Clinical researchers provide leadership and administrative support to medical experiments documenting the results of new treatments or medicines on people. Clinical researchers and technologists earn an average salary of $59,130; most find employment in general medical and surgical hospitals.
Tuition and required fees will vary for each school, but according to 2020-2021 data, a master’s degree program from a public school averaged $12,394, while a private institution costs approximately $26,621. Most online master’s degrees in clinical research programs are completed within two years for full-time students, with an average course load of 30 to 40 credit hours.
How to Choose an Online Master’s in Clinical Research Program
Choose your area of study
Most clinical researchers will have a background in life sciences but will also need managerial and administrative skills. Similarly, strong interpersonal and communication skills are necessary since most clinical researchers work directly with patients and doctors. In addition, clinical researchers perform data analysis and use statistics to evaluate the results of clinical studies, so it’s important to look for these courses in your chosen program.
While you may not be able to select an official concentration in your clinical research studies, you can choose classes based on your strengths and the kinds of clinical trials that interest you. Relevant courses include laboratory technology, research protocol, physics, biology, and statistics.
Research schools and programs
As you research the best program for your educational needs and life goals, you’ll want to consider the program format, technology accessibility, faculty specializations, cost, and student support. You’ll also want to consider your attendance situation, such as whether you will attend school full-time or part-time. Also, consider whether you prefer to take classes on your own schedule or an instructor-led, synchronous schedule.
Other questions to ask include:
- Are laboratory clinicals available online, or must they be completed in person?
- Will internships be required?
- Are faculty mentorships available to online students?
- Are there additional costs for online students, such as technology or lab fees?
Prepare for tests and applications
Most master’s degrees in clinical research require a bachelor’s degree in life sciences or a related field. Schools all have different standards for admissions requirements, with some requesting Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores while others only need a minimum undergraduate grade-point average. Most schools, however, will request undergraduate transcripts, an application essay, and at least three letters of recommendation.
Select your program
A part of making your final program selection may be your relationship with your admissions counselor. Reaching out to an admissions representative will give you a good feel for the level of support your school offers online students and inside information about its general culture. Ask your counselor about student support, online student meetups, study groups, and library accessibility. These factors are often overlooked in the selection process but can make a big difference in your academic success.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Talk to your school’s financial aid office about the per-credit cost of your program and whether there will be any additional fees you may not have accounted for in your planning. Some schools charge student, library, technology, or laboratory fees. You may find some of these fees outlined in your student handbook, but your best bet is to contact a financial aid counselor for confirmation.
If you are financing your education, apply for federal student aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Your financial aid office can also give you information about payment plans, grants, scholarships, and any other tuition assistance that may be available.
Best 50 Accredited Online Master’s in Clinical Research Programs
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How We Rank Schools
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 primary 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 appropriately accredited to verify quality standards.
What Can You Expect from an Online Master’s in Clinical Research Program?
The number of credit hours required to complete a master’s in clinical research online will vary with each program, but generally speaking, a full-time student can complete the program within two years. Some programs require as few as 30 credits, while others may require up to 40.
Clinical researchers design research experiments and analyze results, often using computer technology to streamline data and find patterns. A master’s degree in clinical research will offer a deeper understanding of these areas, including site and study management, research design, data management, and research ethics.
In your studies, you may also choose to prepare for the Certified Clinical Research Associate (CCRA) exam offered by the Association of Clinical Research Professionals (ACRP). This certification illustrates your dedication to the field and enhances your marketability when job searching.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online master’s in clinical research degree program
- Designing Clinical Research Studies. Students will learn epidemiological principles essential to the design of clinical research studies. Topics such as developing research questions, defining the study population, understanding bias, and choosing outcome measures are explored.
- Management of Clinical Trials. Students will discuss core principles of good clinical practice and analyze sections of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) related to drug development. This course likely involves on-the-job simulations and an outside project.
- Biostatistics. This laboratory course will teach students to use data analysis tools and software to explore hypothesis testing, regression analysis, contingency tables, experimental design, and other statistical analyses.
- Regulatory and Compliance Issues. Students will learn about regulatory affairs and the clinical development of drugs, diagnostic devices, and biologics. FDA regulations are studied in relation to taking a product from research to market.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Clinical Research?
Career outlook
Clinical research is a dynamic and crucial field that plays a pivotal role in advancing medical knowledge, improving patient care, and ensuring the safety and efficacy of new medical treatments. According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the need for clinical laboratory technologists and technicians will increase by roughly seven percent over the next decade, which means that there will be positions available for an additional 21,800 of these professionals by the 2030s.
