Protecting and promoting the health of the public is an inherently moral task. Many are attracted to the study and practice of public health because they seek not only a healthier but a more just society. The Program in Public Health Ethics aims to help students identify ethical issues, to obtain skills in moral reasoning, and to identify ways of working for a more healthy and just society. The most comprehensive way of obtaining these skills is through the Certificate in Public Health Ethics. But much can be gained also by talking with faculty who teach ethics, taking their courses, and using other resources listed on this site.

Disasters are crucibles in which public health ethical dilemmas are often seen more clearly and demand resolution more urgently. We provide on this site an overview of public health ethics in disasters.