COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Bioethics at Monash University requires the completion of 96 credit points and is structured to develop advanced understanding of ethical issues in healthcare, science, research, and public policy. Part A, Core Studies (24 credit points), introduces the foundational principles of bioethics, including major ethical theories, moral reasoning, and key philosophical frameworks used to analyse complex ethical problems. Students develop the ability to critically evaluate ethical arguments and apply structured reasoning to real-world situations. Part B, Applied Studies (24 credit points), focuses on the practical application of bioethical principles in professional and societal contexts. This includes areas such as clinical ethics, research ethics, healthcare decision-making, emerging biomedical technologies, and public health ethics. Students learn how ethical frameworks are used in real institutional and policy environments. Part C, Elective Studies (48 credit points), provides significant flexibility for students to tailor their degree according to their interests and career goals. Electives may include topics related to law, health policy, medical humanities, philosophy, or advanced ethical analysis of specific issues such as genetics, end-of-life care, or artificial intelligence in healthcare. Together, these components prepare graduates for careers in healthcare ethics committees, hospitals, government policy, regulatory bodies, advocacy organisations, and academic research. The program equips students with strong critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and communication skills, enabling them to address complex moral challenges in medicine, science, and society in a thoughtful and responsible manner.