How many genealogical certifications are there?

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.

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