One degree, two disciplines? Examining the presence of archival concepts in American library association accredited core courses
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47989/ir31iConf64286Keywords:
Archival education, Library and information science education, CollaborationAbstract
Introduction. A master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Library Association has become the preferred credential for American archivists. Archival studies students graduate knowing library core competencies. But is the inverse true? This preliminary study examines the presence of archival concepts within core courses of ALA accredited programs in the USA.
Method. Using ALA’s database of accredited programs, we identified the core courses for each program. We then searched for syllabi. If no syllabi were available, we analysed course descriptions, learning outcomes, and ALA accreditation self-study reports regarding core courses. This resulted in a data pool of 53 programs.
Analysis. Using an iterative approach, we analysed the data and created rating categories to indicate depth of presence of archival studies in core courses. Once the categories were established, we coded the data.
Results. Our qualitative analysis of the data reveals that archival studies topics are present in the core curriculum of 20 out of 53 programs analysed. However, the extent of this presence varies.
Conclusions. Archival concepts are being taught in ALA accredited master’s programs, but there is room for growth in order to facilitate collaboration between archivists and librarians and promote better understanding of each other’s disciplines.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Caitlin Christian-Lamb , Ana Roeschley
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