How to become an Archivist
Official title: Archivists
Also called: Archivist, Photo archivist, Video archivist, Research archivist, Assistant archivist, Corporate archivist, Fine arts archivist, Historical archivist, Multimedia archivist, Collections archivist
Archivists manage, process, store and disseminate information contained in an organization's archives. They acquire, store and research textual material, pictures, maps, architectural documents, electronic materials, films and videos, and sound recordings and multimedia materials. They are employed in archives, in the public and para-public sectors and in private sector organizations.
Main tasks
- Develop policies and procedures for managing current and semicurrent archives, in particular corporate cataloguing systems, records scheduling and disposal, and finding aids
- Design programs for managing, disseminating and storing archives of all types (documents, photographs, maps, audio-visual materials, manuscripts, etc.)
- Plan the computerized management of archives and the management of electronic archives
- Appraise and acquire archival materials to build and develop an archival collection for research purposes
- Authenticate documents and records, and research the origins and significance of archival materials
- Organize noncurrent archives and develop cataloguing and retrieval systems to allow access to archival materials
- Assist people with their searches
How to become one
A bachelor's degree with a minor in archival studies or A university degree with a certificate in archival studies is required. A master's degree in archival studies, archival studies and information science, library science or history may be required.
Ways in
- University: Arts & Humanities degrees, Offered by 18 universities in Canada
- University: Science degrees, Offered by 16 universities in Canada
Pay · Outlook
- Median pay: $76,518 a year The middle half earn $65,618 to $89,525.
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Questions people ask
How do I become an Archivist?
A bachelor's degree with a minor in archival studies or A university degree with a certificate in archival studies is required. A master's degree in archival studies, archival studies and information science, library science or history may be required.
How much does an Archivist earn in Canada?
Median full-time pay is $76,518 a year (Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank)). The middle half earn $65,618 to $89,525.
Do you need a degree to become an Archivist?
Usually. 85% of people in this job hold a bachelor's degree or higher.
Sources
- Statistics Canada: Census 2021: employment by occupation, gender and education (98-10-0449) (2021 Census), Statistics Canada Open Licence, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Statistics Canada: National Occupational Classification (NOC) 2021 (Version 1.0), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
- Employment and Social Development Canada (Job Bank): Wages by occupation (2025 (revised 2025-11-19)), Open Government Licence - Canada, retrieved 2026-10-03
Updated 2026-10-03