Online Class: Genealogy

Connect deeply with your past as Unraveling Roots transforms genealogy into a personal journey, using expert strategies to navigate historical records and uncover vibrant stories. Embrace your heritage by merging traditional research with new techniques, creating a rich tapestry of your family's history and identity.

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$120.00
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$120.00 (with CEU Certificate)
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  • 13
    Lessons
  • 28
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 5,223
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 4
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.4
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Do you ever find yourself wondering about the stories of those who came before you? Do you want to uncover the journey that shaped your family, your heritage, and ultimately, your identity? Discovering your ancestry is more than just filling in names on a family tree; it’s about revealing stories of courage, love, perseverance, and triumph. It’s a journey into history, culture, and the rich tapestry of life that connects us all. And it’s waiting for you to take that first step.

In Unraveling Roots, you’re not just learning about genealogy—you’re stepping into a narrative that is profoundly yours. From understanding your family’s migration routes to discovering connections with significant moments in history, this course is designed to make history feel intensely personal. You’ll find yourself piecing together the puzzle of your ancestry, guided by expert insights and strategies that make every discovery more meaningful, and every breakthrough more exhilarating.

What Sets This Course Apart

Imagine connecting with the past in a way that feels vivid and tangible, not just through facts and figures, but through stories and legacies. This course isn’t just about accessing records; it’s about cultivating a sense of identity, legacy, and belonging. Through captivating lectures and hands-on exploration, you’ll gain the skills to explore not only the traditional paths of ancestry research but also innovative new avenues—like using genetic testing, oral histories, and cultural archives.

This isn’t just another course; it’s an invitation to rediscover your heritage in a transformative, eye-opening way. You’ll learn to navigate complex historical records and personal stories, whether your family narrative includes immigrating from far-off lands, enduring hardship as early pioneers, or shaping communities as unsung heroes of local history. You’ll develop the tools to breathe life into old photographs, interpret letters, and discover new relatives you never knew existed.

Why This Course is Essential

The magic of genealogy lies in the connections. By the end of this course, you won’t just know who your ancestors were—you’ll understand their choices, their sacrifices, and the extraordinary resilience that led to your life today. You’ll not only create a detailed family tree but weave together stories that make those branches bloom with vibrant detail. And as you gain confidence and mastery, you’ll realize that this isn’t just a research project—it’s a journey of self-discovery.

Whether you’re the family historian, the curious truth-seeker, or the person entrusted with preserving your family’s stories, Unraveling Roots is designed with you in mind. Here, you’ll find the practical skills, in-depth knowledge, and personalized insights that no other course offers.

Transforming Curiosity into Legacy

Picture yourself sitting with a relative, listening to stories you’ve never heard before, and asking the questions you never thought to ask. Imagine the sense of wonder when you find the birth certificate of a great-great-grandmother who crossed oceans and countries to build a new life. Envision the joy of reconnecting with long-lost relatives and preserving these precious narratives for future generations.

This is more than a course; it’s a living, breathing journey into the fabric of who you are. It’s a way to honor your ancestors and gift future generations with a piece of their own history. This isn’t just research; it’s a way to connect with those who came before and understand the legacy you carry forward.

Why Wait to Begin?

Join us in this immersive journey, and turn your curiosity into a lasting legacy. It’s time to unlock your family’s past, celebrate its resilience, and uncover the stories that are uniquely yours. Don’t let those stories fade. Start today and discover that history isn’t something to be studied—it’s something to be lived.

  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • Printable Lessons
  • Full HD Video  
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.43 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(4,061 votes)

Lesson 1. Mapping Family Histories Through Time

28 Points
The digital revolution has transformed genealogical research, offering vast online data while emphasizing the unparalleled value of physical archives and oral histories. This pursuit demands patience and a detective's mindset, creating a vivid tapestry out of scattered clues that culminates in a richer understanding of one's lineage. Additional lesson topics: Starting your family History
  • Lesson 1 Video A
  • Lesson 1 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Why Genealogy?; Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete: Lesson 1 Assignment: Why Genealogy
  • Assessment: Lesson 1: Introduction

