Published: Nov 8th, 2024 by Dr. Sue Alman

[Dr. Sue Alman is the coordinator for the SJSU Gateway PhD program at the iSchool. CIRI had the pleasure of interviewing her about the Gateway Program and the role it plays in our iSchool research community.]

1. Could you provide an overview of the Gateway PhD program and how it’s run?

The Gateway PhD program is an international doctoral degree program in Library and Information Management that is offered through a joint partnership with the SJSU iSchool and Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) in Manchester, England. Though the degree is conferred by MMU, the doctoral student researchers have the unique opportunity to virtually attend MMU and reap the benefits of instruction and supervision from faculty members at both universities. This program can be completed on a part-time basis for information professionals and academics without having to relocate or disrupt their current careers.

The Gateway PhD program was previously offered through a partnership with Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane, Australia, from its inception in 2008 through 2021. Graduates have been recognized with numerous awards and honors for their original research.

In 2022 the first cohort of students was admitted to the MMU/iSchool partnership, and by 2024 the number has grown to 10 students.  Faculty supervisors from both MMU and SJSU participate in monthly online seminars, keeping in touch with other doctoral students in their cohort and their international supervisory committee. Once a year, the entire Gateway community meets in-person during a 4-day research workshop held in San José, California.

The Gateway PhD program is designed for students to conduct independent research with the aid of their faculty supervisors.  There are regular assessments to ensure that students are meeting the prescribed milestones. The cohort model provides an extra layer of support to the independent research process.

2. What kinds of research do students in the program do? Could you give us some examples?

Gateway PhD doctoral students focus on their research from the very beginning of the program. They conduct original research and receive one-on-one mentoring from faculty supervisors at MMU and the iSchool.  Examples of their research in progress cover a wide range of topics such as: Examination of a comprehensive model for fake news and misinformation; Data metrics for impact assessment – Federal agencies; Academic Libraries and the Use of Institutional Research Data

3. What are the things that you find most interesting/challenging/fulfilling as the coordinator of the programs?

The collaborative spirit within the Gateway community is exemplary. In addition to working with their supervisors on a regular basis, the monthly meetings provide opportunities for peer evaluation, teaching, and leadership. The students are engaged in professional activities and have presented their research in conferences held throughout the world.

4. What suggestions do you have for prospective students and faculty supervisors?

The Gateway program provides a bridge between two universities for meaningful collaboration. Prospective students and faculty supervisors can engage in joint research projects and presentations in a true collegial atmosphere.