Demystifying DNA for Family Historians (250)

Genetic genealogy is becoming an increasingly popular addition to "traditional" family history research and has the potential to solve mysteries and brick walls, where other records do not survive. The more the popularity of DNA testing rises and the number tested increases, the greater the chance of success. However, with so many tests available and so many companies to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start.

This introduction to DNA testing starts at the beginning, providing you with the tools to understand and demystify genetic genealogy for use in your own research. You will be guided through what to consider before testing, the different types of DNA, who can test and which test is the most appropriate in different circumstances. You will learn about how DNA is passed down the generations and why this is important and how much you really can rely on 'ethnicity estimates'.

You will work with examples of real data and have the opportunity to work through techniques with your own results (if you have tested already). At the end of the course you will have a toolbox of techniques to interpret your DNA matches with increased confidence.

The course is suitable both for absolute beginners and those who have taken a test and are beginning to decipher their results.

Reading List:

Students often ask us for recommended reading for their courses, that they can look at before the course starts. Here is a suggested book list for this course.