All Harvard medical and dental students are members of one of five Academic Societies, also known as learning communities. Established in 1987, the Academic Societies exemplify Harvard’s innovative approach to medical education. They serve as the organizational framework for students’ general medical education and form an integral part of the HMS experience. Each Society has an academic advisory dean, advisory faculty and a program coordinator. Societies are assigned learning suites that include a learning studio, damp lab and small classroom where preclerkship course sessions are held. The Societies organize academic, enrichment and social events for students in order to support their growth from medical students to medical professionals. HMS Pathways students are members of Cannon, Castle, Hinton, or Peabody Society; while HST students are members of London Society.
