Competence matrix
All applications will be assessed against the with the competence matrix for technical and ethical competence. You can also use the specialist matrices to support your application (see below). Please only use these if you work in one of the particular specialisms.
CIfA accredited degree applicants need to apply in the same way as other applicants at Practitioner (PCIfA) using the accredited degree matrix and guidance (see below).
Every application for accredited membership is assessed on its own merits and on demonstrated technical and ethical competence, using a scoring system (0=not demonstrated, 1=not yet demonstrated, 2=Fully demonstrated) against the main competence matrix. We use an adapted competence matrix which has been aligned with the National Occupational Standards in Archaeological Practice (NOS).
Specialist matrices
CIfA has a series of specialist competence matrices, which have been compiled by our Special Interest Groups and external groups and are tailored to specific areas. Please note additional guidance is being developed by our Groups and external groups this year to support the changes to include ethical competence.
All applications will be assessed using the main competence matrix above with the specialist matrices as supporting documents. Please only use these if you work in a particular specialism.
The specialist matrices assist applicants in understanding how their work fits into the main competence matrix and by identifying what information they should give to the Validation committee to demonstrate competence at the relevant accredited grade. For example if you are a Field Archaeologist and you undertake some pottery identification or osteology within your role, you only need to refer to the Field archaeology specialist matrix and not the Finds or Osteology ones as well. If you are an Osteologist or Finds specialist you would refer to the relevant matrix.
If you are a volunteer you might find that you need to use more than one specialist matrix, for example finds, field archaeology and/or museum archaeology, but these should inform the main matrix which is used to assess all applications.
Local authority, HER & Development Control (PDF)
Specialist matrices are reviewed every 3 years to ensure they are still fit for purpose. The lastest review is in progress 2024 to 2025.
CIfA Accredited degree matrix and guidance
CIfA accredited degree applicants need to apply in the same way as a Practitioner (PCIfA) but using the competence matrix below. We have created some additional guidance to assist in identifying what information to give to the Validation committee to demonstrate competence at PCIfA in your statement.
You can check the list of current accredited degrees here and you need to submit a copy of your certificate when you apply. Please note your accredited degree is only valid to apply this way for up to two years after graduation.
