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Courses
Courses
Choosing a course is one of the most important decisions you'll ever make! View our courses and see what our students and lecturers have to say about the courses you are interested in at the links below.
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University Life
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About University of Galway
About University of Galway
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Colleges & Schools
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Research & Innovation
Research & Innovation
University of Galway’s vibrant research community take on some of the most pressing challenges of our times.
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Business & Industry
Guiding Breakthrough Research at University of Galway
We explore and facilitate commercial opportunities for the research community at University of Galway, as well as facilitating industry partnership.
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Community Engagement
Community Engagement
At University of Galway, we believe that the best learning takes place when you apply what you learn in a real world context. That's why many of our courses include work placements or community projects.
Accessibility & LanguageClinical Research (MSc, full-time and part-time)
Course Overview
Objective of the MSc in Clinical Research
The MSc in Clinical Research is designed to equip the next generation of healthcare professionals with the skills and knowledge to excel in the clinical research field. This program serves as a pathway for transforming medical discoveries into clinical applications, fostering efficiency and innovation.
Tailored for qualified individuals aiming to become independent clinical investigators or assume leadership roles in clinical research teams, the course integrates theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience. Core topics include study design, data analysis, ethical frameworks, and regulatory compliance, ensuring a comprehensive foundation in clinical research methodology.
The program offers flexible study options:
- Full-time: Complete the MSc in one year.
- Part-time: Pursue the Clinical Research Methodology track over two years.
Year 1 is conducted at the University of Galway, while Year 2 combines distance learning with on-site modules provided by the University.
This dynamic program empowers healthcare professionals to make a meaningful impact in advancing medical science and improving patient care.
Celebrating a remarkable milestone! Congratulations to the MSc Clinical Research programme on producing over 300 exceptional graduates since 2011. Your contributions to advancing clinical research ehave been invaluable to healthcare innovation and patient care.
To all graduates: Your dedication to advancing healthcare through research and analytics is truly inspiring. Wishing you continued success as you apply your expertise to transform patient care and medical research!
MSc Clinical Research Class of 2023 Graduation, November 2024
Special Features of the MSc in Clinical Research
Under the guidance of experienced professionals and researchers from University of Galway and Saolta University Health Care Group, students will gain valuable insights into clinical trials, evidence-based medicine, and patient-centered research. This program is closely linked with the Institute for Clinical Trials and the HRB Clinical Research Facility, Galway.
Course Webinar Recording Watch the recording from the Virtual Postgraduate Open Day, November 2020, , here.
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HRB FellowsPhoto of HRB-CRFG Fellowship Students from 2022, L–R:: Frank Wu, Aoife Lyons, Laith Al-Sabek |
Clinical Trial Fellowship
- For the information document, please click here.
- To download the form referenced in the information document, click here.
Clinical Trial Fellowship Eligibility
- Offered and accepted a full-time position in the MSc in Clinical Research program.
- Available to commit to working 20 hours per week in the Clinical Research Facility or an affiliated research department.
Applications and Selections
Applications are made online via the University of Galway Postgraduate Applications System.
Who Teaches this Course
Requirements and Assessment
Assessment will take the form of formal, end-of-module examinations as well as continuous assessment, evaluation of contribution to group discussions and module projects. Semester One exams take place in December; Semester Two exams take place in April/May. The research thesis is submitted in August.
Key Facts
Entry Requirements
Students must have completed one of the following:
- An undergraduate degree in medicine.
- Another healthcare-related undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2nd Class Honours
- A biomedical science-related undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2nd Class Honours
Applicants from non-healthcare related degrees will be considered on a case-by-case basis at the discretion of the coordinators (minimum requirement of 2nd Class Honours). Applicants with significant relevant experience will also be considered.
All applicants whose first language is not English, or who have not been educated through the medium of English language during their two most recent years of study, must meet the University of Galway's English Language Requirements. For details on accepted qualifications, please refer to the
The University no longer accept Duolingo for entry. However, if your level is below IELTS 6.5, you could do a pre-sessional course aimed at preparing you for progression to this course.
Applicants who do not meet the primary entry criteria as described above will be declined entry into the program.
The remaining applicants will be reviewed in closer detail, with significant weight placed on: A) The applicant’s personal statement describing their motivation for applying to this course and their career aspirations following the successful completion of the MSc. B) The applicant’s previous academic performance. C) The applicant’s referee’s comments.
This programme is eligible under the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP, Ireland's official register of approved educational programs that can accept international students requiring study visas, ensuring programs meet quality standards for immigration purposes.
Additional Requirements
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
Applicants with significant relevant experience will also be considered for this programme.
