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. It offers a much more flexible and structured programme of information management and research study than the traditional PhD route.
You will have the opportunity to undertake research in the following areas: Information and Knowledge Management, Information Literacies and Behaviours, Information Services, Knowledge Organisation, Information and Society, Information Governance and Information Technologies.
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.
Modules
Modules and delivery order may change for operational purposes. The University regularly reviews its courses. Course content and structure may change over time. See our course and module disclaimer for more information.
Detailed module informationLearning Methods
Within the taught element you will learn through a combination of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars and workshops. Contact hours total 50 hours per module.
How long is a Doctor of Information Science course?
The Doctor of Information Science course can be completed within:
- 3 - 4 years (full time)
- 4 - 6 years (part time)
Independent Study
You will be expected to study independently for approximately 50 hours per module.
Staff Delivering on This Course
The taught element of the degree is taught by Information Management staff members who have a great breadth of experience and specialist knowledge within their chosen fields.
Feedback
We aim to provide you with feedback within 20 working days of hand-in for all written exams, coursework and practical exams.
Academic Support
The Inclusion Centre advises and supports students who disclose a sensory or mobility impairment, chronic medical condition, mental health issue, dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Applicants are encouraged to arrange a pre-entry visit to discuss any concerns and to view the facilities.
Online Learning & Support
All undergraduate and postgraduate students, whether you are learning on campus or by online learning, benefit from using our collaborative virtual learning environment, CampusMoodle. You will be provided with 24/7 online access to your learning material and resources, along with the ability to interact with your class members and tutors for discussion and support.
Study Skills Support
The Study Support Team provides training and support to all students in:
- Academic writing
- Study skills (note taking, exam techniques, time management, presentation)
- Maths and statistics
- English language
- Information technology support
Library Support
The Library offers support for your course, including the books, eBooks, and journals you will need. We also offer online reading lists for many modules, workshops and drop-ins on searching skills and referencing, and much more.
Job Prospects
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.
What is needed for DInfSc Doctor of Information Science?
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.
English Language Requirements
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.
We accept a variety of in-country and secure English language tests, find out more:
Please note, some courses may require a higher standard of English than stated in this page. Contact admissions@rgu.ac.uk for further information.
Academic Year 2025-2026
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £5570 |
| Year 2 | £5570 | |
| Year 3 | £5570 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £2760 |
| Year 2 | £2760 | |
| Year 3 | £2760 | |
| Year 4 | £2760 | |
| Year 5 | £2760 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £5570 |
| Year 2 | £5570 | |
| Year 3 | £5570 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £2760 |
| Year 2 | £2760 | |
| Year 3 | £2760 | |
| Year 4 | £2760 | |
| Year 5 | £2760 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £13460 |
| Year 2 | £13460 | |
| Year 3 | £13460 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £6720 |
| Year 2 | £6720 | |
| Year 3 | £6720 | |
| Year 4 | £6720 | |
| Year 5 | £6720 | |
Academic Year 2024-2025
Scottish Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £5410 |
| Year 2 | £5410 | |
| Year 3 | £5410 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £2680 |
| Year 2 | £2680 | |
| Year 3 | £2680 | |
| Year 4 | £2680 | |
| Year 5 | £2680 | |
Rest of UK Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £5410 |
| Year 2 | £5410 | |
| Year 3 | £5410 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £2680 |
| Year 2 | £2680 | |
| Year 3 | £2680 | |
| Year 4 | £2680 | |
| Year 5 | £2680 | |
EU Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £5410 |
| Year 2 | £5410 | |
| Year 3 | £5410 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £2680 |
| Year 2 | £2680 | |
| Year 3 | £2680 | |
| Year 4 | £2680 | |
| Year 5 | £2680 | |
International Students
Full Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 3 years | Year 1 | £13070 |
| Year 2 | £13070 | |
| Year 3 | £13070 | |
Part Time
| On Campus | ||
|---|---|---|
| Over 5 years | Year 1 | £6520 |
| Year 2 | £6520 | |
| Year 3 | £6520 | |
| Year 4 | £6520 | |
| Year 5 | £6520 | |
Additional Costs
Some other costs are not included in the course fees:
- The cost of books that you may wish to purchase.
- Costs associated with any placement / study abroad
- Accommodation and Living Costs
- Printing
Alumni Discount
Robert Gordon University is delighted to offer a 20% discount on course fees for all alumni who have graduated from RGU.
Student Funding
Postgraduate students will normally make their own arrangements for payment of fees. However, there are a limited number of SAAS funded places on certain postgraduate courses.
Scholarships and Financial Awards
You may qualify for a scholarship or financial award:
Disclaimer
For new intakes, course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in the offer letter. For further information:
Any questions?
Get in touch with our team and we'll do our best to help.