History/Library Science
(HILS)
Abstract
The Department of History and the College of Information Studies (the iSchool) coordinate a dual-degree master's degree program to meet the need for multidisciplinary graduate training for archivists, records managers, manuscript curators, rare book librarians, bibliographers, conservation administrators and those wishing to become subject and research specialists in academic, special and research libraries. Because of the proximity of the College Park campus to a variety of immensely rich research collections, students are able to gain first-hand experiences through internships that reinforce their classroom instruction.
The sequence of courses leading to the two degrees prepares students to understand the intellectual approach of the research scholar through historic training and to meet those research needs through the information services offered in the College of Information Studies. The program prepares students for careers in archives and records management, curatorship of historical collections, scholarly editing and publishing and reference research and bibliographic services, among others.
The 54 credit hours required for the degrees combine 24 hours in each component plus six elective hours. Since the core iSchool courses must be taken with the first 18 credits, it is important for students to work closely with their advisor.
The MA and the MLS are awarded simultaneously, and a student who fails to complete the special requirements for the coordinated degree programs may not receive either degree. When a student admitted to the HILS program subsequently wishes to receive only one degree, he/she must transfer from HILS either to the graduate program in History or to the College of Information Studies and fulfill the normal requirements for the separate master's degree. The dual-degree History and Library Science offers the option of a degree-by-thesis as well as a degree-by-examination.
Admissions Information
Students must apply for admission to both the Department of History and the College of Information Studies under the rubric HILS (History and Library Science). There is one, consolidated application, but two, independent admission decisions. An offer of admission from both, the Department of History and the College of Information Studies is required in order to be admitted to the dual-degree program.
Application Deadlines
Type of Applicant Fall Spring Domestic Applicants; US Citizens and Permanent Residents with foreign credentials; International Applicants seeking admissions under A, E, G, H, I and L visas and immigrants
Deadline: December 15
International Applicants seeking admission under F (student) or J (exchange visitor) visas
Deadline: December 15
Application Requirements
(Send all required materials to both departments)
- Statement of Goals, Experiences, and Research Interests
- Three Letters of Recommendation
- CV/Resume
- Transcripts
- GRE General
- Writing Sample
Degree Requirements
History and Library Science Joint Degree (M.A. M.L.S)
Financial Assistance
The College of Information Studies and the Department of History make available a limited number of teaching and/or graduate assistantships for master's students, including students in the HILS dual-degree program. These assistantships are awarded on the basis of merit, staffing needs, and budget. Neither academic unit extends guaranteed awards.
Contact Information
College of Information Studies
Admissions and Student Affairs Office
Room 4110 Hornbake Library Building, South Wing
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742-4345
(301) 405-2038
ischool.umd.edu
ischooladmission@umd.edu
Dr. Marsha L. Rozenblit
Director of Graduate Studies
Department of History
2131 Francis Scott Key Hall
University of Maryland
College Park, MD 20742-7315 USA
(301) 405-4267
http://www.history.umd.edu/graduate.html
