Located in the heart of Edinburgh, the School of Health in Social Science is a dynamic and inclusive environment for learning, teaching and research. Our interdisciplinary approach to our subject areas equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle the most pressing health and social challenges, from individual mental health to global pandemics. Our historyThe school's origins can be traced back to 1956 when Edinburgh became the first British university to establish a dedicated Nursing Training Unit. This effort led to the creation of the Chair of Nursing Studies in 1972.Clinical and Health Psychology originally sat within Psychiatry, within the Faculty of Medicine. This discipline is technically our longest-running, introduced as a subject in the Faculty of Medicine in the 1800s, and became part of our School during a University-wide restructuring. Counselling and Psychotherapy originated as part of Moray House (what was the Faculty of Education) and joined us 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. Our Vision of Inclusivity We seek to strengthen our common humanity by respecting our multiplicity of identities and actively acknowledge, understand, and challenge inequalities. Our commitment to inclusivity is woven into the fabric of our community, shaping our School culture. Find out more about Equality, Diversity and Inclusion in our School Diversity Strengthens Us We celebrate the range of perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds that enrich our community. It is through embracing our diversity that we cultivate a dynamic and inclusive environment where innovation thrives, and collaboration flourishes. We believe in the transformative power of education to challenge assumptions, spark dialogue, and inspire action. Through our endeavors, we seek to amplify voices, dismantle barriers, and drive positive change in society. Our commitment to inclusivity extends beyond academia, shaping our practice as we engage with communities and advocate for meaningful impact. What can I study? We offer both undergraduate and postgraduate training, including several taught and research Masters, PhDs, as well as CPD courses, professional training programmes and accredited courses that will help qualify graduates to work in a wide range of sectors. Find out more about our range of study options: Undergraduate Postgraduate Research Postgraduate Taught CPD Visit our campus Our Campus and Facilities University Open Days Campus Maps Virtual Visit Subject Areas The University of Edinburgh created our School to bring together the long-established but separate departments of Clinical and Health Psychology, Nursing Studies, and Counselling, Psychotherapy and Applied Social Science. Equality and Diversity Equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) are core values in the School of Health in Social Science, and inform all of our work. The School has an active EDI committee, chaired by the EDI Director, who also sits on the School’s Senior Management Committee. Campus and Facilities Find out more about our campus and facilities. HiSS Privacy Policy The School of Health in Social Science privacy notice. Contact Staff are working both from home and on campus and available by email. You can contact us on the details below. For general enquiries contact reception.
