Simmons University's Archives Management Certificate Program prepares students with a Master's degree in library science for careers in digital and physical archives. The program offers core courses in archival theory and access, along with electives in preservation, archival content, and one additional elective. Graduates are equipped for roles in various archival settings, including public archives, museums, and government agencies.

Degree Overview:

The Archives Management Certificate program at Simmons University is designed for students who have already earned a Master's degree from an ALA-accredited library school. It prepares students for careers in both digital and physical archives. The program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to manage and preserve archival materials in a variety of settings.

Outline:

The program consists of 12 credit hours and can be completed in three ways:

• Face-to-face in Boston
• Face-to-face in South Hadley
• Online

Core Courses:

• LIS438 Introduction to Archival Theory and Practice (3 credits): This course provides a foundational understanding of archival theory, principles, and practices.

Electives:

Students must choose one course from each of the following categories:

• Preservation:
• LIS439 Preservation Management (3 credits)
• LIS444 Digital Preservation (3 credits)
• LIS448 Digital Stewardship (3 credits)
• Archival Content and Context:
• LIS433 Oral History (3 credits)
• LIS441 Appraisal of Archives and Manuscripts (3 credits)
• LIS443 Archives, History and Collective Memory (3 credits)
• LIS456 Records Management Environments (3 credits)
• LIS471 Photographic Archives (3 credits)
• LIS472 Moving Image Archives (3 credits)
• LIS476 Outreach and Advocacy for Cultural Heritage (3 credits)
• LIS505M Government Archives (3 credits)

One Elective Course:

Students can choose one additional elective course from a list of relevant options, including:

• LIS442 Establishing Archives and Manuscript Programs (3 credits)
• LIS445 Metadata (3 credits)
• LIS449 Rare Book and Special Collections Librarianship (3 credits)
• LIS462 Digital Libraries (3 credits)
• LIS512 Advanced Field Experience in Library and Information Science (3 credits)

Careers:

Graduates of the Archives Management Certificate program are prepared for a variety of careers in archival settings, including:

• Public archives
• Colleges and universities
• Museums and cultural heritage sites
• Photographic and film collections
• Public libraries
• Foundations
• Government agencies
• Corporations

Other:

• Ranked among the best: Simmons University is ranked #1 for Archives and Preservation by U.S.News and World Report.
• Student opportunities: Students work in varied settings and have opportunities for internships and research.
• Alumni discount: All SLIS Alumni admitted to the post-master's program receive a 50% discount off current Simmons tuition.
• Faculty: The program is led by Katherine Wisser, Associate Professor and Masters Program Director, Director Archives Concentration, and Director of Archives Certificate Program, and Jeannette Bastian, Professor Emerita.

Simmons University

Overview:

Simmons University is a private university located in Boston, Massachusetts. It is known for its focus on women's leadership and its commitment to social justice. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including online options, and is recognized for its real-world learning opportunities and integrated career advising.

Services Offered:

Simmons University provides a variety of services to its students, including:

Academic Advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Campus Dining:

A variety of dining options on campus.

Community Engagement:

Opportunities for students to engage in social justice initiatives and community service.

Student Support & Resources:

A range of resources to support student success, including academic support, counseling, and health services.

Library:

Access to a comprehensive library with extensive resources.

Athletics:

A variety of athletic programs and opportunities for students to participate in sports.

Events:

A calendar of events and activities for students to participate in.

Student Life and Campus Experience:

Simmons University offers a vibrant campus experience with a strong sense of community. Students can expect:

A small college feel:

A close-knit campus community with a focus on student support and engagement.

A dynamic city location:

Located in the heart of Boston, students have access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Real-world learning opportunities:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

A commitment to inclusivity:

A welcoming and supportive environment for students from diverse backgrounds.

Key Reasons to Study There:

Real-world learning:

Students gain practical experience through internships, research, and creative projects.

Integrated career advising:

Customized support throughout the academic journey, from first-year advising to career guidance.

Accelerated graduate programs:

Shorten the time to a graduate degree with accelerated undergraduate to graduate programs.

Location in Boston:

Access to a wealth of cultural, historical, and professional opportunities.

Commitment to social justice:

A focus on women's leadership and social justice initiatives.

Academic Programs:

Simmons University offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate programs:

A variety of majors and minors in fields such as business, health sciences, humanities, and social sciences.

Graduate programs:

Master's and doctoral programs in fields such as business, education, health sciences, law, and social work.

Online programs:

A range of online undergraduate and graduate programs for adult learners.

Other:

Simmons University has been recognized with the 2024 Carnegie Elective Classification for Leadership for Public Purpose, which acknowledges its commitment to leadership and the collective public good. The university also has a strong alumni network and offers a variety of resources for alumni to stay connected.