Exploring Certification and Accreditation Pathways

For genealogists who wish to demonstrate advanced skill and professional standing, certification and accreditation provide structured pathways. While not required to practice genealogy, credentials from organizations such as the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) represent significant achievements. They signal to clients, colleagues, and the broader historical community that a genealogist adheres to rigorous standards of research and ethics.

Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG)

BCG was founded in 1964 to establish and uphold high standards in the field. It offers two credentials: Certified Genealogist (CG) and Certified Genealogical Lecturer (CGL). Applicants for the CG credential prepare an extensive portfolio demonstrating their ability to apply the Genealogical Proof Standard. This includes a case study, a kinship determination, and a research report, all carefully documented and clearly written. Certification is valid for five years, with renewal requiring evidence of continued professional work.

The CGL credential is aimed at those who teach or lecture. It requires demonstration of effective communication and educational skill, alongside mastery of genealogical research.

International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen)

ICAPGen focuses on accrediting genealogists for specific geographic regions. Its exam process includes three levels: a written exam on general methodology, a region-specific knowledge exam, and a research project that must demonstrate practical application. Accreditation lasts for ten years, with renewal based on continuing education and professional activity. The regional specialization ensures that accredited genealogists can navigate language barriers, archival systems, and cultural contexts.

Preparation for Credentials

Preparing for certification or accreditation is no small task. Many genealogists participate in ProGen Study Groups, which provide structured practice in source analysis, research planning, and report writing. Others attend genealogical institutes such as SLIG or IGHR, which offer in-depth training on advanced topics. Mentorship from credentialed professionals can also be invaluable, offering guidance, encouragement, and critical feedback.

The Value of Credentials

For clients, credentials offer assurance that a genealogist’s work meets recognized standards. For the genealogist, the process of preparing for certification is itself transformative. It forces careful reflection on methodology, clear writing, and ethical practice. Even those who do not complete the process often report that the preparation improved their research skills significantly.

Contribution to the Profession

Certification and accreditation are not just personal milestones; they elevate the entire field. They underscore that genealogy is more than a hobby—it is a discipline requiring training, rigor, and ethical responsibility. Credentialed genealogists often contribute to scholarship, teach, and mentor, helping to advance genealogy as a whole.

Citations

• Board for Certification of Genealogists. “Become Certified.” https://bcgcertification.org.
• ICAPGen. “About Accreditation.” https://www.icapgen.org.
• ProGen Study Groups. “About.” https://progenstudygroups.com.