MA Library and Archive Studies / Careers

Year of entry: 2027

Career opportunities

Shiron, Library and Archive Studies Student

We had the privilege to interact with special collections from the Rylands.

It was a truly delightful experience, available only to students at Manchester.

Shiron / MA Library and Archive Studies Student

This course supports progression into professional roles across libraries, archives, special collections, records management, cultural heritage and other information-centred organisations. You will develop skills in librarianship, archival practice, records and information management, collection promotion, information governance, public engagement, digital practice and research.

Career directions may include policy and management roles in national libraries, major special collections libraries and archives, as well as broader work connected to cultural institutions, record keeping organisations and information management. The course is relevant both for graduates entering the sector and mid-career professionals already working within it.

Careers support

As a Library and Archive Studies student, you can use employability support to connect your professional interests with future career plans. At Manchester you will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability, such as careers fairs, employer presentations, and workshops through the University’s dedicated Careers Service. As a student at Manchester, you would have full access to this service during your studies and for two years after you graduate.

Professional accreditation

The Library and Archive Studies MA is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP). The course is also seeking additional accreditation from the Archives and Records Association (ARA), but ARA accreditation is not guaranteed for any cohort.

Accrediting organisations

The Library and Archive Studies MA is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP).

In addition, the programme is seeking additional accrditation from the Archives and Records Association (ARA). ARA is currently reviewing their accreditation process and will continue discussions with the Library and Archive Studies MA. While the University is hopeful that the MA will succeed in its applications for accreditation with ARA, accreditation is not guaranteed in respect of any cohort.