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A smiling woman types on her laptop as she looks up with warmth, approachability, and enthusiasm.
A smiling woman types on her laptop as she looks up with warmth, approachability, and enthusiasm.
Love Family History?
Turn your passion into a rewarding profession.

Start Application
  • ONLINE
    Flexible schedules built for busy people like you
  • LOW COST
    Significantly lower tuition plus a guaranteed scholarship
  • SPIRITUAL
    Learn key doctrines surrounding family history

"Can I actually get a job doing this?" Yes!

Family history careers — genealogist, archivist, heritage specialist, records manager — require professional credentials. We offer online access to accredited family history certificates and an associate degree from BYU-Idaho, with hands-on training in research, archival methods, and professional standards.

Three Options

Two certificates stack into one associate degree.

Start Application    Request More Info

Amy Robbins, a BYU-Pathway student who earned the family history research certificate.

A blessing in every way

“I have earned my first family history research certificate and I’m working on my second certificate right now. I’ve been challenged, and I’ve learned so much from every class. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this inspired program that helps so many receive excellent education and training. I and my family is blessed because of it.”

Amy Robbins
United States

Quote from former BYU-Pathway Worldwide student Asif Tufail about family history associate degree: At one time I lacked confidence with my education because I dropped out of school after intermediate in Pakistan. Now I am able to help others in the Church in family history to find their ancestors and guide them to do this sacred work. I encourage those who have stopped their education for any reason to continue wherever they may be and whatever their circumstances are in.

Hope for a better future

“I once lacked confidence with my education because I dropped out of school in Pakistan. Now I am able to help others in the Church in family history to find their ancestors and guide them to do this sacred work. I don't think I could find any other program that could have the same impact in my life like BYU-Pathway. One of the wonderful things that BYU-Pathway offers is education opportunities for those who have little hope for education and a better future.”

Asif Tufail
Pakistan

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Ready to Turn Your Passion into Something More?

You're stuck between amateur and professional — and the gap won't close on its own. We can help you take the next step.

Without Action:

✗ Your expertise goes unrecognized by employers
✗ Career opportunities in genealogy remain out of reach
✗ Another year of stagnation passes with frustration

With BYU-Pathway:

✓ Earn accredited credentials that open professional doors
✓ Build a rewarding career connecting others with their family
✓ Join a community of family history professionals
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The right fit for you

Traditional College Doesn't Work for Everyone

BYU-Pathway is designed for people whose life circumstances make traditional college out of reach. We offer low-cost, online access to accredited degrees and certificates from BYU-Idaho and Ensign College. Every program includes faith-based courses that strengthen your spiritual foundation and support personal growth in every aspect of life.

Certificates and degrees are available in:

Degree Icons

Explore certificates and degrees that fit your life ►

There is never a perfect time to finish your degree. There will always be things that make it hard, but you can do hard things. I learned exactly what I needed to learn and it not only helped me academically, it helped me in my life!
Female graduate
Tasha Griffith
BYU-Idaho Graduate

Common Questions

Do certificates count toward my bachelor’s degree?
Yes, every course counts toward your degree. You'll earn three certificates and an associate degree as part of your bachelor's degree, and most students complete their first certificate within the first year.

Here are a few reasons why certificates make a big difference:

  • Career-ready skills: Each certificate is designed to help you qualify for a better job — even before you finish your degree.
  • Stackable progress: Certificates build into associate and bachelor’s degrees, so every class counts toward your bigger goal.
  • Momentum: Earning a certificate early can give you the confidence and motivation to keep going.

“Every time I would get a certificate, I used it to get a salary raise or I would apply for a new position.” — Kathy Villeda, BYU-Pathway student from El Salvador

Kathy’s story could be your story. Certificates can help you build your future step by step.
What is the difference between a certificate, an associate degree, and a bachelor's degree?
Here’s a simple overview of how each one is structured:

  • Certificates are made up of 13–15 credits and focus on one area of study. They’re a great way to build job-ready skills quickly.
  • An associate degree requires 60 credits, including general education courses, two certificates, and religion courses.
  • A bachelor’s degree includes 90–96 credits and includes three certificates along with general education and religion courses

To learn more, visit our degree and certificate list and explore all the available options.
How long is a term or block at BYU-Pathway?
Each BYU-Pathway term is called a "block," and each block lasts seven weeks. There are a total of six block starts per year. That said, if you’re wondering when you can start, the answer is always “soon!”

Find more information on application deadlines and the start that works best for you.
How much time should I plan to spend studying each week?
Generally, students spend 3–5 hours per week on coursework per credit. However, some students may need more or less time to succeed. Each student should consider their own situation, English language skills, and work pace when planning their schedule.

So, for a typical 3-credit course, you can expect to spend around 9–15 hours per week, adding up to approximately 63–105 total hours over a 7-week course block.
Credits per courseHours per week
1 credit3–5 hours
3 credits (typical)9–15 hours
6 credits (two courses)18–30 hours
Do employers take online degrees seriously?
As online education becomes more common, employers are increasingly recognizing the value of online degrees—especially from fully accredited schools like BYU-Idaho and Ensign College, which award BYU-Pathway degrees. BYU-Pathway’s online programs follow the same curriculum and high standards as on-campus programs, giving students practical skills that employers want. Graduates regularly report better job opportunities and career growth, showing that employers trust and value BYU-Pathway degrees.
  • 90% get a better job after graduation with a bachelor’s degree
  • 70% get a better job after earning their first certificate
  • 60% get a better job after completing PathwayConnect

View Additional FAQs ►

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