How to Get a PhD in Information Science

In our fast-paced world, information can be exchanged at the touch of a button. Every industry, from the highest echelons of government to the cash register at the local supermarket, runs on technology. All of that technology requires information gathering and analysis to stay up-to-date.

A career in information science opens the doors to a multitude of workplace options. Earning your PhD in information science can help put you at the forefront of technology, giving you the opportunity to help shape the future of business and industry.

Beginning Your Journey Toward a Doctorate Degree in Information Science

Everywhere you look, you are bombarded with information. In fact, the amount of information available triples every year. Information science experts compile all that information, analyze it, and turn it into useful data for various businesses and organizations.

Obtaining your PhD in information science can significantly broaden opportunities for career advancement as the need for those who understand the in-depth interactions of information systems grows. Graduate education in information science can give you the skills to understand how information matters to the smooth function of any industry, how consumers interact with the information they encounter, and the intricacies of communicating information from one system to another.

Consider Your Specialization

Knowing what you intend to do with your degree in information science can help you determine the kind of PhD program you should pursue. All of these specializations are options for your career path--which ones spark your interest?

• Programming and software engineering
• Technical support
• Information systems management
• Telecommunications and networking
• Database development
• System and data analysis

These are just a few in a long list of specializations in information science and technology. Some information science experts find themselves working in many roles over the course of their career, so consider your specialization more of a guide than an absolute.

Researching PhD Programs in Information Science

The world of technology is booming, and as it grows, PhD programs in information science are popping up everywhere. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job opportunities for those in information technology should increase by up to 53 percent through 2016. That massive growth may lead to serious competition between PhD programs, which means top-notch options for your educational experience.

Choosing the Best PhD Program

Narrow down that broad field of options with thorough, meticulous research. Approach your research with a few firm guidelines in mind to prevent feeling overwhelmed by the options. Start with a list of schools that look interesting to you, then compare their offerings to your priorities. When you have a shortlist of doctorate degree programs, whittle your list down even further by weighing certain criteria that are important to you.

Step 1: What Are Your Options?

When compiling your list of PhD programs in information science, consider what is absolutely required for your educational experience. Start by asking these questions:

• What are your long-term goals? Academic-track careers often involve in-depth training in research, teaching methods, and the like. Professional-track careers in information science focus on the skills required to take your expertise out into the business world. The track you choose is crucial to deciding on the best educational format.

• What educational format is best for you? Some graduate students opt for a PhD program in a traditional classroom setting, while others prefer to pursue an online PhD program. Several choose a hybrid of distance learning and classroom time. If you have work or family obligations to consider, an online PhD program might be a better fit for your busy schedule.

• Does location matter? For those who prefer a traditional classroom setting, location matters. But for those who are opting for an online PhD program, the nature of distance learning brings the education to you. If you want to pursue a hybrid of both campus and online education, look for an online doctorate program that offers satellite schools in your area.

• Is the PhD program accredited? A reliable measure of academic quality, accreditation should be at the top of your "must have" list. Not only does accreditation denote a PhD program that meets or exceeds academic expectations, it is also required for the vast majority of financial aid benefits.

With those questions in mind, you can begin to focus your search for the perfect PhD program. The following resources are excellent tools to help you get started:

• Internet Research. WorldWideLearn.com is a good place to start your research into PhD programs. The online directory offers access to school information, including online PhD programs and options for campus education. You can also search by location and other criteria that you deem appropriate.

• The U.S. Department of Education. If a graduate program's accreditation status is not clear, a visit to this Web site can help you find the facts. The Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs has a listing of all schools that meet the criteria.

• U.S. News and World Report. The annual rankings of best graduate schools is a great place to begin. The comprehensive ranking system takes into account a broad set of criteria, which makes your research easier.

• Resource Guides. WorldWideLearn.com offers The Insider's College Guide for Working Adults, a free download to guide you through the research steps and application process.

Step 2: Create Your Shortlist of PhD Programs in Information Science

Now that you have researched and vetted your initial list of PhD programs, it's time to narrow the list down even further. At this point, your research should take a more in-depth approach as you focus on which schools meet your priorities for graduate education.

• What are your priorities? Consider what you intend to do with your doctorate. Some programs focus heavily on public policy and law, while others guide you more toward a corporate research aspect. Examining your long-term goals can help you make a decision on which one might be right for you.

• Who can help you get there? When choosing a PhD program, look carefully at the faculty. Do you recognize their names from industry journals or professional networks? When you're aiming high for that PhD in information science, it always helps to learn from the best. Furthermore, if a program has a faculty member who researches or publishes in your area of interest, that's a perk worth exploring.

