Research Ethics and Empirical Ethics



Overview

This module considers the range of ethical issues associated with the conduct of research on humans and animals, and empirical methods in ethics.

21 June 2027 – 25 June 2027

Programme details

Under the first heading, the module will consider a range of different kinds of research and research methodologies, including medical and social science research and the spread of issues that each of these contexts present.

Specifically it will consider the core set of ethical concepts and principles that are relevant in research ethics and the ethical arguments associated with trade-offs that often must be made between consent, risk of harm to participants, overall scientific benefit and social justice.

The module will then turn to empirical ethics, a growing field of applied ethics research, which seeks to utilise the analysis of empirical data to inform ethical analysis. The development of approaches to empirical ethics is largely driven by a feeling that traditional ‘philosophical’ ethics is too abstract, and too far removed from the lived reality of moral problems, to be useful in the resolution of concrete practical ethical dilemmas.

Empirical ethics seeks to address this perceived weakness by ensuring that ethical analysis is grounded in empirical data. In so doing, it involves directly connecting philosophical enquiry with social scientific analysis in a range of different ways.

The module considers the range of underlying accounts of empirical ethics, and attempts to articulate how these accounts might shape empirical ethics as a distinct discipline. In particular, the module will consider (i) the philosophical justifications for empirical ethics, (ii) the methodologies that follow from such justifications, and (iii) practical methods and research activities adopted by empirical ethicists.

Fees

Description Costs
Short course fee 2025-26 £2700.00
Students enrolled on MSt in Practical Ethics (25-26) £2195.00

Teaching methods

This course consists of an intensive teaching week in Oxford to include lectures, seminars, discussion groups and student presentations.

The teaching week will be fully supported online via a Virtual Learning Environment to include essential readings, texts and online lectures. Students can continue discussions when away from Oxford using the online forums.

Students will also have access to:

  • Oxford's Libraries online learning resources
  • Facilities available at the Department for Continuing Education:
    • Graduate Room with study space, printing facilities, lockers and refreshments
    • Library 
    • Computer resource room
    • Common room and bar
    • Dining room

Assessment methods

Assessment for each module will be based on a written assignment, which shall not be of more than 3,500 words.

This course can be taken with or without academic credit. All participants who satisfy the course requirements will receive a Certificate of Attendance. Those opting to take the course for credit and successfully complete an assignment will also receive 20 CATS points at FHEQ Level 7 (postgraduate). Credit points are recognised by many employers and universities in the UK and internationally.

Application

Applications are being accepted. However you are unlikey to hear back regarding the outcome of your application until next academic year.

This module can be taken as part of the MSt in Practical Ethics, or as a stand-alone short course. 

Short course applications

This course requires you to complete the online application form (please press the 'Apply' button) and include a copy of your CV as an attachment.

If you are applying to take this course for academic you will also need to complete the reference section of the application form, and input the email address of your referee. Upon successfully submitting the application an email will be sent to your referee asking them to provide a reference in support your application for the course.

Please note that if you are not applying to take the course for academic credit then you do not need to submit a reference.

Deadlines

The short course application panel will convene at certain times in the year to assess all short course applications received by that date. These dates are to be finalised, but are likely to be at the end of January, March and August (further dates may become available depending on numbers).

MSt in Practical Ethics applications

Please follow the application guidelines on the MSt in Practical Ethics page.

Selection criteria

  • Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any subject.
  • However, in the absence of an appropriate undergraduate degree, sufficient relevant professional experience and/or other educational attainment may be considered as evidence of suitability in some circumstances.
  • For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA normally sought is 3.6 out of 4.0.
  • Applicants will need to have a good working knowledge of email, internet, word processing and Windows applications (for communications with course members, course team and administration).
  • Where applicable, applicants will need to provide evidence of proficiency in English at the higher level required by the University.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

Accommodation

Accommodation is available at the Rewley House Residential Centre, within the Department for Continuing Education, in central Oxford. The comfortable, en-suite, study-bedrooms have been rated as 4-Star Campus accommodation under the Quality In Tourism scheme, and come with tea- and coffee-making facilities, free Wi-Fi access and Freeview TV. Guests can take advantage of the excellent dining facilities and common room bar, where they may relax and network with others on the programme

Bed and breakfast accommodation at other University colleges can also be booked on the Oxford Rooms website.

IT requirements

Please ensure that you have access to a computer that meets the specification detailed here:
http://onlinesupport.conted.ox.ac.uk/technicalsupport/yourcomputer.php.

Terms & conditions for applicants and students

Information on financial support