Duration
1 year, full-time
2 years, part-time
Next start date
September 2025
A Level Grades ()
Average intake
20
QQI/FET FETAC Entry Routes
Closing Date
No set closing date. Please see offer rounds website for further information.
NFQ level
9
Mode of study
ECTS weighting
90 ECTS
Award
CAO
Course code
MCR1, MCR2
Course Outline
Full-time MSc (Clinical Research)
Full-time or part-time course consisting of 90 ECTS.
Compulsory Modules (Core):
Semester 1
| MD510 Fundamentals of Health Research and Evaluation Methods; 10ECTS |
| MD511 Introduction to Biostatistics I; 10ECTS |
| MD1602 Introduction to the Ethical and Regulatory Frameworks of Clinical Research; 10ECTS |
Additional Modules (Optional):
Semester 1 and 2
| MD513 Introduction to Biostatistics II; 10ECTS |
| MD514 Introduction to Research Methods for Randomized Controlled Trials; 10ECTS |
| MD515 Systematic Review Methods; 10ECTS |
| MD1541 Harnessing the Basic Biology of Cancer for Development of Novel Therapeutics; 10 ECTS |
| MD1603 Clinical Research Site Level Activities; 10 ECTS |
| MD517 Clinical Research Administration; 10ECTS |
| EC584 Health Systems and Policy Analysis; 10ECTS |
| EC572 Health Technology Assessment; 10ECTS |
| MD518 Observational and Analytical Research Methods; 10ECTS |
| MD1600 Bio-Ethics; 10ECTS |
| MD1601 Biobank—Advanced Clinical Application and Clinical Testing; 10ECTS |
PLUS
| MD520 Minor Thesis (30 ECTS), completed over the one year period. |
Part-time MSc (Clinical Research)
Students are required to complete three compulsory modules at University of Galway in year 1 of the Masters. A further 3* or 5** modules are selected from additional courses available at University of Galway.
Semester 1
| MD510 Fundamentals of Health Research and Evaluation Methods; 10ECTS |
| MD511 Introduction to Biostatistics I; 10ECTS |
| MD1602 Introduction to the Ethical and Regulatory Frameworks of Clinical Research; 10ECTS |
Additional Modules (Optional):
Semester 1 and 2
| MD513 Introduction to Biostatistics II; 10ECTS |
| MD514 Introduction to Research Methods for Randomized Controlled Trials; 10ECTS |
| MD515 Systematic Review Methods; 10ECTS |
| MD1541 Harnessing the Basic Biology of Cancer for Development of Novel Therapeutics; 10 ECTS |
| MD1603 Clinical Research Site Level Activities; 10 ECTS |
| MD517 Clinical Research Administration; 10ECTS |
| EC584 Health Systems and Policy Analysis; 10ECTS |
| EC572 Health Technology Assessment; 10ECTS |
| MD518 Observational and Analytical Research Methods; 10ECTS |
| MD1600 Bio-Ethics; 10ECTS |
| MD1601 Biobank—Advanced Clinical Application and Clinical Testing; 10ECTS |
PLUS
| MD520 Minor Thesis (30 ECTS), completed over the 2- year period. |
OR
| ** MD519 Independent Study Module (10 ECTS) completed and assessed by University of Galway. |
Why Choose This Course?
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MSc in Clinical Research are well-prepared to advance into impactful roles as principal investigators (PIs) or essential team members in the planning, management, and oversight of clinical research projects. These roles are highly sought after in diverse sectors, including academia, pharmaceutical companies, clinical research organizations (CROs), hospitals, government agencies, and independent funding bodies.
Further career pathways include opportunities in teaching, consultancy, and advisory positions, reflecting the program’s emphasis on producing versatile professionals ready to shape the future of clinical research.
For more information on further career paths, please see here.
What makes this course unique?
- Tailored for Future Leaders: This program is ideal for individuals aspiring to become independent clinical investigators or clinical research professionals leading research teams. Its flexible structure accommodates working professionals, offering part-time study options alongside full-time employment.
- Expert-Led Learning: Delivered by experienced senior researchers, academics, and healthcare professionals from the University of Galway and Saolta University Health Care Group, the program combines face-to-face and online learning for a dynamic educational experience.
- Diverse Career Pathways: Graduates are equipped to thrive in a wide range of roles, reflecting the growing importance of clinical research. Career opportunities span universities, the pharmaceutical industry, clinical research organizations, hospitals, government bodies, and independent funding agencies. Additional avenues include roles in teaching, consulting, and advisory capacities.
