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PhD in Library & Information Science
Understand the past, document the present, develop the future
PhD in Library & Information Science
Understand the past, document the present, develop the future
PhD in Library & Information Science
Understand the past, document the present, develop the future
Information is power
Learn how to exercise this power for the common good
Library and Information Science (LIS) at Western, with a strong history as one of the premier programs of its kind in the world, has been at the forefront of LIS education and scholarship for decades. Building upon this legacy, we investigate information’s many histories and manifestations, its access and organization, its ethics and policy, and how it is used in contexts ranging from cultural heritage institutions to silicon technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and visual and information design.
A broad view brings broad possibilities
The Faculty of Information and Media Studies (FIMS) utilizes interdisciplinary approaches, drawing on a variety of disciplines from humanities, social sciences, media studies, and computing, and has a proven record of graduating scholars who become leaders in their professions, and alumni who hold key positions in leading academic, research, and cultural heritage institutions worldwide.
The PhD in LIS provides a well-rounded, comprehensive inquiry into the role of information and its associated technologies, infrastructures, systems, and policies in our world. Designed for high-calibre scholarly training, the program also offers flexibility with a part-time degree option for working professionals and an optional co-op placement.
Tap into research with impact
Join our scholarly community and make change
At FIMS, you will join a collaborative community dedicated to academic excellence, collegiality, and meaningful mentorship. You will receive individual attention from faculty committed to guiding students at the forefront of research, practice, and professional development. Together, we strive to develop ethical, effective responses to the challenges— and the opportunities—of a rapidly evolving information society.
Our core scholarly subject areas include:
- Information practices
- Information ethics and policy
- Information organization, access and retrieval
- Artificial intelligence
- Galleries, Libraries, Archives, Museums and Special Collections (GLAMS)
MLIS student profile
Black and Indigenous MLIS Student Fellowship Initiative
Fellowship recipients champion representation in library science, archival research
After years pursuing higher education, Olivia Couchie and Savannah Simon both found they were often the only Indigenous person in the room. That discovery inspired them to advocate for Indigenous representation in academic and archival work.
Questions? Contact Us
For administrative questions related to admissions or applications, contact FIMS Graduate Student Services. For questions related to curriculum, research, or the program experience, contact Graduate Program Chair Alison Hearn.
Program Information
Ready to apply?
Find yourself in Western's LIS community
Applications for September 2027 open on October 1, 2026. The deadline to apply is January 15, 2027.