MA Archives & Records Management

Program Overview

The MA Archives & Records Management program at University College Dublin equips graduates with the knowledge and skills to manage records and archives ethically. Emphasizing reflective practice, international best practices, and technological advancements, the program prepares students for professional roles in archives and records management. Accredited by the Archives and Records Association, it is recognized globally and provides a pathway for careers in various institutions and academic pursuits.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MA Archives & Records Management program is a graduate-level program offered by the School of History at University College Dublin (UCD). It is designed for graduates who wish to acquire the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to ethically manage records and archives in all formats, from medieval manuscripts to born digital records. The program emphasizes the role of the record-keeper as a reflective professional, informed by international best practices, creative in service delivery, sensitive to cultural differences, and adaptable to technological advancements. The MA Archives & Records Management program is the entry-level professional qualification for archivists and records managers in Ireland and globally. It is accredited by the Archives and Records Association (UK and Ireland) and is recognized internationally.

Objectives:

The program aims to equip students with the following abilities:

• Demonstrate a thorough understanding of the principles underlying the theory and practice of archival and records management in all formats.
• Actively embrace the ethical and cultural responsibilities of a professional record keeper.
• Apply the skills of an archivist and records manager in various working environments.
• Engage critically with current research trends and methodologies in archives and records management and understand their relevance to the workplace.
• Identify with the national and international community of archivists and records managers.

Teaching:

The program's learning environment includes:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Field trips
• Practitioner visits
• Work placements
On-site facilities provide students with practical experience in archival preservation, processing, and digitization, often in collaboration with external archival repositories. Teaching, learning, and assessment are designed to enable students to complete assignments, both individually and in groups, that simulate the work of a professional record-keeper. Engagement with the theory behind contemporary practice is encouraged through presentations, essays, and a minor research dissertation.

Careers:

Graduates of the MA Archives & Records Management program have found employment in a range of archives, libraries, and corporations in Ireland and globally. The program is also a stepping stone for those seeking an academic career in archives and records management education.

Other:

The program's learning environment includes lectures, seminars, field trips, practitioner visits, and work placements. On-site facilities allow students to gain practical experience of archival preservation, processing, and digitization, often working in collaboration with internal or external archival repositories. UCD is conveniently located for utilizing Dublin city center research and cultural institutions, including the National Library of Ireland and the National Archives, where an extensive range of Irish manuscripts and Irish state papers are housed.

• MA Archives & Records Management (Z020) Full Time
EU fee per year - € 11500 nonEU fee per year - € 22600
• MA Archives & Records Management (Z100) Part Time
EU fee per year - € 5750 nonEU fee per year - € 11300