Completed the IHGS Heraldry Course

Studying heraldry is both an intellectual and practical pursuit, requiring a strong grasp of history, art, and precise language. Over the past months, I have worked through the Heraldry Course offered by the Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS), and as of this month, I have officially completed the program.

The IHGS and Its Heraldry Program

The Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS), based in Canterbury, has long been one of the leading institutions for formal education in heraldry. It offers a structured approach to understanding the principles of heraldry, covering everything from the basics of blazoning to the application of heraldry in genealogical research. The Heraldry Course, which can be explored in more detail on the IHGS website, consists of six lectures, each with an accompanying assignment, requiring both theoretical understanding and practical application.

The course provides an in-depth exploration of:

• Heraldic design principles – The structure and rules governing arms.
• Blazoning and terminology – The precise language used to describe arms.
• Heraldic practice in genealogy – How heraldry informs and supports historical research.

Progress Toward the Diploma in Heraldry (DipHS)

This certification is more than just a standalone achievement. It is a key milestone in my broader goal of earning the Diploma in Heraldry (DipHS) from The Heraldry Society. That diploma, which requires passing three examination levels, represents a formal recognition of expertise in heraldry. Completing the IHGS program provides a solid foundation for pursuing that next step, and more information about the requirements can be found on The Heraldry Society’s examination page.

The Broader Journey in Heraldic Studies

Beyond the IHGS program, I am also engaged in the Royal Heraldry Society of Canada’s (RHSC) certification program. Last year, I completed Level 2 of their Heraldry Proficiency Program, which builds upon fundamental heraldic knowledge and introduces more advanced blazoning techniques. These two programs—IHGS and RHSC—complement each other, reinforcing different aspects of heraldic study. Those interested in learning more about the RHSC’s program can find details on the RHSC website.

What Comes Next?

With the IHGS course complete, my focus now shifts toward further advancing my heraldic studies. That means preparing for the DipHS exams, engaging in more advanced research, and continuing to refine my knowledge of blazoning, historical context, and the evolution of heraldic traditions.

Heraldry remains one of the most fascinating intersections of history, art, and identity, and each step in this journey brings new insights into how it continues to shape and reflect cultural heritage. For those interested in structured study, the IHGS Heraldry Course is an excellent place to start, whether as a standalone achievement or as part of a longer journey toward formal heraldic qualifications.

Or you can download the PDF here