Best Online Master’s in Clinical Research Programs of 2024
A master’s in clinical research hones in-demand skills in research methods and clinical investigation. You can work in medical research, epidemiology, or clinical management. And earning your master’s in clinical research online offers flexibility so you can work while in grad school.
Learn more about the top-ranked clinical research programs and your career options.
Popular Online Clinical Research Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can I Expect From an Online Master’s in Clinical Research Program?
Clinical research programs build strong critical thinking, math, and statistical skills. The program usually includes 30-45 credits and up to two years of training, combining theoretical and practical studies. A master’s in clinical research program can offer specializations for many interests.
While most clinical research master’s programs award a master of science degree, some alternatives may be available, such as a master of advanced studies or a master of science in health science. Though they differ in name, these programs usually feature similar course offerings and career pathways.
The biggest differences between programs are the available concentrations. Programs may offer specializations in epidemiology, trial management, community health, and clinical investigation. Concentrations allow learners to focus on one area and can better prepare them for careers or further training in that subdiscipline.
In an online master’s in clinical research program, laboratory work plays a large role, with students completing practical assignments on campus or via online labs. These programs also feature heavy practicum components, familiarizing learners with professional environments and research topics.
Still Looking for the Right Fit? Discover Similar Degree Programs.
What courses will i take in an online master’s in clinical research program, epidemiology research, patient-oriented research, clinical trial design, biostatistics and data management, find the tools you need to get started on your degree, what are the admission requirements for an online master’s in clinical research program.
The admission requirements for an online master’s in clinical research program depend on the specific program. However, most students need a bachelor’s degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Though most programs accept applicants from various disciplines, some schools may require candidates to have specific health-related prerequisites.
The list below highlights some of the most common application requirements for graduate admissions .
While mostly used by undergraduate students, you apply through a college application system . Additional requirements may include having the appropriate technology for online learners and completing an interview in rare cases.
Test Scores
Many graduate-level programs use entrance exams, such as the GMAT or GRE , to make admission decisions. In clinical research, most programs do not require test scores. However, you may need to submit test scores if your GPA does not meet the minimum requirement.
Letters of Recommendation
Most college applications require three letters of recommendation , which provide insight from a former employer or teacher on a prospective student. These letters can offer a glimpse into your work and study habits or suggest how the candidate might fare in a graduate program.
Resume and Work Experience
College applications may require resumes and cover letters so schools can get information about an applicant’s professional history. While few clinical research programs require professional experience for admission, those who do have it may receive preference.
Writing a grad school essay provides the school with information on your academic history, educational interests, and career goals. You may be asked how your research interests align with the school and faculty.
Official Transcripts
Transcripts provide schools with useful information, including all the grade and credit details from the applicant’s post-secondary journey. Schools use transcripts to identify if the prospective student has the appropriate prerequisites and if they qualify for transfer credits .
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How do i choose an online master’s in clinical research program.
What factors should you consider when researching online master’s in clinical research programs? You can find a program that matches your budget, career goals, and schedule by considering cost, program focus, and format.
Comparing costs can help you choose a program. The total cost of an online degree includes tuition, fees, textbooks, and other expenses. While the median cost of tuition for a health-related master’s program is $9,310, the total cost reaches $23,100, according to the National Center for Education Statistics . Comparing the cost of online vs. on-campus programs can help you save money.
Program Format
Program format influences how and when a learner studies. Prospective students must think about how they learn most effectively and what schedule works best for their other obligations. They should compare asynchronous vs. synchronous study and part-time and full-time schedules to find the most suitable format.
Whether they choose an online or on-campus program, students should consider location. Online learners must know if their program features on-campus requirements and if they’re close enough to complete them. Other location-related considerations might include in-state or out-of-state tuition rates.
Accreditation
All schools must be accredited to offer students financial aid and employment opportunities in their field. For programmatic accreditation, prospective students can seek recognition from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or the Accreditation Council for Clinical Research and Education to ensure their healthcare education meets quality standards.
Student Support
Student services can improve the educational experience for students. Consider the school’s online student services during the selection process, including tutoring, mentorship programs , career services, alumni networking opportunities, and practicums and internships .
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Master’s in Clinical Research Programs
Is a master’s in clinical research worth it.
A master’s in clinical research can be worth it if you’re interested in clinical research or clinical management careers. This specialized master’s degree emphasizes research and clinical leadership, which can lead to careers in medical science, public health, and research. These fields report strong demand.
What can I do with a master’s in clinical research?
With a master’s in clinical research, graduates have several pathways available to them. An epidemiologist career may be the most direct route, but other career options include medical science, microbiology, and community health.
