Bioethics

As advancements are made in the medical field, doctors are increasingly faced with ethical questions that may cause them to question whether or not a new procedure should be performed – even if it seems beneficial. For example, is euthanasia a moral plan of action for patients who are suffering through unbearable pain? Is stem cell research the best way to develop new cures? Students in the major gain an understanding of the legal issues related to treatment and research. They must have a solid foundation of knowledge related to philosophy and the medical field. Courses are usually related to theology; epidemiology; medical ethics; public health ethics; human biology and disease; contemporary ethics; and medical sociology.

New graduates further their education in medical school or in a graduate program so they can explore careers in medicine, nursing and public health. As medical professionals, they will be more qualified to dictate ethical policies and procedures. They can serve on institutional review boards or institutional ethics committees. Many graduates pursue law-related careers by attaining a joint JD/MA in bioethics so they can attempt to influence legislation by working for policy organizations. Of course, another option is simply to make a career of teaching in academia in bioethics-related fields like philosophy and religious studies.