Yale University

Overview

The History of Science, Medicine, and Public Health program at Yale University offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding how cultural, political, technological, and everyday life factors shape scientific knowledge and medical practices. This undergraduate major provides students with the skills to analyze how evidence, institutions, and media impact health outcomes and public policy on both local and global scales.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured to include a combination of core courses and electives, allowing students to specialize in their area of interest while also gaining a comprehensive understanding of the broader context of science, medicine, and public health.

Major requirements:

• Two-term senior requirement (completed during the senior year)
• Seven-course pathway that guides specialization, including:
• Two courses in History of Science, Medicine, and Public Health
• One seminar in History of Science, Medicine, and Public Health or History (numbered 100+)
• One science course that supports the chosen pathway
• Three electives from relevant courses across various departments
• Three additional electives in History of Science, Medicine, and Public Health, including:
• One seminar elective
• One elective from a different pathway than the selected major
• Advising: Course selection is guided by a faculty adviser.

Example course offerings:

• Media and Medicine in Modern America
• American Energy History
• Medicine and Health in Society
• Sickness and Health in African American History
• Healthcare for the Urban Poor
• Historical Perspectives on Science and Religion

Students often leverage electives to prepare for specific interests such as epidemiology, health policy, technology and society, or the history of scientific institutions.

Entry requirements

There are no specific GRE, GMAT, or GPA requirements for admission to this program. Prospective students should refer to Yale's undergraduate admissions guidelines for more information on the application process.

Career prospects

Graduates of the History of Science, Medicine, and Public Health program have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. They may pursue roles in public health, healthcare policy, academia, research, or within non-profit organizations. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips students with critical thinking and analytical skills that are valuable across various fields, including education, law, and healthcare management.