Genealogy has never been just a pastime for me – it is a key to understanding the stories, connections, and identities that shape our families. Over the past five years, my academic journey at the University of Strathclyde has not only enriched my expertise but also deepened my personal passion for a more scholarly approach to family history.
The University of Strathclyde’s postgraduate pathway in Genealogical, Palaeographic, and Heraldic Studies is widely recognized as one of the best in the world. The programme, delivered online, connected me with students and experts from all over the globe, and provided me with the tools to master everything from research methodology to the analysis of historical documents, heraldry, and advanced family history.
Postgraduate Certificate (2020–2022)
My journey began with the postgraduate certificate. These two years gave me a solid foundation – I learned about the core sources for genealogical research, sharpened key research techniques, and began to unlock the secrets of historic manuscripts through palaeography.
Postgraduate Diploma (2022–2024)
The diploma was both challenging and rewarding. As I navigated complex record sets and refined my analytical approach, I also had the opportunity to dive into a research project:
“Who were the officers of the English Reformed Church in Amsterdam between 1701 and 1764, and how ‘English’ were they?”
Through this project, I explored the backgrounds of 56 church officers, discovering that leadership gradually shifted from religious refugees to prosperous merchants, including both English and Dutch individuals. Over time, these officers established strong ties within Amsterdam, enabling the church to thrive for its international congregation.
Master’s degree (2024–2025)
The culmination of my studies was my dissertation, titled “The first Protestants in Tilburg (1648-1698): who were they and what role did they play in the religious and political reformation of the city?” I traced the first Dutch Reformed Church officers and civic leaders in Tilburg, and found that most were not local but came from elsewhere in Brabant or Holland. Despite their efforts, the Protestant community remained small, and the Reformed Church had only a minor influence in a predominantly Catholic city.
Graduation – an Unique Achievement
On Wednesday 5 November 2025, I graduated in the stunning Barony Hall in Glasgow, Scotland – an unforgettable moment of pride and recognition. As far as I know, I am the first person in the Netherlands to hold the MSc in Genealogical, Palaeographic and Heraldic Studies (with distinction), and I am honored to bring this expertise to the Dutch genealogical community.
Looking Back – and Ahead
These five years have truly transformed me. I have broadened my horizon, built a global network, and, most importantly, developed the skills and knowledge to help clients and families uncover and understand the rich stories of their pasts. The programme inspired me to apply genealogical methods to explore broader historical questions and deepen our understanding of the past.
If you are interested in taking your own research further, I can wholeheartedly recommend this academic path to elevate your skills and insight. You will find more information about the postgraduate certificate, diploma and MSc options on the website of the University of Strathclyde. You are also welcome to send me an email with any questions you may have.
