Clayton State University
College of Information and Mathematical Sciences
Contact
Degrees/Certificates Offered
- Masters of Archival Studies
Programs Offered
OnlineProgram Philosophy
Vision
Graduates of the Archival Studies Program will be successful digital archivists who are committed to curating comprehensive, trustworthy collections of records that merit long-term preservation. They will be well-grounded in theoretical knowledge and practical skills of archives. They will understand the impact of technology on the profession and will have the knowledge and skills to work with information technologists and to manage digital information. They will know how to work in a rapidly changing environment, finding innovative solutions to the challenges of digital archives.
Mission
The Master of Archival Studies Program at Clayton State University provides students with a broad education in archival theory and practice. Graduates will master the core archival functions, of appraisal and description, arrangement and description, reference and access, outreach, preservation, and management of records in all formats, especially digital formats, in accordance with best practices, law, and professional ethics.
Outcomes
Through a combination of lecture, discussion, research and reports, and experiential labs and internships, graduates will be able to
- Explain and apply archival principles to appraise and acquire records in all formats to build comprehensive, trustworthy collections of accurate, authentic records with enduring value that provide a balanced, diverse understanding of the past.
- Discuss the history of archives and their role within society, including the use of records as evidence and cultural memory.
- Determine and apply archival best practices and standards to arrange, describe, and support discovery to archival materials, while protecting their intellectual and physical integrity.
- Provide reference service to patrons by promoting equitable access and use while balancing the constraints of privacy and the law.
- Evaluate the most appropriate approaches to preserve and protect traditional and digital archival materials from degradation, theft, or alteration.
- Explain the value and promote the use of archives to potential users and donors, to the general public, and to governing bodies.
- Implement strategies to manage archival repositories, including effective and efficient ways to accomplish these archival functions given available fiscal and human resources.
- Explain how the application of these functions differs in the context of collecting, business, and government archives.
- Explain how technology has transformed the nature of records and archival practice, and demonstrate a variety of ways to use technology to facilitate archival functions.
Audiences
The MAS program is committed to diversity. The program welcomes individuals preparing to enter the archival profession, either as their first career or as a midlife career change. The program also welcomes practicing archivists who wish to continue their professional education.
Support
Support for development and implementation of the Master of Archival Studies Program at Clayton State University was provided through Congressionally-directed grant awards P116Z080101 and P116Z090105. However, the curriculum and course content does not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Education or endorsement by the Federal Government.
Facilities
Courses are offered online. Live lectures provide students a dynamic, real-time experience, the ability to answer questions, and to contribute their ideas. Online discussion gives students the opportunity to explore ideas in depth with others in their classes. Courses are offered in the evening (Eastern time) to accommodate working students.
Practicum/Internships/Assistantships Offered?
Students may take two semesters ARST 6900 as an internships or as directed research, or they may take two semesters as ARST 6999 to research and write a thesis.
