Interprofessional graduate school: Apply now and shape the future!

Interprofessional graduate school: Apply now and shape the future!

The University of Witten/Herdecke (UW/H) will start the new cohort of its Interprofessional Graduate College for Integrative Medicine and Health Sciences (IGIM) in September 2025. This program aims to improve the scientific training of future researchers in integrative medicine. The fifth year begins with a mandatory introductory seminar, which will take place on September 26th and 27th, 2025. Applications are open until August 31st, and participation is free once accepted uni-wh.de reported.

The IGIM promotes exchange between different disciplines and forms a platform for doctoral supervisors and doctoral students. The participants come from areas such as medicine, psychology, health professions and natural sciences. Interdisciplinary exchange is particularly valued because it generates new perspectives and ideas. All participants receive individual support that supports and accompanies them in their projects.

Program content and colloquia

The program includes regular colloquia that take place three weekends a year at the UW/H. The topics of these colloquia cover important areas such as literature research, academic writing, qualitative research and philosophy of science. In addition, various offers such as writing workshops, research workshops and individual consultation hours are provided to promote the development of the participants.

Previous research within the IGIM has produced interesting topics, including the effectiveness of Kneipp therapy for high blood pressure and the use of music therapy for children with cancer. Such a diversity of research approaches is fostered by the interprofessional collaboration that has been the focus of health care for three decades. This collaboration leads to an improvement in patient safety and quality of care, which is essential in today's healthcare landscape society-medical-training.org highlights.

Interprofessional training

Interprofessional education, consisting of interprofessional teaching (IPE) and interprofessional learning (IPL), aims to expand the professional skills of aspiring health professionals. Through IPE this happens informally and through exchange, while IPL focuses on didactic concepts. These are crucial in preparing students to work in a cross-professional environment.

The Committee on Interprofessional Education (AIA) plays a central role in ensuring the quality of interprofessional education. He has founded several working groups, each focusing on different aspects of interprofessional education. The results of these groups are regularly discussed to determine next steps and developments in training, highlighting the relevance of interdisciplinary approaches in healthcare.

In addition, the IGIM offers an alumni network that provides valuable contacts and suggestions for alumni. Interested and future students have the opportunity to take part in a digital information event on August 6, 2025 to find out more about the program and the application process.