Who’s Suited to This Course
Learning Outcomes
Transferable Skills Employers Value
Work Placement
Study Abroad
Related Student Organisations
Course Fees
Fees: EU
€9,390 p.a. full-time; €5,640 p.a. part-time (including levy) 2025/26
Fees: Tuition
€9,250 p.a. full-time; €5,500 p.a. part-time 2025/26
Fees: Student levy
€140 p.a. 2025/26
Fees: Non EU
€19,500 p.a. (€19,640 including levy) 2025/26
For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.
Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26). You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee. A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.
Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here.
Find out More
For general queries, email:
clinicalresearch@universityofgalway.ie
Dr Sonja Khan
Course Director, Lecturer & Head of Education at the Institute for Clinical Trials
Institute for Clinical Trials, Clinical Research Facility,
University of Galway
E: sonja.khan@universityofgalway.ie
Dr Johannes B. Letshwiti | Consultant Neonatologist
I have a special interest in quality improvement (QI) projects and this is the course I had been looking for as a clinical educator. I wasn't sure at the start whether the course would be able be a good fit for those interested in QI, an important part of modern clinical practice. This course provides you with the right tools to critique journal articles, to interpret results, to set up research and QI projects, and to teach trainees on how to present research articles. It gives you basic and in-depth look at research methodology. The course is delivered in the most efficient way for those doing the course either in part-time or full time capacity. There is huge support from the instructors throughout the course. The course is delivered online with some face-to-face lectures. The latter is important as it provides tutorial rather than just lectures. There is an excellent mix of core and optional modules. The optional modules are tailored to suit your area of interest or expertise. I am in a better place right now as this course has consolidated what most health professionals do not get during their training: research methodology, an essential education piece for all clinicians.in Connect with Dr Johannes
Chiaw Woon Teh | Research Associate
Clinical research is a competitive and growing field. Being a clinical research professional, a strong academic/medical background isn’t sufficient to conduct good quality clinical research. Some significant research skills and knowledge are essential for competence in conducting research and this is the main reason I started MSc Clinical Research with NUI Galway. It is a comprehensive programme with experienced, dedicated and outstanding lecturers which includes clinicians, regulatory specialists and clinical trial specialists. It gives a great overview of clinical research with the concepts, research ethics and guidelines. This course enhances my skills in information seeking, communicating, methodological skills and data analysis. I was lucky to be offered a placement in the oncology department. It was an eye-opener experience which allowed me to have hands-on experience in the clinical trials. This course has changed my career path from a clinical pharmacist to a clinical research associate and I am glad that I made this decision.in Connect with Chiaw
Kai Meen Chen | Research Associate
This course provides essential knowledge and skills in clinical research areas if you are planning to pursue this field. The teaching method is an adaptive learning platform that included both online & classroom methods. The lecturers in this course are experienced & knowledgeable, they provide full support and guidance. During my academic year, I was honoured to receive the Advanced Therapies Cancer Group Scholarship in Clinical Research Facility Galway (CRFG). This placement allowed me to gain hands-on experience in clinical trials, especially in Haematology and Oncology trials. In the CRFG, I worked as a data manager at the site to complete the patient data in the database, maintain the site file and handle the monitoring visit. This working experience was invaluable and helped me understand the significance of these activities in a clinical trial. I highly recommend this course to those planning to work in clinical research, which would equip you with the basic knowledge to start your career in the academic research or pharma industry. I have no regret studying abroad for this course which is a plus for me to progress to the next level as a project manager.in Connect with Kai
Aditya Kodumagulla | Pharm D
MSc. in Clinical Research program have equipped me with good Clinical and essential skills that are most needed if you are willing to start a clinical research industry career. The compulsory and optional modules are designed to complete with great flexibility and provide the basic concept with adequate staff support. My journey to Ireland started with my interest in clinical trials and Medical devices to explore good research career opportunities. However, I was fortunate enough to receive the HRB - Fellowship, which has exposed me to many practical aspects and various clinical and non-clinical pieces of training, that have helped me gain essential skills. Moreover, my student life at NUIG was amazingly packed in attending social, sports and career events which gave me enough exposure, confidence and skill to unleash my potential and supported me to create excellent research possibilities for my upcoming career.in Connect with Aditya
Alice Power | Quality & Regulatory Affairs Manager
The MSc. in Clinical Research was an overall excellent experience. I gained a thorough understanding of all aspects to clinical research and since my graduation this has been beneficial to the progression of my career in research administration and management roles. The module choices offered, through both online and classroom learning, were wide enough to allow for selection on the components you might be more interested in while having optimum required core modules. Engagement, support and insight from experienced course lecturers was always available. I have to say that completion of this MSc. has stood me very well and would highly recommend to anyone considering a clinical research management/administration future.in Connect with Alice
