Join as an accredited member

CIfA is your professional home for archaeology. If you are involved in the study and care of the historic environment, join a network of thousands of professional archaeologists committed to high standards and enhancing their careers.

Professional accreditation is a formal recognition of your skills, knowledge and behaviours and how you use these to carry out your work effectively to professional standards. It is a significant achievement for anyone.

CIfA has three grades of professional accreditation: Practitioner (PCIfA), Associate (ACIfA) and Member (MCIfA). These are steppingstones on your career pathway in archaeology. If you want to rejoin CIfA you may be able to do so at your previous grade.

CIfA accreditation is open to all archaeologists (employed or voluntary) who

  • can demonstrate they have the knowledge, skills and behaviours for the level of accreditation they are applying for
  • agree to uphold the values of the Institute set out in our Code of conduct

Explore below for more information about finding the membership level that's right for you, and how to apply.

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Why become an accredited member?

Find out how becoming an accredited CIfA member can benefit you and your career.

Find your professional level

Learn more about which accredited grade you should apply for.

Prepare your application

Find out what to include before you apply for or upgrade your CIfA accreditation

Submit your application

Apply for or upgrade your CIfA accreditation, re-join or fast-track using NVQ/Apprenticeship route.

Subscription and renewal

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

Accredited membership FAQs

Looking to find out more? Check out our extensive FAQs about joining CIfA!