Lesson 2. The Intricacies of Genealogy: More Than Just Names and Dates

30 Points
Genealogy offers a journey of discovery, bridging past and present through family stories and photographic memories. This exploration turns into an enriching personal endeavor beyond just a hobby. Additional lesson topics: IRB Certification
  • Lesson 2 Video A
  • Lesson 2 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: New or Seasoned?
  • Complete: Lesson 2 Assignment: Planning it Out
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 : Getting Started

Lesson 3. From Chaos to Clarity: Organizing Your Genealogical Research

29 Points
Family Group Sheets zoom in on specific family units for comprehensive documentation, offering detailed insights into each generation's individual story. They complement Pedigree Charts by filling in the broader picture with specifics. Additional lesson topics: Pedigree Chart Video
  • Lesson 3 Video A
  • Lesson 3 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 3 Assignment: Charting it Out
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 : Sorting it all Out

Lesson 4. Photographs and Heirlooms: Decoding Your Family's Past

28 Points
Family Bibles were more than religious texts; they were vital records holding the key to births, marriages, and deaths that define a family's lineage. Inscriptions and mementos preserved within these Bibles can guide researchers to church records, connect generations, and celebrate cultural milestones. Additional lesson topics: Overlooked Clues in Genealogical Research
  • Lesson 4 Video A
  • Lesson 4 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 4 Assignment: Photographs galore
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 :Looking for Clues

Lesson 5. Past Narratives: Revealing Ancestors' Journeys through Records

29 Points
Military records honor family service across generations, offering detailed portraits of enlistment, campaigns, and post-war life through documents like Civil War pension applications. These records not only commemorate individual contributions but also provide insights into familial resilience and legacy post-service.
  • Lesson 5 Video A
  • Lesson 5 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 5 Assignment: Record Sources
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 : Official Records: Part 1

Lesson 6. Tracing Ancestral Journeys: Delving into Immigration and Military Records

27 Points
Ellis Island is a central entry point in American immigration history, but exploring other significant ports like Baltimore and Boston can uncover more about your ancestors' journeys. By cross-referencing diverse records, you gather a comprehensive understanding of your family's past and the broader historical context. Additional lesson topics: Immigration Records
  • Lesson 6 Video A
  • Lesson 6 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 6 Assignment: Search Practice
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 : Official Records, Part 2

Lesson 7. Discovering Ancestral Legacies: Land, Newspaper, and Cemetery Records

30 Points
Land records hold the key to understanding an individual's social and economic status, while revealing potential family and community connections through property transactions. These records, ranging from deeds to public domain filings, can lead to surprising discoveries about your ancestors' lives and contributions to their communities. Additional lesson topics: Land Records Video
  • Lesson 7 Video A
  • Lesson 7 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 7 Assignment: Land Records Search
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 : Official Records, Part 3

Lesson 8. Digital Genealogy: Community-Driven Discoveries

30 Points
Personal websites and blogs allow genealogists to craft and disseminate their family narratives, enriching the collective understanding of historical experiences through stories and archived materials. These digital platforms not only facilitate networking and collaboration with distant relatives but also provide a valuable resource for others exploring similar roots.
  • Lesson 8 Video A
  • Lesson 8 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 8 Assignment: Joining Lists
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 : Learning from Others

Lesson 9. Avoiding Genealogy Pitfalls: Building an Accurate Family Tree

30 Points
Embrace spelling variations in historical records to unravel potential connections and avoid missing entire family branches. Keeping an open mind about name changes over time enables the discovery of new insights and relationships within your family tree.
  • Lesson 9 Video A
  • Lesson 9 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 9 Assignment: Making Mistakes
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 : Avoiding Common Mistakes

Lesson 10. Overcoming Genealogy Challenges

28 Points
Common names pose challenges in genealogy, but focusing on occupation, relationships, and location offers distinguishing context. Accepting variations in name spelling broadens research possibilities and increases the chances of uncovering accurate records. Additional lesson topics: Overcoming Brick Walls
  • Lesson 10 Video A
  • Lesson 10 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Road Blocks
  • Complete: Lesson 10 Assignment: Problems Encountered
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 : Dealing with Dead-ends

