How do you pursue further education or certification in archival research?

1 Choose your specialization

Archival research is a broad field that covers many topics and disciplines, such as history, anthropology, sociology, literature, art, religion, politics, and more. Depending on your interests and goals, you may want to focus on a specific area of archival research that suits your passion and expertise. For example, you may want to specialize in genealogy, oral history, digital archives, or cultural heritage. Choosing your specialization will help you narrow down your options for education and certification programs, as well as potential career paths.

3 Apply for admission and funding

Once you have found a program that matches your interests and needs, you will need to apply for admission and funding. Each program will have its own admission requirements and deadlines, so make sure you check them carefully and prepare your application materials accordingly. You may need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, a resume, or a portfolio of previous work. You may also need to take standardized tests, such as the GRE or the TOEFL, depending on the program and your background. To fund your education and certification, you may be eligible for scholarships, grants, loans, or assistantships from the program, the institution, or external sources.

4 Complete your coursework and projects

Once you are admitted to a program, you will need to complete your coursework and projects to earn your education and certification in archival research. Depending on the program, you may have to take core courses, electives, seminars, workshops, or internships. You may also have to complete a thesis, a dissertation, a capstone project, or a portfolio that demonstrates your archival research skills and knowledge. You will need to follow the program's guidelines and expectations, as well as adhere to the ethical and professional standards of archival research.

5 Network and seek opportunities

While you are pursuing your education and certification in archival research, you should also network and seek opportunities to expand your horizons and advance your career. You can join professional associations, such as the SAA or the ACA, and attend their conferences, events, webinars, or publications. You can also connect with other archival researchers, mentors, instructors, or employers through social media, online forums, or networking platforms. You can also look for opportunities to volunteer, work, or collaborate on archival research projects that interest you or align with your goals.

6 Update your resume and portfolio

Finally, you should update your resume and portfolio to reflect your education and certification in archival research. You should highlight your skills, qualifications, achievements, and experiences in archival research in a clear and concise way. You should also showcase your work samples, such as research papers, reports, presentations, or digital collections, that demonstrate your archival research abilities and outcomes. You should also tailor your resume and portfolio to the specific position or organization you are applying for or interested in.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?