COURSE INFORMATION

The programme provides people working in the field of records management, or closely related information and archives management activities, with the opportunity to gain a specialist qualification which will help to consolidate their current position and standing, as well as prepare to future career development into more senior roles.

Learning will be supported by the provision of teaching materials, both paper-based and electronic, by both individual and group tutor support, using a range of technologies, and through the establishment of a student learner network. The programme begins with a compulsory residential school and includes a second residential school in the second year.

The programme aims to study records management in relation to the needs of all types of organisations, irrespective of the medium of the records. It also helps students develop an awareness of the business context and business techniques as they impact on and relate to the theory and practise of managing an organisation’s records.

Year 1

Principles and Practice of Records Management:

examines the concepts of records management and the management of an organisation’s records throughout their lifecycle. It provides students with the knowledge and skills to identify the role that records play in supporting business aims and objectives, in accordance with legal and other compliance requirements.

Strategic Approaches to Management for records Management:

explores current management theories, including strategic planning, human resource management, and marketing and finance, and their application in the context of managing an organisation’s records. New and established management techniques, such as quality assurance and performance measurement, are critically reviewed.

In Information Storage and Retrieval for Records Management:

students learn about the principles and practices, selection, design and evaluation of information storage and retrieval systems. Database design principles and practice are an important element of this module.

Managing the Records Continuum:

develops knowledge and skills in the design, evaluation and management of the records continuum process from across the dimensions. Students study the vital user dimension and the principles of protection, disaster planning and recovery, and legal compliance.

Research Methods for Records Management:

Explores the techniques used in records management research and the issues of problem selection, research design, data analysis and presentation. This module begins the preparation for the dissertation.

Year 2

Managing Records in the Electronic Environment:

is a critical topic for records managers. This module examines the technical, legal and organisational challenges of managing records in an electronic environment, including technologies, frameworks and models as well as current research and development.

The Dissertation:

provides the opportunity to undertake a research project in the field of records management.

COURSEWORK AND ASSESSMENT

There are no examinations. All modules are assessed either by prescribed assignments, such as presentations or reports, or by submission of evidence for Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).

ACCREDITATION

The degree is approved by the Chartered Institute of Library and Information Professionals, CILIP, whose professional qualifications are awarded after appropriate work experience has been completed and professional development attained. The degree is also accredited by The Society of Archivists.

CAREERS

Prepares students for future career development into senior levels within records management in a variety of public and private sector organisations. Records Management is a growth area for career opportunities in the knowledge-based economy, including; the pharmaceutical sector, public utilities, central and local government, education and hospitals.

FUNDING

Students are expected to be self-financing. There are no further additional charges for the residential schools, but students need to fund travel and accommodation.

Course Length:

2 years by distance learning

Enquiries:
Future Focus Ltd
8, Magazines Street
Floriana FRN 1119
Malta
Tel. +356 21 221 371
E-mail: info@futurefocus.com.mt

Standard Entry:

A first degree from a UK university or equivalent (usually a 2:2 classification or above) is normally required.

Additional Notes:

Students are expected to have access to external email and the Internet.