For 425 years, the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow has existed to improve people’s lives through medical improvement and innovation. From the streets of medieval Glasgow to an international community of over 15,000 Members, we’re inspiring healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering the best patient care.
As a Royal College, we work tirelessly to develop education, deliver exams 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-centred College.
Together, we’re a force for good.
What we stand for
Our vision
We want to build an international community of Fellows and Members who are leaders in the development of skills and knowledge that influence and improve global healthcare standards.
Our mission
To give our Fellows and Members a platform to achieve their full potential as healthcare professionals. A real voice to influence and inspire change in the world.
Our 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.
Our regulations and byelaws
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.
Read more about our governance:
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 people and communities
Our President
Professor Hany Eteiba has been a Member of the College Council for over 20 years. He took up office in 2024.
Trustees and Council
College Trustees have a legal duty to ensure the College is run appropriately. They report to the Council.
Our communties and networks
To deliver our vision and mission across healthcare we engage with Members across the College.
Speaking up for the profession
Workforce
Wellbeing
Inclusivity
Climate change and sustainability
Global health
Health inequalities
Part of our role as a Royal College is to stand up for medical professionals. That representation has been a key part of our ethos since we were founded 425 years ago.
We regularly lobby the Scottish, UK and other governments to drive them to improve patient care and deliver key wellbeing and educational support for clinicians. Additionally, we actively respond to consultations and ensure our Members’ voices are heard when governments are considering legislation.
As the UK's only multidisplinary Royal College, we bring together medical professional from different backgrounds to work constructively to improve patient care.
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.
HOPE Foundation
Together, we’re a force for good. The HOPE Foundation supports the College’s philanthropic projects in Malawi through innovation and shared learning.
Help us make a real difference.