Master Archives

The Master Archives at Université Jean Moulin - Lyon 3, in Lyon, is a two-year program taught in French in the field of archival science. Archival science covers the appraisal, organization, preservation, and management of records and historical documents, whether in physical or digital form, and typically includes coursework in areas such as records management, document classification systems, preservation techniques, and the legal and administrative frameworks governing access to archives. Students generally learn how institutions such as government bodies, businesses, and cultural organizations create, organize, and retain records, along with the methods used to catalog and make archival collections accessible to researchers and the public. Coursework often also addresses the growing role of digital archiving and electronic records management alongside traditional paper-based archives. Graduates of archival science programs commonly move into roles such as archivist, records manager, documentation specialist, or heritage professional, working in public archives, libraries, museums, corporate record departments, or government agencies. The field combines historical and administrative skills, appealing to students interested in preserving and organizing information for long-term use and research. The program begins in September and lasts two years, with instruction conducted entirely in French, so applicants need solid French language skills alongside an undergraduate background in history, information science, or a related humanities field. Yearly tuition is 250 EUR. Based in Lyon, the program is situated within a major French city with an established academic and cultural sector, offering students access to a well-developed archival and heritage community.