Library and Information Science (PhD)

How to apply

Fall 2027

The Fall 2027 application will be available by September 2026.

Application Deadline

Completed applications must be received no later than January 15.

Application Requirements

All applicants for admission to the doctoral program must hold a master's degree in library and information science from an ALA-accredited program or a recognized institution. Students with an equivalent combination of education and several years of professional experience in an LIS setting may also apply.

Applicants are expected to submit a completed application file that includes the following:

• Completed online application
• Non-refundable application fee of $65
• Comprehensive and updated curriculum vitae
• Statement of purpose (1,000-1,500 words)
• Writing sample of prior research work is strongly recommended (not to exceed 20 pages)
• Official transcript(s) of all academic work
• Three academic and/or professional references
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores will be optional for all Ph.D. applicants
  • For those who wish to submit their scores, the Simmons GRE code is 3761, and the Area of Interest code for Library Science is 4701.
• Current (within the past 2 years) results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or Duolingo, if English is not the native language of the applicant

Detailed guidelines for preparing and submitting these materials are included in the online application form.

After all admissions materials have been received, exceptional candidates will be selected for interviews with the Committee on Doctoral Studies and/or program faculty and staff. Committee reflections on the interview will be added to the application file. For further information on the interview process please see the application form. Admissions decisions are based on a composite of all documentation in the application file.