Clinical Trials - MSc/Diploma/Certificate

Research through clinical trials is a growing global business in academic institutions, industry, the NHS and across public health organisations.

Clinical trials have huge societal impact, providing the best research evidence of the effectiveness of healthcare interventions. The conclusions of well conducted trials inform both clinical and health policy decision-making, ensuring that the most appropriate interventions are used to improve the health and quality of life of the population. Whilst the focus of this programme is trials within healthcare, the majority of theoretical and practical aspects applicable to clinical trials are transferable to trials of social care and public health interventions.

This modular multidisciplinary programme offers a Postgraduate Certificate, Postgraduate Diploma or a Masters in Clinical Trials and is designed to provide academic training to professionals currently working in, or who wish to work in, clinical trials.

This Masters programme will provide you with an excellent foundation in clinical trials, covering the theoretical and practical aspects of the design, conduct, analysis and interpretation of clinical trials. In studying this programme you will gain: an in-depth understanding of the fundamental concepts and features in the design and analysis of clinical trials; a comprehensive understanding and practical knowledge of research methods relevant to clinical trials; the skills to become a critical thinker and techniques for independent scientific research; the knowledge and practical skills to plan and deliver efficient and successful clinical trials; the ability to implement systematic and creative approach to dealing with complex issues and problem solving; the skills for effective reporting, communication and dissemination of trial findings.

There are many exciting career opportunities in both academic institutions and industry within this growing field. Staff working on trials include a wide range of healthcare professionals, statisticians, economists, qualitative researchers, programmers, data managers, quality assurance officers, trial co-ordinators/project managers and trial administrators.

The programme provides a robust foundation for a transition to clinical trials research from other health-related research or a methodological background or as a new graduate wishing to launch your career in clinical trials. For those already working in clinical trials the programme develops further skills to augment progression in your current or next position. Students can also exit with Pgdip and Pgcert awards.

The programme would also provide an excellent basis for a future study towards a PhD.

Students should have 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) in a health or life sciences related subject (including medicine, pharmacy, nursing, psychology, health sciences), medical statistics or health economics. Individuals not meeting the above requirement who have equivalent relevant work experience will be considered on a case-by-case basis. Individuals in this category may be offered a place on the PGDip in the first instance, with the potential to transfer to the MSc.