University of Perpetual Help System Laguna now offers Doctor of Library and Information Science

In a historic milestone in Library and Information Science education in the Philippines, the University of Perpetual Help System Laguna is now the first higher education institution in the country to offer the course Doctor of Library and Information Science (DLIS).

In a social media post in their official Facebook page dated July 9, 2026, the University has announced that they are accepting enrollees for the course.

Last August 2025, the University shared that the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) conducted a site visit to evaluate the university's application to offer the program. The visit was a critical step in the approval process, as CHED assesses the proposed curriculum, faculty qualifications, available facilities, and institutional support to ensure the program meets rigorous academic standards.

Here’s a summary of the Doctor in Library and Information Science (Professional Track) program at the University of Perpetual Help System Laguna for AY 2026–2027 according to a reliable source:

Core Courses (6 units)

• Doctoral Seminar – advanced academic discussions and research development.
• Teaching Leadership in Management – leadership and instructional strategies in LIS.

Major Courses (15 units)

• Information Science Theories – foundational and emerging theories.
• Paradigm Shift in LIS – evolving practices and frameworks.
• International Exposure/Immersion Program – global perspectives on library services.
• Information Retrieval and Data Analytics – advanced search and data analysis methods.
• Library and Information Technology Development – innovations in library tech.

Electives (9 units, choose 3)

• Strategic Library and Information Service Consulting
• Information Policy, Ethics, and Governance
• Digital Transformation and Innovation in Library Systems
• Strategic Foresight and Planning in LIS
• Sustainable Development and Future-Ready Library Leadership

Required Courses (12 units)

• Dissertation 1 – applied research, 6 units.
• Dissertation 2 – continuation and completion, 6 units.

Program Notes
Comprehensive exam required before dissertation.
Dissertation must focus on applied research and innovations.
Total program load: 42 units.

This curriculum blends theory, leadership, technology, and global exposure, culminating in a dissertation that emphasizes practical innovation in library and information science.

For more information, see the schools’ contact details on their website: https://uphsl.edu.ph/

Is a Doctorate in Library and Information Science right for you? Is it the same as a PhD?

A Doctor in Library and Information Science (often a DLIS) is a professional doctorate focused on applying advanced research to solve practical, real-world problems in library management. A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) in Library and Information Science is an academic degree dedicated to generating new theory, focusing heavily on original research and teaching. The primary differences between the two focus on their intended outcomes, coursework, and focus:

• Focus: A PhD prepares you for academic research and university-level teaching. A DLIS focuses on high-level administrative leadership, digital library systems, and information policy implementation.
• Curriculum: PhD candidates spend time mastering quantitative and qualitative research methodologies to produce an original dissertation. DLIS students focus more on practical application, information technology, and strategic management in organizations.
• Capstone: Both require an extensive final project; however, a PhD thesis must contribute new, theoretical knowledge to the field, whereas a DLIS capstone project typically applies existing knowledge to a specific professional challenge.

The University of the Philippines School of Library and Information Studies (SLIS) has expressed their goal to implement the first PhD program in Information Science in the country.