The Master of Archives and Records Management (MARM) is accredited by the Archives and Records Association as the recognised qualification for archivists and records managers in the UK and Ireland, with three specialist pathways available for you to choose from.
Introduction
You’ll gain the knowledge you need to pursue an archives and records career in research, business, government, academia – indeed anywhere that qualified professionals are needed.
You can shape your learning of archives and records management at Liverpool with our three pathway options:
The main MARM pathway is distinctive for including palaeography as a core component, both English for the period 1500-1800 and optional Latin, as well as a module looking at the stewardship of physical collections.
We’ll teach you to work in a way that provides the accountability and transparency demanded for good governance, effective operating public in an organisational context or which meets the needs of archive users in the wider cultural and heritage environments.
The MARM programme is delivered in a synchronous hybrid format. Classes are held both in-person and online at the same time, meaning that on-site and distance-learning students attend the same sessions and can interact with each other. Some modules combine pre-recorded lectures with interactive seminars (again, held synchronously for in-person and online students). All classroom sessions which include a lecture-style taught element are recorded. Those students undertaking the programme online are offered additional tutorial opportunities to ensure they have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss progress.
Who is this course for?
This programme is suitable for graduates looking to pursue an archives and records career. With the different pathways available to meet key practice requirements for countries all over the world, this programme is designed to cater for graduates in the UK and overseas to specialise.
What you'll learn
A deep theoretical and practical understanding of effective management of archives and records, including standards and best practice
The accountability and transparency demanded for good governance
The processes and techniques required to implement environment-specific, best practice record keeping
An introduction to some of the post-medieval legal, financial and administrative vernacular documents which are most commonly encountered in the sector
Develop palaeographical skills
The concepts, tools and resources required for managing an archive or records management service.
Course content
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester one
For students taking the MARM (not digital or international pathways) all modules in semester one are compulsory.
Compulsory modules
ENGLISH POST-MEDIEVAL RECORDS (READING AND INTERPRETATION) (HIST579)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
This module provides an introduction to some of the post-medieval legal, financial and administrative vernacular documents which are most commonly encountered in encountered in local government, diocesan and specialist repositories. Classes combine discussions of the contexts of the creation of these documents with extensive practice in reading them, in order to enable students to identify, transcribe and interpret a wide range of material. The module also considers the role of palaeography and diplomatic in archival science, and the development of the main types of vernacular scripts (including court, book, secretary and italic hands).
RECORD-KEEPING THEORY AND PRACTICE (HIST577)
Credits: 30 /
Semester: semester 1
This core module introduces students to the key concepts associated with record-keeping and encourages them to consider how they may be applicable in various environments and for different purposes.
RECORDKEEPING SYSTEMS AND THE ORGANISATIONAL CONTEXT (HIST575)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 1
The module covers the processes and techniques required to implement environment-specific, best practice recodkeeping. It aims to provide an introduction to the range of processes necessary to meet the operational requirements of an organisations and to emphasise the importance of understanding both the organisational context, and the centrality of the user when designing and implementing systems. In doing so it enables the student to compare theoretical models with their implementation in practice.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Semester two
Students taking the MARM (not digital or international pathways) take 45 credits of required modules and 15 credits of optional modules in semester two.
Compulsory modules
DIGITAL RECORDS: THEIR NATURE, USE AND PRESERVATION IN THE INFORMATION SOCIETY (HIST580)
Credits: 20 /
Semester: semester 2
The module introduces students to ways in which information and communication technologies have affected, and will continue to affect, the management and exploitation of records and archives, and the consequences of these changes both for professional practice and for users.
MANAGEMENT SKILLS (HIST565)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the concepts, tools and resources required for managing an archive or records management service. It includes generic management concepts and techniques and specifically sector-relevant issues, such as preservation, advocacy and community engagement.
PRESERVATION MANAGEMENT (HIST538)
Credits: 10 /
Semester: semester 2
This module aims to students an overview of the range and complexity of the issues that underpin preservation decision-making. In this module we will look at a number of basic issues surrounding the management of records in order to ensure that their content remains accessible over time. This module concentrates on traditional media, as a complement to the Digital Preservation content of HIST580. This includes the standards, models, tools and software which can be utilised to support collections care, recommended storage and environmental conditions, disaster planning and preventative conservation.
Optional modules
FEASIBILITY STUDY (HIST504)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The Feasibility Study is an extended research proposal for the subsequent MA Dissertation. The study should therefore be focused on the topic that the student proposes to address in their dissertation. The Feasibility Study is designed to ensure that students are able to undertake their dissertation project successfully. It will ensure that they are well prepared when they start writing thier dissertation over the summer.
