Information Studies MA  Information Studies MA University of Brighton ../webroot/files/Institutions/cover_photo/1533791713University-of-Brighton.jpg

This course equips graduates from other disciplines with the knowledge and skills to make a career as library and information professionals. Practical skills needed by the information worker are integrated with the knowledge base of information science. Professional accreditation The course is formally accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals in the UK (CILIP) and recognised by the American Library Association as an equivalent to masters programs in the United States. International applicants are eligible for University of Brighton international scholarships. Course structure The course consists of six taught modules and a final placement project which provides students with an opportunity to apply the techniques and knowledge gained during the course in a practical environment. The project forms the basis for the written dissertation required for the masters qualification. Areas of study Organising Knowledge develops an understanding of the principles by which knowledge can be organised and the practical skills necessary to be able to classify and index a range of printed and electronic sources. Information Policy and Professionalism in a Digital Society introduces students to the theoretical, policy and practical implications for professional work in societies which are increasingly reliant on a digital communications infrastructure. Managing Information Services aims to equip a new generation of information professionals with the management skills required to succeed in an increasingly competitive world, enabling them to develop a strategic awareness of leadership, marketing and resource management concepts and techniques as they apply to information services. Information Architecture and Design for the Web provides students with understanding and skills in current technologies, for example Web 2.0, and the ways in which organisations can use them for information service provision, aggregation and dissemination. Information Retrieval and Collection Development introduces the principles and practice of information retrieval that lie at the heart of information management. This module also examines the policies and processes involved in developing and managing collections, covering printed material and electronic resources. Research Methods explores approaches to research in library and information management, and prepares students for the design and implementation of a research project in an information organisation. It introduces a range of skills not only in designing and executing students' own projects, but also in evaluating and critiquing research undertaken by others. Syllabus Organising Knowledge Information Policy and Professionalism in a Digital Society Managing Information Services Information Architecture and Design for the Web Information Retrieval and Collection Development Research Methods Project Career and progression opportunities Graduates are prepared for both specialist and management careers in a wide range of library and information service environments. Our graduates have a track record in gaining employment in a variety of library sectors (public, academic, health, specialist) as well as information management roles within other organisations. The course also provides a basis from which to progress to research at PhD and MPhil level.