Top 11 Archivist Certifications

Certifications for archivists are important in the job market because they demonstrate a high level of expertise and knowledge. They also show potential employers that the archivist is committed to their profession, as certifications typically require significant time and effort to earn. In addition, certifications can provide an archivist with access to professional networks and resources that can be invaluable in their career. Finally, having certifications may give an archivist’s resume an edge when competing for jobs against other candidates who lack such qualifications.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Archivists and explain how they can help an archivist advance their career.

What are Archivist Certifications?

Archivist certification is a credentialing program that provides professional recognition for archivists and other professionals in the field of archives. It is designed to ensure that archivists have the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage, preserve, and provide access to historical records. The certification program requires applicants to demonstrate mastery of the core competencies of archival practice through a set of exams.

Archivist certification can be beneficial in several ways. First, it provides assurance to employers and clients that an individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency as an archivist. In addition, it can help individuals stand out among their peers during job searches or when seeking promotions or other opportunities within the profession. Finally, it can give individuals greater credibility within their chosen profession by demonstrating their commitment to excellence in archival practice.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research and understand the requirements for archivist certification before beginning the process. Certification requirements vary from state to state and may include completing an approved educational program, passing an exam, and completing a certain number of hours of professional experience. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these requirements ahead of time in order to ensure you are properly prepared for the certification process.

Related: What does an Archivist do?

Top 11 Archivist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Archivists today.

1. Certified Archivist (CA)

Certified Archivist (CA) is a professional certification program offered by the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA). It is designed to recognize archivists who have achieved a high level of professional expertise and knowledge in the field of archives and records management. The CA credential is awarded to individuals who demonstrate mastery in the areas of archival theory, principles, and practices.

The CA certification process requires applicants to pass an examination that covers topics such as archival theory, principles, and practices; records management; legal issues; collection development; preservation; access; and use. Applicants must also submit evidence of their education, experience, training, and professional activities.

The examination takes approximately four hours to complete and is administered twice a year at locations throughout the United States. The cost for the exam is $350 for ACA members or $450 for non-members.

In order to be eligible for the CA certification program, applicants must have at least a master’s degree in archives or records management from an accredited institution or equivalent experience as determined by ACA. They must also have completed at least one year of full-time work experience in an archives or records management position within the last five years prior to applying for certification.

Once certified as a CA, individuals are required to maintain their credentials by participating in continuing education activities every three years. This includes attending conferences or workshops related to archives or records management, completing online courses or webinars on related topics, publishing articles in professional journals or magazines related to archives and records management, teaching courses related to archives and records management, etc.

2. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and expertise in the management of records and information. The CRM program is offered by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM), which is an independent, non-profit organization that was established in 1989.

To become certified, an individual must complete a rigorous application process that includes passing an examination and meeting certain experience requirements. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as records management principles, policies, procedures, technology, legal issues, and other related areas. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of professional experience in records management or a related field.

The cost to take the exam varies depending on whether you are a member of ICRM or not. For non-members, the fee is $450 USD; for members it is $350 USD. It typically takes three to four months to receive your results after taking the exam.

Once you have passed the exam and met all other requirements for certification, you will be awarded with the CRM designation and given access to exclusive benefits such as discounts on ICRM products and services, access to online resources, networking opportunities with other professionals in the field, and more.

3. Digital Archives Specialist (DAS)

A Digital Archives Specialist (DAS) is a professional who specializes in the preservation, organization, and management of digital archives. The DAS is responsible for creating and maintaining a secure system for storing digital records, ensuring that all data is properly backed up and stored in an organized and accessible manner. The DAS also provides access to digital archives to authorized personnel and assists with the retrieval of information from the archive.

It typically takes two years of higher education or equivalent experience to become a Digital Archives Specialist. Those interested in pursuing this career path should consider obtaining a degree in library science, computer science, archival studies, or another related field. Additionally, many employers require certification from organizations such as the Academy of Certified Archivists or the Society of American Archivists.

To obtain certification as a Digital Archives Specialist, individuals must pass an exam administered by one of these organizations. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the organization administering it; however, most exams cost between $100 and $200 USD. Additionally, individuals may need to pay for any required course materials or textbooks prior to taking the exam.

Once certified as a Digital Archives Specialist, individuals can expect to earn an average salary ranging from $50,000 - $80,000 USD per year depending on experience level and geographic location.

4. Certified Electronic Records Manager (CERM)

Certified Electronic Records Manager (CERM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in managing electronic records and information systems. CERM is administered by the Association of Records Managers and Administrators (ARMA International).

The CERM program consists of three components: an online knowledge assessment, a practical application exercise, and an oral examination. The knowledge assessment tests the candidate's understanding of the principles, concepts, and practices related to electronic records management. The practical application exercise requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to apply those principles, concepts, and practices to real-world scenarios. Finally, the oral examination tests the candidate's ability to communicate effectively about electronic records management topics.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all three components of the CERM program. During that time, candidates must study for and pass the knowledge assessment and practical application exercise before they can take the oral examination.

