Morag is a graduate from both the BA in Spanish and Marketing and MSc Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies programme at the University of Strathclyde

Why did you choose to study at the University of Strathclyde?

I had good memories of Strathclyde from my undergraduate years in the 1990s, when I studied for a BA (Hons) in Spanish and Marketing at Strathclyde. Also, as a Glasgow local, I was aware of the strong reputation the university has not only in the local community, but further afield too. When I made the decision to return to study in a different field from my undergraduate degree, the flexibility of the Genealogical Studies MSc course at Strathclyde appealed to me. There are very few institutions offering Masters level qualifications in this field of study, and none with such a strong emphasis on Scottish research.

What did you enjoy most about your course?

It was a bit of a shock to the system going back into academic studies, especially starting during a global pandemic. However, once I’d got over the imposter syndrome, I very much enjoyed the breadth of topics we were introduced to over the three years of part-time study; everything from researching emigrants to Australia to analysing DNA results. I particularly enjoyed exploring immigrants to and emigrants from Scotland, and this topic formed the basis of my Masters’ dissertation, which was an analysis of Scottish passport records. I also enjoyed meeting – albeit virtually initially – likeminded people also enrolled on the course, many of whom have become great friends.

What advice would you give to a prospective student coming to study your course?

Go for it. It can be daunting returning to studies after many years of employment or doing other things, but the staff at Strathclyde are all very supportive. Develop a support network with your fellow students, whether it’s a WhatsApp group or monthly Zoom calls. Be open to exploring all sorts of genealogical topics which you may not have encountered in the past.

What specialist knowledge or professional skills have you developed studying your course?

The Genealogical Studies MSc course really hones your professional skills in reading, analysing and using records in your genealogy research. Topics such as DNA testing were new to me before embarking on the course, as was palaeography and making sense of 500 year old handwriting. My skills in planning, being methodical and researching effectively are greatly improved after completing the course.

Where are you working now?

Since graduating in 2023, I have been working as a self employed professional genealogist at Glasgow Genealogy. No two days are the same. I carry out research both online and in archives for clients from all parts of the world, meet up with overseas visitors to show them around the places their ancestors lived and worked and teach beginners’ family history classes in partnership with my local council. In 2026 I was asked to speak at Rootstech in Salt Lake City, Utah, which is the world’s biggest family history conference. I also filmed an episode of the BBC show “Who Do You Think You Are” with Zoe Ball, and worked on board cruise ships delivering lectures on family history and Scottish culture and traditions.

How did the course help to enhance your current career and prepare you for this role?

The MSc in Genealogical Studies is a gold-standard qualification in the genealogy world. Having the Masters gives clients the confidence to know you have the skills to do a great job for them. Completing the course has opened so many doors to me, both professionally and personally.

Any final points, or words of wisdom?

I am a strong believer that every day is a school day. Getting back into formal education has been one of the best decisions I made.