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.