The cost of obtaining a CERM certification varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of ARMA International. For members, it costs $395 for registration fees plus an additional $195 for each component (knowledge assessment, practical application exercise, and oral examination). For non-members, it costs $495 for registration fees plus an additional $295 for each component.

5. Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+)

Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+) is a certification program from the Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and experience in document imaging, document management, and related technologies. This certification is intended to provide employers with assurance that the person they are hiring has the necessary skills to design, implement, and manage a successful document imaging system.

The CDIA+ certification requires passing an exam that tests one’s knowledge of document imaging systems, including topics such as scanning hardware and software, image processing techniques, indexing methods, security protocols, workflow automation solutions, and more. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within two hours.

To get the CDIA+ certification, you must first register with AIIM and pay the applicable fee. After registering, you will have access to study materials such as practice exams and online courses. Once you feel prepared for the exam, you can schedule it at a testing center near you or take it online.

The cost of the CDIA+ certification varies depending on whether you choose to take the exam in person or online. To take it in person at a testing center costs $400 USD; however if taken online it costs $275 USD.

6. Certified Information Professional (CIP)

Certified Information Professional (CIP) is a professional certification designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of IT professionals who specialize in information management. The CIP certification is offered by the Institute for Certification of Computing Professionals (ICCP) and is recognized internationally as a mark of excellence in the field.

It typically takes about six months to complete all requirements for the CIP certification. Candidates must first pass a written exam and then complete an extensive project that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting. The project must be approved by ICCP before the candidate can be certified.

To get the CIP certification, candidates must first register with ICCP and pay an application fee. Then they must take and pass the written exam, which covers topics such as data management, systems analysis, database design, system security, and more. After passing the exam, candidates must submit their project proposal to ICCP for review and approval. Once approved, they can begin working on their project. Upon completion of their project and its submission to ICCP for review and approval, candidates will receive their CIP certification.

The cost of getting Certified Information Professional (CIP) varies depending on several factors including country of residence, type of membership chosen during registration with ICCP (e.g., individual or corporate), and whether or not you are taking advantage of any discounts available from ICCP or other organizations. Generally speaking however, it costs around $500 USD for individuals to become certified through ICCP’s standard process.

7. Certified Professional in Accessioning and Appraisal (CPAA)

Certified Professional in Accessioning and Appraisal (CPAA) is a professional certification program offered by the Association of Research Libraries (ARL). The CPAA certification program is designed to recognize professionals who have mastered the skills necessary to effectively manage accessioning and appraisal activities in libraries, archives, museums, and other cultural heritage organizations.

The CPAA certification program requires successful completion of a two-part examination. The first part consists of a written exam that tests knowledge of core accessioning and appraisal concepts. The second part consists of an oral exam that tests the candidate’s ability to apply their knowledge in practical situations. Candidates must pass both parts of the exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost for taking the CPAA exam varies depending on whether or not you are an ARL member. For non-members, the cost is $450 USD; for members, it is $350 USD. The exam generally takes about two hours to complete.

In order to take the CPAA exam, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of professional experience in accessioning and appraisal activities. Applicants must also submit proof of their experience along with a completed application form and payment before they can register for the exam.

8. Digital Preservation Specialist (DPS)

Digital Preservation Specialist (DPS) is a professional who specializes in the preservation of digital information. This includes the identification, selection, acquisition, storage, and management of digital assets. DPSs are responsible for ensuring that digital information is accessible and usable by future generations.

To become a Digital Preservation Specialist, one must typically have a degree in library science or archival studies. It may also be beneficial to have experience working with digital materials and/or knowledge of computer programming languages. Additionally, many employers require that applicants have certification from an accredited organization such as the Society of American Archivists or the National Digital Stewardship Alliance.

The amount of time it takes to become a DPS depends on the individual's educational background and level of experience. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from two to four years to complete all necessary requirements for certification as a Digital Preservation Specialist.

In order to get certified as a Digital Preservation Specialist, individuals must pass an exam administered by an approved certifying organization or institution. The cost for taking this exam varies depending on the certifying organization or institution but can range anywhere from $200-$400 USD.

9. Library of Congress Preservation Stewardship Program Certificate

The Library of Congress Preservation Stewardship Program Certificate is a program that provides recognition for individuals and organizations that demonstrate excellence in the care and preservation of library collections. The program offers an opportunity to recognize and reward those who have made outstanding contributions to preserving our nation’s cultural heritage.