Depending on the role and employer, some professions may require additional training. Graduates can also choose to continue their schooling, such as pursuing a Ph.D. in clinical research or a related medical field. A doctorate can lead to teaching roles in colleges and universities and advanced medical scientist and microbiologist positions.
Are clinical research majors in demand?
Yes. Clinical research majors are in very high demand, particularly in the epidemiology and public health fields. The impact of COVID-19 has helped drive demand for more professionals in this field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 30% job growth for epidemiologists between 2022 and 2032, much faster than average.
Both community health workers and medical scientists are also in high demand. The BLS projects 4,400 new jobs for community health workers and 11,600 new jobs for medical scientists between 2022 and 2032, with COVID-19 influencing the demand in both cases.
How much money can I make with a master’s in clinical research?
The salaries for graduates with a master’s in clinical research vary by location, profession, credentials, and experience. The median annual wage for epidemiologists, for example, was $78,520, according to the BLS. With experience, epidemiologists can make significantly more, as the top 10% of earners in the field make more than $123,430.
Industry also influences wages, with those in scientific research earning the highest epidemiologist median annual wages of $103,650 as of May 2022. Hospital professionals earn the next highest at $95,240, and epidemiologists at colleges and universities earn the lowest median annual wages at $80,180.
How much does a master’s in clinical research cost?
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Programs in Clinical Research
1 year | full-time, 2 years | part-time, boston university medical campus.
Boston University’s programs in Clinical Research aim to meet the needs of health professionals engaged in the full-spectrum of patient-oriented research. We offer both master’s degree and certificate programs to individuals seeking careers in clinical research in industry or academic settings.
Clinical Research program offerings:
- Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR)
- Online Graduate Certificate
- Dual Degree in Medical Sciences and Clinical Research
- Dual Degree in Medicine and Clinical Research
About the MS in Clinical Research Program (MSCR)
Located in Boston’s South End at the Boston University Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine, the Master of Science in Clinical Research Program (MSCR) has been in existence since 2001 and is ranked #1 by College Choice among universities that offer an MS in Clinical Research. As an entity of BU CAMED, students are provided with opportunities and are exposed to resources that are part of the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine , the School of Public Health , the Goldman School of Dental Medicine , Boston Medical Center , two VA Administrations, and BioSquare. All of this offers students endless opportunities for personal, academic and professional development.
The Master’s in Clinical Research program, which is a STEM program, teaches students the scientific fundamentals of human research. Courses in our curriculum provide an in-depth look at all of the key elements in clinical research, including: trial design, trial management, biostatistics, ethical issues, and clinical research regulations. Other courses cover how basic science discoveries translate into clinical research and new therapies. The total course requirement is 32 credit hours: 22 hours are required curriculum, including practicum and research credits; 10 hours are elective courses. Students will also complete a research “practicum”; a hands-on involvement in a clinical research project under a scientific mentor. The final requirement for the degree is to conduct clinical research, write, and present a capstone project.
Who is this program designed for?
The Master’s in Clinical Research program is designed for anyone interested in a career in clinical research. This includes those with MD or PhD degrees interested in becoming independent principal investigators, as well as those with bachelors or masters degrees who seek advancement in a research career in industry or academic settings.
Online Graduate Clinical Research Certificate
If you are not ready to commit to our Master’s program, we also offer an Online Graduate Certificate in Clinical Research. This certificate program involves 4 courses across two semesters, and can be completed in one academic year.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the Master’s in Clinical Research program, students are expected to:
- Demonstrate the ability to design and conduct clinical research, analyze results and answer a research question.
- Demonstrate the ability to read and critique the clinical research literature.
- Present clinical research findings (from literature or their own research) to peers.
Our Mission
Inspire, Instruct, Innovate … The MS in Clinical Research program is dedicated to the discovery, development, and application of knowledge as it pertains to all areas of clinical research. Our mission is to foster an engaging and effective educational environment that promotes the pursuit of outstanding teaching and learning through formal classroom and practical training. With established collaborative relationships with pharmaceutical, biotech, and academic institutions, students are provided with unique opportunities to pursue clinical research in areas that are of personal and professional interest.
We hope that the information you receive about our program encourages you to pursue your graduate degree in clinical research with us. If you are interested, click here to get your application started.
If you would like to visit our campus or have any questions about our program, please contact Stacey Hess Pino at [email protected] . We look forward to meeting and/or speaking with you!
Janice Weinberg, ScD Director, MS in Clinical Research; P rofessor, Department of Biostatistics
Stacey Hess Pino, MS, MS Assistant Director, MS in Clinical Research; Director, Online Graduate Certificate Program in Clinical Research; Assistant Professor, Department of Medical Sciences & Education
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