Archivist
Archivists preserve and manage historical and cultural records. They also make collections available to researchers and the public.
What you'll do
Day-to-day tasks
As an archivist, you could:
- use archive management software to date, catalogue and index materials
- store materials correctly and keep them in good condition
- work with specialists like conservators to preserve collections
- create and set up processes to digitise records and materials
- help individuals and organisations use the archives
- give talks and organise presentations, displays and exhibitions
- negotiate the buying or donation of archive material
Working environment
You could work in an office or at a client's business.
Career path and progression
With experience, you could work with large and prestigious collections held by national archives and museums, businesses, church foundations and charities.
You could also take on particular responsibilities, such as:
- team management, supervising archivists and assistants
- dealing with funding bids and advising on strategy and planning
- specialist research
- handling the legal requirements around record keeping
What it takes
Skills and knowledge
You'll need:
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- an interest and knowledge of history
- analytical thinking skills
- administration skills
- the ability to use your initiative
- customer service skills
- the ability to work well with others
- concentration skills
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently
How to become
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- an apprenticeship
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
More Information
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.
More Information
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.
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.
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External links
This page contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0.