Program Overview
The Philosophy and Bioethics, Ph.D. program at Saint Louis University provides students with in-depth knowledge in both bioethics and philosophy. Graduates are equipped to formulate original philosophical arguments, apply philosophical concepts to ethical issues in healthcare, and conduct independent research that contributes to both fields. The program consists of 66 credits, including coursework in healthcare ethics, philosophy, and research tools, as well as a clinical practicum and a dissertation. Graduates are qualified for careers in academia, ethics in healthcare institutions, and other related fields.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Philosophy and Bioethics, Ph.D. program at Saint Louis University is designed for students interested in both bioethics and philosophy who wish to write a dissertation on bioethics from a philosophical perspective. This program offers a single degree: a Ph.D. in philosophy and bioethics.
Objectives:
Graduates of this program will be able to:
- Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of foundational philosophical theories and methodologies, historical and contemporary, that inform scholarly analysis of issues in bioethics.
- Demonstrate proficiency in formulating original normative philosophical arguments.
- Demonstrate proficiency in combining philosophical theories, concepts or methodologies with those of other disciplines in order to address practical ethical issues that arise in health care contexts.
- Demonstrate the ability to conceptualize, develop and bring to successful completion an original, sustained and coherent independent research project that contributes to both the fields of philosophy and bioethics.
Program Description:
The program consists of 66 credits: 24 credits in health care ethics, 30 credits in philosophy, and 12 dissertation research hours. Pre-comprehensive exam coursework can usually be completed in three years (9 credit hours each fall and spring). Non-coursework requirements include three research tools requirements in library database skills, medical terminology, statistics and study design, and written and oral comprehensive exams. All joint Ph.D. students take a three-semester, 150-hour clinical practicum to gain experience working in a clinical setting. In addition to these fieldwork opportunities, most Ph.D. students graduate with two or more publications.
Assessment:
- Comprehensive Exams: Students must pass written and oral comprehensive exams.
- Dissertation Research: Students must complete a dissertation that contributes to both the fields of philosophy and bioethics.
Careers:
Graduates of this program are highly qualified candidates for:
- Academic jobs in philosophy departments or bioethics centers.
- Administrative jobs in ethics in health care institutions.
Other:
- Continuation Standards: Students must maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.50 in all graduate/professional courses.
- Roadmap: A recommended semester-by-semester plan of study is provided, assuming full-time enrollment.
Saint Louis University
Overview:
Saint Louis University (SLU) is a Jesuit Catholic university with a rich history spanning over 200 years. It is known for its commitment to academic excellence, student-centered approach, and research-driven environment. SLU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, health sciences, law, medicine, nursing, and more.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
SLU provides a vibrant and supportive campus community with a strong emphasis on student involvement. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including athletics, service learning, and cultural events. The university also offers resources for student well-being, such as counseling services and wellness programs.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
SLU is recognized for its high-quality academic programs and dedicated faculty.Experiential Learning:
The university emphasizes hands-on learning through internships, research opportunities, and study abroad programs.Supportive Community:
SLU fosters a welcoming and inclusive environment where students can connect with peers, faculty, and staff.Billiken Promise:
This program offers admitted undergraduate students a range of benefits, including virtual internships, guaranteed study abroad opportunities, and flexible scholarships.Academic Programs:
SLU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate:
94 bachelor's degree programsGraduate:
88 master's degree programsProfessional:
Programs in law, medicine, and other fieldsThe university is particularly known for its strengths in the following areas:
Health Sciences:
Medicine, Nursing, Public Health, and other related fieldsBusiness:
Finance, Marketing, Management, and EntrepreneurshipLaw:
Legal studies and practiceArts and Sciences:
Humanities, Social Sciences, and Natural SciencesOther:
SLU has a beautiful residential campus located in Midtown St. Louis, Missouri. The university also has a campus in Madrid, Spain, offering study abroad opportunities for students.
Entry Requirements:
- Transcripts: Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
- Letters of Recommendation: Three letters of recommendation are required.
- GRE Scores: Applicants must submit GRE scores.
- CV/Resume: A current CV or resume is required.
- Writing Sample: Applicants must submit a writing sample.
- Professional Goals Statement: A statement outlining the applicant's professional goals is required.
