Narrative Medicine Graduate Certificate
Students in the Certificate in Narrative Medicine in the Lewis Katz School of Medicine at Temple University use close analysis of literature and nonfiction writing to explore and understand the diverse range of the human experience as it relates to sickness and health. Foundational to the certificate program is the idea that clinical medicine is not divorced from experiences illuminated in literature and the arts. Rather, they are inextricably linked.
Speaking of his experience treating patients with AIDS in the 80s and 90s, physician and author Abraham Verghese writes, “The language of science did not begin to capture this phenomenon. The language of science did not begin to capture the heartache of the family, the tragic voyage of the patient, and my own grief at seeing this again and again.”
Why study narrative medicine at Katz School of Medicine?
Those working in clinical medicine know there are many aspects of the experiences of both patient and caregiver that the language of science fails to capture. With small seminar courses in the preclinical and clinical years followed by a capstone project customized to each student, the immersive Narrative Medicine Certificate program presents creative, dynamic opportunities for careful reflection on the experiences of patients in the broadest sense and on the professional identity of clinical medicine practitioners.
The curriculum emphasizes analyzing fiction and nonfiction writing. Reflective and creative writing assignments improve students’ ability to recognize, interpret and tell patient stories. Students interested in film, visual arts, dance and other creative mediums can also explore these outlets.
The certificate program is open to students at the Lewis Katz School of Medicine who are working toward their MD degree. Courses and assignments have been designed to align with and complement medical school coursework.