Unlock the full potential of your DNA test results and turn genetic information into family history breakthroughs! Whether you’ve just received your results or are planning to test, this hands-on course will empower you to:
- Confidently navigate your DNA matches and understand what they mean for your family tree
- Master the differences between autosomal, mitochondrial, and Y-DNA testing to choose the right tests for your research goals
- Navigate the options and tools at top testing companies like AncestryDNA, MyHeritageDNA, 23&Me, and FamilyTreeDNA to maximize your investment
- Leverage powerful third-party tools to uncover hidden connections
- Solve family mysteries and break through research roadblocks using DNA evidence
Through practical exercises and examples, you’ll learn to combine genetic genealogy with traditional research methods to verify family relationships and expand your family tree. Perfect for beginners who have taken or plan to take an autosomal DNA test.
This course explains the science behind DNA testing and its application to genealogical research. You’ll learn how different types of DNA are inherited and how to trace these inheritance patterns through your family tree. The lessons examine the different types of DNA tests and explore the unique features available on major testing company websites. Through guided instruction, you’ll develop skills for organizing and analyzing your DNA matches. The course also covers relevant third-party tools and methods for approaching unknown parentage cases.
Angie Bush, MS, is a director for NGS and the chair of its Genetic Genealogy Committee. A genetic genealogist researcher with Ancestry ProGenealogists in Salt Lake City, Bush worked in biotech while pursuing her interest in genealogy. With the introduction of autosomal DNA testing, she combined both into one career. Bush works on unknown parentage cases and on “brick-wall” cases.
Access your course anytime, anywhere using a computer or tablet with an internet connection. All course content—including lessons, examples, exercises, and quizzes—is cloud-based, requiring no software downloads or installations.
The course runs on Canvas, which requires an up-to-date web browser. Check your browser compatibility at https://guides.instructure.com/m/67952/l/720329-which-browsers-does-canvas-support.
Your registration provides a personal, nonexclusive, nontransferable license to access the course materials for your individual educational use only. All coursework must be completed independently.
The Continuing Genealogical Studies series offers flexible, self-paced online courses designed to fit your schedule. Whether you’re balancing work, volunteer commitments, or personal obligations, you can complete the coursework when it’s most convenient for you. You control your learning journey and set the pace that works best for your needs.
Your course access begins on the date of enrollment and continues for six months. Need more time? Paid extension options are available by contacting the NGS Course Administrator.
You’ll receive an automatic email with course details confirming your registration. Within three business days, the NGS Course Administrator will send your login credentials for the Canvas online learning platform.
All purchases of courses are final. No refunds or credits are available.
