The United Kingdom's Institute of Heraldic and Genealogical Studies (IHGS) was founded in 1961 at Canterbury, Kent (its current location)[1][2] by Cecil Humphery-Smith.
The Institute promotes research, study, and training in all aspects of family history, including heraldry.
Those who complete approved courses may sit the diploma examination after submitting adequate evidence of practical experience.
Those who hold the diploma and produce an acceptable dissertation or thesis can qualify as Licentiates of the Institute, or LHG.
Students, armorists, genealogists and family historians are able to make use of the extensive collection of books and manuscripts in the Institute's library.