Doctor of Arts

In January 1973, the Corporation of Simmons College authorized establishment of a program in the school leading to the degree of Doctor of Arts with a focus on administration and management. The Carnegie Foundation conceived the Doctor of Arts degree as an alternative to the Ph.D. As a result, it has been accepted in a number of academic disciplines. Simmons College was the first school to offer this credential in library and information science.

As of 2005, the goals and objectives of the D.A. have evolved into the Ph.D. focused on managerial leadership in the information professions and the program is no longer accepting applications. If you would like more information on the current Ph.D. program please see the Doctoral Studies section of this website.

Original Description

The Doctor of Arts (D.A.) program is based upon the conviction of those practitioners consulted and the Faculty of the Graduate School of Library and Information Science that advanced study in preparation for higher-level administrative responsibility should focus on specialized knowledge directly applicable to the operational concerns of libraries and information systems.

The program reflects the view that management is an applied discipline that requires both academic preparation and substantial work experience. The primary goal of the program is to provide an opportunity for experienced librarians and other professionals to further their education and advance their knowledge of the administration and management of libraries, media centers, and other information-related organizations. A cohesive program enables students to explore their potential in a supportive, nurturing environment of individualized study that combines technology applications, research methods, and political realities, with management theory and practice.