We are one of the world’s top 50 universities for Library & Information Management (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026) Build the knowledge, understanding, and practical skills needed for a career in archives, records, and information management. Graduates emerge as adaptable, skilled professionals ready to make an impact across a wide range of archival institutions and records management settings. Gain valuable work experience either through placements, virtual placements or your dissertation. You’ll develop specialist skills in working with both physical and digital materials across the core areas of archives, records, and information management, gaining expertise in creating and managing digital records, digital curation and preservation, archival theory, user needs, and the description, cataloguing, and navigation of collections. As a graduate of the MSc or PGDip you will be eligible for accreditation by both the Archives & Records Association and CILIP (The Library and Information Association). This gives you valuable professional recognition in the archive, records, information management, and library fields. You'll gain a critical understanding of the role that archives, records, and information management play in society, from supporting accountability and preserving memory to shaping cultural identity and ensuring democratic access to information. You’ll also explore how international, national, and local contexts influence archival policy and practice, particularly in relation to ethics, legislation, governance, and information rights. You will also study how digital technologies are transforming archival theory and practice, including the challenges and opportunities of managing born-digital records and the long-term preservation of digital assets. The Archives, Records, and Information Management programme is taught alongside our Museum Studies programme, with joint workshops held throughout the year. These sessions give all students a broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing museums, galleries, libraries, and archives in the 21st century. Originally called Information Management & Preservation, this programme was designed over 20 years ago by academic staff and colleagues in the University's Archives and Special Collections department . This strong relationship continues today, with students and staff using these collections for teaching and research. What our students say There was a high level of theory and learning how to put that into practice. It was a more practical experience than I had anticipated. It was incredibly useful. You get to experience all of the things that you dream about with an archive. Illuminated manuscripts, books that you're not allowed to breathe on, incredible things that you only imagine seeing. You get to look at all of these things that you otherwise wouldn't experience in person. Christal, MSc student
2.1 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in any subject.
A 2.2 Honours degree may be considered.
Substantial, directly relevant experience may be considered in place of formal qualifications. If you are applying based on relevant experience, please include a personal statement evidencing this with your application.
For further information about English language requirements, please contact the Recruitment and International Office using our enquiry form
For applicants from non-majority English speaking countries, as defined by the UK Government , the University sets a minimum English Language proficiency level.
We accept a wide range of English language tests for entry to this programme. Tests must have been taken within 2 years 5 months of programme start date, and requirements must be met using a single test.
Test taken up to 20 January 2026
Tests taken from 21 January 2026
Degree from majority-English speaking country (as defined by the UKVI including Canada if taught in English)
TNE degree from UK university taught at a campus outside of the UK