Master of Science (MS) in Clinical Research

The MS in Clinical Research Program is a graduate program designed to educate students on planning, running and studying clinical trials while following safety and ethical guidelines. The program focuses on testing the safety and effectiveness of new medicines, treatments and medical devices. Graduates of the program often work as clinical trial managers, research scientists or regulatory specialists.

This program is designed for a wide range of students, including medical fellows and residents, research nurses, study coordinators and administrative staff. It is also a good fit for students with bachelor’s degrees who are interested in working in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology or medical device industries.

Students will learn several research methods and skills through this program, including the following: 

• Designing clinical research studies
• Developing research protocols and study objectives
• Selecting appropriate endpoints and outcome measures
• Understanding phases of clinical trials (Phase I–IV)
• Participant recruitment and informed consent procedures
• Clinical study coordination and site management
• Data collection and clinical documentation
• Basic and advanced biostatistical analysis
• Basic and advanced bioinformatics analysis of clinical data
• Data quality control and data management
• Institutional Review Board (IRB) processes
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines
• Writing clinical research protocols
• Preparing abstracts, manuscripts and reports
• Bridging discoveries from laboratory research into patient care
• Basic and advanced epidemiology
• Mentored, independent clinical research thesis work

This program is offered in full-time or part-time format. Full-time students complete the program in five semesters. Part-time students must graduate within eight semesters.

This program is currently only offered on campus. There is no option for a fully online or hybrid format at this time.

You can find all requirements, prerequisites and instructions for applying on the program’s Admissions page.

Full-time students must complete the program in five semesters. Part-time students may take up to eight semesters to complete the program.

An average class size for this program is 40 students. The program is classroom-based and offered after 3:00 p.m. to accommodate working students, such as fellows, residents and clinical coordinators.

Yes, students will be mentored by a faculty member currently conducting clinical research projects.

Yes, students will be prepared to enter any of those fields upon completion of the program. Most students are working in the health care field, including residents, fellows, research nurses and research coordinators. On graduating, they can become independent clinical researchers working in health care or join clinical research teams in academia, hospitals, industry and more.

Chicago represents a rich environment for clinical research through its many universities, hospitals or industry-based research centers.

Many students who are Rush employees qualify for tuition benefits from Rush. Financial aid can be requested through the University. Some scholarships are available for students based on academic performance. You can learn more from our Office of Student Financial Aid.