The Programme
The Programme
A MSc designed for scientists who want to understand disease through the lens of evolution.
At a Glance
Degree Awarded
MSc in Evolutionary Medicine
Language
English
Duration
3 semesters (1.5 years)
Study Mode
100% Online · Distance Learning
Credits
90 ECTS
Tuition Fees
4,500€
Programme description
The MSc in Evolutionary Medicine is a postgraduate programme focused on the biological and evolutionary foundations of health and disease. Delivered in English through distance learning, it provides advanced, research-led training that combines evolutionary biology, medicine, anthropology, and population health.
The programme examines how evolutionary history, environmental pressures, lifestyle change, and human adaptation shape both vulnerability and resilience in human health. It offers students the theoretical background and methodological training to interpret health patterns across past and present populations.
Aim
The purpose of the programme is to provide postgraduate education in the major scientific questions, theoretical concepts, and research developments in Evolutionary Medicine. It aims to equip graduates with a broad understanding of the field, together with strong methodological training and a clear understanding of good research practice in both academic and applied contexts.
Learning outcomes
- understand and apply the principles of evolutionary medicine to the interpretation of human health and disease.
- analyze the relationships between biological evolution, the environment, cultural practices, and morbidity.
- evaluate issues of human adaptation, host-pathogen co-evolution, and genetic diversity.
- use research and analytical methods from evolutionary medicine, biological anthropology, bioarchaeology, and genetics.
- communicate scientific findings clearly and with academic rigor in English.
- conduct independent research in accordance with the principles of scientific methodology, academic ethics and professional good practice.
- communicate complex ideas and findings clearly to specialist and non-specialist audiences
Programme Structure & Courses
The MSc in Evolutionary Medicine is a 90 ECTS programme extending over three academic semesters. During the first two semesters, students complete four courses in each semester. The third semester is devoted to independent research and the preparation of the Master’s thesis.
Foundations of evolutionary thinking applied to human biology and health.
1. Introduction to Evolutionary Medicine
Introduces the core concepts, questions, and theoretical foundations of Evolutionary Medicine. The course examines how evolutionary thinking contributes to the interpretation of health, disease, adaptation, and human biological variation.
2. Human Evolution and Skeletal Adaptation
Examines major stages in human evolution and the emergence of biological variation in past and present populations. Particular emphasis is placed on how evolutionary processes shaped the human body and influenced health-related traits.
3. Bioarchaeology of Health and Disease
Explores how bioarchaeological evidence is used to the study of health, disease, lifestyle, and population history. The course introduces the analysis of human skeletal remains as a source for understanding long-term biological and social processes.
4. Methods in Research & Data Management
Provides training in research design, critical appraisal, data management, and responsible scientific practice. The course supports the development of analytical skills necessary for interdisciplinary research in Evolutionary Medicine.
Advanced topics at the intersection of evolution, genetics, and global health.
5. Human Adaptation and Mismatches in Modern Health
Focuses on the ways human populations have adapted biologically to different ecological, climatic, and social conditions and how evolutionary processes relate to present-day health.
6. Advances in Ancient DNA
Examines humans-pathogen interactons over time, using evolutionary theory, palaeogenetics, and biomolecular evidence to explore disease patterns and biological responses.
7. Evolution of Medicine
Explores the historical development of medical thought and practice in relation to changing understandings of the human body, disease, and treatment within wider scientific, cultural, and social contexts.
8. Evolutionary and Cultural Perspectives in Global Healthcare
Examines how cultural practices, belief systems, social behaviour, and lived environments influence disease risks. The course highlights the value of integrating biological and cultural perspectives in the study of human health.
Independent research under the supervision of expert faculty from both partner institutions.
The third semester is dedicated to independent research and the writing of the Master’s Thesis.
Under academic supervision, students develop a focused research project applying the theoretical, methodological, and analytical skills acquired throughout the programme.
Regulations
This section provides access to the principal documents governing the structure, operation, and quality assurance of the MSc in Evolutionary Medicine.