How to become Archivist
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
University
You'll usually need a degree and postgraduate training to do this job. Most degree subjects are accepted for postgraduate study, but you may find it useful to take a degree like:
- history
- museum studies
- information science
- languages
- law
After you complete your degree, you can do a postgraduate qualification in archives and records management recognised by the Archives & Records Association (ARA).
It's very important to get some work experience with record collections, which will help when you apply for a postgraduate course.
Contact organisations that hold archives to find work experience opportunities.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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Apprenticeship
You could apply for a place on an Archivist and Records Manager Level 7 Apprenticeship.
This usually takes 3 years to complete as a mix of learning in the workplace and study with an approved university.
Entry requirements
Employers will set their own entry requirements.
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Volunteering
Volunteering in archives or records will help when you apply for courses and jobs.
It's also a great way to find out if a career as an archivist is for you.
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Professional and industry bodies
You can join the Archives & Records Association and get access to industry news, professional development courses and networking events.
You can also join the Information and Records Management Society (IRMS).
The IRMS offers events, resources and the opportunity to apply for accreditation once you have several years' experience in the role.
Further information
You can find more details about careers and training in archives from the Archives & Records Association.