MAS Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Should I meet with the program director before applying?

A meeting — either in person or by phone — is not required, but is strongly recommended. The interview will ensure the potential applicant understands the program and what will be expected of them. At the same time, during the conversation the program director can answer questions and help the individual strengthen their application.

Are courses offered online?

Yes. We expect the program to certified as an online program for students starting in fall 2012. However, some courses are already offered online. Students who begin in fall 2011 will likely be able to complete all their coursework online.

Some courses may require a field visit to an archives. Students outside metropolitan Atlanta will work with instructors to find a more convenient archives they can visit on their own.

What are online classes like?

Each instructor will address online education differently. However, most courses will include a ‘synchronous’ lecture each week that lasts between an hour and ninety minutes. The students and instructor will be in a virtual classroom at the same time, allowing for spontaneous questions and discussion.

Lectures are accompanied by class discussion similar to a seminar. Throughout the week, students will have an extended, online conversation about the readings and assignments.

Assignments vary by class, but most theory and practice courses will include short, written essays and a longer term paper. Technology courses will have exercises and labs.

How much time does an online course take?

As a rule of thumb, you should expect to spend nine to twelve hours per week per course. Three hours will be in lecture and discussion. However, all courses require a substantial amount of reading — often a hundred or more pages per week. Some technology labs take a fair amount of time as installing software can't be rushed.

When are classes held?

Most classes are in the evening. In the future, some courses may be offered mid-day. Fortunately, because there's no commute time to take an online course, students can often negotiate using their lunch hour — possibly a bit early or a bit late — to participate.

May experienced archivists take individual courses for professional development without pursuing a degree?

Yes. Individuals may take courses as non-degree candidates. They have the permission of the program director to ensure they have the requisite archival and technical knowledge to succeed. They must be admitted to the School of Graduate Studies. For more information, please contact the program director.

Is the MAS program accredited by the American Library Association (ALA)?

No. The ALA accredits library programs, not archival studies programs. An archivist's professional status is established through an individual exam administered by the Academy of Certified Archivists.

What should I major in for my undergraduate degree?
Is my undergraduate degree appropriate to begin the MAS program?

Archivists work with a wide range of materials, including business and government records and personal papers. Depending on the archives, the records may cover almost any topic. No one degree can prepare an archivist to work with such a wide range of materials. Rather, archivists often must learn about the materials they are working with on the job.

Many archivists have a degree in history, and a general knowledge of historiography is useful. However, individuals with other degrees have different skills and perspectives that are equally useful. An archivist working in a business archives may find a degree in business or accounting invaluable.

What computer skills do I need?

Students should be very comfortable using consumer desktop applications, such as word processors, spreadsheets, presentation software, browsers, graphics editors, and email. Knowledge of databases is desirable, but not essential. The first two semesters, students take courses on archives and technology and archives and the web that ensure students have a sophisticated knowledge of and are proficient in technology.

Students who have more advanced knowledge of technology may find some aspects of the program relatively easy. Instructors will work with students to develop assignments that are challenging and rewarding.

What kind of computer do I need?
Can I use a Macintosh?

The program seeks to be ‘technology agnostic’, as digital archivists may find themselves working with a wide range of technologies. In general, the program seeks to use software that will work on either a Mac or Windows operating system.

A well-configured computer will suffice for the course. It should have at least 3 GB of RAM. More RAM is generally better, unless you're running Windows XP and Vista, which take a maximum of 3GB of RAM. You should have at least 350 GB of hard drive space. If your internal hard drive is smaller, you may use an inexpensive external hard drive. Hard drives spinning at 7200 RPM perform significantly better than those running at 5200 RPM.

Students must have a high speed internet connection.

Do I have to take the Graduate Record Exam (GRE)?

Students who already have a master's degree may petition to have the requirement to take the GRE waived.

What is the minimum GRE score for admission to the program?

The Graduate School does not set minimum GRE scores for admissions. A strong application, with excellent letters of recommendation, a transcript with good grades, and a strong statement of purpose may offset low scores. In some instances, students may be admitted with probationary status for a semester. If the student maintains a B (3.0) average, the probationary status is removed.

Have a question that's not answered? Contact Richard Pearce-Moses at 678-466-4400 or ArchivalStudies@mail.Clayton.edu.