Doctor of Information Science (DInfSc) at Robert Gordon University

Programme overview

The Doctor of Information Science (DInfSc) at Robert Gordon University is a practitioner-focused doctoral degree, equivalent in terms of academic rigour to a PhD but more applied in nature. It has been designed for experienced professionals working in a strategic, information or knowledge management environment. The aim of the degree is to generate new knowledge and understanding that will contribute to enhancing the policies and practice of modern information science.

Faculty: School of Law and Social Sciences | Duration: 3 - 4 years full-time (online learning); 4 - 6 years part-time (online learning) | Study mode: full-time (online learning); part-time (online learning) | Intake: February; October | Location: Aberdeen, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

You will undertake a tailored study programme comprising a doctoral level dissertation of around 60,000 words that makes an original contribution to professional practice. You will also study 60 credits of taught modules which you will select (with advice from your supervisor) to consolidate or extend your specialist subject knowledge. Taught subject modules can be studied online via campus moodle.

Career pathways

The degree aims to support your personal development to allow you to achieve a greater level of effectiveness as a professional or manager. On completion, you will have the ability to innovate and implement new ideas in practice and enhance your performance in senior positions throughout your career.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normal entry requirements are an MSc (at merit or distinction level) and a first or upper second class honours degree of a University of the United Kingdom, or from an overseas University, or degree equivalent qualification, subject to the approval of Robert Gordon University. The DInfSc also requires candidates to have a minimum of three years experience in a professional level Information Science-related role. Applicants holding qualifications other than those above shall be considered on their merits and in relation to the nature and scope of the proposed research programme. Applicants will normally register for an MRes/DInfSc with transfer to DINnfSc dependent on satisfactory progress. However, applicants who already possess a master's degree which includes a significant research component could be registered directly for a DInfSc, subject to a satisfactory research proposal, and clear evidence of research expertise. Find out More from the Graduate School Any applicant whose first language or language of previous University-level instruction is not English must normally demonstrate competence in English. This should be a score of IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

Domestic applicants: GBP 2,760 a year (2025/2026). Scottish students, part time online, over 5 years (same fee each year) Source

International applicants: GBP 6,720 a year (2025/2026). International students, part time online, over 5 years (same fee each year) Source

Intake: February; October

Duration: 3 - 4 years full-time (online learning); 4 - 6 years part-time (online learning)

Apply through the official page: https://www.rgu.ac.uk/study/courses/dinfsc-doctor-of-information-science#apply

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