What is the typical background of students who apply?

MA students’ backgrounds vary widely. Some students earn another degree (such as medicine) at the same time; some are enrolled in the Duke JD/MA program; some are mid-career professionals returning to school to specialize, alter their career paths, or deepen their skills in this area; and some are undergraduates seeking to increase their knowledge and employment opportunities.

What types of students do you accept?

The MA in Bioethics & Science Policy seeks a diverse student class. Students with different work histories, experiences, academic backgrounds, career goals and perspectives strengthen the student experience and the program in general.

How do I apply?

You apply on-line through the Duke Graduate School. Click here for application requirements. Please also download and complete the MA Supplemental Questions and upload them with your Graduate School application. The questions are also below:

• Describe and analyze an issue or dilemma in bioethics or science policy that you find interesting and challenging. Please limit your response to a maximum of 1200 words.
• What are your career goals, and how do you think this program will help you achieve them? Please limit your response to a maximum of 600 words.
• The MA program offers the opportunity to concentrate in Genomics, Neuroscience, Impact and Public Engagement, or an independent concentration. Please indicate if you have an interest in concentrating and if so, which area you are considering. Your response is not binding and is for planning purposes only.

Click here if you are interested in applying to the joint JD/MA program.

The GRE is not required to apply to the Master of Arts in Bioethics and Science Policy.

We do not require an interview, but we offer a Skype interview upon request. Students applying for scholarships are encouraged to request an interview.

We are committed to making the MA program accessible to all qualified candidates, and Duke offers both merit-based and need-based scholarships. Contact the Graduate School for information about need-based scholarships and loans, and contact our office for more information about scholarships.