Certificate in Genealogical Research

Developed in collaboration with nationally recognized experts, the Certificate in Genealogical Research is ideal for those who wish to develop the knowledge and skills essential to conducting quality genealogical assignments. The Center for Professional Education offers both classroom-based and online multi-week Genealogical Research Certificate Programs. The classroom program, offered on Saturdays at our Boston campus location, provides hands-on training in basic genealogical principles, techniques, and core competencies. The online program offers students both flexibility and easy access to Boston University's genealogical research curriculum over multiple weeks. Both programs are completed in only 14 weeks of study and lead to a Certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University upon successful completion.

Based on current genealogical technologies and methods—and reflecting exacting standards, including the Genealogical Proof Standard and investigative best practices—this program distinguishes Boston University as the premier provider of genealogical research instruction. The program also serves as excellent preparation for those who seek certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists.

Training is delivered by exceptional teaching staff via lecture, demonstrations, hands-on learning, workbook exercises, practice activities, and open discussions.

The program is ideal for:

• Adults who seek to develop their genealogical skill set for personal or professional development
• Professionals wishing to augment their job qualifications
• Those with backgrounds in librarianship, archival management, teaching, historical research, law, medicine, biology, or other related fields

Prerequisites

No prior genealogical experience will be assumed, but students are expected to possess basic computer skills, including the ability to use a web browser and word processor. Students should also be able to communicate well in spoken and written English.

Certificate in Genealogical Research (Classroom)

The Certificate in Genealogical Research classroom program consists of five modules, offered on Saturdays in seven-hour sessions.

1. Foundations of Genealogical Research (14 hours) Module 1 is an overview of general genealogical principles, goals, ethics, and end products. It covers the meaning of kinship, the role of genealogy in legal and historical research, and research principles needed for successful results. The module will introduce and establish the “Genealogical Proof Standard” as the basic framework for all research assignments to be covered in the BU program. As the foundation for the certificate program, it emphasizes three primary skill-building areas— problem-solving, research design, and report writing—and previews the higher-level modules.

2. Problem-Solving Techniques and Technology (21 hours) This module utilizes multiple examples to impart the skills necessary to design and follow the most direct path to a supportable conclusion. The use of technological tools, particularly the Internet, is placed in perspective and explored. Students create and execute a research plan, with particular attention to organizing, documenting, and presenting the findings in a report for a client.

3. Evidence Evaluation and Citation (21 hours) Module 3 presents the key elements necessary for determining the credibility and authenticity of evidence, while preparing students to recognize unreliable evidence and its origin. Once the evidence is evaluated, students learn complete citation formats and construction principles.

4. Forensic Genealogical Research (21 hours) Generally the most lucrative of the genealogical specialties, forensic research is done for the legal community, often at the direction of an attorney. Practical examples, famous cases, and in-class problem-solving will define the parameters of ethical forensic work. Techniques for opening cases, uncovering assets, collaborating with attorneys, and interviewing informants will be presented.

5. Genealogical Research Ethnic and Geographic Specialties (21 hours) Specific areas, timeframes, and cultural or ethnic origins may define the most effective research strategies. Overviews of approximately five different geographic locations or ethnicities (including Irish and Jewish) will be presented. Students will learn how to tailor research to unique problems.

Summer Intensive Format

This program is also offered in an intensive format during the summer only.  The summer program is a challenging course of study with engaging problem-solving units. Some prior genealogical experience is required. You are a good candidate for this intensive program if you have done at least three of the following:

• Researched a family genealogy
• Attended genealogical conferences or meetings
• Read a major genealogical journal for several years
• Visited record repositories and conducted various searches
• Queried various databases and critiqued their content

Quick Self-Test: Find out if this is the right format for you. Take the Quick Self-Test - answer four or more of these questions correctly and you'll be sure that your skill level is appropriate for the intensive Certificate in Genealogical Research program. (answers are linked at bottom of test page)

Download a brochure.
Download the required textbooks for the Online Genealogy Program.

Program Director
Melinde Lutz Sanborn, FASG
A fellow and vice president of the American Society of Genealogists, Ms. Sanborn is one of only fifty living genealogists elected to the Society based on the quality and quantity of their published work. A cultural anthropologist and archivist, she is also vice president of the Massachusetts Genealogical Council, CEO of the Graceful Companies, and a Donald Lines Jacobus Award Winner. National lecturer and noted author of numerous books, including volumes I and II of The Great Migration: Immigrants to New England, 1634-1635, Sanborn is editor of the New Hampshire Genealogical Record and co-editor of the National Genealogical Society Quarterly.

Learn more about all our instructors.

Our instructors in the news:

Melinde Sanborn

• "Tree climbing is her specialty"
  (Manchester Union Leader March 28, 2009)
• Interview at FGS
  (Roots Television September 2008)

Sharon Sergeant

• "Untrue Stories"
  (Bostonia Summer 2009)
• "Hoax Buster"
  (BU Today February 19, 2009)

Please contact us for more information or to pre-register.

NEHGS Members receive a 10% discount on tuition for the Certificate in Genealogical Research. Learn more about the country's leading research center for genealogists and family historians.

NGS Members receive a 10% discount on tuition for the Certificate in Genealogical Research. Learn more about the NGS American Genealogy Home Study course.