PGCert Genealogical, Palaeographic & Heraldic Studies at University of Strathclyde

A distance-learning postgraduate programme from the Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies on the theory and practice of genealogical research, records, archives, palaeography and heraldry. It prepares students to work as professional genealogists and is delivered online.

Faculty: Faculty of Humanities & Social Sciences  |  Department: Strathclyde Institute for Genealogical Studies (Centre for Lifelong Learning)  |  Duration: Part-time distance learning; full-time MSc runs over 18 months; one year (October to June) or two-year modular option  |  Intake: October 2026, January, September and October 2027, March and April 2028 (varies by level)  |  Study mode: full-time  |  Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 (PgCert, 60 credits) covers Scottish, English/Welsh and Irish records, genealogical professional practice, search strategies, church, civil, census, military and land records, genetic genealogy, migration, palaeography, Latin for genealogists and heraldry. Year 2 (PgDip, further 60 credits) adds American, Canadian, Australian, New Zealand, British Empire, Jewish and European sources. The MSc adds a 60-credit dissertation (12,000 to 16,000 words).

Career pathways

Intelligence officer, professional genealogist and researcher roles, and use in archives, law, heritage, library and museum work.

Official programme page