Family Tree University is not a physical campus or an accredited college; it is the online education arm of Family Tree Magazine, offering short, self-paced genealogy courses and webinars. It is designed for hobbyist family historians who want structured instruction on research methods, record types, and software tools, rather than for students seeking a degree or formal certification.
What Family Tree University Actually Offers
Family Tree University provides two main types of learning: multi-week courses and single-session webinars. Courses are typically four to six weeks long, with weekly lessons, assignments, and access to a private discussion forum. Webinars are 60-90 minute recorded or live presentations on a specific topic, such as using DNA matches or reading old handwriting. The curriculum is practical, focusing on U.S. and British Isles research, with some courses covering Canada, Germany, and other regions. Past course titles include “Beginning Genealogy,” “Google for Genealogists,” and “Analyzing DNA Test Results,” though the specific catalog rotates over time.
How the Courses Work
Enrollment is done entirely online through the Family Tree University website. Once you register, you get immediate access to the course materials, which are delivered through a learning management system. Each week, a new lesson becomes available, and you work through readings, video demonstrations, and exercises at your own pace. Instructors are experienced genealogists, often with credentials such as Certified Genealogist (CG) or Accredited Genealogist (AG). They monitor the forum and answer questions, but there is no live video component—interaction is asynchronous. At the end of the course, you receive a certificate of completion, though it carries no academic credit.
How Much Does It Cost?
Pricing varies, but as a general guide, a four-week course typically costs between $90 and $150, while webinars are often $20 to $40 each. Family Tree University also offers a subscription service that gives you access to a large library of recorded webinars and some courses for a monthly or annual fee. The subscription is often bundled with Family Tree Magazine, so you may get a discount if you already subscribe. There are no hidden fees, but you should check the specific course page for the exact price, as it changes with promotions and new offerings.
How to Choose the Right Course
Before signing up, think about your skill level and your specific research goal. If you are a beginner, start with a course that covers the fundamentals of genealogy, such as “Beginning Genealogy” or “Genealogy 101.” If you have a particular problem, like finding an ancestor’s birthplace or breaking through a brick wall, look for a course that addresses that record type or methodology. Read the course description carefully—it will list the topics covered, the instructor, and the level (beginner, intermediate, advanced). Also, check the schedule: some courses are offered only once a year, while webinars are more frequent. If you are unsure, you can purchase a single webinar first to see if the teaching style suits you.
Common Problems and Limitations
One common complaint is that the courses are not accredited and do not lead to a certificate that holds professional weight. If you are aiming to become a professional genealogist or earn a credential like the Certified Genealogist designation, Family Tree University is not the path—you would need programs like the Boston University Genealogical Research Certificate or the Genealogical Institute of the University of Strathclyde. Another limitation is that the course materials are only accessible for a limited time after the course ends—usually a few months—so you cannot keep the lessons forever unless you download them (which is often not allowed). Also, because the courses are pre-recorded, you cannot ask questions in real time; you must wait for the instructor to respond in the forum, which may take a day or two.
How It Compares to Other Genealogy Education
Family Tree University sits between free YouTube tutorials and expensive university certificate programs. Compared to free resources like the FamilySearch Research Wiki or the National Genealogical Society’s free webinars, Family Tree University offers a more structured, guided experience with assignments and instructor feedback. Compared to the Boston University certificate (which costs over $2,000 and takes 15 weeks), it is far cheaper and more flexible. However, it lacks the depth and rigor of a university program. Other similar options include the National Institute for Genealogical Studies, which offers a broader range of courses and a more formal curriculum, and the Association of Professional Genealogists’ continuing education webinars. For most hobbyists, Family Tree University is a good middle ground: affordable, structured, and practical.
Is It Worth the Money?
For a beginner who wants to learn genealogy systematically without spending a fortune, yes. The courses are well-organized, the instructors are knowledgeable, and the cost is comparable to a few books or a single DNA test. For an intermediate researcher who already knows the basics, a targeted course on a specific record type (like probate records or land records) can save you hours of trial and error. The main value is the structure and the ability to ask questions of an expert. However, if you are already an advanced researcher or you prefer to learn by doing, you might find the courses too basic or too slow. Also, if you are on a tight budget, you can get a lot of free education from the FamilySearch Research Wiki and the many free webinars on YouTube, but you will miss the interactive feedback.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I get college credit for Family Tree University courses?
No, Family Tree University courses do not carry college credit. They are non-accredited continuing education courses. You receive a certificate of completion, but it is not recognized by academic institutions or professional bodies as a formal qualification.
How long do I have access to the course materials?
Access is typically granted for a limited period after the course ends, usually around three to six months. You can view the lessons and forum during that time. After the access period ends, you lose access unless you have a subscription that includes the course library. It is best to download any notes you want to keep (if allowed) before access expires.
Can I take a course if I am a complete beginner?
Yes, Family Tree University offers courses specifically for beginners, such as “Beginning Genealogy” and “Genealogy 101.” These courses assume no prior knowledge and cover the basics of record types, research planning, and family tree software. Look for the “Beginner” level tag in the course description.
Are the webinars live or recorded?
Both. Some webinars are broadcast live, and you can ask questions during the presentation. Others are pre-recorded and available on demand. If you purchase a live webinar, you usually get access to the recording afterward. The subscription service includes a library of recorded webinars that you can watch at any time.
Do I need to buy any software or books for the courses?
Most courses do not require additional purchases. The lessons are self-contained, and any handouts are provided as PDFs. Some courses may recommend a specific genealogy software (like RootsMagic or Family Tree Maker) but it is not mandatory—you can use free software like FamilySearch Family Tree or even paper charts. Always check the course description for any required materials.
What if I am not satisfied with a course?
Family Tree University has a refund policy, but it is limited. You can typically request a refund within a few days of purchase if you have not accessed more than a certain percentage of the course content. Check the terms and conditions on the website before enrolling. For webinars, refunds are usually not offered once the recording has been accessed.
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