Genealogical Research Institutes: Deepening Your Skills in Family History

For genealogists who want to take their research beyond the basics, genealogical research institutes are among the best opportunities for advanced learning. Unlike single-session webinars or short workshops, institutes offer intensive, week-long courses taught by leading experts in the field. They provide the chance to focus deeply on records, methods, and problem-solving strategies—skills that can transform your family history research.

What Are Genealogical Research Institutes?

A genealogical institute is an educational program where participants enroll in a specific course of study and spend several days immersed in lectures, labs, and discussions. Each course is structured around a theme—such as advanced methodology, DNA analysis, or a geographic region—and builds skills progressively throughout the week.

Institutes are designed for serious learners, whether you are a dedicated hobbyist or an aspiring professional.

Major Genealogical Institutes

SLIG – Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (Utah)

Held annually in January.
Known for advanced methodology and specialized courses.
Offers access to the Family History Library in Salt Lake City, the largest genealogical collection in the world.

IGHR – Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (Georgia)

Established in 1962, one of the oldest institutes.
Covers a wide range of topics from beginner to advanced.
Offers intensive tracks in U.S. records, military history, and southern research.

GRIP – Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (Pennsylvania)

Offers summer sessions with multiple tracks.
Courses range from practical skills (writing, citation) to ethnic and immigration research.
Known for its welcoming, student-focused environment.

MAAGI – Midwest African American Genealogy Institute (Indiana)

Specializes in African American research, records of slavery, and diaspora connections.
Offers unique expertise and networking for those researching African American family histories.

Other emerging institutes and regional programs provide additional opportunities, both in person and online.

Why Attend a Genealogical Institute?

In-depth training – One topic for an entire week allows mastery, not just an introduction.
Expert instructors – Courses are led by recognized genealogists, authors, and lecturers.
Networking – Meet peers, mentors, and colleagues who share your research interests.
Hands-on practice – Many courses include workshops on transcribing, analyzing DNA results, or interpreting original documents.

Preparing for an Institute

Register early – Seats often sell out quickly.
Review prerequisites – Some advanced tracks assume familiarity with basic genealogical methods.
Set learning goals – Decide whether you want to improve methodology, expand into new regions, or deepen DNA skills.
Plan for follow-up – Apply what you learn immediately in your own research projects.

Institutes and Professional Growth

For those considering professional credentials such as Certified Genealogist® (CG®) or Accredited Genealogist® (AG®), institutes provide ideal preparation. Many portfolios and exams are built on the skills honed in these week-long courses.

Even if professional work isn’t your goal, institute learning enriches personal family research, giving you the tools to tackle difficult questions with confidence.

Genealogical research institutes represent some of the best educational opportunities in the field. By investing a week of focused study, genealogists gain not only knowledge but also confidence and community. Whether in Salt Lake City, Pittsburgh, Georgia, or beyond, institutes help transform passionate researchers into skilled family historians capable of preserving stories with accuracy and depth.

Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG). “About SLIG.” Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy. Accessed September 12, 2025. https://slig.ugagenealogy.org.Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR). “About IGHR.” Georgia Genealogical Society. Accessed September 12, 2025. https://ighr.gagensociety.org/about-ighr.

Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP). “What Is the GRIP Genealogy Institute?” National Genealogical Society. Accessed September 12, 2025. https://grip.ngsgenealogy.org.

Midwest African American Genealogy Institute (MAAGI). “History of MAAGI.” Midwest African American Genealogy Institute. Accessed September 12, 2025. https://www.maagiinstitute.org/history.html.