FAQs

The programs are designed to cover similar subject matter, but at a different level of depth.  Please see the following table for a summary: 

No, distance and online courses are not available at this time.

Our program, which consists of 20 credits plus thesis, is designed for students to complete in two years.  However, with transfer credits (approved by the Director of Graduate Studies) it is possible to shorten the program.  

Up to 40% of coursework credits (total of 9 credits) may transfer from another program.  Transfer credits must be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies.  Credits from our certificate program may be applied to the MA, with approval.

Yes. Many, but not all, of our courses are offered in late afternoons to accommodate professional and career students.  The maximum time to degree completion is 5 years. 

Our Bioethics Core Faculty has pursued a variety of research paths. Please visit our faculty website to see what areas are of the greatest interest to you.

Questions may be emailed to our program representatives at [email protected]. The Center for Bioethics Director of Graduate Studies is available to discuss the program in more detail via appointment.  Appointments can be made by email at [email protected] 

Our graduates pursue a wide variety of careers, often relating to bioethics combined with their primary course of study. (MD, JD, DDS, DVM, MPH etc…) Please see our website’s alumni spotlights for career path examples.

Yes, several of our graduates have continued on to other graduate school experiences after MA graduation. Graduate admissions advising is offered by our office to help students navigate the continuing admissions process. For students who wish to pursue the pre-medical or pre-law route, MCAT or LSAT scores are preferred to GRE scores in the application.

A course taken for graduate credit that was not completed as part of an undergraduate degree can be applied to your Bioethics MA if approved by our Director of Graduate Studies.

General information about the application can be found on the Graduate School’s website: grad.umn.edu

No. MCAT, LSAT, and other professional test scores may be uploaded to your application under “Program Supplementary Information, Other Credentials” in lieu of GRE scores. 

No subject test is needed.  The UMN general GRE code is 6874 (no department code). 

The recommended minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA for applicants is 3.0.  We also recommend that students score above 70% on both the quantitative and verbal sections of the GRE to be competitive applicants.  Applicants with lower scores will be considered. Students scoring less than 50% on any one section on the GRE are encouraged to retake the exam before applying.  

Students may apply to the program following completion of their bachelor’s degree, preferably in a related field, with a plan to pair the degree with an advanced degree.  Please state your plan clearly in your personal statement. 

June 1 is our application closing date each year for enrollment the following fall semester. Applications will be accepted beginning the first day of fall semester each year, and are reviewed on a rolling basis. Preference will be given to early applicants.

No, the Bioethics MA program admits students only for matriculation in fall semester. 

We practice rolling admissions. Depending on the time of year that you apply, our application review process may take from 1-3 months from the time of your application completion (all materials received).  

No, these are optional.  However, the diversity essay is recommended, as we find it often gives our admissions committee a fuller picture of you as an applicant and can help you stand out in the crowd.  We actively recruit for diversity on many levels. The extenuating circumstances essay should be used to explain any gaps or inconsistencies in your academic record or performance that you feel is not reflective of your ability. 

We do not waive, reduce or refund application fees.  If you have extreme hardship circumstances, please contact the graduate school admissions office for more information. 

Yes, if you are adding a new program or changing to a different program, you must start a new application. Refer to Change of Status details on the Graduate School's website.

Yes, according to the Administrative Policy  for the scholarship.

Yes, we do have opportunities for financial aid and assistantships. Every effort is made to provide financial support to accepted students who have applied for funding; however it is not guaranteed, so students should not base their decisions to enroll upon this potential. http://www.grad.umn.edu/fundingtuition  

Calculate your Cost, Tuition and Fees  on this web link by selecting The Graduate School from the drop down menu.

Information on reciprocity for residents of Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota and Manitoba can be found here, on OneStop.

General financial aid advising and information is available from University Financial Aid.