Our history

The School of Health in Social Science was formally established in 2002 but its origins can be traced back to 1956 when Edinburgh became the first university in Europe to establish a dedicated Nursing Training Unit.

1800's

Clinical and Health Psychology is technically our longest-running subject area, originally introduced in the Faculty of Medicine in the 1800s. This subject area became part of our School during a University-wide restructuring in the 2000's. 

1950's

The University of Edinburgh became the first university in Europe to establish a dedicated Nursing Training Unit, appointing Elsie Stephenson as the first Director of Nursing Studies in 1956. This landmark development laid the foundations for decades of advancement in nursing education and practice.

1970's

From 1971 to 1994, Scotland's government-funded Nursing Research Unit operated within the department, strengthening its national and international reputation as a major centre for research in nursing. 

2000's

The School of Health in Social Science was formally established in 2002. Counselling and Psychotherapy originated as part of Moray House School of Education and Sport (previously, the Faculty of Education) and joined our School in 2005, solidifying our dedication to holistic care and psychological well-being. 

As the landscape of mental health and healthcare evolved, so has our resolve to nurture compassionate practitioners and scholars.