBT)104
TOEFL (Paper-based)620
TOEFL (Computer-based)260
IELTS7.5 in each section
General admission requirements of the Graduate College apply. Consideration is given to language study, computer skills, relevant work experience, letters of reference, and evidence of leadership.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on specific international tuition amounts is not provided in the source documents. International students must pay the difference between in- and out-of-state tuition.
Tuition (home)Assistantship awards provide a waiver of the base in-state tuition and service fee.
LivingInternational students must demonstrate they can fully support themselves during their studies to obtain a visa. Specific living cost estimates are not provided.
Funding documents are required for application processing. Graduate assistantships may include a tuition waiver and stipend.
How to apply
1. Review Program RequirementsFamiliarize yourself with the Ph.D. program structure, coursework, and any prerequisite knowledge, such as a strong background in computing and mathematics.
2. Check Admission CriteriaEnsure you meet the general Graduate College admission requirements and the specific English language proficiency scores (TOEFL or IELTS).
3. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and any required standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, although not explicitly mentioned for this program).
4. Demonstrate Financial SupportInternational applicants must provide documentation proving they can cover all living and educational expenses during their studies. The Graduate College will not process applications without this proof.
5. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online graduate application form by the specified deadline.
6. Await Admission DecisionApplications are reviewed by the School of Information Sciences and the Graduate College. Successful applicants will be notified of admission decisions.
Scholarships
Graduate AssistantshipsStipend and tuition waiver
FellowshipsVariable
Accreditation
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.
Frequently asked questions
What are the admission requirements for the Ph.D. in Information Sciences program?
+
You need a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) in a Master's program, or a strong Bachelor's background in computing and mathematics. Evidence of leadership, relevant work experience, and strong references are also considered. Proof of English proficiency is required, with minimum scores of 104 on TOEFL iBT or 7.5 on IELTS in each section.
How much does the Ph.D. in Information Sciences cost?
+
Information on specific international tuition amounts is not provided. However, assistantship awards can include a tuition waiver and stipend. International students must demonstrate they can fully support themselves to obtain a visa.
What is the duration of the Ph.D. program?
+
The program requires a minimum of 48 graduate hours of coursework and 32 graduate hours of thesis credit. This typically involves at least two years for coursework and an additional year for thesis research.
What career opportunities are available for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Academic Faculty, Researcher, Information Scientist, Data Scientist, Information Architect, Library Director, Archivist, and Information Policy Analyst.
What financial aid or scholarships are available?
+
The program offers Graduate Assistantships, which may include a stipend and tuition waiver, awarded by the iSchool or other university units. A limited number of fellowships are also available through the iSchool.
How do I apply to the Ph.D. in Information Sciences program?
+
You must submit an online graduate application with supporting documents including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Crucially, international applicants must also provide proof of financial support to be considered for admission.