Overview of London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is a renowned public research university founded in 1899, located in London, United Kingdom. LSHTM is globally recognized as a specialist institution within the University of London, with a singular focus on public and global health. The School has one main campus in Bloomsbury, central London, and a second research unit in The Gambia. With over 5,000 students from more than 150 countries and a staff cohort exceeding 1,300, LSHTM serves as a hub for both innovative research and advanced professional training in health sciences.
Academic Strengths and Structure
LSHTM is a global leader in epidemiology, infectious disease research, tropical medicine, public health, and global health policy. Its multidisciplinary approach integrates research, education, and practical application across its three academic faculties: Epidemiology and Population Health, Infectious and Tropical Diseases, and Public Health and Policy. The School offers a range of graduate programs, including on-campus and distance learning master’s degrees, doctoral research, and professional short courses. LSHTM consistently ranks among the world’s top institutions for public health, placing #3 globally in the 2024 QS World University Rankings for this subject. Research at LSHTM has had profound impact through major partnerships with organizations such as the World Health Organization, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and numerous academic consortia worldwide.
Student Life and Community
Students at LSHTM benefit from a vibrant, internationally diverse community and a welcoming, collaborative ethos. The School hosts numerous student-led societies, professional networks, and special interest groups, often fostering cross-cultural exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue. Support services are robust, including dedicated mentoring, mental health resources, and academic assistance. While LSHTM does not have extensive in-house sports facilities or accommodation, students access University of London housing, sports clubs, and libraries. Events such as research seminars, global health debates, and cultural celebrations create a dynamic environment, promoting both professional development and community engagement for students from all backgrounds.
Mission, Vision, and Values
LSHTM’s mission is to improve health and health equity worldwide through cutting-edge research, education, and knowledge translation. The School is committed to advancing innovation, evidence-based policy, and sustainable solutions while embracing diversity, social responsibility, and global citizenship.
