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The College

We’re a global community of healthcare professionals, committed to improving patient care through education, innovation and over 425 years of heritage.

Together in friendship

We’re a global community of over 15,000 Members working together to develop our skills, knowledge and leadership to drive the highest standards in healthcare. 

For 425 years, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow has existed to improve people’s lives through medical improvement and innovation. Today, we’re inspiring healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering the best patient care.

Our values embody the essence of the College motto, conjurat amice, meaning ‘together in friendship’ – an approach that is as relevant today as it was 425 years ago.

As a Royal College, we work tirelessly to develop education, elevate standards through assessment and contribute to the advancement of good health policy.

Although our current Members may not treat the same conditions as we did over four centuries ago, modern medicine presents its own challenges. That is why we always strive to be a forward-looking, people-centered College.

Together, we’re a force for good.

What we stand for 

Our vision

To build an influential global community that enables our Members to develop the skills, knowledge and influence to improve healthcare standards worldwide.

Our mission

We want to enable our members to achieve their full potential as healthcare professionals and give them an influential voice in the world.

Our key values

These live at the heart of everything we do.

Community

By working together, we enable all our members to succeed.

Inclusivity

By welcoming all with care, kindness civility and generosity we build mutual respect.

Innovation

Proactively challenging current thinking and exploring new ideas.

Integrity

Never compromising on our core purpose, our standards or our quality.

Inspiration

Leading by example to redefine best practice and effective change.

Governance

The College was created by Royal Charter on 29 November 1599. The most recent legislation to govern the College is the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow Order Confirmation Act 1962.

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Celebrating 425 years of the College

For over four centuries, we've been at the forefront of medical innovation. Find out more about the impact we've had on healthcare.

Our history

Our people and communities

A portrait of Professor Hany Eteiba

Our President

Professor Hany Eteiba has been a Member of the College Council for over 20 years. He became President in 2024.

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A formal seated portrait of the College trustees

Trustees and Council

College Trustees have a legal duty to ensure the College is run appropriately. Our Council supports the ongoing advancement of our College.

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A member smiling for the camera at an RCPSG event

Communities and networks

To deliver our vision and mission, we engage with Fellows and Members across the College.

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Our heritage

The College was founded by a Royal Charter from James VI in 1599. Our founders set out to regulate and improve the standards of medicine, surgery and pharmacy in Glasgow and the West of Scotland.

Today, the College continues that mission – to improve patient care around the world through education, training and examination. Our heritage collections span over six centuries and are an excellent resource for exploring the history of medicine and the city of Glasgow.

Our heritage

HOPE Foundation

The HOPE Foundation supports the College’s philanthropic projects in Malawi through innovation and shared learning. Help us make a real difference.

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Join our community

Join us today! Explore memberships

Grow your career

Develop your clinical and non-clinical skills through exclusive courses, events and global networking opportunities. 

Unlock benefits

Get access to exclusive membership benefits, including discounts on courses, conferences, exams, scholarships and support.

Join a global community

Connect with like-minded professionals committed to advancing and shaping the future of healthcare.