The best master’s degree programs in clinical research equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to conduct and manage clinical trials, contribute to medical research, and ensure compliance with regulations. Graduates may pursue roles such as clinical research coordinator, clinical research associate, or regulatory affairs specialist. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical researchers earn a median salary of $99,930 per year.
Typically completed in 18 months to two years, the program may cost around $12,000 to $30,000 a year, depending on factors such as institution, location, and program format. Generally, public and land grant institutions cost less than private colleges and universities.
How to Choose a Master’s in Clinical Research Degree Program
Choose your area of study
When choosing your area of study, consider your career goals, interests, and strengths. Reflect on which aspects of clinical research, such as drug development, epidemiology, or regulatory affairs, align with your passion and objectives. Research different programs to evaluate their curriculum, faculty expertise, and opportunities for hands-on experience or internships. Seek guidance from professionals in the field, mentors, or alumni to gain insights into various specializations and their career prospects. Selecting an area of study that resonates with your aspirations and offers ample growth opportunities is key to a fulfilling academic journey.
Research schools and programs
Start by identifying accredited institutions known for their clinical research programs. Evaluate factors such as faculty expertise, research facilities, and curriculum relevance to your career goals. Look into program formats — online or on-campus — and consider flexibility, duration, and cost. Examine alumni outcomes, internship opportunities, and industry partnerships for practical experience and networking. Investigate accreditations and rankings to gauge program quality and reputation.
Prepare for tests and applications
Begin by familiarizing yourself with admission requirements, including standardized tests like the GRE or GMAT, and deadlines for applications. Dedicate ample time to study for these exams, utilizing study guides, practice tests, and tutoring if needed. Craft a compelling personal statement highlighting your passion for clinical research, relevant experiences, and career goals. Gather letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your qualifications and dedication. Finally, proofread all materials meticulously to ensure they reflect your abilities and commitment accurately.
Select your program
Once you have researched accredited institutions, evaluate them based on what is most important to you. For example, if you are hoping to earn real-world experience while attending school, look for programs with a well-regarded internship component. Don’t hesitate to contact an admissions counselor to ask for their help in deciding. Investigate accreditations and rankings to gauge program quality and reputation, avoiding schools that do not have regional or national accreditation from an established accreditation body. Finally, choose a program that most closely aligns with your own priorities.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Begin by researching scholarship opportunities, grants, and fellowships specific to your field. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and explore federal and private student loan options, considering interest rates, repayment terms, and eligibility criteria. Look into employer tuition reimbursement programs or sponsored educational opportunities. Create a budget to assess your financial needs and explore part-time work or assistantship opportunities to supplement income. Consider negotiating with the university for financial aid or exploring payment plans to manage tuition costs.
Best 50 Accredited Master’s in Clinical Research Degree Programs
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
Our chosen programs lead to a Master of Science degree in clinical research, clinical nursing research, biomedical laboratory management — or another similar title that qualifies graduates to work as a clinical researcher. The programs range from 30 to 74 credits and generally require one to two years of full-time study.
All of the schools featured in this guide are regionally accredited institutions. Many of these options also have programmatic accreditation from industry groups such as the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education or the Council on Education for Public Health.
We evaluated each program on the basis of flexibility, faculty, course strength, cost, and reputation. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each program on a scale from 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From a Master’s in Clinical Research Degree Program?
A master’s degree program in clinical research provides students with comprehensive training in conducting and managing clinical trials, analyzing data, and ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory standards. Students can expect to learn about research methodologies, biostatistics, ethical considerations, regulatory requirements, and data management techniques. The curriculum often includes coursework in clinical trial design, protocol development, patient recruitment, and monitoring of trial progress.
Typically, a master’s program takes 1.5 to two years to complete for full-time students. Part-time options may be available, extending the duration of the program. Some programs may require students to complete a thesis or capstone project, while others may offer opportunities for internships or practical experiences in clinical research settings.
Prospective students should be aware of any prerequisites or admission requirements, such as undergraduate coursework in biology, chemistry, or related fields, as well as relevant work experience or certifications. Some programs may require students to participate in in-person labs, residencies, or fieldwork experiences to gain hands-on skills and practical knowledge in clinical research methodologies and practices.
Potential courses you’ll take in a master’s in clinical research program
- Clinical Trial Design and Management. This course covers the fundamentals of designing, implementing, and managing clinical trials. Topics include protocol development, patient recruitment strategies, informed consent procedures, data collection methods, and regulatory requirements for conducting clinical research.
- Biostatistics and Data Analysis. Students learn statistical methods for analyzing clinical trial data, including hypothesis testing, regression analysis, survival analysis, and sample size calculation. Emphasis is placed on interpreting study results and making recommendations based on statistical findings.
- Ethical and Regulatory Issues in Clinical Research. In this course, students examine ethical principles and regulatory guidelines governing the conduct of clinical research. Students explore topics such as patient rights, informed consent, protection of human subjects, institutional review board (IRB) processes, and good clinical practice (GCP) guidelines.
- Pharmacology and Drug Development. This course provides an overview of pharmacological principles, drug development processes, and the role of clinical trials in evaluating drug safety and efficacy. Topics include drug mechanisms of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and adverse drug reactions.
- Clinical Research Practicum or Internship. Students gain hands-on experience through a practicum or internship in a clinical research setting. Under the supervision of experienced researchers, students may participate in various aspects of clinical trial conduct, data collection, analysis, and reporting.
Master’s in Clinical Research Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a master's in clinical research degree program?
To apply for your master’s program, you typically need to submit an application form along with your undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and sometimes standardized test scores. Some programs may require relevant work experience or prerequisite coursework in science or healthcare fields. It’s crucial to review each program’s specific admission requirements and deadlines. Speaking with an admissions counselor can provide valuable insights into the application process and help ensure that you meet all requirements. They can also offer guidance on crafting a strong application and addressing any questions or concerns you may have.
How much does a master's in clinical research degree cost?
The cost of your master’s degree varies depending on factors such as the institution, program format (whether it is online or in-person), and residency status. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, tuition for these programs ranges from $12,000 to $30,000 per year. However, additional expenses like textbooks, supplies, and fees should also be considered. Online programs often offer cost savings since you will not need residential housing, but they could still entail technology fees.
How long does it take to earn a master's in clinical research degree?
A master’s degree in clinical research typically takes around 1.5 to two years to complete for full-time students. Part-time enrollment may extend the duration to three to four years, depending on credit load and program flexibility. Online programs often offer more flexibility, allowing students to pace their studies according to their schedule. The total number of required credits, usually ranging from 30 to 45, also influences program length. Students should consider their academic and professional commitments when choosing between full-time and part-time enrollment to ensure they can balance their studies effectively.