Master's Degree in Clinical Research

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take the GRE/GMAT?

I already have a post-graduate degree in a bio-medical field. Why would I need a master's degree in clinical research?

What is clinical research?

How long has the degree been in existence? How many graduates have you had?

What is a typical class size?

How do I apply to the program?

I'm still not sure the program is right for me. Can I speak with a program advisor before applying to the program?

I don't have a graduate degree required for admission. Can I still qualify? Should I still apply?

What is a Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) degree?

Do I need to take the GRE/GMAT?
No, the GRE/GMAT is not required for admission to the program.

I already have a post-graduate degree in a bio-medical field. Why would I need a master's degree in clinical research?
The master's degree in Clinical Research is a part-time degree designed to supplement one's training, education and experience. At present, formal training in clinical research methodology is limited and typically not a requirement of traditional graduate study for healthcare professionals. As a result, most academic scientists, as well as researchers increasingly found in a non-academic environment, lack sophistication in clinical research protocol and patient-oriented therapeutics. At the same time, developments in biotechnology continue to revolutionize the field of clinical research and the corresponding need for qualified, experienced clinical investigators increases. Currently over 50,000 principal investigators are needed for industry-sponsored drug development alone.

What is clinical research?
The definition of clinical research is very broad and typically encompasses clinical trials, outcomes, health delivery, and epidemiological and psychosocial research. A clinical researcher not only tests hypotheses but also addresses concerns for regulatory compliance, informed consent, and data management. A career in clinical research increasingly requires the high level of preparation, training, and commitment similar to a career in laboratory-based research.

How long has the degree been in existence? How many graduates have you had?
The program started in April 2003. We've had 51 graduates through
June 2008.

What is a typical class size?
Class sizes range from 10-30 students. The relatively small class size and seminar-style of most of the classes allows for close interaction among students and professors as well as provides many valuable networking opportunities.

How do I apply to the program?
The MAS degree is a UCSD graduate degree handled through the Office of Graduate Studies (OGS) Formal application for admission to the program is required. Refer to the links under PROSPECTIVE STUDENT for details on the admissions process and program admission requirements.

I'm still not sure the program is right for me. Can I speak with a program advisor before applying to the program?
Certainly. Just contact the Office of Advanced Professional Education and Development to set up an appointment.

I don't have a graduate degree required for admission. Can I still qualify? Should I still apply?
Possibly. The admissions coordinator and eventually the admissions committee will review your entire application package, including the depth of your professional experience, the strength of your recommendations letters, and your complete academic background. These factors are all taken into consideration in determining whether or not an applicant qualifies for admission to the program. In some instances, the committee will recommend a "conditional acceptance" to the program and suggest that a candidate take a few courses through Concurrent Enrollment prior to the committee making the final admission decision. Concurrent Enrollment is administered through UCSD Extension and allows a non-matriculated graduate student to take degree courses. Academic credit earned through Concurrent Enrollment will be applied to toward satisfying the MAS degree requirements once the student is formally admitted to the program in a future quarter. Contact the admissions advisor in the department with your questions on whether or not you might qualify for admission to the program and are a candidate for Concurrent Enrollment.

What is a Master of Advanced Studies (MAS) degree?
The MAS is an accredited master's degree conferred by UCSD. It is a self-funded, typically part-time, professional degree designed to supplement the education and work experience of the students who enroll in the program. It is often referred to as a "terminal" degree and is designed to provide rigorous, graduate-level curriculum in a specific, timely area of study. For more information, refer to the ABOUT THE MAS DEGREE.