Top 10 Historian Certifications

Certifications are an important tool for historians in the job market, as they provide a way to demonstrate their expertise and qualifications. Certifications can help to give potential employers assurance that a historian has the necessary skills and knowledge required for the position. Additionally, certifications can be used to highlight areas of specialization or particular areas of focus within the field. This can make a historian more attractive to potential employers who may be looking for someone with specific experience or qualifications. Finally, certifications can help historians stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions, as they serve as a form of recognition and proof that the individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in their field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Historians and explains how they can help advance a historian's career.

What are Historian Certifications?

Historian certification is a professional credential for historians and other professionals in the field. This certification is granted by an accredited institution, such as the American Historical Association, and demonstrates that the holder has met rigorous standards of knowledge and competency in the field of history. It is an important tool for historians to demonstrate their expertise and qualifications to potential employers. Certification also allows historians to stay abreast of changes in the field, by providing access to continuing education opportunities. Additionally, historian certification can help historians to network with peers and gain recognition within their respective fields. Finally, historian certification may provide access to higher-paying positions or promotions at universities, museums, libraries, or other institutions that require advanced credentials.

Pro Tip: When considering certification as a historian, be sure to research the requirements for the specific certifying organization you wish to pursue. Each certifying body may have slightly different requirements in terms of education, experience and examinations that need to be completed before certification is granted.

Related: What does a Historian do?

Top 10 Historian Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Historian (CPH)

Certified Professional Historian (CPH) is a professional certification awarded by the National Council on Public History (NCPH). It recognizes individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and experience in the practice of public history. CPH is a voluntary certification that requires applicants to demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of public history.

The CPH certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. To become certified, applicants must pass a written examination that covers topics such as historical research methods, archival management, museum studies, oral history techniques, and public history theory. Applicants must also submit an application portfolio that demonstrates their knowledge and experience in the field of public history.

The cost for obtaining CPH certification varies depending on the applicant’s location and whether or not they are members of NCPH. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 to apply for CPH certification. This fee covers the cost of taking the written examination as well as any additional materials required for submission with the application portfolio.

2. Certified Genealogist (CG)

Certified Genealogist (CG) is a professional credential awarded by the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG). It is designed to recognize genealogists who have demonstrated a high level of research, analysis, and writing skills in the field of genealogy.

In order to become certified, applicants must pass an extensive exam that covers topics such as evidence analysis, source citation, problem solving, writing skills and ethical practices. The exam consists of two parts: a written examination and an oral examination. Applicants must pass both portions in order to be eligible for certification.

The process of becoming certified usually takes about two years. During this time, applicants must take courses and workshops related to genealogy and complete a portfolio that demonstrates their research skills. Once they have completed these requirements and passed the exams, they will be awarded the CG designation.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 or more.

3. Certified Local Government Historian (CLGH)

Certified Local Government Historian (CLGH) is a program offered by the National Park Service in partnership with state and local governments. The program provides recognition to individuals who have demonstrated expertise in local history, preservation, and interpretation. It also provides resources and technical assistance to help communities preserve their historic resources.

In order to become a Certified Local Government Historian (CLGH), an individual must first meet the eligibility requirements set forth by the National Park Service. These requirements include having a minimum of two years of professional experience in historic preservation or related fields, such as history, archaeology, architecture, or urban planning; completion of a CLGH training course; and completion of an application process that includes submission of letters of recommendation from two professionals in the field.

The CLGH training course is typically offered at least once per year through various organizations across the United States. The cost for attending the training course varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally speaking, it can range from $100-$300 per person.

Once all eligibility requirements have been met and the application has been submitted, it typically takes between 4-6 weeks for an individual to receive their certification as a Certified Local Government Historian (CLGH).

4. Certified Museum Professional (CMP)

Certified Museum Professional (CMP) is a professional certification program offered by the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). The CMP program recognizes museum professionals who have demonstrated a high level of professional knowledge and experience in the field. It is designed to provide recognition, credibility, and career advancement opportunities for those working in museums.

The CMP program consists of three components: an online assessment, a portfolio review, and an oral examination. The online assessment is designed to assess the applicant’s knowledge of museum management and operations. The portfolio review requires applicants to submit written documents that demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the areas of museum management, collections care, education and public programming, fundraising and development, marketing and communications, research and evaluation, technology use, and volunteer management. Finally, the oral examination consists of two parts: a one-hour interview with two AAM representatives and a one-hour presentation on a topic related to museum practice.

