Genealogical Studies Postgraduate Programme

The programme is aimed at existing or intending professional genealogists and those who wish to be recognised as such, or those who wish to study the area in detail and possibly use it in their careers.

It will also be particularly appropriate for the following professionals:

• Archivists
• Museum staff
• Land Agents
• Lawyers and Paralegals
• Librarians
• Records Agents
• Historians
• Geographers
• Heritage sector staff

and for those who are interested in:

• developing, evaluating or refreshing their expertise in genealogy, records, archives, documents, palaeography and heraldry
• advancing their academic and professional achievement in these subjects
• gaining a deeper, more critical understanding of the field, its literature and professional practice
• providing more expert knowledge and advisory capacity to employers and members of the public, such as in Family History Centres.

PG Cert: Normally a degree or similar evidence of study skills is required. However, non-standard educational or professional qualifications will be considered. Some relevant genealogical or related experience is necessary.

The Centre for Lifelong Learning also offers an Open Studies Certificate in Genealogical Studies, available online and on-campus, which is intended to provide the basic skills and knowledge required to facilitate progression to the Postgraduate Certificate.

PG Dip: Entry requires successful completion of PG Cert course,  or equivalent.

MSc: Entry requires successful completion of Pg Dip course at a standard deemed appropriate for progression to MSc level.

The course requires computer access at home and familiarity with the use of computers in genealogy. Students will need to subscribe to or pay for certain online databases and services.

Postgraduate Certificate

The Postgraduate Certificate consists of six modules, running from October to July. Students explore a wide range of record sources (mostly UK), develop expertise in searching, recording and presenting research, with additional units on Latin, palaeography and heraldry. Students complete substantial study and work on their own, guided by the Course Tutors.

Postgraduate Diploma

This advanced course extends the range of record sources, develops understanding of the social and historical contexts, and provides in depth study of the professional aspects of genealogy and archives work. The Diploma consists of three modules: 1. Genealogy, history and social history, 2. Documents and palaeography, 3. Methods of Professional Enquiry.

Masters Degree (MSc)

Students undertake focused research on a topic of their choice from October, with the dissertation (12,000-16,000 words) submitted the following June/July. There is tutor guidance on academic writing, study and research skills.

Course Delivery

All delivery is online, using the University's Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), MyPlace. Learning is individually focused, with tutor support and feedback. Online discussion forums and interactive online materials are also used throughout the course.

There is no attendance requirement. However, there may be optional opportunities to visit Scottish and English Archives. 

Apply using the links below for the relevant course and entry year.  (Applications should be only be made for the Postgraduate Certificate, not the Postgraduate Diploma, unless you are already a holder of the Postgraduate Certificate.)

Applications will be accepted until early August. Early application is advised as numbers are limited on these courses. (Applications may be considered beyond August if there are still places available.)