The Master of Science in Clinical Investigation provides training in the methods and conduct of applied research to address clinical and population health issues. In addition to traditional instruction in biostatistics, epidemiology, and study design, this program will provide students with a strong foundation in ethics and professionalism, while developing skills in critical thinking, communication of scientific findings, leadership, and management of research studies.
Program Competencies
Problem formulation: Define focused research questions and testable hypotheses
Methodology: Compare and select study designs for addressing clinical or translational research questions; identify a target population with consideration of socioeconomic, ethnic and cultural diversity; identify measures to be utilized while addressing reliability and validity, data quality, and cultural diversity
Data management and security: Manage data using computer technology; define strategies to ensure data security and protection of privacy are maintained
Data analysis and interpretation: Generate statistics that fit the study design chosen and answer research questions; identify risk/preventive factors that may contribute to outcomes and incorporate them into a research study; interpret computer output containing results of statistical procedures and graphics
Scientific communication: Compile statistical output into tables and figures suitable for publication; prepare and communicate research findings to different groups of individuals through oral presentations and research papers; critically appraise the existing literature
Ethics and professionalism: Describe the fundamental principles of the protection of human subjects and voluntary informed consent; describe the authority for and professional standards for the responsible conduct of research; explain the concept of good clinical practice; explain conflict of interest management in research
Teamwork and leadership: Demonstrate group decision-making techniques; manage conflict; lead and manage team-based and individual projects; foster innovation and creativity
The MS in Clinical Investigation Degree in Epidemiology requires 36 credits that includes:
MS Thesis Research Credit from the thesis does not apply to the degree.
Total Credit Hours
36
Minimum Prerequisite Grade Requirements for Advanced Epidemiology Courses
Some advanced epidemiology courses have specific prerequisite grade requirements. Students must earn a minimum grade of B- or B in prerequisite courses to be eligible to enroll in subsequent coursework. Meeting the general academic standing requirements does not override prerequisite grade requirements for individual courses. Please refer to the Epidemiology Handbook or discuss with your faculty advisor, program manager, or student success advisor.
Thesis
Students must successfully complete a thesis. The thesis is based on a supervised research project demonstrating scholarship in the area of clinical research. Prior approval of the thesis proposal by the research supervisor and the program director is required. The results will be presented orally at Department Seminar and in a written thesis reviewed by two faculty members. The master’s thesis must be completed within a year of completion of the required courses. It should be an academic investigation suitable for publishing or a grant proposal suitable for submission to a funding agency.
