Q:When is the application deadline?
The deadline to apply to the Ph.D. program is December 1st. All materials should be received on or before the deadline for full consideration.
Q:Is the PhD in Information Science right for me?
Our Ph.D. students come from a variety of professional experiences and academic backgrounds, such as information science, computer science, library services, law, and information technology. Our Ph.D. program is a theoretical, research-based doctorate that focuses on creating and advancing new knowledge that will make a significant, positive difference. Refer to our Ph.D. overview for more information.
Q:Approximately how long will the Ph.D. program take to complete?
The program is designed to be completed full-time in approximately 4 years. The coursework component takes approximately 2 years (full-time), and the time to complete the dissertation, while it varies with individuals, might typically take 2-3 additional years.
Q:Is a Master's degree required?
No. (Please note that our program does not currently offer an exit master's degree.)
Q:How can I learn more about the faculty and their research interests?
- View the faculty directory for brief, personal bios.
- Read about current research projects.
Q:What kind of financial assistance is available?
All Ph.D. applicants admitted to the iSchool are considered for funding, regardless of citizenship. The majority of this funding comes in the form of Graduate Student Appointments. Graduate Appointees receive a monthly stipend, tuition waiver, and health care insurance in return for approximately 20 hours of work per week. Some doctoral students receive Research Assistantships with individual faculty members, while others receive fellowships available to specific populations.
U.S. citizens and eligible permanent residents who require financial assistance are also encouraged to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). International applicants are not eligible to submit the FAFSA.
Q:Is it possible to start the Ph.D. program in a different quarter?
No. The Ph.D. program admits students once a year for autumn quarter only. Refer to our admissions information for full details.
Q:Is the GRE required?
Yes. When taking the GRE, use the Education Testing Service (ETS) institution code 4854 (University of Washington). Applicants with an earned doctorate (PhD, MD, JD, etc) are not required to submit GRE scores.
Q:May I use the GMAT instead of the GRE?
No. We do not accept the Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT) scores for our Ph.D. program.
Q:I am an international applicant. Do I have to submit TOEFL scores?
The UW Graduate School requires that all non-native English speakers show proficiency in the English language. This requirement applies to US citizens, permanent residents and international students.
Please review UW Grad School Memo 8 for more information. The Information School has the same English proficiency requirements as the Graduate School and will accept the same types of documentation.
Q:When can I expect to hear about my admission status?
The Ph.D. admission committee will begin to review applications soon after the deadline. We generally notify applicants of their admission decision by mid-February.
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