The program consists of two levels: the Bronze Certificate, which recognizes basic preservation practices, and the Silver Certificate, which recognizes advanced preservation practices. To be eligible for either level of certification, applicants must demonstrate that they have adopted best practices in collection management, including environmental monitoring, disaster preparedness and response planning, preventive conservation measures, and appropriate storage solutions.

It typically takes about four months to receive a certificate after submitting an application. To apply for the program, applicants must fill out an online form on the Library of Congress website. The cost for applying is $50 per application.

10. Society of American Archivists SAA Certificate in Archival Enterprise

The Society of American Archivists (SAA) Certificate in Archival Enterprise is a professional credential that recognizes the successful completion of a comprehensive program of study and practice in archival management. It is designed to equip archivists with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage archives, records, and information systems. The certificate is awarded by the SAA upon successful completion of five core courses and three elective courses.

The core courses cover topics such as archival theory and practice, managing digital records, and developing an archival program. The elective courses allow students to focus on specialized areas such as digital preservation, oral history, or cultural heritage management.

It typically takes two years to complete the certificate program; however, some students may be able to finish it sooner depending on their individual circumstances. To earn the certificate, students must complete all eight required courses within five years of enrolling in the program.

The cost for each course varies depending on whether you are an SAA member or non-member; members receive discounted rates for all courses. The total cost for completing the Certificate in Archival Enterprise ranges from $1,500-$2,500 depending on membership status and course selection.

11. National Association of Government Archives and Records Administrators NAGARA Certificate in Government Archives and Records Management

The National Association of Government Archives and Records Administrators (NAGARA) Certificate in Government Archives and Records Management is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge, skills, and abilities of government archives and records managers. It is designed to provide an objective measure of competency in the field of government archives and records management.

The NAGARA Certificate is awarded to individuals who demonstrate mastery in the areas of archival principles, practices, standards, laws, regulations, and technology related to managing government archives and records. To earn the certificate, individuals must successfully complete a series of six online courses offered by NAGARA. The courses cover topics such as archival theory and practice; legal requirements for recordkeeping; electronic records management; digital preservation; public access to government information; and information security.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete all six courses required for the NAGARA Certificate. Each course requires approximately 10-15 hours of study time per week.

To get the NAGARA Certificate, individuals must first register for the program through the NAGARA website. After registering, they will be able to access all course materials online via their MyNAGARA account. Once they have completed all six courses with passing grades, they will receive their official certificate from NAGARA via mail or email.

The cost of the NAGARA Certificate program varies depending on whether you are a member or non-member of NAGARA. For members, it costs $1125 for all six courses ($187 per course). For non-members, it costs $1300 for all six courses ($216 per course).

Do You Really Need a Archivist Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need an archivist certificate to work as an archivist. However, there are many benefits to pursuing a certificate in archival studies or obtaining some type of formal education in the field.

An archivist certificate can provide you with a broad understanding of the various aspects of archives and records management. It will give you the knowledge and skills necessary to manage archives effectively and efficiently. With a certificate, you will be able to evaluate and interpret different types of records, understand how to create new systems for managing them, and develop strategies for preserving them. This knowledge can be invaluable when working with historical documents or artifacts that have been collected over time.

A certificate may also help you stand out from other job applicants when seeking employment in the field. Employers may view having a degree or certification as evidence that you are knowledgeable about the profession and committed to it. Additionally, having an archivist certification may make it easier for employers to trust that you’ll handle their historical documents with care and respect.

In conclusion, while an archivist certificate is not required to work as an archivist, it can provide valuable insight into the profession and make you more marketable in the job search process.

Related: Archivist Resume Examples

FAQs About Archivist Certifications

1. What is an Archivist Certification?

Answer: An Archivist Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a mastery of archival principles and practices. It is awarded by the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA) to individuals who have met rigorous educational and experience requirements.

2. Who can apply for an Archivist Certification?

Answer: Any individual with a master’s degree in library science or information science, or an equivalent degree from an accredited institution, plus at least two years of professional archival experience, may apply for the ACA certification program.

3. How long does it take to become certified as an archivist?

Answer: The certification process typically takes three to six months from the time of application submission to award notification. During this period, applicants must submit documentation proving their educational qualifications and professional experience in archives management, demonstrate mastery of archival principles and practices through a written examination, and complete the required ethics coursework.

4. Is there continuing education required for maintaining an Archivist Certification?

Answer: Yes, all Certified Archivists must complete 30 continuing education points every three years in order to maintain their certification status. Points are earned through attending conferences, workshops, webinars, online courses, and other activities related to archives management and preservation.

5. What are the benefits of becoming certified as an archivist?

Answer: Becoming certified as an archivist demonstrates your commitment to excellence in archives management and preservation and can help you stand out among your peers when seeking employment or promotion opportunities within the field. Additionally, having a Certified Archivist credential on your resume can provide added credibility when working with other professionals or stakeholders in the archival profession.