History of Medicine

The History of Medicine course provides a deep dive into the fascinating journey of medical practices from circa 1500 BCE to the present day.

Topics range from Egyptian and Islamic Medicine, Medieval and Renaissance Medicine, through to psychiatry, epidemics and public health.

Collections-based sessions and practical guidance provide students with the tools they need to support their own study of medical history, drawing on the rich heritage of the Worshipful Society of Apothecaries and its splendid Livery Hall.

• 60+ unique sessions delivered by 44 leading historians, clinicians and curators
• 55+ hours of teaching, including 29+ hours delivered remotely via Zoom
• 2 years of access to lectures, recordings, slides and other online resources through our learning platform
• Exclusive access to a large community of published historians, medics and like-minded learners

Taught at a postgraduate level, the History of Medicine course is designed to help participants fulfil their personal objectives and interests in medical history.

The course provides an immersive educational journey filled with lectures, hands-on sessions and exclusive access to historical medical collections.

There are no specific entrance criteria to enrol on the course, and practical sessions equip participants with the skills to write, assess sources, utilise archives and gain an appreciation of the critical lenses that underpin historical research. Participants do not need to have a medical or historical background, just the time and interest to devote to the journey.

Course days take place outside of the working week, with seven of the fourteen sessions happening remotely.

With access to online course materials, participants can learn at their own pace, from anywhere in the world.

With 60-70 hours of dedicated study, the History of Medicine course covers medical history ranging from c.1500 BCE to the present day.

Experts from various academic disciplines and institutions will be on hand to deliver a range of sessions both in-person and online. Participants also have access to course materials through our learning platform.

From ancient healing practices to modern healthcare systems, participants trace the evolution of medicine through time and across cultures, with a focus on the Western Medical Tradition.

Throughout the course, participants will explore essential concepts in medical and healthcare history, gaining valuable insights that will enrich their understanding of the field.

Whether you’re new to the subject area or a seasoned scholar looking to deepen your understanding, the History of Medicine course has something for you.

The course will help you to hone your research abilities for historical investigation in medicine and healthcare, equipping you with the tools needed to delve into this fascinating subject area.

Participants will engage in lively discussions, explore major London medical museums, and network with like-minded individuals, fostering both social and intellectual connections.

Take the History of Medicine course and enhance your ability to critically assess the historical significance of people, events, and developments in medicine, and foster a deeper appreciation for the subject.