Stellenbosch University

Overview

The Applied Ethics – Business Ethics (MPhil) program at Stellenbosch University is designed to cultivate advanced research skills and expertise in ethical decision-making within business and organizational environments. This postgraduate course emphasizes the importance of ethical considerations in various aspects of business practices.

What you'll study

The program comprises a blend of rigorous coursework and a comprehensive research thesis. Students will participate in intensive contact sessions at the beginning of each semester to enhance their learning experience.

• Intensive contact sessions: Two intensive sessions at the start of each semester.
• Core/subject modules (examples):
  • Business Ethics
  • Biomedical Ethics
  • Environmental Ethics
  • AI Ethics
• Thesis: A research thesis that constitutes 50% of the final mark.

Note: Module selection may vary based on your chosen area of focus and availability. Guidance will be provided by your supervisor and the department.

Entry requirements

To gain admission to the program, applicants must meet the minimum academic criteria at NQF level 8. Typical pathways for entry include:

• A Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Ethics (or a related field); or
• An Honours degree in Philosophy (or a related field); or
• A qualification deemed equivalent by the Senate; or
• An MBChB or another health sciences qualification, which may allow access to the MPhil (Biomedical Ethics) if it includes adequate ethics-related modules.
• Minimum average: At least 60% for the relevant qualification.

Alternative consideration: Candidates with a degree of four years or more who do not possess a Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Ethics may be considered if they can provide acceptable evidence of training in philosophy and/or ethics.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Applied Ethics – Business Ethics program are well-equipped to pursue various career opportunities across multiple sectors. Potential roles include ethical consultants, corporate social responsibility managers, compliance officers, and academic researchers. The skills gained from this program enable graduates to navigate complex ethical dilemmas and contribute to the development of responsible business practices.