Membership benefits

CIfA is your professional home for archaeology. You can join a network of thousands of professional archaeologists committed to high standards and enhancing their careers.

Joining CIfA strengthens our influence to effectively promote the value of archaeology and puts you at the forefront of advocacy and at the heart of developing your profession.

Find out the benefits of being an accredited professional (PCIfA, ACIfA, MCIfA) using the dropdowns below.

Additional benefits and discounts can be found in your Members' area profile, once you have joined.

Membership benefits

What are the benefits and value of joining CIfA?

Explore the value of CIfA membership – from networking and career opportunities, training and CPD, accessing the latest professional Standards and guidance, toolkits and sector news, to wider industry recognition.

Professional accreditation provides

Recognition

  • of your skills and knowledge/expertise by peers in the archaeology profession.

Commitment

  • to CIfA’s ethical Code of conduct and professional standards, demonstrating your dedication to working responsibly and serving society.

Status

  • given by your widely recognised CIfA designation after your name, boosts self-esteem and shows others you are a skilled professional. Many people feel more confident and respected after achieving professional accreditation.

Sector advantage

  • highly regarded by employers when recruiting and by clients as part of the tendering process.
  • enhances your professional credibility as an expert witness or when giving advice to others.

Network

  • be part of a community of professional archaeologists providing opportunities for knowledge exchange, networking and staying updated on the latest good practice. This is essential for career development or business growth. 

 

Quality assurance

Assuring quality of your work by working to CIfA Standards and guidance and the Code of conduct 

Access to professional ethics resources, including case studies and Professional practice papers, to support your work

Highlight to others using post-nominals (PCIfA, ACIfA, MCIfA) in your email sign off and on reports 

Being listed in our Directory of professionals and, at MCIfA, specifying if you are available for consultancy work.

Career advancement and professional development

Careers kit with resources to support your career development

Weekly jobs bulletin with paid/volunteer roles and training opportunities

Professional pathways bulletins to support your journey through accreditation

Opportunities for free training and CPD sessions

Access to elearning modules, practice papers and discounted Journal

Access to our annual training programme, including our annual conference and training event, for a reduced fee

Support to complete a PDP and CPD log digitally with us (My CPD) or through your employer 

Networking and community

Be part of a community of thousands of professionals through

Get involved to shape archaeology and the Institute’s work

  • on committees such as Board, Advisory Council, Validation, Registered Organisations EDI, or Area and Special Interest Groups
  • as part of a network such as neurodiversity
  • as part of a working group such as climate change
  • start your own community of practice
Reach and influence

Influencing policy and advocacy through contributing to consultations

Promoting professionally accredited archaeologists through the Client guide, our Directory of professionals and The ARC.