Freestanding Master of Arts Program

Our program emphasizes the interdisciplinary study of bioethics through the humanities and the values-oriented social sciences. The goal of the program is a rigorous master's level education in the legal, historical, philosophical, and cultural contexts of medicine. Graduates will be able to use their multidisciplinary understanding of medicine in their teaching, advising, and ethical decision making.

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Curriculum

Our curriculum consists of eight courses, a tutorial, and an MA thesis. Below is a graphical representation of the curriculum, as it is commonly taken. Each box counts as one unit. Click on a course's title for its description. Another option is to pursue both year's courses simultaneously, allowing you to complete the program in one year.

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Admissions

A Master of Arts degree is not considered a terminal degree in this field, we therefore advise that applicants have a professional degree, for example an MD, an RN, or a JD. If you do not have a professional degree, please contact MA program coordinator Bryan Morrison.

The application is online and can be found on The Graduate School website. In addition to the application and application fee, applicants must provide original transcripts of post-secondary schools coursework, letters of recommendation from two faculty members or employers who can address the applicant's interest in medical humanities and bioethics and ability to do graduate level work, and a one-page statement of purpose describing why the applicant seeks an MA in Medical Humanities and Bioethics. You may also submit a writing sample; this is optional. The GRE is not required but may bolster your application.

If English is not your native language, you must provide official scores from the TOEFL or IELTS standardized test that fulfill the requirements defined by The Graduate School. You are exempt from this requirement if you have previously completed a degree from an accredited institution where the primary language of instruction is English. This will be verified by your transcripts.

Applications and all supplemental materials must be received by the application deadline—see below.

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Tuition

Tuition is set anually by The Graduate School. The 2008-2009 tuition is $4,361 per course (more on tuition). Annual increases in tuition charges are to be expected. Our program provides some financial aid depending on need as determined by the FAFSA. You must submit a FAFSA to receive aid through the program. Financial aid in the form of loans is available to part-time students who enroll in at least two courses per quarter (more about loans). Some students receive tuition reimbursement through their employers; employed students should check with their employers about the availability of tuition benefits. Faculty and staff at Northwestern University may be eligible for tuition assistance.

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Contact

If after reading this you have any questions, please contact Graduate Program Coordinator Bryan Morrison.