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Master of Arts / Master of Science

History / Information Science

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Combine Your Passion for Historical Research with Training in Modern Information Systems

Develop the specialized skills and experience needed in today's workplace by pursuing a dual master’s degree with an MA in History and an MS in Information Science at the University at Albany.

Combining advanced historical research and analytical skills with modern information management methodologies will prepare you for employment in libraries, museums, archives, historic sites, and educational and governmental institutions.

The dual program offers a streamlined pathway through two degrees and draws on the University at Albany’s unique location near state archives and libraries and centered in New York’s high-tech corridor.

Program of Study

programofstudy

By combining coursework (up to 13 credits, with no more than 7 credits coming from one degree or the other), the dual degree can be earned in as few as 53-59 credits.

History

Choose a concentration in one of two tracks: Academic or Public History

Academic Focus (30 credits)

  • Coursework in History (22 credits minimum, including at least one Readings Seminar)
  • Supporting coursework as advised (0-9 credits)
  • Prospectus Workshop (4 credits)
  • Research Seminar (capstone) (4 credits)

Public History Focus (36 credits)

Group A: Academic Content Courses (14-18 credits)

  • Coursework in History, including at least one Readings Seminar
  • Supporting coursework as advised
  • Prospectus Workshop
  • Research Seminar

Group B: Public History Courses (12-16 credits)

  • Coursework in Public History, including Introduction to Public History

Supporting coursework as advised

Group C: Public History Internship (6 credits)

Information Science

Core Courses (9 credits)

  • The Information Environment
  • Information and Knowledge Organization
  • Administration of Information Agencies

Research and Statistics Course (3 credits)

  • Research Methods

Information Science Internship (3 credits)


Concentration Courses (21 credits)

Archives and Records Administration 

  • Fundamentals of Records Management 
  • Electronic Record Management 
  • Preservation Management in Archives and Libraries or Archival Representation  
  • Archives and Manuscripts  

Supporting courses as advised: 9 credits 


Library and Information Services 

  • Information Processing  
  • Information Sources and Services 

Supporting courses as advised: 15 credits
 

Information Management and Technology 

  • Information Storage and Retrieval 
  • Information and Public Policy 
  • Human Information Behavior 
  • Information Systems 

Supporting courses as advised: 9 credits 

Data Analytics 

  • Database Systems and Data Analysis  
  • Predictive Modeling 
  • Required tool: Inf 528 Analysis, Visualization, and Prediction in Analytics  

Supporting courses as advised: 12 credits 


Supporting courses as advised: A maximum of nine credit hours may be taken in other professional and academic fields as advised. Seven credit hours of approved course work in History must be part of the supporting courses sequence. 


Additional Information

See the Graduate Bulletin for details

For more information, contact Alexander Dawson at 518-442-5300 or [email protected].

Career Outcomes

career

Develop historical analysis proficiencies and analytical skills in this dual degree program to fine tune your skill set and prepare for a variety of information-centric career paths in the public and private sectors. As our society finds new and valuable ways to leverage data, skilled professionals will be needed to manage complex information systems.

Prepare for stimulating career paths with organizations such as: Libraries, Archives, Museums, State historical societies, and International corporations

Potential job titles for an MA History/MSIS include:

  • Librarian
  • Information Architect
  • Data Analyst
  • Digital Archivist
  • Market Analyst
  • Records Manager

Two students studying in the UAlbany library

Admissions Requirements
Deadlines
  • Fall: Rolling
  • Spring: December 1
  • Summer: Not Available

There is no departmental assistantship consideration for this program.

Required Application Materials
  • Transcripts from all schools attended
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Official GRE test scores
  • Statement of goals
    The statement is generally one to two pages discussing what you have to offer the program and what you wish to get out of the program.  It should include a brief description of the applicant's field of interest, related background, desired area of study and research emphasis or career goals. 

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Special Notes

This program requires an internship, field experience, study abroad component, or clinical experience requirement. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions.  If applicants have concerns about this matter please contact the Dean’s Office of the intended academic program.

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