Best Online Master’s in Clinical Research Programs

Clinical researchers study the behaviors of medicines and drug efficacies in human participants. They run trials and analyze the findings to improve treatments, inform the medical community, and advance public health measures.

A master's in clinical research program helps prepare students for these roles. It can equip them with the skills to design and run safe and effective clinical studies and apply the results in the most impactful ways.

With the need for clinical researchers to fight diseases and improve healthcare services already high, the impact of COVID-19 sent demand to new levels. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 11% job growth for all life scientists between 2020 and 2030, a sector that earns median annual wages of $81,130, as of May 2020.

To meet the growing demand, many of the top online schools offer online master's in clinical research programs. These two-year programs provide graduates with clinical research foundations that they can apply to various fields.

To help prospective learners identify their optimal pathway, this guide explores the program in detail and highlights career options and considerations to keep in mind when making a choice.

What Can I Expect From an Online Master's in Clinical Research Program?

Clinical researchers typically possess strong critical thinking, math, and statistical skills. The degrees usually feature 30-45 credits and up to two years of training, combining theoretical and practical studies. A master's in clinical research program also can provide unique options and opportunities for many different 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 degrees usually feature similar course offerings and career pathways.

Prospective students will find the biggest differences between program options in the available concentrations.

Programs may offer specializations in epidemiology, trial management, community health, and clinical investigation. Concentrations allow learners to focus more intently in 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 tend to feature heavy practicum components, familiarizing learners with professional environments and research assignments.

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What Courses Will I Take in an Online Master's in Clinical Research Program?

Epidemiology Research

This course teaches students the proper professional approaches and methods for answering health research and epidemiological questions. Learners look at ways of evaluating measurements, symptoms, and diagnostic and treatment maneuvers, along with the protocols for appraising and writing research.

Patient-Oriented Research

In this course, students learn how to create and administer research with the patient in mind, including observing the rules and regulations for human experimentation, data management, and ethics.

Clinical Trial Design

Students in this course explore the governing bodies and regulations for clinical trials. They learn how to identify the most effective questions, stage the appropriate trials, obtain and store findings, and analyze the results.

Bioethics

Bioethics courses explore the challenges with medical records and experimentation within the medical profession. The training may look at patient rights and how different factors, such as cultures and belief systems, can lead to patient challenges and conflicts.

Biostatistics and Data Management

This course examines the methods and applications of biostatistics, along with the strategies and technologies used for data management. Students may learn to use different statistical software and modeling techniques.

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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 prospective students need a bachelor's degree and a competitive GPA, such as a minimum 3.0 in many cases. 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. Additional requirements may include having the appropriate technology for online learners and the completion of an interview in rare cases.

Application

Prospective students must submit an application to the school of their choice. The document usually includes personal information and the program being applied to. While mostly used by undergraduate students, candidates may also be able to apply through a college application system.

Test Scores

In most years, test scores play a large role in the admission decision, but COVID-19 has created challenges for test-takers. Therefore, many schools have provided prospective students with test waivers. However, candidates may still consider a GMAT or GRE prep course to ensure they get the results they need for admission.

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 the applicant's work and study habits or suggest how the candidate might fare in a graduate program.

Resume and Work Experience

College applications include 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, prospective students who do have it may receive preference.

Essays

Writing a grad school essay can be one of the more important application components. Essays can provide information on the applicant's personal history, educational interests, and career goals. At the graduate level, prospective students may focus their letters on how their research ideas align with the school and faculty.

Official Transcripts

Transcripts provide schools with plenty of useful information, including all the grade and credit details from the applicant's entire post-secondary journey. Schools use transcripts to identify if the prospective student has the appropriate prerequisites and if they qualify for transfer credits.

What Can I Do With an Online Master's in Clinical Research Degree?

Career Outlook

A master's in clinical research program can provide graduates with in-demand advanced skills and knowledge, along with career flexibility. Many of the career pathways available to graduates have promising job projections.

For instance, the BLS projects 30% job growth for epidemiologists between 2020 and 2030, nearly four times faster than the rate for all occupations.

Much of the demand comes from an increased focus on infection control and protection against globalized diseases and viruses. Clinical research specialists work in several industries, including public health, academia, research and development, and pharmaceuticals.

In addition to these strong opportunities, graduates can enjoy competitive wages, such as epidemiologists, who earn median annual wages of $75,560, as of May 2020.

Discover where a master's in clinical research can lead. Learn more about public health careers.

Career Paths

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists study health problems and patterns in the search for causes of diseases, health risk reductions, and improved health outcomes. They run tests and trials, collect and analyze data, and communicate their findings in publications and presentations. Epidemiologists often specialize in a field, such as infectious diseases, environmental health, or public health preparedness.

Median Annual Salary (as of May 2020): $74,560

Medical Scientist

Medical scientists use various methods to investigate human diseases, drug efficacies, and disease causes and treatments. They look for ways to improve health outcomes, and they may create programs and medical devices to achieve these results. These professionals can work in hospitals, postsecondary schools, pharmaceutical labs, and life sciences research and development labs.

