Charles Sturt University

What you'll study

This master’s combines theoretical foundations with practical skills across the information lifecycle. Core topics typically include information organisation and metadata, records and archives management, digital preservation, information architecture, research methods and information policy and ethics. Students study data management, user-centred design for information services, and technologies for discovery and access.

The degree is usually structured around a mix of taught units and a substantial culminating component such as a professional project, practicum or research thesis. Elective options allow specialisation—for example, digital curation and preservation, enterprise records governance, information systems analytics, or community and public library services. Coursework emphasises hands-on work with metadata standards, digital repositories, content management systems and evidence-based evaluation of services.

Entry requirements

• An undergraduate degree (or recognised equivalent) in any discipline is normally required. Applicants with substantial professional experience in information, records, archives or related fields may be considered.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating prior study; a personal statement or CV outlining relevant experience and motivation is often requested.
• International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency to meet university requirements (through IELTS, TOEFL or equivalent).
• Students without a background in information studies commonly undertake bridging or introductory units early in the programme to build core knowledge.

Career prospects

Graduates work across the public, private and not‑for‑profit sectors. Typical roles include records and information manager, archivist, digital curator, information architect, metadata specialist, knowledge manager, library manager and compliance or information governance officer. The programme also prepares graduates for consultancy roles in digital transition projects, and for further research or academic study in information science.

Employers range from government archives, cultural institutions and public libraries to corporations, universities, museums, healthcare providers and law firms—any organisation that needs to manage, preserve and make accessible significant collections of information and data.

Why study at Charles Sturt University

• Charles Sturt offers flexible delivery modes including online study to accommodate working professionals and students in regional locations.
• The course emphasises practical, industry-relevant skills with opportunities for work-integrated learning, professional projects and hands-on practice with current information management tools and standards.
• Students benefit from staff with professional and research experience in archives, libraries and records management, and from connections with cultural institutions and information services across the region.
• The programme provides pathways for professional development and can support eligibility for membership of relevant professional bodies in the information and library sector.
• Completion equips graduates with applied skills that are readily transferable across sectors where information governance, digital preservation and user-centred access are strategic priorities.