The Board for Certification of Genealogists

Extracted from: BCG

The Board for Certification of Genealogists

An independent organization not affiliated with, or part of, any group

A certifying body not a membership society

A nationally and internationally recognized organization

THE BOARD'S MISSION

To foster public confidence in genealogy as a respected branch of history by promoting an attainable, uniform standard of competence and ethics among genealogical practitioners, and by publicly recognizing persons who meet that standard.

THE BOARD'S VISION

Of genealogical practice: a profession or avocation that is of value to society's understanding of its history; and requires training, experience, and advanced skills. Of genealogical clients: those who benefit from the practitioner's efforts, regardless of whether: the results are delivered in writing, orally, or online; work is done for a fee, or for a salary, or without compensation; or the practitioner's own or another person's ancestry is the subject of study. Of certification: an important step in one's personal growth as a genealogist and a vital part of maintaining quality and public confidence in the field.

For genealogists, certification says "I care about the quality of work I compile for posterity." For consumers, certification offers reassurance and a recourse as they seek professional help in a field that is still, for the most part, free of governmental regulation.

STANDARDS

Since its beginning in 1964, the BCG has promoted standards in genealogical research (see BCG History). The BCG Genealogical Standards Manual, published in 2000 by Ancestry.com for the Board, is designed to clarify, codify, and organize standards generally accepted in the field. This publication makes them readily accessible to all genealogists, whether or not they envision applying for certification.