Archives are said to be the collection of historical documents or records that may be useful for discovering many events and facts from the history. Archivists are the professionals who recognize, re-establish and protect the historical files such as diaries, coins, letters, art works, manuscripts and maps of the government, groups or individuals.

Their duties also include the supervision of arrangement, classifications and exhibition of historic collections. These professionals are usually employed in different organizations like museums, zoos, colleges and universities, corporations, libraries and governments. They also give clarifications, catalogue and assess the valuable documents and art works for the public for research activities. The profession is a rewarding and challenging opportunity for those who have a passion and keen interest to know and conserve the past treasures.

Qualifying Exam

To become an Archivist, one needs to have graduation in library science or history. They must also have pursued the additional courses in archival science and should have relevant work experience. Some of the institutions offer courses or training programme in archival techniques. Gaining relevant experience while pursuing the graduation will help them to achieve a better career in this field. Master’s level graduation in the concerned discipline is required for most of the jobs in this field.

Who is eligible to apply?

At least a bachelor’s degree in related field is necessary to get into this field. Students can apply for the undergraduate programme in library science or history after completing their High School education. Numerous universities in India offer this related branch of study. They must also acquire the work experience while pursuing this degree, because most of the firms recruit the candidates with relevant experience even for the entry level jobs. After the under graduation they can apply for the higher graduation in the related discipline, which will help to gain the high designated jobs in this field.

Key points in the process

• Study 12th standard with PCM or PCMB and secure a pass in the concerned examinations organized by a recognized board.
• Pursue a bachelor’s degree in library science or history or related stream from a reputed university.
• Gain relevant work experience by doing internship programme or by working in any archives or museums.
• Join for the Master’s degree programme in the same stream in any university offering it and obtain the degree.
• Search for the jobs as Archivists and apply for it.

Skills required for an Archivist

As said earlier, the Archivist is the profession which is most apt for those with a passion to know about the past and have an interest to preserve the old treasures. The professionals need bright skills to perform well in this field. Since they have to work with several document contents and the related issues, they must have good analytical and research skills. They also need good communication skills and must be able to carefully handle the poor quality historical evidences.