Students interested in both bioethics and philosophy that wish to write a dissertation on bioethics from a philosophical perspective should consider the joint Ph.D. in Philosophy and Bioethics, offered by the Gnaegi Center for Health Care Ethics and the Department of Philosophy. Unlike a dual degree, this program offers one degree: a Ph.D. in Philosophy and Bioethics.

The Philosophy and Bioethics at Saint Louis University is a PhD program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the university's main campus in Saint Louis , United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 4 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 23, 2027.
About PhD in Philosophy and Bioethics
- Graduates will be able to demonstrate in-depth knowledge of foundational philosophical theories and methodologies, historical and contemporary, that inform scholarly analysis of issues in bioethics.
- Graduates will be able to demonstrate a proficiency in formulating original normative philosophical arguments.
- Graduates will be able to demonstrate a proficiency in combining philosophical theories, concepts, or methodologies with those of other disciplines in order to address practical ethical issues that arise in health care contexts.
- Graduates will be able to demonstrate the ability to conceptualize, develop, and bring to successful completion an original, sustained, and coherent independent research project that contributes to both the fields of philosophy and bioethics.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for PhD in Philosophy and Bioethics at Saint Louis University
Entry Requirements
- Completed application
- Undergraduate degree (most successful applicants have an undergraduate grade point average of 3.0 or better)
- Official transcript from a degree-granting institution
- Statement of purpose (about 500 words)
- Resume or curriculum vitae
- External reference recommendations (encouraged but not required)
Upon admission, a new student must successfully complete a virtual meeting with their academic coach to be enrolled in first term coursework.
• Academic records, in English translation, of students who have undertaken postsecondary studies outside the United States must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.
English Requirements
- PTEMin 54
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 80
Career Opportunities after Completing PhD in Philosophy and Bioethics
Graduates of this program are highly qualified candidates for academic jobs in philosophy departments or bioethics centers, as well as administrative jobs in ethics in health care institutions.
Tuition and Fee Information for PhD in Philosophy and Bioethics at Saint Louis University
How to Apply for PhD in Philosophy and Bioethics at Saint Louis University
Step 1: Accept or decline your admission
If you applied using SLU’s online graduate application, you can notify us about your decision to accept or decline your admission by logging in and clicking on “Manage Your Account.” From there, you can access the decision form.
If you’ve used a third-party, centralized application to apply — such as SOPHAS for public health programs or CASPA for physician administration programs — you’ll need to email us directly at [email protected] with your decision.
Step 2: Set up your SLU Net ID
Follow these step-by-step instructions to set up your SLU Net ID.
Step 3: Log into MySLU
Log into mySLU at auth.slu.edu. Use your SLU Net ID and SLU Net Password, then click "Login." Click on the "Tools" tab to find links to systems, such as Banner Self-Service and other SLU applications and systems.
When logging in for the first time, you will be directed to set up your multi-factor authentication. You will need to log in upon completing that process.
Step 4: Check with your academic department
Contact your department in order to receive enrollment directions, important dates and other information specific to your graduate program. You can also check the University calendar.
Step 5: Read the Saint Louis University Graduate Catalog
Step 6: Submit your immunization and health insurance forms
If you decide to attend SLU, you will need to submit your immunization records and health history. You will also need to submit a health plan enrollment/waiver form.
Step 7: Visit parking and card services to obtain your SLU ID card
You’ll use your SLU ID card to access student services and campus buildings such as the library. Make sure to bring a photo ID, along with a copy of your class schedule.

United States of America, Saint Louis