The Master of Science in Bioethics is a one and a half year full time program designed for students seeking advanced knowledge in ethical decision making, biomedical research, and healthcare policy. The curriculum integrates bioethical theory, clinical ethics, research ethics, and applied analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of how ethical principles guide decision making in medicine, biotechnology, and public health. Through this program, students develop ethical reasoning skills, clinical decision making expertise, policy analysis competencies, and research ethics knowledge, preparing them to navigate complex moral challenges in healthcare, research, and science policy contexts.
This on campus program provides a collaborative, discussion based learning environment where lectures, seminars, case studies, and applied projects enable students to apply ethical frameworks to real world biomedical and healthcare scenarios. Students refine clinical ethics consultation, research protocol evaluation, policy recommendation development, and bioethical analysis through interactive exercises and independent research projects. Graduates are prepared to work in healthcare institutions, research ethics boards, policy organizations, academic settings, and biotechnology firms, equipping them to provide ethical guidance, evaluate research practices, and contribute to responsible decision making in clinical and scientific environments.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Bioethics
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1,5 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 March 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Biology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Bioethics
• Introduction to Bioethical Theory
• Clinical Ethics and Decision Making
• Research Ethics and Regulatory Compliance
• Methods in Bioethical Analysis
Semester 2 – Applied Bioethics and Policy
• Ethical Issues in Biotechnology
• Public Health Ethics and Policy
• Seminar in Bioethics Practice
• Applied Project in Ethical Decision Making
Semester 3 – Advanced Research and Implementation
• Capstone Project in Bioethics
• Ethical Leadership in Healthcare and Research
• Policy Analysis and Ethical Recommendations
• Elective Modules in Medical, Research, or Environmental Ethics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in healthcare ethics, research ethics boards, policy advisory roles, academic teaching, and biotechnology consulting. Career paths include clinical ethics consultant, research ethics advisor, policy analyst in healthcare, bioethics researcher, and academic instructor in ethics. Graduates are equipped to evaluate ethical challenges, develop policy recommendations, guide research practices, and provide ethical consultation in healthcare, research, and science organizations. The program also prepares learners for leadership and advisory roles in ethics committees, academic institutions, and policy teams, enabling them to promote ethical practices, ensure compliance with regulations, and influence responsible decision making across diverse sectors.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it combines bioethical theory, applied clinical ethics, policy analysis, and research ethics expertise within a one and a half year intensive framework. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, critical thinking, and ethical leadership, allowing learners to acquire skills necessary for addressing complex moral dilemmas in medicine, research, and public health. Graduates gain the knowledge, confidence, and competencies to pursue careers in healthcare ethics, research oversight, policy advisory, and academic teaching while contributing meaningfully to ethical decision making, compliance, and responsible innovation in biomedical and scientific contexts.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
