London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Public health and tropical medicine school in London

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Logo of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is a renowned public research university in London, United Kingdom. It is a constituent college of the University of London and specializes in public health and tropical medicine. The school is a leading institution in the field of global health, with a mission to improve health and health equity in the UK and worldwide.

History

The Seamen's Hospital Society, where the LSHTM has its roots

The LSHTM was founded in 1899 by Sir Patrick Manson, a pioneer in tropical medicine, as part of the Seamen's Hospital Society. Initially, it was established to address the health needs of sailors and the growing British Empire's tropical territories. The school was originally located at the Albert Dock Seamen's Hospital in the East End of London.

In 1924, the school moved to its current location on Keppel Street, in the Bloomsbury area of London. The new building was designed by Morley Horder and opened by the Prince of Wales in 1929. The move to Keppel Street marked a significant expansion in the school's capacity and scope.

World War II and Aftermath

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Bomb damage to the LSHTM during World War II

During World War II, the LSHTM building suffered significant damage from bombing raids. Despite this, the school continued its work, contributing to the war effort through research on infectious diseases and public health.

After the war, the school expanded its research and teaching activities, establishing itself as a global leader in public health and tropical medicine. The post-war period saw the development of new departments and research centers, focusing on a wide range of health issues.

Academic Programs

The LSHTM offers a variety of academic programs, including Master of Science (MSc) degrees, Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, and short courses. The school is known for its interdisciplinary approach, integrating fields such as epidemiology, public health, and tropical medicine.

The MSc programs cover topics such as epidemiology, public health, global health policy, and infectious diseases. The school also offers distance learning options, allowing students from around the world to access its courses.

Research

The LSHTM is a leading research institution, with a focus on global health challenges. Its research covers a wide range of topics, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health systems. The school collaborates with international organizations, governments, and other academic institutions to address pressing health issues.

Campus and Facilities

The main building of the LSHTM on Keppel Street

The LSHTM's main campus is located on Keppel Street, in the heart of London. The building is a notable example of Art Deco architecture and houses state-of-the-art research facilities, lecture theatres, and the school's library.

The Reading Room of the LSHTM's Library

The library is one of the largest collections of public health and tropical medicine resources in the world, providing students and researchers with access to a vast array of books, journals, and electronic resources.

Related Pages

• University of London
• Public health
• Tropical medicine
• Epidemiology