PhD in Health Care Ethics & MA in Theology (Dual Degree) (Aquinas Institute of Theology), Saint Louis University

St. Louis, Missouri

36 Months

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About this course

This dual degree program at Saint Louis University is designed for students interested in integrating health care ethics with theology. Students typically start with a Master of Arts in Theology at Aquinas Institute of Theology, completing 30 credits in areas like biblical studies, historical studies, systematic theology, and moral theology. In the second year, students move into the Ph.D. program in health care ethics at SLU, where they follow a curriculum suited for students with master’s degrees. The program combines coursework, research, and practical training, including clinical shadowing and ethical practicums, culminating in comprehensive exams and dissertation research. Graduates will gain a broad knowledge of foundational disciplines, develop skills in normative reasoning, and be equipped to analyze and address complex ethical issues in health care settings from interdisciplinary perspectives.

Why this course is highly recommended

This dual degree is perfect for students aiming to lead in health care ethics, whether in academic, clinical, or policy roles. It provides rigorous training in ethical analysis rooted in Catholic tradition while fostering interdisciplinary, practical, and research skills. The program also offers an accelerated pathway to combine theological insights with health care expertise, making graduates competitive for academic, leadership, and clinical positions in the rapidly evolving health care landscape.

Specialisation

The program specialises in health care ethics with a strong theological foundation. It emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches by integrating methods from religious ethics, Catholic tradition, and clinical ethics. Students also have options to deepen their understanding with courses in Christian anthropology, justice and social teaching, and law, tailoring their expertise to real-life health care contexts while engaging with Catholic and broader ethical principles.

Course fees

Application fees

1st year tuition fees

Living cost

Degree requirements

Students must complete coursework in biblical, historical, systematic, and moral theology as part of the M.A. from Aquinas Institute of Theology. For the Ph.D., students must fulfill research, coursework, comprehensive exams, and dissertation requirements. Specific courses like Methods in Religious and Philosophical Ethics, Health Care Ethics: Catholic Tradition, and Practicum are required, along with electives approved by faculty. The program culminates in both an M.A. and Ph.D., with opportunities for dual credit recognition.

English language test

DUOLINGO

IELTS

6.5

TOEFL

PTE

Career prospects

Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for careers in academic research, healthcare policy, clinical ethics consultation, or leadership in faith-based and secular healthcare organizations. The program’s interdisciplinary approach and focus on ethical reasoning equip students to contribute to ethical decision-making in hospitals, research institutions, public health agencies, and faith communities, among other settings.

FAQs

What is the structure of the dual degree program?

Students start with 30 credits in theology at Aquinas Institute of Theology in the first year. In the second year, they transition into the Ph.D. program at SLU, with some credits from the Ph.D. coursework counting toward the M.A. from Aquinas. The third and fourth years focus on advanced coursework, research, exams, and dissertation work for the Ph.D.

Are there funding opportunities?

Yes, during the second year, dual-degree students become eligible for assistantship funding, which supports their research and studies.