MSc in Information Science
| 'The year I spent at City was not only enjoyable
(intellectually as well as socially), but has also turned out to be my
best investment of time and effort to date - and I'm still reaping the
benefit. I simply can't recommend the course or the department highly
enough.' |
Overview
This course provides an excellent preparation for a career in the information professions. It covers all aspects of the topic, and is particularly suitable if you have a special interest in subject-specific information services, such as healthcare information provision for example, or a focus on technology applications in information provision.
It equips you for a professional career in information work by enabling you
to gain an in-depth knowledge about the complexities of information services
in an increasingly digital environment, and to develop highly marketable skills
in the organisation, management and retrieval of information using modern tools.
You will gain an advanced understanding of the principles of information science
and how these inform the design, implementation and evaluation of information
services. You will also be encouraged to reflect on the role of the information
professional against the wider context of the legal, ethical and social responsibilities
that such work increasingly entails. The course is also excellent preparation
for doctoral (PhD) study.
This course is part of our Information Studies Scheme, a group of closely
related postgraduate courses in the library/information area. It is usually
possible for students to transfer between Scheme courses in the first term.
The course aims to develop:
- a fundamental knowledge and an understanding of the principles of information science and their application in a professional context
- a critical understanding of the principles of information retrieval and knowledge organisation and of their practical application in organisations of all kinds
- advanced level skills in undertaking independent research and evaluation projects
- skills in information technology, teamwork and communication.
Why study this course at City University London?
- The longest established course of its kind in Europe, with a pioneering tradition and record of success.
- The extensive research and postgraduate teaching activities of the Department feed new ideas into the course and inform your learning with the latest thinking in information science.
- Graduates are prepared for a career in the information industry, one of the most vibrant and exciting sectors of the economy. Our graduates find employment as taxonomy managers, database analysts and information managers.
- You will experience a highly innovative learning environment based on the application of state-of-the-art educational tools (CitySpace).
- The Department's staff are highly motivated teachers as well as leading researchers in their field
- The modern and well-equipped main University Library at Northampton Square occupies the top five floors of the building, and provides students with an extensive range of online resources, many of which are accessible from off-site. Library Information Services also supplement their own collections through the national inter-library loan network and access is available to a number of other academic and specialist libraries.
Professional accreditation
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This course is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals (CILIP). |
The American Library Association (ALA) does recognise holders of our CILIP accredited masters level courses. There is a specific memorandum of understanding between the ALA and CILIP that confirms this for British masters degrees. Please also note that a graduate from the City Library Science course would indeed be eligible to apply for a professional post in the USA: the courses would be recognised.

