The objective of the MSc in Clinical Research at NUI Galway is to provide training for the next generation of healthcare workers in the clinical research arena, providing a platform for more enhanced efficiencies in the translation of medical discoveries into clinical practice. Course contributors include senior academics and medical professionals from NUI Galway and Saolta University Health Care Group, who are actively engaged in clinical research. This program is closely linked with the HRB Clinical Research Facility. It is primarily aimed at individuals employed in the healthcare sector, this course has been developed to meet the needs of working graduates who wish to upskill, specialise or change career direction. The MSc. program provides training for qualified individuals who wish to become independent clinical investigators or those who wish to seek employment in leadership positions in clinical research teams. The programme structure is such that those in full-time employment will be able to undertake this on a part-time basis. 

The MSc (Clinical Research) is intended to be a part-time two-year programme of academic study in Clinical Research Methodology. Year 1 will be spent at NUI Galway and Year 2 is completed by a combination of distance learning, and on-site modules delivered by NUI Galway. A full-time one-year option is available to students who wish to complete the MSc in a full-time capacity. 

Core modules include Fundamentals of Health Research & Evaluation Methods, Introduction to Biostatistics I, and Introduction to Ethical and Regulatory Framework of Clinical Research. There is also a choice of additional modules including Observational & Analytical Research Methods, Systematic Reviews, Introduction to Research Methods for Randomised Controlled Trials, Health Systems & Policy Analysis, and Translational Medicine and more. 

Students must have completed one of the following:  

  • Undergraduate degree in Medicine with a minimum of 2nd Class honours, Other healthcare-related undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2nd Class honours  

  • Biomedical sciences degree with a minimum 2nd Class honours 

  • Applications from graduates of non-healthcare related degrees are also considered (minimum of 2nd Class honours) on a case-by-case basis 

  • Applicants with significant relevant experience will also be considered 

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