Genealogy Studies Program
Click here to register for classes in the Online Genealogy Studies Program
When genealogical research is used to authenticate an identity, solve a medical mystery, trace property ownership, find lost friends and family, or write accurate historical discourses, the results must be irrefutable.
The Genealogical Programs offered by Boston University’s Center for Professional Education introduce current genealogical technologies and research methods that reflect the exacting standards and investigative best practices used by professionals. Developed in collaboration with—and taught by—some of the premier genealogists in the country, the courses employ lectures, demonstrations, hands-on learning, workbook exercises, practice activities, and open discussions to help students identify and evaluate evidence, design research strategies, and write quality reports.
Genealogy Studies Program
The Genealogical Principles course is ideal for serious beginners and hobbyists and enthusiasts who are seeking to hone their research skills. This course also serves as excellent preparation for the Genealogical Research Certificate Program. In this course students:
- Improve genealogical research skills
- Gain a solid understanding of genealogical concepts and terms
- Master the Genealogical Proof Standard
- Locate and search public records to resolve identity problems
- Introduction to DNA and ethnicity
The Genealogical Research course leads to a certificate from Boston University, and is excellent preparation for those who seek certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists®.
Genealogical Research course covers the following topics:
- Problem-Solving Techniques and Technology
- Evidence Evaluation and Documentation
- Forensic Genealogical Research
- Professional Genealogy
Prior genealogical experience is strongly recommended. It will be assumed that students have spent significant amounts of time searching for multiple generations of a family through record repositories and online sources, then documenting their results. Throughout their course of study, students will be expected to research many genealogical problems and write reports. In addition, candidates should have attended national genealogical conferences or local meetings and queried various genealogical databases and critiqued their content.
Students must be able to complete the following tasks and communicate their findings clearly in English: access many websites, work within multiple windows, effectively use web browsers, edit documents, read tracked changes in a document, and upload and download forms, photographs, deeds, PDFs, and census data.
Additionally, we recommend that students take a year between the Principles and Reseach classes to put what they've learned to practice.
Please refer to the FAQ section for more information on requirements.
To Learn More or Register
To inquire about Boston University’s Online Genealogy Studies Program, including upcoming course schedules and registration, please contact our education partners at MindMax, Inc. by calling 617-502-8822 or visit BU Online Genealogy Studies Program.