Enrollment options
NOTE: There is a lot of interest in DNA and Forensic topics. Please read carefully before registering to take one of these courses. The DNA and Forensic courses offered by the International Institute of Genealogical Studies provide instruction on DNA methods as used in genealogical research. We recommend that students without the basic knowledge of genealogy methods and genealogical research should register in the Methodology - Part 1: Getting Started and Methodology Part 2 - Organizing and Skill-Building courses prior to registering for this course.
Optional Print Course Material: DNA: Introduction to Genetic Genealogy
*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.
This
course is a comprehensive introduction to genetic genealogy. The basics of DNA
and genetic inheritance are explained in detail. The three main test types,
mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), Y chromosome DNA (YDNA), and autosomal DNA (atDNA)
are explored as they relate to genealogy. The study includes an overview of laboratory procedures for each kind
of test, data interpretation techniques, database searching, match
interpretation, and case studies for the three kinds of DNA testing. This
course includes
comparisons of tools and companies, as well as the genetic stories of famous
people.
Historical: This course originated 2014. Current version copyright is November 2024.
If you have older material, it needs to be replaced. Use the chat app to order your replacement materials.
Course Content
MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION
History of Genetics
- Gregor Mendel
- DNA vs. Protein
- Cell Biology
- Chromosomes
Module 1 Course Assignments
MODULE 2
MITOCHONDRIAL DNA
Overview of Mitochondrial DNA
mtDNA Case Study
mtDNA Haplogroups
Module 2 Course Assignments
MODULE 3
Y CHROMOSOME DNA
Overview of Y Chromosome DNA
Y Chromosome DNA Case Study
YDNA Haplogroups
- Identifying Mutations
MODULE 4
AUTOSOMAL DNA
Introduction to Autosomal DNA
- CODIS Markers
- Biogeographical Analysis
Module 4 Course Assignments
MODULE 5
LABORATORY METHODS
The Early Days
Sample Collection
- DNA Extraction
- DNA Amplification
- DNA Analysis
MODULE 6
TESTING COMPANIES
Choosing a Testing Company
- Choosing a YDNA STR Test
- Choosing a YDNA SNP Test
- Choosing a mtDNA Test
- Choosing an Autosomal DNA Test
Module 6 Course Assignments