Career paths
The career outlook for individuals with a master’s degree in clinical research is promising, driven by the continuous growth and evolution of the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries. One of the appealing aspects of this degree is its versatility in offering various career paths within the broader field of clinical research and healthcare. Here are some common options:
- Clinical research coordinator — ensures that trials are conducted ethically, safely, and in compliance with regulatory standards
- Clinical research associate — monitors clinical trials, ensuring that protocols are followed and data collected accurately
- Clinical trial managers — responsible for overall planning, execution, and management of clinical trials
- Regulatory affairs specialist — ensures that all documentation and submissions meet regulatory requirements
- Data manager — responsible for data collection, analysis, and interpretation in clinical trials
Biostatistician
Earning Potential: $65,000-$150,000
Education Required: Master’s degree in clinical research, biostatistics, or a related field
Biostatisticians play a critical role in the field of healthcare and medical research by utilizing statistical methods to analyze and interpret data related to biological and health-related studies. They design experiments, collect and manage data, and apply statistical techniques to draw meaningful conclusions. Biostatisticians help researchers and healthcare professionals make informed decisions, assess the efficacy of treatments, and identify trends and patterns in health data. Their work is instrumental in improving patient outcomes, guiding public health policies, and advancing our understanding of various medical conditions.
Clinical Research Educator
Earning Potential: $50,000-$120,000
Education Required: Master’s degree in clinical research or a related field
Clinical research educators teach and train the next generation of clinical researchers and healthcare professionals. They design and deliver educational programs, courses, and workshops that cover various aspects of clinical research methodologies, ethical considerations, and regulatory requirements. These educators facilitate the development of essential skills and knowledge required for conducting high-quality clinical trials and studies. Their responsibilities may include curriculum development, classroom instruction, mentoring students, and staying updated with industry advancements.
Epidemiologist
Earning Potential: $50,100-$130,050
Education Required: Master’s degree in clinical research, public health, or a related field
Epidemiologists are public health professionals who investigate the causes, patterns, and spread of diseases within populations. They design and conduct studies to analyze data related to health issues, identify risk factors, and develop strategies to prevent or control diseases. Epidemiologists participate in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and public health policy development. They collaborate with healthcare providers, researchers, and government agencies to improve public health outcomes.
Online Master’s in Clinical Research Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online master's in clinical research degree program?
When submitting your application, remember that most schools charge application fees, but some will waive these fees depending on your circumstances. Contact an admissions counselor who can walk you through the application process. You may find yourself applying to just one school that you think is a perfect fit or multiple schools that offer individual strengths you find appealing.
As you research and decide, you’ll want to gather all the necessary documents to apply, including undergraduate transcripts, letters of recommendation, GRE or other test scores, and an essay or personal statement. This statement describes your motivation for pursuing a graduate degree and illustrates why you are the perfect candidate for the program(s) you are applying for.
How much does an online master's in clinical research degree cost?
According to Research.com, an online master’s in clinical research ranges from $10,000 to $34,000. These costs do not include other instructional fees such as program fees, student fees, equipment fees, course materials, and textbooks. These costs add up quickly, sometimes up to several hundred dollars.
In addition, you’ll likely need to invest in a reliable laptop and another backup device, such as an iPad or other mobile device. Speaking with a college representative and researching your school’s graduate course catalog can help determine the most accurate estimate of costs.
How long does it take to earn an online master's in clinical research degree?
Most online master’s in clinical research degrees require between 30 and 40 credit hours, which will take a full-time student approximately two years to complete. Part-time students can expect to invest three to five years into their graduate degrees. This timeline is an estimate; some schools offer accelerated pathways and asynchronous models that allow students to complete their programs faster.
Is an online Master’s in Clinical Research worth it?
Earning an online master’s degree in clinical research is worth it for individuals passionate about making a difference in healthcare and advancing medical knowledge. This degree can open doors to higher-paying positions and greater responsibilities within the clinical research field. It can also help individuals stand out in a competitive job market.
According to Salary.com, a clinical research coordinator makes a median salary of $68,840 annually, with the top ten percent in the field earning more than $89,219 a year.
An online program offers a higher level of flexibility that allows students to balance their education with other commitments, such as work and family. This flexibility can make it easier to earn a degree while maintaining a current job or other obligations. Online programs also offer networking opportunities that allow students to connect with faculty, fellow students, and industry professionals. Building a strong professional network can lead to job and mentoring opportunities. The skills and knowledge gained through an online master’s degree can position you for remote work opportunities, a valuable asset in today’s evolving job landscape.