It typically takes between six months to one year to complete the CMP program. To get started on the path towards becoming certified as a Certified Museum Professional (CMP), you must first apply for certification through AAM's website. You will then need to create an account with AAM and pay the application fee which is currently $150 USD. Once your application has been approved by AAM staff members, you can begin preparing for the online assessment, portfolio review, and oral examination components of the program.

The cost associated with becoming certified as a Certified Museum Professional (CMP) varies depending on how long it takes you to complete all three components of the program. In addition to paying the $150 USD application fee mentioned above, you may also need to purchase study materials or take classes related to museum practice in order to prepare for each component of the CMP program.

5. American Association for State and Local History Certification Program (AASLH-CP)

The American Association for State and Local History Certification Program (AASLH-CP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of state and local history. The AASLH-CP is designed to provide recognition to those who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the practice of state and local history.

To be eligible for the AASLH-CP, applicants must have a minimum of five years' experience in the field, including three years in a professional capacity. Applicants must also demonstrate knowledge of state and local history through coursework or other activities, such as museum work, archival research, or public programming.

The AASLH-CP requires applicants to complete an application form that includes an essay on their background and experience in state and local history, as well as two letters of recommendation from colleagues or supervisors. After submitting their application materials, applicants must pass an examination administered by the AASLH-CP Board of Examiners. The exam consists of multiple choice questions that cover topics such as historical research methods, interpretation techniques, public programming strategies, collections management practices, and more.

Once approved by the Board of Examiners, applicants will receive their certification within six to eight weeks. The cost for the AASLH-CP is $250 for members of AASLH ($300 for nonmembers). This fee covers the cost of administering the exam and processing applications.

6. Certified Archivist (CA)

Certified Archivist (CA) is a professional credential offered by the Academy of Certified Archivists (ACA). It is an internationally recognized certification that demonstrates an archivist’s expertise in the field. The CA credential is awarded to individuals who have met established standards of knowledge and experience, as well as demonstrated their commitment to professional development and ethical practice.

The process of becoming a Certified Archivist typically takes between one and two years. Applicants must first meet the eligibility requirements, which include having at least three years of professional experience in archives or related fields; a master's degree in archives, library science, history, or related field; and successful completion of the ACA Core Competencies Exam. After meeting these requirements, applicants must submit an application for certification along with supporting documentation such as transcripts, letters of reference, and work samples.

The cost for the ACA Core Competencies Exam is $200 USD for members and $250 USD for non-members. The application fee for certification is $100 USD for members and $150 USD for non-members. Additional fees may apply depending on the type of review requested.

7. National Council on Public History Certification Program (NCPH-CP)

The National Council on Public History Certification Program (NCPH-CP) is a voluntary certification program for professionals in the field of public history. It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of professional competency and expertise in the practice of public history. The certification program is administered by the National Council on Public History (NCPH), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing public history.

To be eligible for certification, applicants must meet certain criteria including having a minimum of three years' experience in the field, completing at least one course in public history, and passing an examination administered by NCPH. The examination consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as historical methods, research techniques, and interpretation.

The cost to apply for certification is $125 USD. Once approved, applicants must pay an annual fee of $50 USD to maintain their status as certified public historians.

The process typically takes about six months from application submission to receiving notification of approval or denial from NCPH. If approved, applicants will receive a certificate and digital badge that can be used to demonstrate their professional credentials.

8. American Historical Association Certificate in Digital History (AHA-CDH)

The American Historical Association Certificate in Digital History (AHA-CDH) is a professional development program that provides training and certification for historians who are interested in using digital technologies to advance their research, teaching, and public history projects. The AHA-CDH program consists of four online courses that cover the fundamentals of digital history, including data analysis, database design, web development, and digital storytelling. Participants must complete all four courses within six months to receive the certificate.

To get the AHA-CDH certificate, participants must register for the program on the AHA website. The cost of registration is $350 USD and includes access to all four courses as well as a one-year membership to the AHA. Each course consists of video lectures and readings as well as assignments that must be completed in order to pass the course. Upon completion of all four courses, participants will receive their AHA-CDH certificate from the American Historical Association.

9. American Association of Museums' Accreditation Program

The American Association of Museums (AAM) Accreditation Program is a voluntary program that recognizes museums for their commitment to excellence, accountability, and high professional standards. The program was established in 1971 and has since become the highest national recognition for museums in the United States.

