Course Overview

The Narrative Medicine program at Columbia University is a pioneering initiative that integrates storytelling and narrative skills into medical practice and education. The program aims to enhance the capacity of healthcare professionals to recognize, absorb, interpret, and be moved by the stories of illness, fostering empathy and improving patient care. Unique features include interdisciplinary coursework that combines literature, creative writing, and clinical practice, as well as workshops and seminars led by experts in both medicine and the humanities.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Narrative Medicine program are equipped to pursue careers in healthcare with a deepened understanding of patient narratives, often leading to roles in medical education, clinical practice, and healthcare policy. The skills learned are also applicable in areas such as medical writing, patient advocacy, and therapeutic practices that emphasize communication and empathy.

Key Faculty and Staff

The program is led by prominent figures such as Dr. Rita Charon, a founder of the field of Narrative Medicine and a professor at Columbia University. Faculty members often include a mix of medical professionals, writers, and scholars who contribute to the program's interdisciplinary approach.

Unique Facilities and Partnerships

Columbia University offers access to state-of-the-art medical facilities and libraries, as well as partnerships with leading hospitals and healthcare institutions in New York City. The program also benefits from connections with literary and cultural organizations, providing students with unique opportunities to engage in narrative projects and community outreach.