The practitioner-oriented doctoral program is designed for professionals who aim to lead their information institutions
The University of Maryland College of Information (INFO) has launched a new Doctor of Information Science in Information Science Leadership and Community Engagement (D. Inf. Sci.), known as the Info Leader Doctorate. This professional degree responds to the growing demand for advanced leadership preparation in libraries, archives, museums, higher education, government, and nonprofit organizations.
Led by world-renowned faculty who also work in the field, the Info Leader Doctorate curriculum prepares graduates for institution-level leadership, with community engagement centered as a core leadership approach. The academically rigorous program imparts a deep understanding of organizational leadership and research skills while allowing students to work on challenges drawn directly from their own organizations and communities—graduating with solutions they can put into practice immediately.
The part-time, 48-credit online program is designed to fit the realities of professional life. Students may register for courses at their own pace and can complete the degree in as little as three years, with coursework tailored to individual career goals.
Applications for the Fall 2026 cohort are now open, with a priority deadline of March 6, 2026, and a final deadline of July 15, 2026. INFO will host a series of online information sessions for prospective students and others interested in learning about the program. Full details are available on the Info Leader Doctorate website, and questions may be directed to InfoLeaderDoc@umd.edu.