Clinical Trials (Online Learning) MSc, PgCert, PgDip, PgProfDev

Graduates of this programme will have gained:

• A critical understanding of the principles, science and evidence underpinning clinical trials
• The ability to critique current approaches in clinical trial design and implementation
• The capacity to take responsibility for their own learning and development within the clinical trials environment
• The ability to communicate the design, implementation and results of clinical trials to a variety of audiences
• The resolve to work professionally and with integrity in a multi-disciplinary research team to deliver effective clinical trials
• The skills to design, implement and report clinical trials

Our Clinical Trials graduates are well-equipped to lead and innovate in the dynamic field of clinical trials, contributing to advancements in global health. Alumni have gone on to have extraordinary careers, shaping the future of healthcare through their roles in academia, the public sector and industry.

Sectors and roles

• Clinical research: Opportunities as trial managers. clinical research associates, and more.
• Quality assurance and control: Roles such as trial monitors and QA managers.
• Data management: Positions in biostatistics, data management, and programming.
• Regulatory affairs: From global regulatory leads to information management associates.
• Medical affairs: Opportunities as chief and principal investigators and medical liaisons, and in medical communications and writing.
• Product development: In areas such as medical devices and pharmaceuticals.

Industry links

Leverage our strong connections with healthcare institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and research organizations. These relationships provide valuable networking opportunities and potential career pathways.

Our MSc Clinical Trials programme offers a structured yet flexible pathway to gaining deep insights and practical skills in clinical trial management, designed to be completed part-time over three years.

This programme structure is designed to provide both essential knowledge and flexibility, allowing you to specialise in areas of interest while maintaining your professional commitments.

Exit at the end of Year 1 or Year 2 with a Postgraduate Certificate or Postgraduate Diploma respectively, or go on to a third and final year to gain a Master of Science qualification.

Year 1

• Introduction to Randomised Controlled Trials and Medical Statistics
• Ethical and Regulatory Considerations in Clinical Trials
• Principles of Clinical Trial Management
• Monitoring and Audit (20 credits)
• Clinical Trials in Special Populations (20 credits)
• Patient and Public Involvement (PPI)
• Pharmacovigilance
• Introduction to Health Economics and Applied Health Economics
• Trial Designs
• Neuroimaging: Translational Imaging and Clinical Trials

Year 2

• Principles of Clinical Trial Management
• Monitoring and Audit (20 credits)
• Clinical Trials in Special Populations (20 credits)
• Patient and Public Involvement (PPI)
• Pharmacovigilance
• Introduction to Health Economics and Applied Health Economics
• Trial Designs
• Neuroimaging: Translational Imaging and Clinical Trials

Year 3

• MScCT Dissertation

Online learning

Our fully online MSc Clinical Trials programme is designed to integrate seamlessly into your professional and personal life.

How online learning works

• Interactive content: Engage with a mix of online lectures, practical case studies, and real-time discussions.
• Flexible access: Log in and learn at times that suit you, with all content accessible 24/7 from anywhere in the world.

Teaching and assessment

• Teaching: Engage through a blend of online lectures, interactive case studies, and real-time discussions facilitated by leading experts.
• Assessment: Demonstrate your understanding and skills through a mix of individual projects, reflective portfolios, group projects, and your final dissertation.

Time commitment

Expect to dedicate 15-20 hours per week, allowing you to balance study with work and family commitments.

Technical requirements

• Equipment: Reliable access to a computer with internet connectivity.
• Software: All necessary learning platforms and tools are provided online by the University.

Support for online students

• Dedicated advisors: Access to a student advisor for guidance on academic and personal challenges.
• Robust community: Engage with peers and faculty via forums and scheduled live sessions to enrich your learning experience.