Milestones in Medicine

Dates: January 14 - February 18, 2026
Meets: W from 9:00 AM to 10:30 AM
 Location: Osher Online
Cost:  $75.00

There are still openings remaining at this time.

Date Day Time
01/14/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM
01/21/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM
01/28/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM
02/04/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM
02/11/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM
02/18/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM

Please note: This course program requires membership in a 2025-2026 OLLI at MSU Membership

Description

This program will not be recorded.

Trace key milestones in medicine from the late 18th century to today, beginning with Edward Jenner's pioneering use of the smallpox vaccine. We will explore over two centuries of transformative developments and the remarkable figures behind them-advances that have shaped both clinical care and public health. A special focus will be given to scientific breakthroughs and systemic reforms that have dramatically improved life expectancies and health outcomes over the past 150 years, particularly in advanced economies. Through this lens, we will gain a deeper appreciation for the interplay between medical innovation and societal well-being, as well as how this partnership continues to evolve.

About the Osher Online Program

Osher Online programs are provided to OLLI at MSU from the Osher National Resource Center at Northwestern University. Experience shared online presentations with OLLI members from coast to coast! As part of the Osher Online program, OLLI at MSU members will enjoy national speakers and interact with fellow OLLI members nationwide.

Scholarship

Apply for a needs-based scholarship to take this offering.

Meet the Instructor

Fee:  $75.00

Osher Online

This is a real-time (live) online class that meets at the specified day(s)/time(s) listed.

Gordon Josephson

Gordon Josephson, MD, MPH, is a retired emergency physician and former chief operating officer of Baystate Medical Practices in Springfield, Massachusetts. He holds a Master of Public Health from Harvard University and a medical degree from the State University of New York. Dr. Josephson remains active in the lifelong learning community and currently serves as president of the OLLI Board of Directors.
Date Day Time Location
01/14/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM Osher Online
01/21/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM Osher Online
01/28/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM Osher Online
02/04/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM Osher Online
02/11/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM Osher Online
02/18/2026Wednesday9 AM to 10:30 AM Osher Online