Medical Humanities Applied Minor (AM)
The medical humanities applied minor is designed to help you develop a deeper, more holistic understanding of health care, healing, illness and human dignity. Through relevant classes in the social sciences and humanities, you will gain valuable insight into the ways in which health care is mediated by social and cultural categories, how technology transforms the practice of medicine, the differences between evidence-based and narrative approaches to medicine and the lived experience of illness and healing.
The medical humanities minor was developed thanks to a generous grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities awarded to Earlham professor of psychology Vince Punzo and professor of chemistry Mike Deibel.
Frequently asked questions
The medical humanities applied minor consists of 1) humanities and social sciences courses focused on health, illness and medicine; 2) civic engagements related to the medical allied health fields or public health; and 3) an integrated culminating experience.
In your research and course work, you will explore the cultural and psychological influences that shape experiences of health, healing and illness as well examine global models and personal narratives of health care. Civic engagements will provide the opportunity for you to experience the ways in which conceptual notions of empathy, care and dignity are instantiated in health care settings.
Applied minors (AMs) are distinctive programs allowing you to personalize your education and to help you make direct connections between academic interests and co-curricular activities.
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Our faculty
The medical humanities applied minor is a program taught by Earlham professors within the Psychology, Philosophy, Sociology/Anthropology, English, Religion, and Ancient and Classical studies majors. Questions about the program or course qualifications can be directed to the medical humanities convener, Vince Punzo.
Have questions?
Learn more about declaring your interest in an applied minor and find answers to other questions you may not even know you have.