Archives and Records Management

The MSc in Archives and Records Management at University College London is a highly regarded postgraduate programme designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the management of archives and records. This comprehensive course integrates theory and practice, providing a solid foundation in the principles of information preservation, collection management, and digital records. Students will explore the history, legal frameworks, and ethical considerations surrounding records management, gaining critical insights into how information is created, maintained, and utilized in various organizational contexts. The programme combines academic rigour with practical experience, preparing graduates to meet the challenges of managing both physical and electronic records in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Throughout the course, students engage with cutting-edge research and participate in hands-on projects, often collaborating with archival institutions and organizations to develop relevant skills. The curriculum covers key areas such as information governance, appraisal, description, access, and digital preservation techniques. Additionally, students have opportunities to specialise in areas like digital curation, records management for government and business, and research methods. The programme is suitable for individuals aiming to work in archives, information management, or digital records management across public, private, and third-sector organizations. Graduates of this course are well-prepared for careers as archivists, records managers, information officers, and digital preservation specialists, among others. With instruction from leading academics and professionals in the field, the MSc in Archives and Records Management at UCL offers an engaging learning environment combining theoretical knowledge with practical applications, ensuring students are ready to meet the demands of today's information-rich world.

The programme focuses on the management of records and archives in a variety of digital and hard copy formats. Students learn to manage, organise, interpret and provide access to a wide range of records and archives, focussing on both the management of records for ongoing purposes, and their selection, preservation and accessibility for future uses including historical research.

MA students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five core modules (90 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma, five core modules (90 credits), two optional modules (30 credits), full-time nine months or flexible study up to five years, is offered.

A Postgraduate Certificate, four optional modules (60 credits), full-time 15 weeks or flexible study over a period of up to two years, is offered.

Core modules

• Concepts and Contexts (30 credits, taught across two terms)
• Creation and Capture
• Curation and Stewardship
• The Record-keeping Professional
• Access and Use of Archives and Records

Optional modules include

• Collections Care
• Digital Resources in the Humanities
• Information Governance
• Manuscript Studies
• Reading and Interpretation of Archives from 1500
• Database Systems and Design

Dissertation/report

All MA students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000–12,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, computer laboratory sessions and class-based practical exercises, with a strong emphasis on group and peer learning and the acquisition of practical skills underpinned by archival theory and knowledge. Assessment is through a mixture of essays, reports, presentations and practical assignments.

Placement

The work placement gives students taking the MA/Dip iexperience of how the techniques they have learned may be applied in practice. Placements last for two weeks, and are undertaken as part of the INSTG060 Curation and Capture core module just after the beginning of the third term (May). We arrange placements individually for each student and do our best to match the placement with their interests and experience.

Normal requirements for admission are a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree or equivalent, and also a substantial period of paid or voluntary employment (usually equivalent to about a year) in an established archive or records service, or experience in a post where management of archives or records is a substantial part of the postholder's responsibility.

Financial support for the MA Archives and Records Management program at University College London (UCL) is available through various funding schemes, scholarships, and bursaries designed to assist students with the costs of their studies. Prospective students are encouraged to explore UCL’s central scholarships database, which includes a range of awards for both domestic and international students. These scholarships are competitive and typically require the submission of an application form, academic transcripts, and sometimes a personal statement or references.

Additionally, the UK government offers student loans for eligible students pursuing postgraduate taught programs, which can cover tuition fees and living costs. International students often seek funding from their home country’s government, embassies, or external organizations that support international study, although such options are outside UCL’s direct provision. Some students may consider part-time employment opportunities available on or near the UCL campus, including research assistantships or teaching assistantships, which can provide supplementary income while gaining professional experience.

UCL also provides specific bursaries for students in heritage, history, and archival studies, which may be awarded based on academic merit or financial need. The program’s website contains detailed information about available scholarships, including eligibility criteria and application deadlines. Students are advised to apply early and prepare comprehensive application materials to maximize their chances of securing funding.

For international students, there are sometimes additional scholarships or grants offered by external organizations that focus on promoting global education and cultural heritage development. The university’s dedicated financial aid office provides personalized advice and guidance to help students identify suitable funding sources and navigate the application process.

In summary, funding options for the MA Archives and Records Management program include university scholarships, national student loans, external grants, and part-time employment opportunities. Prospective students should consult UCL’s official website and financial aid office to obtain the most current and detailed information, and to ensure they meet all relevant application deadlines and eligibility requirements.

The MA in Archives and Records Management at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and professional competencies required for a successful career in the fields of archives, records management, and information governance. This program is ideal for individuals interested in managing historical and contemporary records in various contexts, including cultural institutions, government agencies, private organizations, and digital environments. The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of topics, including the principles and practices of recordkeeping, digital records management, archival appraisal, metadata standards, information law and ethics, and digital preservation techniques. Students gain hands-on experience with contemporary records management software and information systems, preparing them for the evolving challenges of digital recordkeeping in a dynamic technological landscape. The program emphasizes an understanding of the legal, ethical, and organizational contexts within which records are created, maintained, and accessed. Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking skills regarding the management and preservation of records, ensuring the integrity, authenticity, and accessibility of information over time. Additionally, the course offers opportunities for practical placements and projects, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world situations and build professional networks. The faculty comprises experts in digital preservation, archival science, and information management, providing mentorship and guidance throughout the program. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for roles such as archivists, records managers, digital curators, information governance specialists, and records consultants. The program's location in London offers access to a vibrant cultural and professional scene, with numerous opportunities for internships, networking events, and collaborations with key institutions and industry leaders. Overall, the MA in Archives and Records Management at UCL is designed to meet the increasing demand for skilled professionals capable of managing complex and diverse records in a digital age, ensuring that critical information is preserved and accessible for future generations.