What genealogists do and the paths to get there

A professional genealogist researches family histories, locates ancestors, and builds documented family trees for clients. The work involves searching public records, church documents, census data, DNA databases, and historical archives. Some genealogists work independently as consultants; others work for genealogy companies, historical societies, or law firms handling inheritance cases.

There is no single required credential to call yourself a genealogist, but clients and employers expect documented training, a portfolio of completed research, and often a professional certification. The most common path involves combining formal education or coursework with hands-on research experience and then pursuing certification through a recognized organization.

Key Takeaways

  • Professional genealogists typically complete coursework in research methods, record types, and documentation standards before taking on paid clients.
  • The Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) and the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) offer credentials that clients recognize and trust.
  • Building a portfolio of completed research projects is essential before seeking certification or marketing yourself to clients.
  • Most professional genealogists combine research skills with knowledge of specific geographic regions or record types to stand out in the field.
  • You can start learning genealogy research through community colleges, online courses, and genealogy societies before committing to full certification.

Formal education and coursework options

Many genealogists begin with a bachelor's degree in history, library science, or a related field, though it is not required. What matters more is completing structured coursework in genealogical research methods. Brigham Young University offers a Family History degree and certificate programs that cover research methodology, record interpretation, and documentation standards. The University of Maine offers a Graduate Certificate in Genealogical Research that can be completed part-time online.

If a full degree is not your path, look for genealogy certificate programs through community colleges or genealogy organizations. The National Institute for Genealogical Studies offers online courses in research methodology, DNA analysis, and specific record types. The Federation of Genealogical Societies and local genealogy societies often host workshops and multi-week courses on research skills and regional records.

These courses teach you how to locate records, evaluate sources for accuracy, cite your findings properly, and organize research in a way clients can follow. They also introduce you to the geographic and historical context that makes research efficient—knowing where to look for records in a specific county or time period saves hours of wasted searching.

Building a research portfolio before seeking clients

Before marketing yourself as a professional, you need a portfolio of completed research projects that demonstrate your skills. Start by researching your own family tree thoroughly. Document every step: where you found each record, what it says, why it is reliable, and how it connects to other records. This teaches you the discipline of proper documentation and shows potential clients what your work looks like.

Volunteer your research skills through local genealogy societies, historical societies, or libraries. Many offer volunteer positions where you help patrons research their family histories under supervision. This gives you real-world experience, feedback from experienced genealogists, and completed projects you can reference later. Some genealogists volunteer to research for people who cannot afford paid services, which builds both skill and credibility.

As you complete projects, keep detailed records of your methodology and findings. When you approach certification or seek clients, you will need to show examples of your work—typically three to five research projects that demonstrate your ability to locate records, evaluate sources, and present findings clearly.

Professional certification through BCG or ICAPGen

The Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) is the most widely recognized credential in the United States. To pursue BCG certification, you must have at least five years of genealogical research experience (or equivalent education and experience combined), submit a portfolio of your work, and pass a written examination. The exam tests your knowledge of research methodology, record types, documentation standards, and ethical practice.

The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) offers credentials for genealogists working internationally or in specific regions. Their requirements are similar: documented research experience, a portfolio, and examination. Some genealogists pursue both certifications to serve a broader client base.

Certification costs between $300 and $500 for the examination itself, plus the cost of preparing your portfolio and potentially taking preparatory courses. The process typically takes one to two years from the time you decide to pursue it. Certified genealogists can use the credential BCG or ICAPGen in their marketing, which signals to clients that their work meets professional standards.

Specializing in a geographic region or record type

Successful professional genealogists often specialize in a particular geographic area or type of records. You might focus on colonial New England research, German immigration records, DNA analysis and matching, or probate and land records. Specialization makes you more efficient—you know the archives, the naming patterns, the historical context, and the quirks of records in your area—and it makes you more valuable to clients.

To build informed in a region, spend time researching that area's records directly. Visit archives if possible, or work with digitized collections online. Join regional genealogy societies and attend conferences focused on your area of interest. Read books and articles about the history and record-keeping practices of your region. This deep knowledge is what allows you to solve difficult research problems and charge professional rates.

Some genealogists specialize in DNA analysis, helping clients understand genetic matches and use DNA results to break through brick walls in their research. This requires additional training in genetics and DNA databases like AncestryDNA, 23andMe, and MyHeritage. If DNA is your focus, look for courses specifically in genetic genealogy.

Setting up your business and finding clients

Once you have training, a portfolio, and ideally a certification, you can start taking clients. Many genealogists work as independent contractors, setting their own rates and managing their own schedules. Others work part-time while maintaining another job, or they join established genealogy companies that assign clients to them.

If you work independently, you will need to handle the business side: setting rates (typically $25 to $75 per hour depending on your experience and location), creating a website or social media presence, managing client communications, and handling invoicing. You may also want to form a business entity and carry liability insurance, though requirements vary by state.

Finding clients happens through word-of-mouth referrals, a professional website, social media, genealogy directories, and local networking. Many genealogists list themselves on the BCG directory or ICAPGen directory, which clients search when looking for certified professionals. You can also partner with genealogy companies like Ancestry or FamilyTreeDNA, which sometimes hire researchers to work on client projects.

Continuing education and staying current

Genealogy research methods and available records change constantly. New digitized collections come online, DNA technology evolves, and historical records are continuously indexed and made searchable. Professional genealogists stay current by attending annual conferences, taking advanced courses, and reading journals like the National Genealogical Society Quarterly and The Genealogist.

The BCG requires certified genealogists to complete continuing education credits every five years to maintain their certification. This ensures that genealogists stay up-to-date with new research methods and record sources. Many genealogy societies and conferences offer courses that count toward these requirements.

Joining professional organizations like the National Genealogical Society or the Federation of Genealogical Societies connects you with other genealogists, gives you access to educational resources, and keeps you informed about changes in the field. These memberships typically cost $50 to $150 per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a degree to become a professional genealogist?

No degree is required, but you do need structured training in genealogical research methods and documentation standards. Many professional genealogists have bachelor's degrees in history or library science, but others come from different backgrounds and complete genealogy-specific certificate programs instead. What matters is demonstrating competence through coursework, a portfolio, and ideally professional certification.

How long does it take to become a professional genealogist?

Most people spend one to three years completing coursework and building a research portfolio before they are ready to take on paying clients. If you pursue BCG or ICAPGen certification, add another one to two years. You can start learning genealogy research and taking on small projects much sooner, but full professional credibility typically takes three to five years of focused work.

How much do professional genealogists charge?

Rates vary widely based on experience, location, and specialization. Newer genealogists often charge $25 to $40 per hour, while experienced or certified genealogists charge $50 to $100 per hour or more. Some genealogists charge flat fees for specific projects instead of hourly rates. Rates in major cities tend to be higher than in rural areas.

Can I work part-time as a genealogist while keeping another job?

Yes, many genealogists start part-time and build their client base gradually. You can take on a few clients while working another job, then transition to full-time genealogy work as demand grows. Some genealogists maintain part-time work indefinitely and do genealogy research as a side business.

What is the difference between BCG and ICAPGen certification?

Both are respected credentials, but BCG is more established in the United States and is recognized by most American clients. ICAPGen is more international and may be preferred if you work with clients outside the US or research in specific countries. Some genealogists pursue both certifications. Check which credential is more valued in your target market before deciding which to pursue first.