The True Cost of Genealogy Education – Trade School vs. Traditional University

Introduction You’re passionate about genealogy and ready to turn that passion into a profession. But when it comes to education, you’re facing a crucial decision: Should you pursue a traditional four-year degree at a college or university, or choose specialized training at a genealogy trade school? The answer might surprise you—especially when you look at the numbers.

The Traditional University Path: What You’re Really Paying For

A traditional four-year university degree typically costs between $40,000 to $200,000+ depending on whether you attend a public or private institution. According to recent data, the average cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is approximately $100,000 when you factor in tuition, fees, room, board, and books over four years.

But here’s the challenge: most universities don’t offer genealogy as a major. That means you’d likely pursue a history, library science, or related degree—spending four years and significant money on general education requirements and courses that, while valuable, don’t directly prepare you for a genealogy career.

What that $100,000 includes:

• General education requirements (math, science, humanities)
• Major coursework (some relevant, much not)
• Campus facilities and amenities you may never use
• Administrative overhead
• Room and board (if living on campus)
• 4+ years before entering the workforce

The Trade School Alternative: Focused, Affordable, Career-Ready

The International Institute of Genealogical Studies takes a different approach. As a registered trade school, we focus exclusively on what you need to succeed as a professional genealogist—nothing more, nothing less.

IIGS Program Costs: Our comprehensive professional certification programs typically range from about $1800 – $5,000 USD depending on the credential path you choose. Individual courses start as low as $119 USD, and the full certificate/credential programs provide everything you need to launch your genealogy career.

Let’s break down what that means:

• $95,000+ in savings compared to a traditional four-year degree
• 100% relevant coursework – every class directly applies to your genealogy career
• Faster completion time – earn credentials in months, not years
• No student debt – affordable tuition that doesn’t require massive loans
• Start earning sooner – begin your professional practice while still studying

What You Get for Your Investment at IIGS

When you invest in genealogy trade school education, every dollar goes toward your professional development:

Professional Credentials in 14 Fields, with more programs pending

• Traditional genealogical research
• DNA and genetic genealogy
• Personal historian certification
• Genealogical librarianship
• Geographic and regional specializations
• Professional Development to enhance your career or start your own business
• And more specialized concentrations

Practical, Career-Focused Training

• Research methodologies used by working professionals
• Access to expert instructors who are active in the field and do continuing education themselves
• Business development and client management skills
• Ethics and professional standards
• Hands-on projects with real-world applications

Flexibility That Saves You Money

• Study from home (no relocation costs)
• Keep your current job while learning
• No campus fees or facility charges
• Learn at your own pace
• Generous grace period to help you succeed, you can:
  • Request extensions, not lose work and money, up to 14 days AFTER a course closes
  • Request to move a course, up to 14 days AFTER a course closes, not lose it all

The Return on Investment

Let’s talk about earning potential. Professional genealogists can charge $35-$150+ per hour depending on their specialization and experience. If you complete an IIGS certification program for $5,000 and begin taking clients, you could recoup your entire educational investment within your first few months of professional work.

Compare that to a traditional degree where you’re:

• $100,000 in debt before you start earning
• Spending 4+ years out of the workforce
• Illness or emergency causes lost course, time, and work/start all over again
• Paying interest on student loans for decades
• Still needing additional specialized genealogy training

But What About Accreditation and Recognition?

This is a common question, and it’s an important one. While traditional universities offer regionally accredited degrees, professional genealogy doesn’t require a bachelor’s degree for most career paths. What matters in this field is:

• Professional certifications from recognized genealogy organizations
• Demonstrated competency through portfolio and client work
• Specialized credentials that show expertise in specific areas such as a PLCGS (Professional Learning Certificate Genealogical Studies) post nominal
• Continuing education that keeps your skills current

IIGS certificates and credentials are recognized throughout the genealogical community. If you so choose, we also prepare you for professional certification exams offered by organizations like the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG), ICAPGEN, and other credentialing bodies. There are quite a few options, though that is a personal choice. We’re happy to offer student advising for your education and other optional career choices. Then you decide what best fits your situation and goals.

Making the Smart Choice for Your Future

Choosing between a traditional university and a genealogy trade school isn’t about one being “better” than the other—it’s about what makes sense for your goals, your timeline, your life, and your budget.

Choose traditional university if:

• You want a broad liberal arts education
• You’re 18-22 and seeking the full college experience
• You have scholarships or funding that make it affordable
• You’re interested in academic research or teaching at the university level

Choose genealogy trade school if:

• You want to become a professional genealogist efficiently
• You’re a career-changer or adult learner
• You want to minimize educational debt (or have none!)
• You value focused, practical training over general education
• You want to start your career quickly

Your Education, Your Investment, Your Terms

At the International Institute of Genealogical Studies, we believe that professional education should be accessible, affordable, and focused on your success. We’ve eliminated the unnecessary costs of traditional higher education while maintaining the highest standards of genealogical training.

You don’t need to go $100,000 into debt to pursue your passion for genealogy. You need expert instruction, recognized credentials, and practical skills—and that’s exactly what a genealogy trade school delivers.

Ready to make a smart investment in your future? Visit genealogicalstudies.com to explore our affordable program options and see how you can become a professional genealogist without the burden of massive student debt. Still have questions about your personal journey? Book a student advising appointment with Angie by using the chat app at GenealogicalStudies.com or calling 800.580.0165 x1

International Institute of Genealogical Studies

Research With Confidence ~ Study at Your Own Pace

International Institute of Genealogical Studies trains professional genealogists around the world in genealogical sciences, research records, and professional development skills. As a career trade school, we offer Professional Credentials in 14 genealogical fields of study for career-minded genealogists and classes for family historians wanting to preserve genealogy, history, and knowledge for families and friends. Continuing education for librarians, law enforcement, professionals, and writers to enhance your career and capabilities. Come learn with us in a flexible, affordable, professional online education environment. https://GenealogicalStudies.com

For Registration Information contact Angie at 800-580-0165 ext. 1 in the US and Canada or drop a note in the chat app on our website https://GenealogicalStudies.com

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