Bioethics M.A.
Download as PDF
Program description
Admissions for the Bioethics MA Program are currently on hold. Please contact bthxed@umn.edu for updates.
The Center for Bioethics offers two kinds of MA degrees: Plan A and Plan B with a major in bioethics. The curriculum for both Plan A and Plan B degrees includes a set of required core courses, bioethics electives, and a requirement for coursework in fields related to bioethics. The Plan A culminates in a substantial, 10-credit master's thesis. In lieu of a thesis, the Plan B culminates in a 4-credit practicum, a 3-credit capstone project and final exam. Electives comprise the additional 3 credits in the Plan B degree.
Graduates of the MA in bioethics greatly enhance their professional opportunities in the field when they combine their bioethics degree with a terminal graduate or professional degree in another field. Examples of degree combinations can include an MA degree in bioethics with a JD, PhD, MD, nursing, or others. This model of pairing the MA in bioethics with another degree prompts students to acquire a firm disciplinary grounding as well as interdisciplinary bioethics expertise, a practice which best prepares students for the interdisciplinary career options related to bioethics. Some examples of careers include work in the fields of genetics, social work, public health, veterinary science, religious studies, psychology, biology, and philosophy.
The Center for Bioethics offers two kinds of MA degrees: Plan A and Plan B with a major in bioethics. The curriculum for both Plan A and Plan B degrees includes a set of required core courses, bioethics electives, and a requirement for coursework in fields related to bioethics. The Plan A culminates in a substantial, 10-credit master's thesis. In lieu of a thesis, the Plan B culminates in a 4-credit practicum, a 3-credit capstone project and final exam. Electives comprise the additional 3 credits in the Plan B degree.
Graduates of the MA in bioethics greatly enhance their professional opportunities in the field when they combine their bioethics degree with a terminal graduate or professional degree in another field. Examples of degree combinations can include an MA degree in bioethics with a JD, PhD, MD, nursing, or others. This model of pairing the MA in bioethics with another degree prompts students to acquire a firm disciplinary grounding as well as interdisciplinary bioethics expertise, a practice which best prepares students for the interdisciplinary career options related to bioethics. Some examples of careers include work in the fields of genetics, social work, public health, veterinary science, religious studies, psychology, biology, and philosophy.
Program last updated
Fall 2025