Doctorate in Library Science

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Library and Information Science is available to librarians who are ABD or have two masters' degrees, one that is ALA accredited Library Science and one in another discipline, or the equivalent coursework. The Ph.D. in Library and Information Science is designed to fill a professional need by librarians and focused on the mission of International University for Graduate Studies (IUGS). The length of time to complete the Ph.D. degree varies. To be sure, most candidates can complete their doctoral requirements in six (6) to eighteen (18) months. Of course, this depends on their level of enthusiasm, practical experience, the frequency in connecting with the mentor, and personal commitment to life-long endeavors.

Sixty-six (66) graduate credits are needed for transfer. These credits may be obtained prior to or after admission. An additional twenty-seven (27) credits are to be earned at International University for Graduate Studies (IUGS). Candidates are required to undertake the following:

• Six (6) credits of non-classroom research and design. This is the foundation for the eighteen (18) credit approved doctoral dissertation and oral defense;
• Three (3) credit eight-day doctoral seminar at the ten-day residency in Dominica.

The sixty-six (66) transferred credits and the additional twenty-seven (27) credits which are earned at IUGS will total ninety-three (93) credits. This is aimed to meet the academic prerequisites for the Ph.D. in Library and Information Science.

Before writing the dissertation, all candidates must select a mentor with a doctorate in a related field of study so that he or she may guide the doctoral candidate with a successful dissertation. The mentor should bring expertise, real-world experience, value, and research ethics to the dissertation. This professional may be selected by the doctoral candidate or has an appropriate mentor who has practiced an aspect of librarianship, Information Systems, Storytelling, or Archival Management assigned by the Chairperson of Library Science.

The academic environment at International University for Graduate Studies respects the doctoral candidate's professional development, academic background, and their path in adding to the wide body of knowledge. Doctoral candidates bond with mentors, faculty and fellow students through research, seminars, and presentations, and consistent communications, while exploring and accomplishing their professional goals.