Forensic Genealogy

Optional Print Course Material: Forensic Genealogy

*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.

NOTE: There is a lot of interest in DNA and Forensic topics. Please read carefully before registering to take this course. 

Please be aware this course is classified as Basic Level in the Professional Development Certificate Program. It has been developed for individuals who have experience in genealogy research and are at, or working in, the Intermediate to Advanced Levels in our other certificate programs. It is advised that you have genealogy research knowledge and experience, in addition to completing the Analysis and Skills Mentoring Program-Part 1 course or have a working knowledge of the topics taught in that course prior to registering for this one. 

The field of forensic genealogy is a fast-growing field dealing with genealogical research that might have legal implications such as heir searching or determining mineral rights. Families drift apart for many reasons: divorce, disagreement, migrations, remarriage, or others. Today’s genealogists and family historians have many reasons for reestablishing connections with lost relatives. This course is designed to help forensic researchers identify and contact living people. It will also take students through genealogical sources and documents, but with a focus on identifying living people, as well as some practical examples. Students will also learn about specific career subsets in forensic work. Forensic genealogy and the work necessary to identify and contact living people can be a rewarding field. This course will teach students some of the basic skills necessary to get started. 

NOTE: This course has more of a U.S. focus; however, the skills being taught can be applied to those researching in other countries. 

Course Length: 7 weeks