This MAS is an accredited master’s degree conferred by UC San Diego. It is a professional (terminal) degree, designed to provide rigorous, graduate-level curriculum in a specific, timely area of study to supplement the education and work experience of the students who enroll in the program. MAS degrees are self-funded, and the degree can often be pursued part-time or full time. For more information, refer to Prospective Students page.
The master’s degree program in Clinical Research prepares individuals to perform valid, credible patient-based research in academia, industry, research institutes, and health and regulatory agencies. Linking the academic and professional scientific communities, the program is most beneficial for:
Clinical Research Associates working in private industry; Biomedical Scientists employed in biomedical firms, hospitals and pharmacies; Physicians; Pharmacists; Dentists; Nurses with advanced training, and Psychologists.
The degree consists of 40 quarter units, and classes are offered fall, winter, spring, and summer quarters. For more information, refer to Curriculum page.
The cost of the program is approximately $34,000, which includes all program instruction and administrative fees. Program fees do not include books for elective courses, software, parking, or incidentals. (Some books for core courses are currently covered by a program grant). For more information, refer to Financial page.
No, the GRE/GMAT is not required for admission to the program.
The master’s degree in Clinical Research is a 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.
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.
Not ready to apply or want to sample some classes first? We have these classes open to the public through concurrent enrollment: CLRE-236 Translational Research Fundamentals; CLRE-237 Translational Regenerative Medicine; and CLRE-238 Applied Translational Research. If you take any of these courses, and are later accepted to the degree program, they may count towards degree requirements.
Class sizes range from 20-30 students. The relatively small class size and seminar-style of the classes allows for close interaction among students and professors as well as provides many valuable networking opportunities.
Possibly, the admissions committee will review your entire application, including the depth of your professional experience, the strength of your recommendation 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. You should contact clre@ucsd.edu for more information.
The MAS degree is a UC San Diego graduate degree handled through the Graduate Division. Formal application for admission to the program is required. Refer to the Admission Requirements and Application pages for more information.
Certainly, just contact the department to set up an appointment.
clre@ucsd.edu