How to Become an Archivist: Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Career
In this guide, you’ll learn how to become an archivist – including what the job entails, education and certification requirements, potential salaries, and key skills to succeed.
Archivists are the keepers of memory – preserving documents, images, recordings, and digital files that tell the story of people, communities, and institutions. From ancient manuscripts to cloud-based collections, archivists ensure historical information is protected and accessible for future generations.
What Does an Archivist Do?
Archivists collect, assess, organize, preserve, and provide access to records and materials with long-term historical or informational value. They work with both physical and digital collections, including letters, photos, videos, and electronic records.
Typical duties include:
- Acquiring and cataloging materials
- Creating metadata and finding aids
- Digitizing collections
- Ensuring security and preservation
- Assisting researchers and the public
Archivists work in a range of environments, such as:
- Museums and historical societies
- Libraries and university special collections
- Government agencies (e.g., National Archives)
- Religious institutions
- Corporations and nonprofits
- Media companies and digital content libraries
Success as an archivist requires the ability to connect information across disciplines – something emphasized in the University of Arizona’s online Library and Information Science MA program. Arizona Online prepares students to serve diverse populations and adapt as their careers evolve.
Required Education to Become an Archivist
The University of Arizona’s online Library and Information Science MA is Arizona’s only ALA-accredited program and offers career-focused training in digital preservation and information curation. With Arizona Online, you can earn the same respected University of Arizona degree as on-campus students – from wherever you are – with the flexibility to fit graduate study into your life.
1. Bachelor’s Degree
To begin your journey, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Common undergraduate majors include:
- History
- Library science
- Museum studies
- Public administration
- Art history or anthropology
A bachelor’s alone may qualify you for entry-level roles like archival assistant or records clerk, but most archivist roles require a master’s degree.
2. Master’s Degree
To become a full archivist, a master’s degree is typically required. Consider programs in:
- Library and Information Science (MLIS) – Especially those with an archival studies track
- Archival Studies
- History with a concentration in public history or preservation
- Museum Studies
Gaining Practical Experience
Hands-on experience is a key part of becoming an archivist. Employers value candidates who have worked with collections, systems, and users in real-world settings.
Look for internships, practicums, or volunteer opportunities in:
- Museums
- University archives
- Local historical societies
- Government or municipal archives
These experiences build skills in cataloging, conservation, and digital asset management, while offering valuable networking opportunities.
Key Certifications and Continuing Education
While certification is not always required, a certificate can boost your credibility and job prospects.
1. Archival Studies Graduate Certificate
Offered fully online by Arizona Online, the Archival Studies Graduate Certificate provides specialized training in archival principles, digital preservation, and records management. It’s ideal for professionals or graduate students looking to deepen their expertise and enhance their credentials for roles in archives, libraries, or information management.
2. Digital Curation Graduate Certificate
Also offered fully online from the University of Arizona, the Digital Curation Graduate Certificate provides hands-on training in managing and preserving digital collections. It’s designed for professionals or graduate students interested in curating digital content in libraries, museums, archives, and other information settings.
3. Certified Archivist
Offered by the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA), the Certified Archivist credential requires passing an exam on archival principles and practices. It can strengthen job prospects and professional credibility.
4. Continuing Education
Stay current by attending:
- Workshops and webinars
- Conferences like those hosted by the Society of American Archivists (SAA)
- Courses on digital preservation, metadata standards, and emerging technologies
Key Skills and Traits of Successful Archivists
Strong archivists are highly organized and detail-oriented, with a passion for research and public service. Essential skills include:
- Digital archiving and preservation techniques
- Metadata creation and taxonomic organization
- Database and content management systems
- Communication skills
- Problem-solving and ethical decision-making
Technical literacy is increasingly important, as archivists must manage born-digital content and work across evolving digital platforms.
Career Paths and Specializations in Archival Work
Entry-Level Roles
- Archives technician
- Records assistant
- Digital asset coordinator
Specializations
- Digital Archivist: Focuses on metadata and digital preservation
- Government Records Archivist: Manages public records
- Corporate Archivist: Preserves brand and institutional history
- Museum Archivist: Handles exhibition and artifact documentation
Advancement Opportunities
With experience, archivists can advance to roles such as:
- Lead Archivist
- Records Manager
- Collections Manager
- Archival Program Director
- Department Chair or Academic Faculty
Job Outlook and Salary Expectations
Demand for archivists is strong, especially in digital archives. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of archivists is expected to grow 11% from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
Salary
The median annual wage for archivists was $59,910 in May 2023. Salaries vary based on experience, education, and employer type:
- Government agencies and universities tend to offer higher pay.
- Senior and specialized roles can exceed $90,000 annually.
To explore job opportunities, visit sites like USAJobs, SAA Career Center, and Indeed.
Common Questions About Becoming an Archivist
Most full archivist roles require a master’s degree, especially for jobs in government, higher education, and specialized archives. Arizona Online’s Library and Information Science MA program is a flexible option to gain the advanced skills and credentials needed for archival careers, while earning the same respected degree as on-campus students – from wherever you are.
Generally, it takes five to seven years: four years for a bachelor’s degree and one to two more for a master’s.
Archivists focus on preserving rare or unique historical records, while librarians manage published resources like books and journals. Both roles involve organizing information and helping people access it.
Begin Your Journey with Arizona Online
Interested in preserving the past and protecting the future of our information systems? Explore the University of Arizona’s flexible, fully online program in Library and Information Science, graduate certificates in Archival Studies and Digital Curation, and classes in related areas.