At this point in your search, it's all about gathering information. Here are a few resources that can help:

• Collect information. Gathering information on PhD programs can be time-consuming. WorldWideLearn.com makes the process easier with an online form that matches you with schools that fit your needs. From there, you can request further information on each one with only a few clicks.

• Surf the Web. A quick Google search on your shortlist of schools is a good start, but it isn't enough. Look at the school Web sites, particularly for information on the PhD programs. WorldWideLearn.com can also help by leading you to further information about curriculum, specialization, and more.

• Talk to admissions counselors. Do you have a question Web sites and research can't answer? Call the school and speak to an admissions counselor.

• Turn to professional organizations. Professional organizations, such as the Association of Information Technology Professionals, can provide great insight into the trends of information science, and might lead you to PhD programs you hadn't considered.

• Read industry journals. Journals that focus on technology and information science can offer insights about in-demand skills, job growth, and other opportunities that might help you choose one PhD program over another.

• Use contacts in the academic community. Attend conferences, keep in touch with other professionals, and keep your ears open during discussions about new PhD programs in information science or technology. Word of mouth matters, and you can learn quite a bit if you simply pay attention at the next luncheon or networking event.

Step 3: Cut Your Shortlist to the Most Promising Candidates

In this final stage of your research, you have narrowed down your initial list of PhD programs. You've gathered thorough information on each school you are considering, and now two or three names should be rising to the top. It's time to compare those who have made the cut. Consider these factors:

• Reputation. What have you heard about particular PhD programs? Good rankings in places like U.S. News and World Report or a very selective admissions policy are signs of a great reputation.

• Facilities. When pursuing a graduate degree in information science, the technology facilities offered by a particular school are crucial to your success. Consider what resources are available to you on a regular basis, and whether they will be adequate.

• History of the program. When was the program established? What professional organizations align themselves with the PhD program? What traditions does the graduate program hold dear?

• Graduation rate. How many students are accepted each year, and how many graduate with their PhD in hand? How many students transfer out of the program?

• Placement and satisfaction. Upon graduation, how many of the PhD students find solid positions in the job market? Does the college help with placement? How happy are the students with the outcome?

• Financial aid. What kind of funding is available to you? Look into all sources, including scholarships, grants, loans, stipends, work-study, and other options. Keep in mind that only accredited PhD programs are eligible for Federal financial aid.

How to Apply to a PhD Program in Information Science

At this point, you should have a very short list of PhD programs that suit your educational priorities and career goals. Now it's time to dive into the application process!

Many PhD programs in information science require the following information from you:

• Prerequisite degrees and courses. PhD programs often require a completed master's degree, though some doctorate programs accept a combination of bachelor's degree and work experience. If you are lacking in required courses, consider online courses to help you catch up quickly.

• Transcripts and resumes. Obtain certified copies of transcripts from all previous educational endeavors. Keep your professional resume up to date as well.

• Qualifying exams. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required for entry into most PhD programs. Depending upon the PhD program you choose, other tests might be required. WorldWideLearn.com offers test preparation help that can make the process easier.

• Letters of recommendation. Many graduate schools require letters of recommendation from former professors, colleagues, or other individuals who can vouch for your professional integrity and character. Remember to ask for these early, to allow plenty of time for the writer to create a thorough letter.

• Professional experience. Your experience in the field can play in your favor during the application process. If you have particular research experience or hands-on training outside of the classroom, mention it when you apply for the PhD program.

When you earn your PhD in information science, you are joining an elite group of professionals who work in all settings, including educational, political, societal, technical, corporate, and research, just to name a few. WorldWideLearn.com can help you discover your perfect career path, and start you on the journey to your PhD in information science.

Sources

• Association of Information Technology Professionals, Member Benefits
• Educational Testing Service, Graduate Record Examinations
• Syracuse University, School of Information Studies, PhD in Information Science and Technology
  
• Training for Techies: Career Preparation in Information Technology, by Roger Moncarz
• University of Pittsburgh, School of Information Sciences, Certificate of Advanced Study
• University of Pittsburgh, School of Information Sciences, Graduate Program: Information Science and Technology
• University of Pittsburgh, School of Information Sciences, Master of Science in Information Science Program
  
• U.S. Department of Education, Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs
  
• U.S. News and World Report, Best Graduate Schools, Computer Science, Rankings
• WorldWideLearn.com, Online Technology Degree Programs