Funding for postgraduate studies in librarianship and information science in the UK since 1990: An overview

Abstract

Potential applicants for postgraduate courses in librarianship and information science (LIS) have always had to consider how they would finance their studies. This paper examines how the funding axis for such courses has changed and how applicants from the UK are now looking to employers to fund courses rather than seeking support from national award making bodies such as the Arts and Humanities Research Board (AHRB). The historical context of such a shift is investigated; the current nature of AHRB provision is evaluated; the pattern and cost of postgraduate courses in LIS is outlined; and the paper closes with an analysis of a sample of distance learners at the Department of Information Studies, University of Wales, Aberystwyth, concentrating in particular on any financial support received.