Ethics studies introduce students to the examination of morality. It is a branch of philosophy that seeks to answer the basic question: “What should I do in this situation, all things considered?” The field of ethics is also one of action. It strives to enable people to act fairly and compassionately in all areas of human life. Ethics deals with critical issues such as euthanasia, in-vitro conception, violence, privacy, human rights, poverty, and environmental sustainability. Applied ethics can make life safer, healthier, and more meaningful.
Three-year program leads to a bachelor of arts in ethics studies with single or combined concentration program includes courses in the history of ethics and in moral theory and serves as the foundation for media ethics, business ethics, biomedical ethics, ethics in sports, ethics for an aging society, religious ethics, and ethics and human sexuality
also available: certificate in ethics studies (for students in other bachelor of arts programs)
Prospects: Christian ministry, law, teaching, clinical or professional ethics in business, government, hospital systems...
Offered in both English and French. See "Études en éthique" on French side of Calendar.
Admission requirements
Ontario secondary schools
- 1 grade 12 4U English
- 5 other grade 12 4U/M courses
See Admissions for other requirements.
General information
The Ethics Studies program is designed to introduce students to the study of morality. The goal is to ensure a balanced encounter with the personal, social, political and legal dimensions of contemporary discussions of moral values and the nature and role of moral judgments.
Students are encouraged to develop skills in moral reasoning. Emphasis is also placed on the role of empathy and imagination in moral understanding and judgment.
This program should be of interest to students who wish to improve their understanding of the nature and role of moral values in today’s world as well as those considering professional careers in health care, social work, teaching, business, law, corrections and police work.
Students may choose to focus their study on either the religious or philosophical dimensions of ethics, or choose courses from both streams of the program. Although an introductory course in philosophy or religious studies is an adequate introduction to the program, it is recommended that students take an introductory course from both departments.
Programs
Course descriptions
See appropriate sections for course descriptions.
| PHIL |
= |
Philosophy |
| RLST |
= |
Religious Studies |
| SREL |
= |
Sciences religieuses |