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PH-D in Library Information Science at University of Delhi

University of Delhi is a premier central university in Delhi, established in 1922. Renowned for its academic excellence across diverse programs, including Arts, Sciences, and Commerce, DU fosters a vibrant campus environment. Ranked 6th by NIRF 2024, it educates over 700,000 students.

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Delhi, Delhi

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About the Specialization

What is Library & Information Science at University of Delhi Delhi?

This Library & Information Science Ph.D. program at the University of Delhi focuses on advanced research into the theoretical and applied aspects of managing, organizing, and disseminating information in diverse formats and contexts. Given India''''s burgeoning digital economy and the proliferation of information, the program addresses the critical need for experts who can innovate in areas like digital libraries, knowledge management, information retrieval, and data analytics, catering to both academic and industrial demands within the Indian landscape.

Who Should Apply?

This program is ideal for candidates holding a Master''''s degree in Library and Information Science (MLIS) or an equivalent professional qualification, typically with a strong academic record. It attracts fresh graduates aspiring to contribute original research to the field, as well as seasoned library professionals or information managers seeking to deepen their understanding, specialize in emerging LIS domains, and pursue academic or high-level research careers within India''''s evolving information sector.

Why Choose This Course?

Graduates of this program can expect to embark on impactful careers as university professors, research scientists, information consultants, data archivists, or chief information officers in India. The skills acquired are highly valued in academic institutions, government bodies, corporate R&D divisions, and specialized information agencies. Entry-level Ph.D. holders in LIS in India might expect salaries ranging from INR 6-10 LPA, with experienced professionals and academics earning significantly more, especially in leading institutions or as consultants.

Student Success Practices

Foundation Stage

Master Research Methodology & Academic Writing- (Semester 1-2)

Dedicate significant time to deeply understand research paradigms, statistical tools, qualitative analysis, and advanced academic writing. Focus on critically reviewing existing literature and identifying genuine research gaps.

Tools & Resources

SPSS, R, NVivo, Mendeley, Zotero, Web of Science, Scopus

Career Connection

Strong methodological foundation is crucial for successful thesis completion and for any future research/academic role, enabling high-quality publications and robust data-driven insights in industry.

Engage with LIS Research Community- (Semester 1-2)

Actively participate in departmental seminars, Ph.D. colloquia, and national LIS conferences (e.g., SIS, IASLIC, ILA). Present preliminary ideas, engage in discussions, and seek feedback from peers and senior researchers.

Tools & Resources

National/International LIS conferences, Professional LIS associations in India, ResearchGate, Academia.edu

Career Connection

Builds a strong academic network in India, fosters collaborative opportunities, enhances presentation skills, and keeps scholars abreast of current research trends and potential supervisors/mentors.

Develop Specialized Information Technology Skills- (Semester 1-2)

Beyond general LIS knowledge, acquire advanced proficiency in relevant information technologies crucial for research. This includes data management, information retrieval system design, or digital preservation techniques.

Tools & Resources

Python (for data manipulation/text mining), XML/RDF (for semantic web), DSpace/Eprints (for institutional repositories), Database management systems

Career Connection

Makes scholars highly competitive for roles requiring technical expertise in digital libraries, data analytics, and information architecture, aligning with India''''s digital transformation initiatives.

Intermediate Stage

Refine Research Proposal & Secure Ethical Clearances- (Semester 3-4)

Work closely with your supervisor to develop a robust, detailed research proposal. Clearly articulate research questions, methodology, and expected outcomes. Meticulously prepare and secure all necessary ethical clearances (e.g., from Institutional Ethics Committee).

Tools & Resources

University research guidelines, Ethical review board documentation, Pilot studies

Career Connection

A well-structured proposal and ethical compliance are foundational for timely thesis completion and demonstrate professionalism, critical for academic or research positions.

Master Data Collection & Analysis- (Semester 3-5)

Systematically execute your data collection plan, whether it involves surveys, interviews, content analysis, or experimental data. Become proficient in the chosen data analysis software and interpret results critically.

Tools & Resources

SurveyMonkey, Google Forms, Qualtrics, Advanced SPSS, R, Python libraries (Pandas, NumPy), NVivo, Atlas.ti

Career Connection

Develops strong analytical and problem-solving skills, highly valued in research roles, data science, and consulting, making graduates effective at extracting insights from complex information.

