Clinical Research

Course Overview

Objective of the MSc in Clinical Research

The MSc in Clinical Research is designed to equip the next generation of healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in the clinical research field. This program serves as a pathway for transforming medical discoveries into clinical applications, fostering efficiency and innovation.



Tailored for qualified individuals aiming to become independent clinical investigators or assume leadership roles in clinical research teams, the course integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Core topics include study design, data analysis, ethical frameworks, and regulatory compliance, ensuring a comprehensive foundation in clinical research methodology.



The program offers flexible study options:

• Full-time: Complete the MSc in one year.

• Part-time: Pursue the Clinical Research Methodology track over two years.



Year 1 is conducted at the University of Galway, while Year 2 combines distance learning with on-site modules provided by the University.



This dynamic program empowers healthcare professionals to make a meaningful impact in advancing medical science and improving patient care.



Celebrating a remarkable milestone! Congratulations to the MSc Clinical Research programme on producing over 300 exceptional graduates since 2011. Your contributions to advancing clinical research ehave been invaluable to healthcare innovation and patient care.



To all graduates: Your dedication to advancing healthcare through research and analytics is truly inspiring. Wishing you continued success as you apply your expertise to transform patient care and medical research!

Full-time MSc (Clinical Research)

Full-time or part-time course consisting of 90 ECTS.



Compulsory Modules (Core):

Semester 1

MD510 Fundamentals of Health Research and Evaluation Methods; 10ECTS

MD511 Introduction to Biostatistics I; 10ECTS

MD1602 Introduction to the Ethical and Regulatory Frameworks of Clinical Research; 10ECTS



Additional Modules (Optional):

Semester 1 and 2

MD513 Introduction to Biostatistics II; 10ECTS

MD514 Introduction to Research Methods for Randomized Controlled Trials; 10ECTS

MD515 Systematic Review Methods; 10ECTS

MD1541 Harnessing the Basic Biology of Cancer for Development of Novel Therapeutics; 10 ECTS

MD1603 Clinical Research Site Level Activities; 10 ECTS

MD517 Clinical Research Administration; 10ECTS

EC584 Health Systems and Policy Analysis; 10ECTS

EC572 Health Technology Assessment; 10ECTS

MD518 Observational and Analytical Research Methods; 10ECTS

MD1600 Bio-Ethics; 10ECTS

MD1601 Biobank—Advanced Clinical Application and Clinical Testing; 10ECTS



Plus

MD520 Thesis (30 ECTS), completed over the one-year period. Thesis defence will be completed at University of Galway.



Part-time MSc (Clinical Research)

Students are required to complete three compulsory modules at University of Galway in year 1 of the Masters. A further 3* or 5** modules are selected from additional courses available at University of Galway.



Semester 1

MD510 Fundamentals of Health Research and Evaluation Methods; 10ECTS

MD511 Introduction to Biostatistics I; 10ECTS

MD1602 Introduction to the Ethical and Regulatory Frameworks of Clinical Research; 10ECTS



Additional Modules (Optional):

Semester 1 and 2

MD513 Introduction to Biostatistics II; 10ECTS

MD514 Introduction to Research Methods for Randomized Controlled Trials; 10ECTS

MD515 Systematic Review Methods; 10ECTS

MD1541 Harnessing the Basic Biology of Cancer for Development of Novel Therapeutics; 10 ECTS

MD1603 Clinical Research Site Level Activities; 10 ECTS

MD517 Clinical Research Administration; 10ECTS

EC584 Health Systems and Policy Analysis; 10ECTS

EC572 Health Technology Assessment; 10ECTS

MD518 Observational and Analytical Research Methods; 10ECTS

MD1600 Bio-Ethics; 10ECTS

MD1601 Biobank—Advanced Clinical Application and Clinical Testing; 10ECTS



PLUS

MD520 Minor Thesis (30 ECTS), completed over the 2- year period



Or

** MD519 Independent Study Module (10 ECTS), completed and assessed by University of Galway.



Please see Course Web Page above for module details.

Students must have completed one of the following:

1. An undergraduate degree in medicine.

2. Another healthcare-related undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2nd Class Honours

3. A biomedical science-related undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2nd Class Honours



• Applicants from non-healthcare related degrees will be considered on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the coordinators (minimum requirement of 2nd Class Honours). Applicants with significant relevant experience will also be considered.



• All applicants whose first language is not English, or who have not been educated through the medium of English language during their two most recent years of study, must meet the University of Galway's English Language Requirements. For details on accepted qualifications, please refer to the



• The University no longer accept Duolingo for entry. However, if your level is below IELTS 6.5, you could do a pre-sessional course aimed at preparing you for progression to this course.



• Applicants who do not meet the primary entry criteria as described above will be declined entry into the program.



• The remaining applicants will be reviewed in closer detail, with significant weight placed on: A) The applicant’s personal statement describing their motivation for applying to this course and their career aspirations following the successful completion of the MSc. B) The applicant’s previous academic performance. C) The applicant’s referee’s comments.



• This programme is eligible under the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP,  Ireland's official register of approved educational programs that can accept international students requiring study visas, ensuring programs meet quality standards for immigration purposes.



Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Applicants with significant relevant experience will also be considered for this programme.

Closing Date: No set closing date.



Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.



An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

1 year full-time, 2 years part-time.

Next start date: September 2025

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc in Clinical Research are well-prepared to advance into impactful roles as principal investigators (PIs) or essential team members in the planning, management, and oversight of clinical research projects. These roles are highly sought after in diverse sectors, including academia, pharmaceutical companies, clinical research organizations (CROs), hospitals, government agencies, and independent funding bodies.



Further career pathways include opportunities in teaching, consultancy, and advisory positions, reflecting the program’s emphasis on producing versatile professionals ready to shape the future of clinical research.