As mentioned in previous posts, formal education is not a requirement for the ICAPGen (or BCG) testing (the organizations that determine professional genealogists). So why did I decided to go to Salt Lake Community College (SLCC)?
Basically, no matter how much research I did on my own I was always lacking (even though I had over 4000 hours of experience). The problem was that I didn't know what I didn't know, so it was impossible for me to learn what I needed to become a professional.
Thanks to taking just six classes at SLCC, I now feel confident I'm ready for testing. The program at SLCC revealed my weak areas so I was able to work on them. It helped bridge the gap between where I was, and where I'm trying to go.
The following reasons are why I feel SLCC is the #1 choice for budding genealogists:
Basically, no matter how much research I did on my own I was always lacking (even though I had over 4000 hours of experience). The problem was that I didn't know what I didn't know, so it was impossible for me to learn what I needed to become a professional.
Thanks to taking just six classes at SLCC, I now feel confident I'm ready for testing. The program at SLCC revealed my weak areas so I was able to work on them. It helped bridge the gap between where I was, and where I'm trying to go.
The following reasons are why I feel SLCC is the #1 choice for budding genealogists:
- Class Flexibility: Currently, all genealogy classes are online. This is wonderful as anyone in any state can receive this education. Heck, as long as you have a laptop and an internet connection you could travel and learn at the same time! I was able to do my homework around my daily activities instead of the other way around. The only downside is that these classes are strenuous. Each class is three credit hours which should total nine hours of work each week. However, most students spend 18-20 hours a week for one three-credit-hour class. On the positive side, SLCC has credit hour and non-credit hours classes (and the non-credit classes are much cheaper, but may not qualify for the SLCC genealogical certificate).
- The Certificate Program and Affordability: Currently, SLCC has a certificate program for genealogists. Paying for a certificate is much more affordable than paying for a degree. As stated previously, a degree is not necessary for becoming a professional. Just know the SLCC certificate is NOT the same as becoming a Certified Genealogist from the BCG (one of the two organizations with the authority to deem an individual as a professional genealogist). Back to the point, the certificate program is six classes and 18 credit hours. I just earned my genealogical certificate from SLCC with no students debts.
- An Degree down the road: Although SLCC only has a certificate program, they may create an associates degree down the road (if it looks beneficial for students). In addition, credit hour classes may transfer to other schools. If so, get as many of the required classes at a cheaper price from SLCC then finish up at the school you desire.
- The Genealogy Department and Teachers: Most of the genealogy department and teachers at SLCC are professional genealogists from ICAPGen and/or the BCG. Many have been on the testing boards for these organizations, so they know what they are talking about and what to teach. I feel comfortable knowing that the curriculum from SLCC will help me get where I want to go. Another cool fact is that many of these teachers also teach at BYU. In other words, I'm getting a high class education for a budget price! Try to beat that!
For more information about the Genealogy Program at SLCC, please click here.
If you have more questions, feel free to contact the Genealogy Department at SLCC. They have always been great at answering my questions. You can contact Maria Griffin at phone# (801) 957-5423 or through email from the SLCC webpage (click here).
(NOTE: a similar post can be found in the "About" section of my website.)