Library and Information Science (MS)

The archival profession has been growing steadily as the number of records and awareness of their preservation have increased. 

Through Simmons' Archives Management Concentration (ranked #1 in the United States), you’ll gain knowledge in collecting, appraising, and preserving documents and materials. These include manuscripts, moving images, photographs, oral history recordings, multimedia, government records, and literary correspondence.

You'll learn how to establish and maintain proper repositories in public and private organizations. These include public archives, colleges and universities, museums and cultural heritage sites, photographic and film collections, public libraries, foundations, government agencies, and corporations. As part of the curriculum, you’ll also complete a 60-hour internship in an archival setting.

The Cultural Heritage Informatics Concentration builds upon Simmons' top rated programs in Library and Information Science and Archives Management.

You’ll learn about cultural heritage in all its forms, including rare books, manuscripts, archives, art objects, and digital information. You'll gain a solid foundation in collecting, preserving, and exhibiting cultural heritage in both physical and digital form. You'll apply what you learn in internships and practical engagement activities at cultural heritage informatics institutions.

Our home in historic New England offers resources and research not found in other parts of the country. Simmons graduates are at the forefront in making cultural heritage accessible and in preserving it for future generations. Our students have careers in library special collections, archives, museums, historical societies, and a wide range of public and private agencies.

Technology is central to the library and information science profession. The Information Science and Technology Concentration develops your information technology skills while building a foundation in human information behavior and service-oriented practices. 

This program integrates theory, practical skills, and professional practices. You'll learn major theories in information science and apply them in research or professional settings. You will develop programming skills, learn database design and application, and gain proficiency in key areas of information science and technology.

You will graduate ready for careers in libraries, museums, archives, information systems management, and data-driven business and research environments.

In the Libraries and Librarianship Concentration, you'll focus on the principles of managing a library collection and guiding patrons in their quest for information.

In this pathway, you'll benefit from directed coursework, programming, and a community of peers supporting your goals. You’ll learn how to:

• Select, organize, manage, and provide access to library resources and collections of information materials.
• Work with patrons to help guide them in their pursuit of information, knowledge, and services.
• Interact with people, technologies, and resources.
• Support the libraries by thoughtfully applying planning, evaluation, and management theories and practices.

You’ll receive a comprehensive education in information sources, services, organization, and management principles. You can also explore public, special, or academic libraries in more depth.

The School Library Teacher Concentration prepares you for a career as a school library teacher. 

The core curriculum focuses on technology integration, curriculum development, and literacy initiatives in the K-12 learning environment. You’ll participate in supervised fieldwork in public schools and a practicum experience at elementary and secondary school levels. In total, you'll accumulate 75 hours of fieldwork and at least 300 hours of professional experience.

After completing our program, graduates are eligible to be endorsed by Simmons to the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education for licensure. The National Association of State Directors of Teacher Education and Certification endorses our program and external accrediting agencies commend us on our program's outstanding quality.