Exhibit 23(a)



                        CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
                        -------------------------------



     We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement
(Form S-8) and related Prospectus pertaining to the Becton, Dickinson and
Company Non-Employee Directors 2000 Stock Option Plan of our reports dated
November 7, 2000, with respect to the consolidated financial statements of
Becton, Dickinson and Company incorporated by reference in its Annual Report
(Form 10-K) for the year ended September 30, 2000 and the related financial
statement schedule included therein, filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission.


                                  /s/ Ernst & Young LLP
                                  ERNST & YOUNG LLP

New York, New York
April 18, 2001