A student studying charts and graphs on a computer.

Master of Arts / Master of Science

History / Information Science

Program of Study

programofstudy

By simultaneously pursuing an MA in history and an MS in information science, you can combine advanced historical research skills with modern information management methodologies to conduct valuable work on behalf of government agencies and private organizations.

You'll gain real-world experience through an internship, field research project, study abroad component or clinical research participation. This requirement will give you the necessary background to pursue competitive positions in your desired field.

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

 

History

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

Each one involves a reading and research seminar. For the reading seminar, you have a variety of course topic options such as American Colonial and Revolutionary History, Visual Media and Culture, U.S. History, European History, Late Modern History and more.

Work closely with UAlbany's history department faculty to hone your research skills by learning how to use tools like:

  • Oral history techniques, including research, interviewing, recording and video editing
  • Digital tools like imaging, mapping, virtual museums and augmented reality
  • Quantitative methods such as data base management, graphics and data analysis

Information Science

Required Courses

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


Concentration Course Areas

  • Archives and Records Administration
  • Library and Information Services
  • Information Management and Technology
  • Intelligence Analysis
  • Data Analytics
     

Required Internship

Independent Study


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].

Focus Tracks
Academic

30 credits

  • Coursework in History (22 credits)
    • One Readings Seminar (4 credits)
    • Supporting coursework as advised (0-9 credits)
  • Prospectus Workshop (4 credits)
  • Research Seminar (4 credits)

 

Foreign Language Requirement:

A reading knowledge of one foreign language appropriate to the student's major field is required for M.A. candidates writing Master's theses on non-U.S. topics. The Master’s thesis is optional and not required for this program. This requirement can be fulfilled by an examination in the Department, by an examination administered by a language department with approval of the History Department, or by satisfactory completion of a graduate level language course that has been approved by the History Department.

Public History
36 Credits

Group A: Academic Content Courses

(14-18 credits)

  • Readings Seminar
  • Prospectus Workshop
  • Research Seminar
  • 2-6 credits of History as advised


Group B: Public History Courses

(12-16 credits)

  • Introduction to Public History

Other courses selected from the following:

  • Introduction to Historical Agency Management and Practice
  • Curatorial Practices for Historical Agencies
  • Interpretation of Historic Sites and Artifacts
  • History Museums
  • Material Culture Studies
  • Introduction to Historic Preservation
  • Practicum in Oral/Aural History
  • Practicum in Digital History
  • Practicum in Historical Documentary Filmmaking
  • Practicum in Historical Narrative


Group C: Public History Internship

(6 credits)

  • Introduction to Public History

You must complete a minimum of 36 credits of coursework chosen from Group A, B and C as apportioned.

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 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.

admissions