Program Overview

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Program Overview

The MSc/PgDip/PgCert Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies is a postgraduate program offered by the University of Strathclyde. This program is designed for individuals with an interest in genealogy and related subjects, providing a thorough grounding in the theory and practice of genealogical research, family history, records, archives, and heraldry.

Key Facts

• Start date: January, March, April, September, and October
• Application deadline: One month prior to the course start date
• Study mode and duration: Full-time and part-time distance learning

Course Structure

The program is offered at three levels:

• Postgraduate Certificate (PgCert)
• Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip)
• Master of Science (MSc)

Course Content

The program covers a range of topics, including:

• Genealogical professional practice
• Search strategies and using repositories
• Social history, demography, and geographic sources
• Church and civil records (England/Wales and Scotland)
• Census records and their substitutes (England/Wales and Scotland)
• Genetic genealogy
• Migration and records
• Irish records
• Military and occupational records (England/Wales and Scotland)
• Land and inheritance records (England/Wales and Scotland)
• Palaeography
• Latin for genealogists
• Heraldry

Teaching and Learning

The course is taught entirely online using the University's Virtual Learning Environment. The teaching methods include:

• Online discussion forums
• Written and audio lectures
• Multimedia presentations
• Real-time audio chat sessions

Assessment

There are no formal exams for any of the courses. Individual results are based on continuous assessment with tutor support and feedback.

Entry Requirements

• Normally, a degree or similar evidence of study skills is required for the PgCert/Part-time MSc Year 1.
• Non-standard educational or professional qualifications will also be considered.
• Some experience in genealogical (or other relevant) research is also required.

Fees and Funding

• The fees for the program vary depending on the mode of study and the student's fee status.
• Additional costs include online subscriptions and course materials.

Careers

The program can lead to a range of career opportunities, including:

• Intelligence Officer
• Professional Genealogist
• Researcher
• Tutor
• University Academic

Research Areas

The program covers a range of research areas, including:

• Genealogical research
• Family history
• Records and archives
• Heraldry
• Palaeography

Professional Recognition

The program is recognized by professional organizations, including:

• The Association of Scottish Genealogists and Researchers in Archives (ASGRA)
• The Association of Genealogists and Researchers in Archives in England and Wales (AGRA)
• The Register of Qualified Genealogists (RQG)