COURSE CURRICULUM

The MA in Information and Library Studies at Aberystwyth University offers a comprehensive and professionally accredited program that prepares students for a wide range of careers in the information sector. This course is designed to equip future information professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the global information economy, where effective information management is critical for success across public, private, and academic sectors. Accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP), the program provides a strong foundation in both theoretical principles and practical applications.The core modules introduce essential areas of the profession. Collection Management focuses on curating and maintaining information resources, while Information Organisation and Retrieval teaches the classification, cataloguing, and indexing methods that ensure efficient access to knowledge. Information Services: Planning for Delivery explores how to design and implement user-focused services, and Information and Society examines the broader context in which information professionals operate. The Studies in Management module provides key organisational and leadership skills necessary for managing teams and resources within library and information settings.Students can tailor their learning through a selection of optional modules. Collections Care offers insight into the preservation of physical materials, Digital and Audio-visual Collections explores strategies for managing non-print media, Digital Information Literacy focuses on educating users in navigating the digital information landscape, and Rare Books and Special Collections provides expertise in handling historically significant materials.The program is supported by Aberystwyth’s strong academic tradition and access to rich information resources, including the nearby National Library of Wales. Through a blend of academic study, technical training, and professional development, graduates are well prepared for roles in libraries, archives, digital curation, information management, and other areas where the organisation and delivery of knowledge is essential to institutional success.