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'sClinical and Health Psychology is technically our longest-established subject area. Although it was not known by that name at the time, its origins can be traced back to the 1800s, when it was first introduced within the Faculty of Medicine. The subject area became part of our School following a university-wide restructuring in the 2000s.1950'sThe 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'sFrom 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'sThe 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, further strengthening our dedication to holistic care and psychological well-being. As the landscape of mental health and healthcare has evolved, so has our resolve to nurture compassionate students and practitioners. Throughout changing social, clinical, and policy contexts, we have remained committed to advancing knowledge, promoting wellbeing, and preparing graduates to respond thoughtfully and effectively to the complex needs of individuals, families, and communities.
