Accredited genealogists and certified genealogists: Different credentials that both lead to quality research
Have you ever wondered how someone becomes a certified genealogist? The term "certified genealogist” has become a catch-all phrase for a credentialed, qualified genealogist, when in fact, “certified” has a specific, trademarked meaning specific to the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG). It’s more accurate to describe these as specific paths that genealogists take to become credentialed. Two of the best ways to become a credentialed, qualified genealogist are accreditation and certification.
But what path is best? Both accredited genealogists and certified genealogists serve clients effectively. Whether you are thinking of pursuing a credential yourself or want to hire a professional genealogist, it can be helpful to understand the differences between the two pathways.
What are the benefits of receiving genealogy credentials?
Before we dive into becoming an accredited or certified genealogist, you might wonder why a genealogist needs to earn credentials, especially since so many professional genealogists have created careers without them. Besides becoming a better researcher and honing their craft, it’s worth noting some of the reasons genealogists pursue credentials.
Trust. They often receive more clients with proven abilities.
Legal. Their credentials hold up in most courts and will receive an accompanying "qualified expert" witness status.
They stand out. Relatively few genealogists hold these credentials.
Research expertise. Accredited and certified genealogists work under standards that strengthen their research results.
Connections. Genealogists who are accredited or certified often work with each other to ensure clients have the best specialists working on their projects.
What degree does a genealogist need?
Many genealogists started their fascination with this work by researching their own family history. Uncovering their own lineage is the best way to determine whether becoming a genealogist is something they want to do long-term. Not only does it provide first-hand experience, but it also lays the groundwork for the patience and motivation required to make it in this field; it can be a tricky puzzle to decipher, but it's worth it. It's never too late to document your family history, mid-life is actually the perfect time to get started.
After building their family history, a genealogist will understand how they want to proceed professionally. And while a formal degree isn’t necessary to become a professional genealogist, there are several ways to enhance knowledge and experience. For example, a genealogist might receive a bachelor's or master's degree in the same or a similar subject, such as family history or anthropology. Most genealogists come into genealogy after other careers. Although very few four-year degree programs exist for genealogists, other options include shorter-term educational programs. A few options include;
Rather than or as an addition to pursuing a degree, many dedicated and motivated genealogists attend institutes and conferences for up-to-date training, networking opportunities, and knowledge;
Well-known institutes include The Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy, The Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh, The Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research, and The Genealogical Institute on Federal Records at the National Archives
Conferences are often offered state-by-state such as The Ohio Genealogical Society and The Jamboree (Southern California Genealogical Society), and sometimes by region (New England Genealogical Consortium).
Whether they receive formal education or not, tracing their own ancestry and attending conferences are two steps aspiring genealogists need to complete before beginning their credential process.
What is the difference between an accredited and a certified genealogist?
Two organizations award credentials: the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen℠) and The Board of Certification for Genealogists (BCG). While each process is different, a body of professionals assesses your capabilities and skills within both organizations. It may sound intimidating, but once a genealogist receives external validation, they feel quite proud, motivated, and ready to start expanding their careers.
The path to becoming an accredited genealogist
If you are interested, here is the detailed process;
Specialization. Choose from more than 25 testing regions in the United States and select countries to specialize in. Whether a genealogist decides on North Dakota, Hawaii, or even Germany, specializing in a specific region allows them to become an expert in a chosen area.
Readiness assessment. The readiness assessment determines whether they are ready to begin the process. If not, they can take more time to increase their experience before continuing.
Four-Generation Project. Accredited genealogist candidates choose a family to research, connect four of their generations and submit a lengthy report to demonstrate their findings.
Two timed tests. The first test, "Document interpretation" involves looking at documents and answering a series of questions about their meaning. And the second test, “General Questions” tests understanding of a chosen region.
Final project and oral review. At this level, the candidate will prove how to produce high-quality research within a limited time frame and answer questions from AG professionals who assess proficiency.
Ta-da! After they complete all previous steps and sign the code of ethics, the candidate receives their credentials.
The path to becoming a certified genealogist
The path to becoming a certified genealogist requires a lot of dedication and preparation. Unlike the requirements for ICAPGen℠, BCG combines its requirements into the evaluation of a portfolio. Here's an overview of the process, but please consult BCG for current requirements:
A signed code of ethics
Development activities. What educational opportunities prepared the candidate for this process?
Document work. Demonstrate skills in transcription and analysis.
A research report. How well can the candidate use various resources to address a potential client's lineage concern?
A case study. Prepare a proof argument that builds a case for a solution to a problem without direct evidence.
A kinship-determination project. This involves diving deep into family history and connecting three generations.
What every genealogist should know
Before a genealogist begins a credentialing journey with either organization, there are a few common skills that are needed for work as a professional genealogist;
Knowledge of the history of the area in which they are researching
Knowledge of sources that exist in that area and which libraries or archives hold them
How to properly analyze information for credibility
How to compare and contrast facts when they disagree
How to write a proper citation
How to write a proof summary that answers a research question
How to write a readable research report for the client
How to work with clients
How to run a professional business
Lastly, a great genealogist needs a healthy dose of skepticism with their research findings. For example, a professional genealogist looks beyond a mere hint and digs deep into more than one fact to gain several different viewpoints. It’s common to run into more than one person with the same name, and you'll need more credible sources to verify their identity (For more tips, check out a tale of establishing identity). By keeping this mindset, you'll not only discover unique lineages, but you will also uncover a rich exploration of motivations, emotions, and secrets behind past actions and behaviors. It's the best part!
Ready to work with a credentialed genealogist?
If you have any questions or need any more information, whether you need help choosing the best path for you as you research your family history or if you want to hire a professional genealogist to complete the process for you, please schedule a free consultation. I'd love to help you on your journey.
Note on Genealogical Credentials: The words Certified Genealogist and its acronym, CG, are registered certification marks, and the designations Certified Genealogical Lecturer and its acronym, CGL, are service marks of the Board for Certification of Genealogists®. Accredited Genealogist and AG are certification marks of the International Commission for Accreditation of Professional Genealogists. Individuals are licensed to use the credential designations after meeting the competency standards of those organizations.