Bioethics
Emory University’s Master of Arts in Bioethics is a one-year, full-time graduate program that provides students with a comprehensive understanding of ethical issues in healthcare, biomedical research, and public health. Designed for aspiring professionals and scholars in medicine, law, philosophy, biology, and related fields, the program integrates interdisciplinary coursework with real-world applications, focusing on critical ethical challenges in modern science and clinical practice. Students explore key topics such as informed consent, end-of-life decision-making, genetics, and health equity, all within the context of diverse cultural, legal, and institutional frameworks.
The program is housed within Emory’s renowned Center for Ethics, offering students access to a vibrant intellectual community and opportunities for collaboration with faculty across the university, including those in medicine, public health, theology, and law. Through seminars, case studies, and practicum experiences, students learn to analyze complex moral questions with intellectual rigor and practical sensitivity. The curriculum emphasizes ethical reasoning, communication, and leadership, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to ethical discourse and policy in academic, clinical, and professional settings where responsible decision-making is essential.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Bioethics
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Location: Emory University, United States
- Field of Study: Biology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Bioethics
- Introduction to Bioethics
- Moral Philosophy and Health
- Law and Ethics in Health Care
- Research Ethics and Institutional Review
Semester 2 – Applications and Special Topics
- Clinical Ethics Consultation
- Global Health Ethics
- Ethics of Emerging Biotechnologies
- Capstone Project in Bioethics
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bioethics program are well-prepared for careers in diverse fields where ethical insight and critical thinking are essential. Alumni often pursue roles in hospital ethics committees, research institutions, public health organizations, and nonprofit advocacy groups. Some enter clinical environments as ethics consultants or patient advocates, while others contribute to academic teaching or policy development in health-related sectors. The degree also enhances the qualifications of those applying to medical school, law school, or doctoral programs in the humanities or social sciences. In research settings, graduates are valued for their ability to navigate complex questions of consent, risk, and justice. Whether working in clinical ethics, healthcare policy, or biotechnology, they bring a nuanced understanding of the moral dimensions of science and care, making them vital contributors to institutions that prioritize ethical integrity and human dignity.
Why Choose This Program
Emory’s Bioethics program is ideal for students who want to engage deeply with the ethical challenges of modern medicine and science in a setting that is both intellectually rich and practically grounded. With a curriculum that combines philosophical inquiry and applied ethics, students are prepared to approach real-world dilemmas with clarity and compassion. The program emphasizes collaboration, reflective learning, and interdisciplinary integration, supported by faculty who are leaders in their fields. Emory’s location in Atlanta offers access to key institutions such as the CDC, major healthcare systems, and global research organizations, enhancing both learning and professional development. Whether your goal is to shape health policy, support ethical research, or guide compassionate care, this program provides the foundation to lead with knowledge, integrity, and purpose.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
