UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND, COLLEGE PARK · UNITED STATES
Doctor of Philosophy in Information Studies (PhD)
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
7.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- #3US Public University Ranking
- #7US University for Entrepreneurship Ranking
- #10US Public Institution for Patents Awarded
- #10US Public Institution for Research Spending
- Guaranteed funding for all admitted full-time studentsFunding
- Close to Washington, D.C., the information capital of the worldLocation Advantage
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Information Studies program at the University of Maryland's College of Information (INFO) prepares students to tackle complex social and technical challenges. The program emphasizes research, working closely with world-renowned faculty in internationally recognized research centers and labs. Students will investigate pressing information issues, focusing on core values such as justice, inclusion, and access to drive discovery and innovation. Graduates will master research methodologies, interdisciplinary theory, and the ability to synthesize knowledge and create original research. The program attracts doctoral students from diverse backgrounds, seeking individuals with compelling questions about information problems. Full-time students are guaranteed funding, and part-time, self-funded students whose research complements the program are also welcome.
Curriculum
The PhD program offers an interdisciplinary approach with small classes and extensive research projects, allowing close collaboration with faculty mentors. Students gain experience in identifying knowledge gaps, investigating solutions, evaluating results, and disseminating new knowledge. A combination of required research courses, foundational seminars, and electives provides both structure and flexibility for students to pursue their research passions.
- Foundational
- The Engaged Intellectual: An Introduction to Research and Academic WorkINST 800
- Theoretical and Epistemological Foundations in Information StudiesINST 801
- Pragmatic and Methodological Foundations for Information StudiesINST 802
- Proseminer: Developing Knowledge and Practical Skills for a Successful PhDINST 828
Careers
Graduates are prepared for careers where understanding information access, usage, and communication is critical. The program's location near Washington, D.C., provides significant opportunities for internships and employment in government agencies, technology firms, and the nonprofit sector. Alumni have secured positions in academia, industry, and government.
- Academia
- Industry
- Government
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general entry requirements for the PhD in Information Studies?
- You need to submit an application through the UMD Graduate School's online system, provide official transcripts, and send official English proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS 7.0, Duolingo 120). Admission is competitive and decisions are made by an admissions committee.
- Is funding guaranteed for full-time students in this PhD program?
- Yes, full-time students admitted to the PhD in Information Studies program are guaranteed funding. However, the program does not provide departmental assistantships or fellowships directly, though students may reduce tuition costs by serving as a TA or GA.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International students are charged a special tuition rate that does not differ from residents or non-residents. This tuition is not fully covered by assistantships or fellowships, and additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing the PhD in Information Studies?
- Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, industry, and government, with opportunities for internships and employment in sectors related to information access, usage, and communication. The program's location near Washington, D.C. offers significant advantages for job prospects.
- How long does the PhD in Information Studies program typically take?
- The program is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), typically a multi-year research-intensive degree. Specific duration is not detailed, but the curriculum includes foundational year modules.
Entry requirements
Duolingo English Test (DET)120
IELTS7.0
TOEFL
Admission is through the UMD Graduate School. Official English proficiency scores must be sent directly to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions using reporting code 5814 and be less than two years old. Students may qualify for a waiver if certain requirements are met.
Fees
Tuition (international)Special tuition rate. Does not differ between residents and non-residents. Not fully covered by graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission. Additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Tuition (home)Special tuition rate. Does not differ between residents and non-residents. Not fully covered by graduate assistantships, fellowships, or tuition remission. Additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Living—
The program does not provide departmental assistantships or fellowships. Students may reduce tuition costs by serving as a TA or GA, but these positions are competitive. Other financial aid sources are available through the university and outside organizations.
How to apply
1. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the application through the TerpEngage online portal.
2. Provide TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from previous academic institutions are required.
3. Submit English Proficiency ScoresSend official scores from an accepted English proficiency test (e.g., IELTS, Duolingo) to the Office of Undergraduate Admissions using reporting code 5814.
4. Admissions Committee ReviewAn admissions committee will review the completed application, including academic records and English proficiency verification.
5. Final DecisionThe Dean of the Graduate School makes the final admission decision.
Scholarships
Graduate Assistantships/Fellowships/Tuition Remission—
University and Outside Financial Aid—
Frequently asked questions
What are the general entry requirements for the PhD in Information Studies?
+
You need to submit an application through the UMD Graduate School's online system, provide official transcripts, and send official English proficiency test scores (e.g., IELTS 7.0, Duolingo 120). Admission is competitive and decisions are made by an admissions committee.
Is funding guaranteed for full-time students in this PhD program?
+
Yes, full-time students admitted to the PhD in Information Studies program are guaranteed funding. However, the program does not provide departmental assistantships or fellowships directly, though students may reduce tuition costs by serving as a TA or GA.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International students are charged a special tuition rate that does not differ from residents or non-residents. This tuition is not fully covered by assistantships or fellowships, and additional graduate student fees are charged. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
What career paths can I pursue after completing the PhD in Information Studies?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, industry, and government, with opportunities for internships and employment in sectors related to information access, usage, and communication. The program's location near Washington, D.C. offers significant advantages for job prospects.
How long does the PhD in Information Studies program typically take?
+
The program is a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), typically a multi-year research-intensive degree. Specific duration is not detailed, but the curriculum includes foundational year modules.