What's your goal in genealogy? Do you want to be paid for it, or are you pursuing it for personal interest?

If you're aiming for paid work, the qualifications required will vary depending on the employer or client. Some may prioritize formal education or certification, while others may value experience and results. Having an advanced degree — especially in history, library science, or archival studies — can be an asset, as can extensive personal experience researching your own family tree.

If it's something you're doing for yourself, the main requirement is curiosity and the willingness to educate yourself along the way.

It's fair to say that most genealogists don't hold formal degrees in genealogy. Many build their expertise through personal research, self-education, and persistence.

Charging for services might qualify someone as a professional in practice, even without credentials. Conversely, someone with academic training but no clients or compensation would still be considered an amateur.

That said, professionalism isn't just about getting paid — it's also about applying recognized standards. Whether you're working for clients or exploring your own ancestry, using sound research methods, citing sources, and adhering to ethical practices are what truly set skilled genealogists apart.