Accelerated MLIS/PhD

The accelerated degree option is particularly relevant to practicing information science professionals who have an undergraduate degree, but not a master's degree.

The Accelerated MLIS/PhD degree option is designed for current students who want to earn MLIS and PhD degrees through an accelerated sequence of courses. The accelerated degree option is particularly relevant to practicing information science professionals who have an undergraduate degree, but not a master's degree, and are interested in pursuing doctoral level coursework and research. Individuals who have earned a master's degree in another field and would like to expand their competencies to take on new roles and research in the information professions will also find the accelerated degree a viable option.

The accelerated degree option can be completed in four years. MLIS students apply to join the next PhD cohort once they have been accepted into the MLIS program. MLIS students wishing to join the Accelerated MLIS/PhD program must apply for the doctoral program separately and (if admitted into the Accelerated MLIS/PhD program) complete 24 credit hours in the MLIS program before starting the doctoral coursework. If accepted during the regular doctoral program admission cycle, MLIS students begin doctoral coursework with the cohort in the fall semester and complete the remaining 12 credit hours of their MLIS in the PhD program. The 12 credit hours also apply to their PhD. Learn more about doctoral program admission.