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MSc Clinical & Translational Research Full-Time

MSc (NFQ Level 9)

This course is available through the following application route(s)

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The MSc in Clinical and Translational Research aims to train the next generation of investigators who will lead cutting edge clinical research into the future. We value high quality clinical research as the means to ensure novel interventions are developed to improve patients’ lives. We deliver our programme in class with some on-line learning followed by time in an active Clinical Research Centre, thereby ensuring students are taught by and gain experience alongside expert staff and internationally renowned investigators.

A comprehensive programme of hands on practical experience is a core element of the course, complementing online and classroom based learning. Student assessment is focused on evaluating practical as well as theoretical skills and knowledge. This unique learning environment exposes students to high quality clinical research.

 

  • Equips participants with the knowledge, skills and competencies to allow them to complete programmes of clinical investigation and translational research. 
  • Develops core research competencies and clinical and translational research principles. 
  • Instructs students in the principles and practice of clinical trials, the development of novel technologies, and critical appraisal skills. 
  • Affords participants the opportunity to spend time with the research teams in the UCD Clinical Research Centre to observe clinical trials in action. (A 30 credit research project is included in year 2 of the programme). 
  • Includes input from industry partners and opportunities for industry interaction. Here you will gain an understanding of clinical research in companies from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and clinical research industry. 
  • Positions graduates to progress with a research career 

About This Course

​On successful completion of the MSc in Clinical and Translational Research students will be able to:

  • Apply their knowledge at the leading edge of patient focused clinical research
  • Appraise, evaluate and enhance clinical research protocols, ensuring the highest quality research outputs.
  • Collaborate with patients, academic partners and industry to complete clinical research programmes.
  • Commit to continuous lifelong learning and further diffusion of their clinical research expertise.
  • Design methodologically robust and statistically valid clinical research protocols.
  • Lead programmes of clinical research that comply with the highest national and international legal, regulatory and scientific standards.
  • Possess excellent communication and presentation skills, appropriate to the multidisciplinary clinical research environment.
  • Understand clinical trial regulations and appreciate the importance, practical use and evolution of these regulations.

Below is a list of all modules offered for this degree in the current academic year. Click on the module to discover what you will learn in the module, how you will learn and assessment feedback profile amongst other information.

Incoming Stage 1 undergraduates can usually select an Elective in the Spring Trimester. Most continuing undergraduate students can select up to two Elective modules (10 Credits) per stage. There is also the possibility to take up to 10 extra Elective credits.

Module Type Module   Trimester Credits
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41630 Clinical & Translational Research Autumn  10
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41640 Clinical Trials Autumn  10
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41950 Biostatistics and Data Managem Autumn  10
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41940 Clinical Trial Management Autumn and Spring (separate)  10
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41890 Principles of Lab Medicine Spring  10
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41900 Clinical Protocol Development Spring  10
Stage 1 Core Modules
MDCS41880 Clinical Research Project Spring and Summer (separate)  30

“I gained a great amount of theoretical knowledge about clinical trials, statistical and data management which is really useful to us as medical students. What’s more, we developed a new way of thinking. As future doctors, we can integrate research and clinical work which means that we can design a relevant clinical trial when we come across some critical problems in the future.”

Student Feedback

MSc Clinical & Translational Research Full-Time (X789) Full Time
EU          fee per year - € 11100
nonEU    fee per year - € 29100

***Fees are subject to change

Fees: http://www.ucd.ie/students/fees/index.html

Full time MSc fees search X789

Part time MSc fees search X427

ENTRY CRITERIA

  • Applicants must possess a level 8 degree or equivalent in any relevant discipline
  • Applicants will be assessed for entry to the programme based on undergraduate performance and final degree award
  • Applicants may be asked to participate in an Interview
  • Subject to availability, consideration will be given to graduates of non- science degrees who have subsequent postgraduate experience
You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EU) applicants: Yes


This programme is designed for science graduates, medical doctors, nurses, pharmacists and others with an interest in developing careers in clinical investigation.


General application route(s) for Irish/UK/EU applicants* for International (non-EU) applicants* to MSc Clinical & Translational Research Full-Time:

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X789
MSc Clinical & Translational Research Full-Time
Master of Science

Full-Time
Commencing September 2025
Graduate Taught
* you can change options at the top of the page