Why This Matters

  • 12% OF CLINICAL RESEARCH COORDINATORS NEED MASTER’S DEGREES

    O*NET reports that 12% of those employed as clinical research coordinators needed a master’s degree for their position, and 56% needed a bachelor’s degree.

  • 24,700 NEW JOBS BY 2029

    The expected job growth for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians is 7%, which is significantly faster than the overall average.

  • EARN $54,180 PER YEAR ON AVERAGE

    Clinical lab techs earn an average of over $50,000 per year, but those with a master’s degree may be eligible for advanced positions that can pay upwards of $90,000.

Our Research

Our research focused on graduate-level clinical research programs that award a Master of Science. These programs are usually found in a college’s nursing or medicine program, and all of our options can be completed online or in a hybrid setting.

The main accrediting bodies for these degree programs include the Higher Learning Commission, the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. It’s important to ensure that any program you are looking at is properly accredited to verify quality standards.

  • 68 hours to write this article
  • 24 universities and colleges we assessed
  • 42 education programs we compared

The Top 50 Online Master’s in Clinical Research Programs

Best Online Master's in Clinical Research Programs Badge
01
Intelligent Pick
Eastern Michigan University
01
Best Blended Program
University of St. Thomas
01
Most Affordable
University of North Carolina Wilmington
01
Best Management Focus
Arizona State University
01
Best in the South
University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
01
Best Focus on Optometry
Nova Southeastern University
01
Best Catholic University
Xavier University
01
Best Administration Focus
University of Central Florida
01
Intelligent Pick
The Ohio State University
01
Best Leadership Training
Campbell University
01
Best Alumni Network
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
01
Best Private Institution
George Washington University
01
Best Faculty
Drexel University
01
Best in the Midwest
St. Cloud State University

What You Should Know About This Degree

Some similar degrees to a master’s in clinical research include a master’s in clinical psychology and a master’s in clinical epidemiology. These degrees will still have a very strong focus on research but also include courses on ethical issues and advanced practices in their specialties of psychology and epidemiology.

The job outlook for those who have earned a master’s in clinical research is very strong, as it’s growing at nearly twice the rate of the overall job market. Those going into fields such as healthcare will likely see even greater demand.

The Association of Clinical Research Professionals offers several certifications, including Clinical Research Associate and Clinical Research Coordinator.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching online master’s in clinical research programs:

  • Am I eligible for this program? Those interested in an online master’s in clinical research program will generally need a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and a 3.0 GPA in any major-specific classes. You may also be required to have a certain level of lab experience and math proficiency.
  • How long does it take to complete this online degree? Most of the programs on our list can be completed in 36 credits, which may be as short as three full-time semesters. Programs that require more credits will take more time, as will students who need to stretch out how many classes they’re taking due to work or family commitments.

Once you have narrowed down the programs you are interested in, it’s time to start applying. Note any application deadlines and whether the program has rolling admissions, and make sure to have everything submitted well before the deadline to account for any last-minute issues. It’s also a good idea to have a meeting with the financial aid office to find out how enrolling in the program may impact any existing student loans you have and get more information on financial aid options.