As we can see from this series, there is a plethora of educational opportunities. Some are free, some that will cost money. Today we will discuss the opportunities that take a longer, more serious commitment : Colleges and Universities.
This list is by no means exclusive, but it represents the better known programs. Let me know if you have seen any not mentioned.
International Institute for Genealogical Studies
This was formerly known as the National Institute for Genealogical Studies. It was based out of Toronto, and haad a partnership with Toronto's St Michael's College. It was founded in 1999 by Louise St Denis, and was the first to offer comprehensive genealogical courses online.
The program offered country-specific Records certificates. This assisted students to build a strong foundation for their country of interest. In the 2000's the program offered a credential called the Professional Learning Certificate in Genealogical Studies. or PLCGS for short. This post-nominal was bestowed upon graduates to show their academic credentials.
In 2022 Louise retired, and Angela Breidenbach took over. She rebranded the name to International Institute for Genealogical Studies, and then went on to restructure the Institute to a vocational trade school. She and the team has worked hard to upgrade the outdated (1990s) web platform, course content, and bring in new technologies like AI and DNA analysis.
Lets take a look at how it works:
The courses are self paced, so you can work at your own pace. Most courses have 6 modules, and a test at the end. Students can take individual courses, for around $125 a course. Some may have a higher cost, while others may be a bit lower. This allows students to "kick the tires" and see how the courses operate, see the platform, and determine if they want to continue.
To get the post-nominals, you have to complete a 40 course Records program, and just like college, you have required courses, and then you get to select electives. There are numerous country Record programs, Choices of programs are American, Australia, Canada, Eastern European, English, German, Irish, Italian, and Scottish Records.
Take a look at their website, and see what they have to offer, and if you sign up for a course, let Angela know "Linda" sent you.
Strathclyde University in Scotland
Offers two types of programs. The first is Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies and offers three (3) levels.
- The PgCert qualification
- The PgDip, you must complete the PgCert qualification and the three Diploma classes
- The MSc qualification, you must complete the first two stages and the final class
This link will give more information on pricing. They offer several options when it comes to paying, but it runs around £12,000 (not US dollars) for the MSc program. But that price does not include required books, or subscriptions - Worldwide Ancestry and Scotland's people in which is paid by buying credits.
Strathclyde offers a free genealogy class as well as other classes, called MOOCs (massive open online courses). They can be found on Futurelearn.
The next level is the PhD Program called History with Genealogical Studies. This program will take between 36 and 72 months to complete. The cost for this program is £19,850 for international students, including the US.
These are very intensive programs and not a decision to be made lightly. However the knowledge gained will definitely benefit any genealogist with their education.
Brigham Young University (BYU)
Students are not required to be a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but they are required to agree to abide by strict guidelines that aline with the Church.
Offers a minor in Family History - Genealogy
Offers a BA in Family History - Genealogy
Tuition is dependent on a lot of factors, so it is best to reach out to one of their financial advisors.
BYU - Pathways
Pathways offers certificates (14-15 credit hours), an associate degree (60 credit hours), and a bachelor's degree (90-96 credit hours). Tuition runs between $86-$108 per credit hour. There are some discounts available to help with tuition.
