Join CIfA | Chartered Institute for Archaeologists

Archaeologist with surveying equipment.

We welcome applications to join CIfA from people who are involved in the study and care of the historic environment, employed or voluntary, regardless of academic background or location.

Joining CIfA means you will support CIfA’s aims and work in accordance with the Code of conduct, policies and Standards of the Institute; these are binding on all accredited members and emphasise your duty to adhere to professional and ethical standards.

We offer three grades of professional accreditation: Practitioner (PCIfA), Associate (ACIfA) and Member (MCIfA) and a fast-track to PCIfA accreditation for NVQ in Archaeological Practice graduates. Plus those rejoining CIfA can do so at their previous grade. See below for more information about how to apply.

If you are studying archaeology or related subject or are not ready to apply for an accredited grade we offer two non-accredited Student and Affiliate grades.

We also provide advice about careers and professional development through our professional pathways scheme.

See our Join CIfA FAQs and explore the information below to learn more about becoming professionally accredited. If you are unsure of how to approach your application, or need any further support, please contact us.

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Professional archaeology

What do we mean when we talk about being a professional archaeologist? Find out more about the importance of professionalism and accreditation.

Professional pathways

CIfA offers support for the professional pathways for applicants and members. Find out more about the accreditation pathway.

Membership benefits

Membership of CIfA has many benefits for both accredited and non-accredited grades.

Subscription & renewal

Find out more about CIfA subscription fees and renewing your annual subscription.

Member experiences

Read about CIfA members application and career experiences, work with the Institute, and career development

Apply online

Find out how to apply for or upgrade your CIfA accreditation or for a non-accredited grade, to re-join or fast-track. Please read the guidance before you submit your application.

Professional accreditation guidance

Practitioner (PCIfA)

Practitioner (PCIfA) accreditation is open to those who:

have a good working knowledge within an area of historic environment practice
have some responsibility for undertaking work using own judgement
have carried out some complex work under general supervision
perceive the importance of each role within a team
demonstrate understanding of the ethical requirements of the Code of conduct and is able to apply to own work
uphold the values of the Institute to work in the public interest

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Associate (ACIfA)

Associate (ACIfA) accreditation is open to those who:

have a high level of working knowledge within an area of historic environment practice
have considerable responsibility for undertaking work in a variety of situations using own judgement
have carried out complex work within an established framework
perceive the importance of their role within the team and the work they undertake
understand the ethical requirements of the Code of conduct and use them to guide and review own practice
uphold and promote the values of the Institute to work in the public interest

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Member (MCIfA)

Member (MCIfA) accreditation is open to those who:

have substantial knowledge within an area of historic environment practice or specialism
have substantial responsibility for own work in a variety of situations
have significant accountability for others and/or allocate resources, where applicable
have dealt with and/or carried out complex work and decision-making in a broad range of complex, technical or professional activities or in highly skilled, specialist work
perceive the importance of their role and the work they undertake within the team and within the historic environment sector as a whole
demonstrate professional judgement and ethical behaviour across a wide variety of complex situations, supporting and encouraging others to do the same
promote the values of the Institute to work in the public interest with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders

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