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Second Step to My New Career: Certificate in Genealogical Studies


Now that I have thoroughly researched education and training options, I am looking forward to getting started!

I called both Boston University and the National Institute for Genealogical Studies, to learn more about each program. They are comparable in cost, but the NIGS program seems much more robust. When complete, the NIGS certificate holder can place PLCGS (Professional Learning Certificate in Genealogical Studies) after their name.

I purchased a four-course package (cost becomes $76 per course instead of the regular price of $89) so that I could try it out before committing. They said that if I decide that I want to go for the complete, 40 course certification program, I can apply the cost of the initial four-course package to my larger certificate program.

My goal is to earn the Certificate in Genealogical Studies-American Records, which covers basic methodology, US documents and records, Analysis and Skills, as well as 12 elective courses. These can be on business skills, special interest groups, other countries, genealogical writing, and advanced research skills. If you pay for the 40 course program at once, it costs $2,850 (cost becomes $71 per course).

There don't appear to be any textbooks to purchase. An electronic copy of the course materials are available as part of the course fee. A printed version is also available for $435, which includes all 40 courses.

The program can take between 18-36 months, depending on the amount of time you have to commit.

It is exciting to start a program that I am so interested in, both personally and professionally!

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