Pursue Publications & Grant Applications- (Semester 4-5)

Convert research findings into publishable articles for peer-reviewed national/international journals in LIS. Explore opportunities to apply for minor research grants or travel grants to support your research or conference attendance.

Tools & Resources

UGC CARE List of journals, Scopus/Web of Science indexed journals, University research support offices, ICSSR, DST

Career Connection

Builds an academic publication record, essential for securing faculty positions and research grants in India, establishing credibility and contributing to the body of knowledge.

Advanced Stage

Focus on Thesis Writing & Structuring- (Semester 6-7)

Dedicate consistent effort to writing the thesis, focusing on logical flow, coherence, and academic rigor. Ensure all chapters are well-integrated and adhere to university formatting guidelines. Seek regular feedback from your supervisor.

Tools & Resources

LaTeX, Grammarly, QuillBot, University thesis guidelines, Reference management software

Career Connection

A well-written thesis is the culmination of the Ph.D. journey and a key determinant for successful defense, leading to degree conferral and opening doors to academic and research roles.

Prepare for Viva Voce & Defense- (Semester 7-8)

Thoroughly prepare for the thesis defense (viva voce) by anticipating questions, practicing presentations, and being ready to articulate your contributions, methodology, and findings confidently to the examination committee.

Tools & Resources

Mock viva sessions with supervisors and peers, Review of common viva questions, Presentation software (PowerPoint, Google Slides)

Career Connection

Successful viva voce is the final hurdle to earning the Ph.D. degree, essential for any career path that requires this terminal qualification, particularly in academia and research.

Strategic Career Planning & Networking- (Semester 7-8)

Begin actively networking with potential employers (academic institutions, research labs, industry R&D) in India. Tailor your CV/resume and cover letters, and prepare for interviews, whether for faculty positions, postdoctoral fellowships, or industry research roles.

Tools & Resources

LinkedIn, Professional LIS job portals in India, University career services, Faculty connections, Job fairs

Career Connection

Proactive career planning ensures a smooth transition post-Ph.D., maximizing opportunities for impactful roles in the Indian academic, research, or information technology sectors.

Program Structure and Curriculum

Eligibility:

  • Master''''s degree (or equivalent professional degree) with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/EWS/pre-1991 Master''''s degree holders). Candidates with UGC/CSIR JRF/NET or equivalent are eligible for direct interview; others must qualify Ph.D. Entrance Test.

Duration: Minimum 3 years (including coursework), maximum 6 years. Women & PwD candidates may get additional 2 years (total 8 years). Coursework typically completed within first 1-2 semesters.

Credits: Minimum 8 credits for coursework (as per Ph.D. Ordinance VI (A) / UGC Regulations 2016) Credits

Assessment: Assessment pattern not specified

Semester-wise Curriculum Table

Semester 1

Subject CodeSubject NameSubject TypeCreditsKey Topics
Research MethodologyCore (Compulsory for all Ph.D. scholars)4Fundamentals of Research: Types, approaches, paradigms, Research Design: Problem identification, hypothesis formulation, objectives, Data Collection Methods: Sampling techniques, primary & secondary sources, Data Analysis: Basic statistics, qualitative data analysis techniques, Research Ethics & Report Writing: Plagiarism, referencing styles, thesis structure
Advanced Studies in Library & Information ScienceCore (Discipline-specific)4Information Retrieval Systems: Advanced models, evaluation metrics, Knowledge Management: Principles, tools, organizational applications, Digital Libraries & Repositories: Architectures, interoperability, preservation, Information Literacy & User Studies: Current trends, impact assessment in diverse contexts, Emerging Technologies in LIS: AI, Big Data, Blockchain, IoT applications
Review of Literature & Research Proposal DevelopmentCore/Practical4Systematic Literature Review: Methods, tools, synthesis, Identifying Research Gaps: Problem identification, novelty in research, Research Proposal Writing: Components, structure, methodology details, Ethical Considerations in Research: Data privacy, informed consent, integrity, Presentation Skills for Research Proposals & Seminars
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