MEDIEVAL PALAEOGRAPHY (MARM) (HIST540)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
Students enrolling on this module will be expected to already have a good understanding of Latin grammar and syntax. The classes will focus on developing palaeographical skills through extensive practice in reading and transcribing documents, although through this students will have the opportunity to revise points of Latin grammar, to discuss medieval usage, and to familiarize themselves with the use of medieval wordlists and textbooks. The documents will provide an introduction to the forms and formulae of medieval records with particular reference to legal, financial and administrative organisations operating in England between 1100 and 1500.
MEDIEVAL PALAEOGRAPHY (GENERAL) (HIST560)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
This module introduces students to the history of Western scripts and various forms of writing in the Latin alphabet as they evolved between the Roman period and the end of the Middle Ages. Students will gain a good understanding of the important factors in the development of different script types and the chronology of the main developments. The module also introduces students to the practical study of medieval manuscript sources, in particular codices and charters. Students who have completed this module should be able to read the main types of written medieval sources in the original and interpret correctly their external characteristics.
INTERNATIONAL RECORD KEEPING (HIST561)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module provides an overview of record keeping developments from an international perspective. It introduces students to record-keeping structures, traditions and practices throughout the world, and to the legislative, cultural and political traditions which affect those practices. In doing so it enables students them to approach record-keeping theory and practice in their home country both critically and comparatively. The module considers the role that records and archives have played over time, particularly, from 1945, in the area of human rights.
Heritage Documentation, Digitisation and Presentation (ARCH739)
Credits: 15 /
Semester: semester 2
The module provides students with knowledge of conventional and innovative ways of recording, digitizing, visually presenting and virtually experiencing different heritage assets. These come in different forms and shapes from architectural to archaeological sites and artefacts, and from movable heritage to oral history. Students will produce a fieldwork report, including images and text. Therefore, along with digitisation and IT skills specific to heritage contexts, students will acquire heritage drawing, communication and teamwork skills. Hands-on workshops with heritage experts will enhance students’ experience and employability skills. Assessment is based on an oral presentation of the findings and a coursework assignment consisting of fieldwork report.
This module aims to introduce students to historical and contemporary media practices and approaches within visual culture, including museum exhibitions, cultural interpretations, institutional policies and artistic interventions in the city. The module will examine a broad range of modes and methods to investigate the promotion and representation of culture and national heritage, the transformations of these activities over the years, and their analysis within media studies and cultural theory. Students will read and discuss past and present activities of cultural institutions and artistic activists, as well as theorisations of art and anthropology museums, World’s Fair exhibitions, cultural programmes and other visual and cultural media. Students will examine different conceptions of museums, sites of memory, and cultural events as potential arenas of public transformation, de-colonisation, community activity and public fora. The module will more broadly address social and ethical questions; concepts and practices of cultural appropriation and representation; ideas of power relations and self-reflexivity; and definitions and conversations around ‘otherness’ within and beyond contemporary cultural institutions.
WORK BASED DISSERTATION (HIST555)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: semester 2
This module takes the form of research into a record-keeping problem or issue experienced by an organisation, which is written up as a dissertation, including a report to the client organisation. The sorts of issues covered by the research might include:
Creation of a retention schedule with guidelines for staff training in its adoption;
Creation of a file plan and classification scheme, including data security analysis;
Creation of a records management policy;
Archival appraisal policy, including guidance on destruction and potential deposit with an archive service as well as future retention;
Report on use of records to add value to the organisation’s work (e.g. use of historical material for outreach, researching an organisational history);
Curation of digital datasets, including compiling a report on future management;
Devising and curating an exhibition (including online exhibitions).
The research is undertaken both via theoretical and/or literature-based methods and via a placement with a client organisation. Identification of problems and potential solutions is undertaken in partnership with the organisation, to whom the report element of the dissertation is directly addressed.
MARM DISSERTATION (HIST558)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
Sessions on research skills and methodologies will be held as part of the core modules offered by History. MARM students will have tutorial sessions and produce a feasibility study as part of the preparation for the dissertation.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
Summer period
For all pathways, students must take either HIST555 or HIST558. HIST555 and HIST558 are taken over the summer vacation period. Students must seek advice from the Programme Director before registering for the work-based Dissertation HIST555.
