Enrollment options
NOTE: There is a lot of interest in DNA and
Forensic topics. Please read carefully before registering to take
one of these courses. The DNA and Forensic courses offered by the
International Institute of Genealogical Studies provide
instruction on DNA methods as used in genealogical research. We
recommend that students without the basic knowledge of genealogy
methods and genealogical research should register in
the Methodology - Part 1: Getting
Started and Methodology Part 2 - Organizing and
Skill-Building courses prior to registering for this
course.
Optional Print Course Material: DNA: Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This course is a
comprehensive introduction to genetic genealogy. The basics of
DNA and genetic inheritance are explained in detail. The three
main test types, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), Y chromosome DNA
(YDNA), and autosomal DNA (atDNA) are explored as they relate to
genealogy. The study includes an overview of laboratory
procedures for each kind of test, data interpretation techniques,
database searching, match interpretation, and case studies for
the three kinds of DNA testing. This course includes
comparisons of tools and companies, as well as the genetic
stories of famous people.
Course Content
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
History of
Genetics
- Gregor Mendel
- DNA vs. Protein
- Cell Biology
- Chromosomes
Module 1 Course Assignments
MODULE 2
MITOCHONDRIAL DNA
Overview of Mitochondrial DNA
mtDNA Case Study
mtDNA Haplogroups
Module 2 Course Assignments
MODULE 3
Y CHROMOSOME DNA
Overview of Y Chromosome DNA
Y Chromosome DNA Case Study
YDNA Haplogroups
- Identifying Mutations
MODULE 4
AUTOSOMAL DNA
Introduction to Autosomal DNA
- CODIS Markers
- Biogeographical Analysis
Module 4 Course Assignments
MODULE 5
LABORATORY METHODS
The Early Days
Sample Collection
- DNA Extraction
- DNA Amplification
- DNA Analysis
MODULE 6
TESTING COMPANIES
Choosing a Testing Company
- Choosing a YDNA STR Test
- Choosing a YDNA SNP Test
- Choosing a mtDNA Test
- Choosing an Autosomal DNA Test
Module 6 Course Assignments