Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

This master’s combines core themes from health professions education, clinical ethics and the humanities to give students conceptual, pedagogical and practical tools for work in health care and academic settings. Coursework typically covers topics such as educational theory and curriculum design for adult learners; assessment and programme evaluation; interprofessional education and collaborative practice; foundations of clinical ethics and ethical decision-making; narrative medicine, history of medicine and the role of the humanities in clinical practice; and qualitative and mixed-methods approaches to educational and humanities research.

Programme learning activities usually include seminar-style discussion, case-based learning, reflective writing, and an applied project or capstone that asks students to design, implement or evaluate an educational, ethical or humanities-informed intervention in a clinical or educational setting. Students can expect to engage with contemporary scholarship on teaching and learning in health professions, as well as practical skill development in feedback, assessment instruments, and facilitation of reflective practice.

Entry requirements

• A completed undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, typically a bachelor’s in a health-related field, humanities, social science or education. Applicants with substantial professional experience in health care may also be considered.
• A record of academic or professional achievement; many applicants hold licensure or practice experience in clinical fields (nursing, medicine, allied health, social work, etc.), though this is not universally required.
• Materials commonly requested include a personal statement outlining professional goals and interest in health professions education and humanities, a current CV or résumé, and contact details for academic or professional references. Some applicants may be invited to an interview as part of the selection process.
• International applicants should review the university’s requirements for proof of English language proficiency and credential evaluation where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of this programme are prepared for roles that bridge clinical practice, education and ethics. Typical career paths include clinical educator or faculty positions in schools of medicine, nursing and allied health; curriculum developer or educational specialist within hospitals and health systems; members or leaders of clinical ethics committees; coordinators of interprofessional education; and positions in medical humanities programming, patient-centred care initiatives or continuing professional development.

Many alumni also use the degree as a foundation for further research or doctoral study in health professions education, bioethics, medical humanities or related fields. The applied nature of the capstone/work-based project supports immediate transfer of learning into workplace improvements and teaching practice.

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

• Interdisciplinary focus: The programme brings together educators, ethicists and humanities scholars to address the complex human dimensions of health care and learning.
• Applied orientation: Emphasis on practicum and capstone projects helps students develop work-ready skills in curriculum design, assessment and ethical consultation.
• Regional clinical links: EMU’s proximity to a wide range of hospitals, clinics and community health organisations provides opportunities for applied placements and collaborative projects.
• Supportive learning environment: Students benefit from small cohort sizes, mentorship from faculty with expertise in education and ethics, and access to university resources such as the library and writing support services.
• Pathways to professional growth: The degree is structured to support both practising clinicians seeking to formalise educational expertise and humanities-trained students aiming to apply their skills in health contexts.