*** We are currently not accepting applications for the Fall 2023-24 academic cycle.   Please stay tuned for more updates ***

Frequently asked questions about the MHSc in Bioethics

Have questions? That’s good…asking questions is critical to understanding bioethics, and bioethics programs! Here are some of the most frequent questions that we are asked by applicants like yourself. Check through this list first, and if you don’t find your answer then get in touch with Terry Yuen, MHSc program administrator, at jcb.education@utoronto.ca. He’ll be happy to help put you in the right direction.

Is the program full-time or part-time?

The MHSc in Bioethics is a full-time program. If you try to register under "part-time" on the application page you will not be given a start date, so make sure to pick “full-time” when applying.

Do I need to have a minimum of 3 years work experience?

Work experience (including volunteer experience) is evaluated by the admission review group on a case-by-case basis. Normally, the equivalent of 3 years of professional full-time work is required. If you’re not sure if your work experience will be adequate for your application to be considered, then get in touch. The application review group is generally looking for people with a clear interest in bioethics (your letter of intent is an important part of this), and ideally you’ll have an "institutional home".

Is the program offered online?

Normally, we do not offer a distance-learning option, but with U of T COVID-19 protocols in place we have taken all of our courses online. This may change in the future, depending on university guidance, and this page will be updated when changes go into effect. We believe that you’ll get the most out of face-to-face interactions with your professors and fellow students. The connections you’ll make will often last a lifetime.

How simple will it be for my referees to submit their references?

Very simple! All the references that you’ve listed in your SGS application will receive an email with a link directing them to an online submission page, so a paper copy is not required. We do require an institutional email address for each reference when you submit your application online in order for them to receive the request. Let your referee know in advance that their reference for your application must be submitted within two weeks of the date on the original email request we send to them. If your referees have questions about the process, they can send an email to Terry Yuen, program administrator, at jcb.education@utoronto.ca.

Can I submit a published paper as my writing sample?

Unfortunately, no. We request that you submit a writing sample, in English, that demonstrates your own analytical and argumentative skills, preferably in bioethics. Your writing sample must be an unpublished, sole-authored paper of at least 750 words, double-spaced.

What transcripts are required?

You will need to upload electronic versions of transcripts from your undergraduate degree and any subsequent graduate degrees granted and any degrees in progress, and your grades must be included. Please submit it as a PDF document on which your courses and grades are clear. Official transcripts are subsequently required only if you are offered admission to the MHSc in Bioethics. Please note: A photo of the transcript is not eligible.

What is considered an official transcript?

Official transcripts are hard copies of your final marks and confirmation that you’ve received your degree. They are sent directly to the Graduate Office from your previous degree-granting institution(s). They are only considered official if stamped by the institution and received in an institutional envelope with a signed seal.

Where do I send my official transcripts?

You will not need to send your official transcripts until you receive an acceptance letter into the program. Official transcripts will be requested by the Graduate Office if you are accepted into the program. They must be mailed directly to the Graduate Office in a sealed envelope from your previous degree-granting institution(s). Details will be provided.

Should I submit all my electronic transcripts and required documents in one step, or can they be uploaded individually?

You are encouraged to upload all transcripts and required documents as they are completed or become available to you. You don’t have to wait until you have all your documents in hand to start your application and begin uploading them. Please allow plenty of time in completing your application. Our program administrator reviews the applications, including the uploaded supporting documents, and will notify you if there are any problems with the files, so it helps if you’ve left time for any re-uploads if needed.

How do I "submit" my application?

The School of Graduate Studies does not have a "submit" button on the applications. Following the application deadline, your application will be checked to ensure that you have submitted all the required documents (outstanding letters of reference are exceptions). Once all your documents have been received, you will receive an email from Terry Yuen, program administrator, confirming the receipt of your application. If all the uploaded documents are in order your application will be marked "Under Review" by the JCB and will be sent to the reviewing committee.