Doctor of Philosophy in Information Studies (PhD)

Tackle the hardest information and technology problems of today and tomorrow

DOCTOR OF PHILOSOPHY IN INFORMATION STUDIES @ THE UMD INFO College

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The Doctor of Philosophy in Information Studies (PhD) program at the UMD College of Information (INFO) prepares students to address the hardest social and technical problems of today and tomorrow. Working side-by-side with world-renowned faculty and at internationally recognized research centers and labs, students conduct research on pressing information issues, which often entwine social and technical innovation. We draw on core values of information studies, including justice, inclusion, and access, and use these principles to facilitate the discovery of new knowledge.

Students also master research methodology/design, interdisciplinary theory, knowledge of previous research in their area, the ability to synthesize and apply this knowledge, and how to create and disseminate original research.

With a multidisciplinary faculty focusing on diverse information science research areas such as online communities, information systems, information policy, human-computer interaction, and digital cultural heritage, the UMD INFO College cultivates doctoral students from a wide range of backgrounds. Today’s hardest social and technical problems have information at their core. We’re seeking PhD students who have hard, unanswered questions about information problems. Explore our Expertise Areas.

We guarantee funding for all admitted full-time students. We also welcome self-funded part-time students working in areas that complement their doctoral research.

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Diverse Students Walking Together on Campus Located minutes from DC, we are a bustling and diverse college with 2600+ students from 63 countries. Students can choose from hundreds of student organizations, service opportunities, and social activities, learn more.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Information Studies (PhD) is a STEM OPT certified program.

UMD INFO courses and research opportunities are offered as a combination of in-person and online. However, if there are social distancing restrictions, all courses will be offered in appropriate spaces or online.