LRCP Edin 1864; LFPS Glas 1864.
Knowles, originally from Brompton near Chesterfield, studied medicine at Pine Street Medical School in Manchester, and also at St Andrew's and Glasgow Universities. Knowles held resident positions at hospitals for children in Birmingham and was assistant surgeon to the Lock Hospital, Glasgow, before settling in general practice in Salford, later being appointed medical officer of health for Barton-upon-Irwell.