Diploma in the History of Medicine
The next DHMSA examinations will take place on the dates below:
TBC - Application closing date
Friday 13 March 2026 - Submission date for abstracts for Dissertation and Test Lecture
Friday 19 June 2026 - Deadline for Dissertation submission
Monday 6 - Monday 13 July 2026 - Open Book Essay
Friday 24 July 2026 - Test Lecture via Zoom and Examiners in person
Entry Fee: £975.00
Resit Fees: Open Book Essay £325 / Dissertation £325 / Test Lecture £325
Established 1970
The Diploma in the History of Medicine (DHMSA) was instituted by the Society of Apothecaries in 1970. The Diploma is intended to indicate familiarity with medical and healthcare practice from ancient to modern times and understanding of relevant methods of enquiry. It demonstrates the ability to identify, access, evaluate and share historic material; skills which are assessed through completing a dissertation and presenting a lecture to a specific audience.
Examination documentation
Guide to the Diploma in the History of Medicine (Incorporating the Regulations)
Administrative Guidance for Candidates (including the examination timetable, fees and deadlines)
Policy for Special Examination Arrangements
Standard Setting Procedures for Diploma Examinations
List of successful dissertation titles 2022-2012
DHMSA Application Forms
Please contact academicadmin@apothecaries.org should you require Form Q to apply for Reasonable Adjustments to be made to your examination. A report from an Educational Assessor must be provided.
Application for entry to the 2025 DHMSA examination is now open
Please select the Shop >Centre for Health Studies Shop above, click into the exams area, choose the DHMSA payment option, select the exam entry you require. On checkout, you will be asked to create an account and finish payment. You will then be directed to our online platform Brightspace to complete your application.
Further information regarding exam sittings and closing dates can be found in the Administrative Guidance for Candidates document.
Click here to book your exam.
Academic Policies for Candidates
Examination Review and Appeal Procedure The Society's Review and Appeal Procedure gives information about feedback, review and appeal. Candidates who seek a review or appeal should note that there is a fee payable, the amount of which is given the the relevant Guide to the Diploma, including the Regulations and Syllabus.
Pass Paper
Past Examination Papers - OPEN BOOK WRITTEN PAPER
A booklet of past examination paper is available from the Academic Department at a cost of £20.00. Payment can be made via https://catalogue.apothecaries.org/product?catalog=past_papers and follow payment instructions.
Pass Lists
