Medical Ethicists

Medical ethicists often work as college professors in college departments of religion, philosophy, and health specialties. Philosophy and religion teachers earned median annual salaries of $79,930 in May 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Salaries ranged from less than $48,450 to $137,310 or more. Health specialties professors earned salaries that ranged from less than $52,300 to $172,990 or more. Medical schools tend to pay more than other academic institutions. Medical ethicists who are employed as consultants for hospitals have incomes that are comparable to college teachers. Upper-level salaries for medical ethicists are usually $100,000 or more.

Benefits for salaried medical ethicists depend on the employer; however, they usually include such items as health insurance, retirement or 401(k) plans, and paid vacation days. Self-employed professionals must provide their own benefits.