Social Studies of Medicine

A variety of opportunities is afforded for independent studies in one of the humanities or social sciences related to medicine. Students may explore such questions as new approaches to health and healing; healing in cross-cultural perspectives; the nature of the therapeutic process; the nature of the scientific method; or some aspect of medical ethics, etc. Or a student may wish to pursue some specific subject in the realm of medical sociology, medical anthropology or medical history. All of these and related subjects are pursued on a personal tutorial basis with various members of the Department.

Students interested in research or academic studies in other fields such as economics, political science, etc. may wish to consult with this Department on possible electives, since it may be possible to direct the student toward specific individuals on the McGill campus and to provide the appropriate administrative arrangements. Work in an elective elsewhere can be combined with work in this Department if something can be arranged to the satisfaction of both departments involved. In all electives, students are encouraged to become involved in courses being given by members of the department and to attend departmental seminars.

It is essential that students considering an elective in this department consult with the electives chairperson as far ahead of the elective as possible, preferably one to two months. Arranging an elective to begin in one or two weeks may prove unworkable.

For more information please consult their website:  https://www.mcgill.ca/ssom/