I got curious to find out just how many options there are for genealogy certification of any type. So I went on the hunt today, and here’s what I learned.
There are two certifications that are recognized in the community: CG and AG.
You may see FUGA as a post-nominal. Fellow of the Utah Genealogical Association is not a certification, but an award that is presented annually by the Utah Genealogical Association.
Certified Genealogist (CG)
This one is from the Board for Certification of Genealogists ® (BCG). When you earn this certification, you can use the post-nominals.
Accredited Genealogist®
Earned by examination via the International Commission for the Accreditation of Genealogists (ICAPGenSM). Accredited genealogists who have passed the exam can use AG® as their post-nominals.
The Association of Professional Genealogists (APG)
The APG does not certify genealogists, it supports them. Anyone can join, even if you are just considering a career as a genealogist.
National Genealogical Society (NGS)
The NGS provides learning opportunities and advanced training. It does not offer certification.
Genealogy Certificate Program (SLCC)
Salt Lake City College offers a one-year, online genealogy certificate program. You can earn a Basic, Master, or Advanced Certificate in Genealogy from SLCC studying at home. This is neither a degree nor a professional certification (i.e., the type where you would earn post-nominals), but rather a continuing education certificate program from a community college. There are no general education courses required as there would be in a degree program. All the classes are about the topic of genealogy. There is an elective class available called “Preparing for Accredited Genealogist®” which can help you get ready for the AG exam.
Bonus!
Here’s a great little article about how to get certified.