Optional modules
DISSERTATION (HIST550)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: summer
Sessions on research skills and methodologies will be held as part of the core modules offered by History. MA students will discuss the feasibility of their chosen topic and the implementation of the research with a member of staff with the appropriate knowledge and understanding of the proposed topic during the period June to September. MARM students will have tutorial sessions and produce a feasibility study as part of the preparation for the dissertation before formal supervision begins in the period June to September.
WORK BASED DISSERTATION (HIST555)
Credits: 60 /
Semester: semester 2
This module takes the form of research into a record-keeping problem or issue experienced by an organisation, which is written up as a dissertation, including a report to the client organisation. The sorts of issues covered by the research might include:
Creation of a retention schedule with guidelines for staff training in its adoption;
Creation of a file plan and classification scheme, including data security analysis;
Creation of a records management policy;
Archival appraisal policy, including guidance on destruction and potential deposit with an archive service as well as future retention;
Report on use of records to add value to the organisation’s work (e.g. use of historical material for outreach, researching an organisational history);
Curation of digital datasets, including compiling a report on future management;
Devising and curating an exhibition (including online exhibitions).
The research is undertaken both via theoretical and/or literature-based methods and via a placement with a client organisation. Identification of problems and potential solutions is undertaken in partnership with the organisation, to whom the report element of the dissertation is directly addressed.
Any optional modules listed above are illustrative only and may vary from year to year. Modules may be subject to minimum student numbers being achieved and staff availability. This means that the availability of specific optional modules cannot be guaranteed.
How you'll learn
Teaching takes place in regular two hour interactive lectures or 50 minute small-group seminars and workshops as we believe this leads to the best collaboration between students and staff.
Practical learning is embedded throughout the course through short placements on some modules, as well as the option to undertake a work-based dissertation, which is designed to help embed professional practice and prepare you for a career in archives and records management. There are also field trips during the programme, which enables you to experience and research relevant best practice in the industry.
This takes place alongside directed and self-directed digital learning with professional digital tools to support the develop of relevant skills for future careers.
How you're assessed
Assessments may include a combination of written and oral assessments, as well as examinations to test specific skills developed through this course.
Written assessments may include essays, professional communication methods such as reports, blogs and flyers, and transcription/translation assessments.
Oral assessments may include face-to-face and video presentations which mirror skills used in professional life.
Liverpool Hallmarks
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
Course options
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
The Department of History is based in the School of Histories, Languages and Cultures, an ornate Georgian property located on historic Abercromby Square. Students have access to extensive library facilities, special collections and Liverpool’s renowned museums, libraries and galleries, including the University’s own Special Collections and Archives.
The Liverpool University Centre for Archive Studies (LUCAS) frequently runs events and workshops that students on the course are encouraged to attend. These are great opportunities both to extend knowledge outside of the parameters of the course but also a chance to network with professionals in the region.
MARM and the PG Dip ARM are accredited by the Archives and Records Association (UK and Ireland) as a professional qualification which prepares you for entry-level professional employment in any area of archives and records management in the UK and Ireland and is widely recognised overseas. This course has a successful record of graduates obtaining professional posts after graduation.
Career support from day one to graduation and beyond
Our graduates have gone on to a range of positions including:
Records Manager
Digital Archivist
Compliance Officer
Cataloguer
Collections Development Officer
Heritage Activities Manager
Graduates have worked in organisations such as:
The National Archives
Hertfordshire Archives
The National Gallery
Foreign and Commonwealth Office
International Slavery Museum
Bristol University.
Students have also gained posts abroad, including at the European Central Bank in Frankfurt and the UN Food & Agriculture Organisation in Rome.
Fees and funding
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Tuition fees
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland)
Full-time place, per year
£11,700
International fees
Full-time place, per year
£24,100
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about fees and funding.
Additional costs
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree can be in any subject discipline. Please find a full list of FAQs for UK applicants giving more information regarding our admissions process.
As MARM is a professional qualification, you’ll also need to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding of the archives and records management profession. Most of our students also have relevant work experience, paid or voluntary.
International qualifications
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this Master of Archives and Records Management, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
English language qualification
Requirements
IELTS
6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0
TOEFL iBT
88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted.
Duolingo English Test
120 overall, with no component below 105
Pearson PTE Academic
61 overall, with no component below 59
LanguageCert Academic
70 overall, with no skill below 65
PSI Skills for English
B2 Pass with Merit in all bands
INDIA Standard XII
National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English.
WAEC
C6 or above
PRE-SESSIONAL ENGLISH
Do you need to complete a Pre-Sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-Sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
Discover what expenses are covered by the cost of your tuition fees and other finance-related information you may need regarding your studies at Liverpool.
Contact us
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