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. 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.

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.