Introduction to the Diploma/Certificate in Professional Studies: Records and Information Management

The Diploma/Certificate in Professional Studies: Records and Information Management (D/CPS: RIM) is a program designed for records and information practitioners in the public sector. The program focuses on central government recordkeeping and is suitable for those working in the wider public sector in a records management environment.

Programme Requirements

To be accepted into the program, candidates must:

• Have a good educational background, although no specific academic qualifications are required
• Have access to work in a suitable records management environment, whether paid or voluntary
• Have access to a computer and the internet
• Be able to commit approximately 12 hours per week to self-study to ensure completion of the module and assessments

Programme Aims

The D/CPS RIM aims to:

• Facilitate best practice in records and information management
• Develop the professionalism and expertise of public sector records staff
• Equip practitioners with the range of skills needed for effective record keeping
• Explain the broad national and international context for UK public sector records and information management
• Raise awareness of current developments in records management and government information policy
• Enable students to manage their own continuing professional development

Programme Content and Structure

The D/CPS RIM is a flexible credit-based module program. Each module offered is worth 15 credits and takes 10 weeks to complete by distance learning. The program operates at Level 6 of the framework for higher education qualifications in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland (FHEQ), roughly equivalent to the standard expected in the final year of an undergraduate degree course.

Certificate in Professional Studies (60 credits)

• Awarded on completion of four core modules, each worth 15 credits
• Can be completed within one year (or a maximum of two years)
• Core modules are designed to cover the broad principles of records and information management in a public sector context
• Core modules include:
  • RIMB001: An introduction to records and information management
  • RIMB002: Principles and tools for managing records
  • RIMB014: Compliance and the regulatory environment
  • RIMB015: Principles and practice of appraisal

Diploma in Professional Studies (120 credits)

• Awarded on completion of the Certificate + four further modules
• Can be completed within two years (or a maximum of four years)
• Modules include:
  • RIMB016: Design and management of recordkeeping systems
  • RIMB017: Student-designed project
  • RIMB018: User services and user relations
  • RIMB019: Archives and permanent preservation

Programme Delivery

The program is delivered through interactive online learning, including:

• Online materials and reference materials through the University Library
• A work package delivered through the University's Virtual Learning Environment (Canvas)
• Workshops introducing relevant modules, held online twice a year
• A Study Skills Day (online) for new registered students
• A mentor in the workplace to provide ongoing support and assistance

Programme Cost

• £750 per module
• Certificate in Professional Studies: £3000
• Diploma in Professional Studies: £3000 (only available after completion of the Certificate course)

University of Liverpool