Where and How To Study Genealogy
If you want to become a genealogist, you should consider what specialty to take up in this vast area that you want to focus on.
You can go into Genetic Studies which researches DNA structure and analysis. Or you could go into Historical Studies wherein you study the history of families through their genealogy.
After deciding on this, you should also venture into acquiring formal education through a bachelor’s degree or through seminars and workshops which issue certification concerning the genealogy topic taken up.
You should also develop business skills because there’s a good chance you will be a self-employed genealogist who has to transact with all kinds of clients.
Practice also your writing skills. This is because when you release your genealogical findings, this will require extensive explanation in written form about your discoveries in the family line of the client who hired you.
Also, join the Association of Professional Genealogists so that you can network and find learning and marketplace opportunities.
You’re now all set to get a formal genealogy education. There are several institutions around the world that offers genealogy courses and degrees which prepare you for a challenging career ahead in this promising field of endeavor.
Read on and determine what institution best fits your personal circumstances when it comes to your location and required time to get your formal education:
Brigham Young University
Located in Provo, Utah USA 84602
Telephone no. 801-422-4636
So far, Brigham Young University is the only educational institution offering a Bachelor’s Degree in Family History in the whole world.
Genealogy has not been officially recognized yet as an independent field of academic study.
Brigham Young also offers a variety of free introductory Web courses and is considered a leader in satellite television broadcasting.
National Institute For Genealogical Studies
Located in 92 Ashbury Boulevard, Ajax, Ontario, Canada L 17 1N1
Telephone no. 416-861-0165 and 1-800-580-0165
If you don’t want to go through the hassles of traveling every day to go to your classes, this institute in Canada is perfect for you.
The National Institute has been the leader in online genealogy education, has been offering both history and genealogy courses online since 1997.
There are over 200 courses in genealogical study to browse through. They have well over 100,000 enrollees from around the world.
Genealogical Institute On Federal Records
Located in Baltimore, Maryland USA 21214
P.O. Box 24564
Email [email protected]
It is also known as Gen-Fed and has been a leader in genealogical education for 5 decades.
It was formerly known as the National Institute on Genealogical Research. It offers an in-depth study of official US federal records which have genealogical value.
They have as basis the National Archives because Gen-Fed is located in Washington DC. Their academic program is stressed by experienced researchers and is not an introductory level program.
Mid-West African American Genealogical Institute (Maagi)
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Email [email protected]
It is the only institution with a focus on African-American genealogy.
It offers 48 classes over 3 days with evening lectures. The instructors are nationally recognized experts who will execute personalized guidance to students.
Genealogical Research Institute Of Pittsburgh (Grip)
Located in Wexford, PA 15090
Email info@gripitt
Genealogists or students of Genealogy alike will find week-long courses ranging from novice to advanced to professional.
GRIP typically holds classes at La Roche College in Pittsburgh PA every last week of June and the 3rd or 4th week of July every year.
Institute Of Genealogy And Historical Research (Ighr)
Located in Atlanta, Georgia 30355-2747
P.O. Box 550247
Telephone no. 678-439-7503
Email [email protected]
It is one of America’s oldest week-long institutes which features known genealogical instructors. They conduct classes at the University of Georgia campus.
The IGHR is a popular summer destination for both family historians and genealogists of all levels. But they place an emphasis on both intermediate and advanced education. The quality of their methodology is without equal.
Boston University
Telephone no. 617-502-8822
Email [email protected]
They have an online program working with well-known Boston University faculty. They include certified genealogists and official members of the American Society of Genealogists.
British Institute (Bi)
INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR BRITISH GENEALOGY AND FAMILY HISTORY (ISBGFH)
Located in Centennial, CO 80161
P.O. Box 3345
Email [email protected]
BI sets out to provide further education about British Isles genealogy. Classes are intentionally small so that the participants can be able to experience individualized instruction.