Naval School of Health Sciences Portsmouth

• Origins: The Naval School of Health Sciences (NSHS) Portsmouth traces its roots to the early 20th century, having evolved from earlier Navy medical training programs established to support U.S. naval operations. • Location: NSHS Portsmouth is located at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, Virginia—the oldest continuously running hospital in the U.S. Navy, established in 1827. • Training Corpsmen: The school’s primary mission has been to train Hospital Corpsmen, one of the most decorated ratings in the U.S. Navy. • Multi-Service Training: Over the years, NSHS Portsmouth has trained not only Navy personnel, but also members of the Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and occasionally allied foreign navies. • Advanced Programs: The school has offered a range of advanced courses, including Dental Technician, Operating Room Technician, Nuclear Medicine, Pharmacy Technician, and more. • Vietnam War Role: During the Vietnam War, many corpsmen trained at NSHS Portsmouth served bravely in combat zones, often saving lives under fire and earning numerous awards for valor. • Women in Medicine: NSHS Portsmouth was among the first to integrate female sailors into its medical training programs, reflecting broader changes in Navy policy. • Accreditation: The programs at NSHS Portsmouth have been accredited by various civilian and military accrediting bodies, ensuring graduates meet high standards of medical proficiency. • Merger and Legacy: In 2005, NSHS Portsmouth was merged into the Medical Education and Training Campus (METC) in San Antonio, Texas, but its legacy continues through thousands of alumni serving worldwide. • Distinguished Alumni: Graduates of NSHS Portsmouth have gone on to serve in every major conflict since World War II, and several have received high honors, including the Medal of Honor and Navy Cross.