What Type of Work Does an Archivist Perform?
Education Most professional archivist positions require completion of M.A. in history or a MLIS in Library and Information Science. While the M.A. or MLS considered the terminal degree for archivist, some archivists do hold doctoral degrees. The Society of American Archivists publishes an annual Directory of Archival Education that discusses educational standards and other issues relating to the field. Careers in Archives Archivists work in a variety of repositories in various institutional settings, including: • Governmental (federal, state, and local) • Academic institutions • Corporations • Religious groups • Museums • Historical societies Salaries vary widely, but positions for entry-level MAs have been competitive with entry-level teaching positions for new PhDs. A survey of Archival Salaries conducted in 2004 by the Society of American Archivists can be found on their site.
