University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme combines taught modules and an independent research project to develop practical and theoretical skills across genealogy, palaeography and heraldry. You will learn to locate, assess and interpret primary sources; to read and transcribe old handwriting; and to apply heraldic principles to armorial evidence.

• Core taught topics: genealogical methodology and source criticism; palaeography and manuscript studies (covering scripts commonly used in British and European records); heraldic theory, practice and armorial record keeping.
• Practical skills and methods: hands‑on workshops in reading original documents, palaeographic transcription, register and probate research, land and court records, and witness practice in compiling genealogical reports.
• Digital and applied approaches: training in online record discovery, digital archives, databases used in family history, and methods for publishing and presenting genealogical findings.
• Regional and specialised sources: study of Scottish and British record sources, parish registers, notarial and legal records, estate papers and heraldic visitation sources; optional modules may include comparative European sources or forensic genealogy techniques.
• Independent research: a substantial dissertation or project that allows you to apply palaeographic and heraldic analysis to an original genealogical question or archival collection.

The programme is offered with flexible delivery to accommodate full‑time and part‑time study; teaching combines seminars, workshops, supervised practical classes with manuscript material, and one‑to‑one dissertation supervision.

Entry requirements

• A good honours degree (normally a second‑class upper or equivalent) in history, archives and records management, heritage, law or another related discipline. Applicants with a lower classification but relevant professional experience or demonstrated ability in genealogical work may be considered.
• Evidence of prior coursework or experience with historical sources is desirable; applicants who lack formal background in palaeography may be required to complete bridging work or preparatory modules.
• International applicants must meet the University’s English language requirements; acceptable qualifications include recognised tests or equivalent evidence of prior study in English.
• Applicants will normally be asked to submit a personal statement outlining research interests and relevant experience, and academic references. Those proposing archival or heraldic research should indicate access to source material where appropriate.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for a wide range of roles in the heritage, records and information sectors, and for independent practice. Typical career paths include:

• Archivist or records manager in national, regional or private archives and libraries, working with manuscript collections and parish records.
• Professional genealogist or family history researcher, working for commercial genealogy firms, family history societies, or as a freelancer.
• Heraldic researcher or adviser in civic and private contexts, supporting armorial queries, genealogical evidence for coats of arms, and probate or succession investigations.
• Curatorial or collections roles in museums and local history centres, preparing exhibitions and managing primary source material.
• Roles in legal firms and probate services that require documentary‑evidence expertise, or positions in forensic genealogy and identity research.
• Progression to doctoral research or academic careers in history, palaeography and related fields.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde offers practical, research‑informed teaching set in Glasgow, a city with strong archival resources and close connections to major collections and record offices. The University places emphasis on vocationally relevant skills — you will gain hands‑on experience with original documents, training in modern digital discovery tools, and supervision from staff experienced in archival research and applied history.

Students benefit from Strathclyde’s interdisciplinary environment, where history, information studies and heritage practice intersect, and from proximity to major Scottish repositories and local family history networks that support placements, project work and volunteer experience. The programme’s balance of practical workshops and a substantive dissertation prepares graduates to work confidently with manuscript material and to contribute original scholarship or professional services in genealogy, palaeography and heraldry.