Lesson 11. Untangling the Web of Genealogical Research

29 Points
Discovering Native American lineage requires a blend of oral histories, accuracy vetting, and detailed tribal affiliation research, acknowledging historical migrations and fragmentary records. Genealogists consult resources like the Dawes Roll to navigate complex identities intertwined with forced relocations.
  • Lesson 11 Video A
  • Lesson 11 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 11 Assignment: Handling Special Situations
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 : Handling Special Situations

Lesson 12. Efficiently Managing Genealogy Research: A Comprehensive Guide

30 Points
Efficiently manage your genealogy research by choosing an adaptable filing system and utilizing appropriate software, ensuring your efforts are organized and preserved for future generations. This lesson highlights the importance of maintaining a dedicated research space while also providing strategies to overcome research roadblocks.
  • Lesson 12 Video A
  • Lesson 12 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Complete: Lesson 12 Assignment: Organization
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 : Keeping it All Organized

Lesson 13. Family Histories Made Easy

108 Points
Genealogists aim to transform raw data into engaging family histories that preserve the stories of ancestors before they vanish. By incorporating detailed narratives, emotions, and firsthand accounts, they bring to life the intricate tapestry of human experiences, culminating in a published tribute to their legacy.
  • Lesson 13 Video A
  • Lesson 13 Video B : Lesson Discussion
  • Lesson discussions: Let us know what you think of this course; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Complete: Lesson 13 Assignment: Making a Plan
  • Complete Assignment: Discovery at Family Gatherings
  • Assessment: Lesson 13: Family Histories
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
456
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Describe how to begin the process of researching your genealogy.
  • Describe where to look for clues.
  • Describe where and how to find official records kept by local municipalities, churches, and other entities.
  • Describe using technology to connect with other people that have information you need.
  • Describe how to avoid common mistakes.
  • Summarize how to write and publish your family history.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Genealogy
Course Number: 7550451
Lessons Rating: 4.43 / 5 Stars (4,061 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: Enroll in this course from any U.S. state, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. The course is also accessible to learners in English-speaking countries such as the UK, Canada, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.
Last Updated: January 2024
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 0.4 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "I greatly enjoyed taking this course. It has helped me to refocus my family research and to remind me not to overlook certain areas of interest. I plan on keeping my notes with my genealogy files so I can return to them and make sure I'm staying on track. Thank you for this course!" -- Erin D.
  • "This class was fantastic. I couldn't believe how quickly I was learning and finding things about my family. I am SO glad I took this class. Incredibly helpful class, really enjoyed it." -- Carina Z.
  • "Professor McKenna's enjoyment of teaching encouraged me to enjoy learning. The lesson assignments helped me apply what I learned. A no-nonsense, well-structured course!" -- Mary R.
  • "I would definitely take another course taught by this instructor. His lessons were very informative and his presentations were well thought out." -- Ginger H.
  • "The instructional videos by C. Michael McKenna were superb : they tied in brilliantly to the lesson topic, were hugely informative and beneficial to me. His personal anecdotes about his experiences added a whole lot of extra value to the course. Mr. McKenna shares his knowledge with enthusiasm, passion and vigour. You could read dozens of books and not benefit to the same extent as taking this course. I wholeheartedly recommend this course to others. Mr. McKenna covered a vast range of topics - and gave expert tips - in 13 lessons. He is both an awesome and inspiring instructor. I cannot praise enough for taking the time to share his comments on my assignment submissions. An encouraging word makes all the difference. His sincerity and personal integrity shine through. An exceptional man. I would like to sign up for additional courses by Mr. McKenna." -- Martina B.
  • "The instructor was great. Grades were very quickly completed. The class covered a lot of very important topics." -- Linda W.
  • "It was very helpful and pointed out ways to correct my research mistakes. It seemed to cover everything related to the topic I would like to know." -- Rey B.
  • "I enjoyed hearing back from Mac. He was very punctual with getting your papers and tests graded." -- Bobbi jo G.
  • "I appreciated the instructor's comments after each assignment. Very helpful." -- Peter C.
  • "The instructor was very good. I would take other classes from this instructor." -- Mary L.
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