Research Productivity of LIS Schools in Pakistan: A Study of MPhil and PhD Theses to 2015

Abstract

This article aims to present a comprehensive review of MPhil and PhD research theses produced by library and information science (LIS) schools in Pakistan from their beginning to 2015. It also explores the research trends in LIS, identifies gaps, and presents an agenda for future research by LIS scholars. The origin, development, and current status of postgraduate programs in LIS schools are also discussed. Data were collected by using a self-structured questionnaire, by consulting previous research studies, and through personal communication. Findings show that although the number of LIS schools in Pakistani universities has risen to 12, just 5 offer MPhil and PhD programs. A lack of PhD faculty members in LIS departments is the major hurdle to offering MPhil and PhD degrees. However, many Pakistani LIS professionals are pursuing advanced degrees, with 87.5 percent of the total theses produced in the last five years. Up to 2015, 19 library professionals have earned PhD degrees and 125 have achieved MPhil degrees from different Pakistani universities. Moreover, presently a huge number of scholars are enrolled in postgraduate programs at LIS schools.