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University of Strathclyde

Genetic Genealogy: Researching your Family Tree using DNA

University of Strathclyde via FutureLearn

Overview

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Understand the science behind DNA test findings in family history research

If you’re interested in researching your family history and genealogy, this six-week course from the University of Strathclyde is for you. Complementing the University’s course, Genealogy: researching your family tree, it explains genetics and DNA test results in simple terms, so you can really understand your ancestry.

Gain insight into the science behind family tree research

The course begins with an introduction to DNA testing, giving you the know-how to decide which DNA test suits your needs and formulate a testing strategy.

You’ll also learn the all-important tasks of identifying the important genetic matches in your DNA test results and identifying and researching dead ends so you can find the family history that is actually relevant for you.

Enjoy the unique benefits offered by this family tree course

No other online course offers guidance not only on researching your family history but also in understanding the science behind your DNA test findings. With this training, you’ll be able to make the most of your results and find the most meaning in your genealogy.

Delve into your DNA test results with the world-renowned University of Strathclyde

The University of Strathclyde is a leader in genealogical education and research. Besides working on several scientific advances in the field, it is the only institution offering genealogical courses at every level from undergraduate to Doctorate.

With its run of successful online courses in recent years, it offers all the support and resources you need to research your family tree.

This course is designed for anyone interested in DNA test procedures and family tree research. This includes professionals who need to understand the results for work as well as individuals who want to understand the science while looking into their genealogies.

Syllabus

  • Beginning the journey
    • Welcome to the course
    • Welcome to Week 1
    • Traditional Family Research
    • Considerations for DNA testing
    • What is DNA?
    • End of week tasks
  • Developing a testing strategy
    • Welcome to week 2
    • A strategy for Mary
    • DNA
    • Testing strategies
    • Taking a test
    • Inheritance
    • End of week tasks
  • Which matches are important?
    • Welcome to week 3
    • Receiving results
    • Investigating matches
    • Known relatives
    • Reviewing results
    • Mitochondrial DNA
    • End of week tasks
  • Painting chromosomes
    • Welcome to week 4
    • Corresponding with matches
    • Managing matches
    • Analysis and tools
    • End of week tasks
  • Researching dead ends
    • Welcome to week 5
    • Exploring Y-DNA
    • Admixture (ethnicity) and endogamy
    • Haplogroups
    • End of week tasks
  • Maximising testing
    • Welcome to week 6
    • Advanced Y-DNA testing
    • More research options
    • Summary of the course
    • Conclusions
    • Further learning

Taught by

Veronique Lemieux

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