Median Annual Salary (as of May 2020): $91,510

Microbiologist

Microbiologists study viruses and bacteria to better understand what they are and how they interact with different hosts and settings. They design experiments to test drugs and methods for fighting disease and bacteria, along with understanding virus growth and spread habits. Microbiologists publish and present their findings and work with other medical and science professionals.

Median Annual Salary (as of May 2020): $84,400

Biochemist

Biochemists study the makeup and processes in diseases and other living things. They test how various drugs, treatments, and environments affect disease growth and processes. In addition to advancing knowledge of disease and infection, the work of biochemists can improve disease detection and medical treatments.

Median Annual Salary (as of May 2020): $94,270

Health Education and Community Health Specialists

Health education and community health specialists develop programs that educate the public on specific medical concerns and promote wellness. They may work with specific communities or specialize in certain public health concerns. In public health departments, these professionals help develop immunization campaigns and emergency preparedness strategies. They also educate other healthcare professionals.

Median Annual Salary (as of May 2020): $48,140

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Continuing Education

After completing a master's in clinical research program, many graduates continue their training in a doctoral program. They have several quality educational pathway options, including a doctorate in clinical research. A Ph.D. in this field can lead to medical scientist careers or postsecondary teaching positions.

Graduates may also branch out and pursue a related healthcare discipline, such as a doctorate in healthcare management, a doctorate in healthcare administration, or a doctorate in public health. With any of these degrees, graduates can teach at the postsecondary level, lead in a healthcare setting, or contribute to the advancement of medical science.

How Do I Choose an Online Master's in Clinical Research Program?

Cost

Prospective students usually consider cost very strongly, but it's important to evaluate the true program cost when doing so. This takes into consideration the tuition and all fees associated with the training, along with any impact on income. Applicants should also consider comparing online and on-campus costs, public and private schools, and in-state and out-of-state costs.

Program Format

Program format influences how and when a learner studies. Prospective students need to think about how they learn most effectively and what type of schedule works best. They should compare asynchronous vs. synchronous study and part-time and full-time schedules to find the most suitable format.

Location

Regardless of whether they choose an online or on-campus program, students should think about location. Online learners need to know if their program features on-campus requirements and if they can complete them. Other location-related considerations might include in-state or out-of-state tuition rates.

Accreditation

All schools need to possess regional accreditation if they want to offer financial aid and competitive employment opportunities to students. For programmatic accreditation, prospective students can look for recognition from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs or the Accreditation Council for Clinical Research and Education.

Student Support

Student services can improve the quality of life and education for students. The online student services provided by a school should be considered during the selection process, including things like tutoring, mentorship programs, career services, and alumni networking opportunities. Program-specific services should also be considered, such as practicums and internships.

Best Accredited Online Master's in Clinical Research Programs

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Resources for Graduate Clinical Research Students

American Society of Microbiology

Join this society to network, search for jobs, and learn about careers in microbiology. Upon graduation, continue your education with the ASM's webinars and stay up to date on recent innovations in the field through the association's multiple publications.

Center for Information and Study on Clinical Research Participation

For students interested in the patient experience in clinical research, the CISCRP is a nonprofit dedicated to educating and communicating with members of the public and potential clinical trial participants. The organization's webinars provide information on how to communicate with patients and what concerns are at the top of trial participants' minds.

Society for Clinical Research Excellence

With free online courses offered through the Collaborative Institutional Training Program, SOCRA aims to inform and increase awareness of clinical researchers. An annual conference offers an opportunity to learn about current trends and issues in the field.

Society for Clinical Trials

This international nonprofit is dedicated to ethical and productive clinical trial design. Join this society to learn from professionals about trial formats, effectiveness, and results.

Health Care Education Association

For future healthcare educators, the HCEA unites healthcare professionals, patients, and community outreach workers to engage in conversation about healthcare issues. This resource offers teaching tools such as diagrams and clear explanations in nonprofessional language to increase comprehension for all parties.

Professional Organizations in Clinical Research

By joining and participating in a professional organization, you gain exposure to the latest trends and issues in the field, and meet like-minded colleagues. Many of these associations offer career benefits as well, such as job search engines and ongoing educational development webinars. Beyond the national associations listed below, look also for local professional communities to meet clinical researchers in your area.

Association of Clinical Research Professionals

Access the ACRP's eLearning portal to explore ongoing educational opportunities, present your latest research in the ACRP annual conference, or submit an article to the monthly journal, The Clinical Researcher.

International Epidemiological Association

Stay current on international epidemiological studies, pandemics, and large-scale disease prevention as an associate of the IEA. Join international meetings, read community publications, and engage in international healthcare.

American Public Health Association

The APHA unites government healthcare advocates nationwide. Detailing current and future advocacy platforms such as environmental health, vaccines, and tobacco use prevention, the APHA unites professionals and spreads educational materials to inform isolated communities.

American Hospital Association

Another advocacy community, the AHA lobbies for healthcare initiatives and insurance issues in the District of Columbia. Use the AHA career center and networking opportunities to build career visibility as a clinical researcher in hospital settings.

National Rural Health Association

Fight for health assistance in rural American communities as a member of the NRHA. This nonprofit leadership organization promotes awareness of common rural healthcare issues and seeks to bring better healthcare options to small communities nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Master's in Clinical Research Programs