To be accredited by AAM, a museum must demonstrate that it meets specific standards of excellence in areas such as governance, collections management, public programs, financial stability, and staff qualifications. The process typically takes two to three years from start to finish.

In order to begin the accreditation process, a museum must submit an application form and fee ($100 for AAM members; $200 for non-members). After submitting the application materials and fee, the museum will be assigned an Accreditation Coordinator who will guide them through the process. The next step is completing a self-study report which includes information on all aspects of the museum’s operations. This report is then reviewed by an outside panel of experts who provide feedback on how well the museum meets AAM’s standards. Finally, if approved by both AAM and the outside panel of experts, the museum will receive its accreditation certificate.

Accreditation is valid for 10 years after which time a renewal process must be completed in order to maintain accreditation status.

10. National Register of Historic Places Certification

The National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) is a list of properties in the United States that have been deemed worthy of preservation based on their historical, architectural, or archaeological significance. Properties listed on the NRHP are considered to be nationally significant and may qualify for certain protections and incentives.

In order to be listed on the NRHP, a property must meet certain criteria established by the National Park Service. These criteria include: age, integrity, and significance. To be eligible for listing, a property must generally be at least 50 years old and retain its original form. It must also possess some level of historical or architectural significance related to local, state, or national history.

The process of getting listed on the NRHP can take anywhere from several months to several years depending on the complexity of the application and how quickly it is processed by the National Park Service. Generally speaking, applicants should expect to wait at least six months before receiving a decision.

To get listed on the NRHP, applicants must complete an application form which includes providing detailed information about the property’s history and architecture as well as photographs and other supporting documentation. The application should then be submitted to your State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) who will review it for completeness and accuracy before forwarding it to the National Park Service for consideration.

The cost of applying for listing on the NRHP varies depending on whether you are applying through your SHPO or directly with the National Park Service. If you are applying through your SHPO there may be fees associated with processing your application; however if you are applying directly with NPS there is no fee associated with submitting an application.

Do You Really Need a Historian Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a historian certificate to practice history. However, if you are looking to pursue a career in the field of history, such as teaching or working for a museum, then it may be beneficial to have one. A historian certificate can also open up opportunities for research and consulting work.

Historians typically hold advanced degrees in history from accredited universities. These degrees provide the necessary background knowledge and skills to work in the field. In some cases, having a historian certificate can make it easier to find employment in academic fields or historical societies. It may also give you an edge when competing against other historians for positions or grants.

That said, there are many ways to become a successful historian without having a certificate. One way is to develop your own expertise by reading widely in your chosen area of study and engaging with people who share your interests. You can also participate in internships or volunteer opportunities that will help you gain experience and build contacts within the field.

Ultimately, if you want to make history your career then having a historian certificate will likely be beneficial but it is not essential for success. Ultimately, what matters most is that you have knowledge of the subject matter and an understanding of how history works as well as dedication and passion for the profession itself.

Related: Historian Resume Examples

FAQs About Historian Certifications

1. What is a historian certification?

Answer: A historian certification is a professional credential that certifies an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of history. It is usually awarded by a professional organization or academic institution, and demonstrates that the holder has achieved a certain level of expertise in the practice of history.

2. How do I become certified as a historian?

Answer: To become certified as a historian, you must typically complete an approved program of study, such as a master's degree in history, and demonstrate your ability to conduct independent research, write critically about historical topics, and present your findings to others. You may also need to pass an exam or other assessment to demonstrate your knowledge and skills.

3. What are the benefits of having a historian certification?

Answer: Having a historian certification can help you stand out from other job applicants when seeking employment in the field of history. It can also provide recognition for your achievements in the field of history, and open up new career opportunities such as teaching or working as an archivist or museum curator.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a historian?

Answer: Yes, most organizations require applicants for historian certification to have at least a bachelor’s degree in history or related field before being eligible for certification. In some cases, additional coursework may be required beyond undergraduate studies (e.g., master’s degree). Additionally, many organizations require applicants to submit evidence of their research accomplishments or publications related to the field of history prior to certification approval.

5. Is there an expiration date on my historian certification?

Answer: Generally speaking, most historian certifications do not expire unless they are revoked due to misconduct or failure to meet standards set by the certifying organization/institution over time (e.g., continuing education requirements).