How much money does a professional genealogist make

Genealogists study family lineages in genetic and historical contexts. It is a research-intensive pursuit that involves looking into family records, photographs and letters, public documents, census data and scores of databases that track people through their activities and accomplishments on local, national and even international levels. Nearly all genealogists are self-employed.

Most work on a part-time basis for private clients and charge by the hour. Formal education in the field is not required to become a professional genealogist, but classes can be found at most colleges and universities.

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These will help you develop the relevant skills needed to do research, use technology and manage your business. For advanced study, educational opportunities are available at a number of institutions, including Brigham Young University, the National Institute of Genealogical Studies, the National Institute on Genealogical Research, the Regional In-Depth Genealogical Studies Alliance, and the University of Washington Genealogy and Family History Certificate Program.

In addition, there are national conferences sponsored by several genealogical societies every year. The Board for Certification of Genealogists certifies professional genealogists.

While many educational programs offer certificates of completion, these do not carry the professional gravitas that certification provides.

The BCG offers two certifications: No specific educational program or degree is required for certification.

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A panel of three to four BCG judges independently evaluate each portfolio and it takes the approval of three judges to grant certification. Certification must be renewed every five years. Genealogists usually charge an hourly rate and bill for out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel, photocopies and document fees. Earnings can be significantly higher in large cities across the United States.

Lisa Dorward was a corporate financial executive and business consultant for more than 15 years before becoming a writer in Skip to main content. Education and Training Formal education in the field is not required to become a professional genealogist, but classes can be found at most colleges and universities. Certification The Board for Certification of Genealogists certifies professional genealogists. Average Compensation Genealogists usually charge an hourly rate and bill for out-of-pocket expenses, such as travel, photocopies and document fees.

Salaries In Large Cities Earnings can be significantly higher in large cities across the United States. References 5 Bureau of Labor Statistics: Genealogist Association of Professional Genealogists: Becoming a Professional Board for Certification of Genealogists: Frequently Asked Questions Board for Certification of Genealogists: How to Become Certified Economic Research Institute: A Manual for Researchers, Writers, Editors, Lecturers, and Librarians BGC Genealogical Standards Manual.

About the Author Lisa Dorward was a corporate financial executive and business consultant for more than 15 years before becoming a writer in Suggest an Article Correction.

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Guidelines for Starting a Genealogy Business

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