Dr. Martin O'Halloran | Techrete Snr Lecturer; Dir, Translational Medical Device Lab
In recent decades, the medical devices sector has become an ever-increasing part of the West of Ireland’s economic landscape. The growth of the sector has been supported by academic initiatives like BioInnovate, CURAM and the HRB’s Clinical Research Facility in Galway (CRFG). The Masters in Clinical Research delivered by the CRFG trains medical devices researchers on the fundamentals of designing, implementing and analysing a clinical trial. Uniquely, since the material is delivered by CRF staff themselves, the course also addresses the practical challenges of clinical research. The course content is very carefully considered and is both challenging and engaging. I couldn’t recommend the course highly enough and would consider such training a must for those engaging in medical device trials.in Connect with Dr. Martin
Dr. Shubham Atal | MD, MSc
Coming from an academic–research background in medicine/pharmacology, the MSc in Clinical Research was a perfect fit for me in terms of its content, exposure and duration. It aims at facilitating a career progression into various roles in the different domains of clinical research. The availability of compulsory and elective additional modules offers great flexibility and perspective. Moreover, there were opportunities in form of part time paid internships / jobs and volunteer research assistantships to gain hands on experience in clinical research activities in the CRFG. This master’s programme is a great platform for anyone looking to launch or further a career in healthcare research in industry or academia. It helped me greatly to transition into working for a top national institute of medicine in my country as an academic actively involved in clinical research.in Connect with Dr. Shubham
John O'Dea | CEO, Crospon
With the increasing level of translational research and novel medical device design taking place in Ireland, there is a strong need to increase number of trained clinical researchers both within academia and industry. This course has been of great benefit to me in building skills in terms of RCT design and biostatistics in a formal structured manner. The various modes of learning and lecture scheduling have made this a course capable of being managed in the context of a heavy work schedule.in Connect with John
Colm Mc Elwain | MPharm MPSI
This course has a variety of optional modules, ranging from database development to project management, that gave me great flexibility in how I wanted to steer my own learning experience. The teaching methods used in these modules are flexible, which allows the content to be very student orientated and accessible. I was fortunate to get a place on a research fellowship in HRB’s Clinical Research Facility in Galway (CRFG). This placement was invaluable in allowing me to experience all elements of clinical research in a practical manner. In the CRFG, I worked in database management, quality assurance, quality control and project management on a variety of clinical studies. I was lucky enough to get some great advice from experienced colleagues while I was here. I would recommend the MSc. in Clinical Research to anyone who would like to utilise their skills in the world of clinical research, even if your background isn’t from a clinical setting. The course has an excellent support network and great lecturers that are happy to provide guidance and advice to students.
Shereen Esmael | BCPS,MSc.,Clinical Research Assistant
I started the course hoping to achieve something extra to aid my main field of Pharmacology, but I finished the course with a decision to shift my career to Clinical Research completely at an age where I should be settling with what I've already got going on. The MSc. in Clinical Research is a very well-organised course that boasts the complete package in terms of teaching all the vital aspects of clinical research, building valuable practical experience, and having suitable schedules for graduate students coming from almost any background, mine of course being Pharmacology. The course also offers a diverse selection of interesting optional modules, in addition to the required modules, that provide a wide range of exciting possibilities for your very own unique experience. I was very fortunate to earn a research scholarship in the CRFG, which proved priceless in getting me prepared for my current clinical research job after the course. I would definitely recommend the MSc. in Clinical Research to anyone hoping to pursue a career as a clinical researcherin Connect with Shereen
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Dr Yogesh Acharya | MD, MSc, FAcadMEd, AFAMEE
Clinical research has become an integral part of modern medicine. The impact of research in the healthcare setting lies beyond individual patients. As science continues to evolve, there is an overwhelming need for evidence-based medicine. MSc in Clinical Research at the National University of Ireland Galway provides a suitable platform for physician and healthcare staff to build a clinical research career. Dedicated faculty members consist of academia, clinicians and industry experts, who offer a practical learning experience. The problem-based active teaching and learning environment addresses the challenges in clinical research and equips students with the knowledge, attitude and competence to excel. As a recent alumnus, I highly recommend this course to those who want to build a clinical research career or consolidate their research aptitude.in Connect with Dr Yogesh
Celia Thomas | Clinical Research Facility at University Hospital Galway
I am delighted to share my experience in the MSc Clinical Research program at the University of Galway - a decision that has profoundly shaped my academic and professional journey. As a Pharmacy graduate, I was eager to make a leap into clinical research, and this program has been nothing short of a game-changer. From the very first day, I was struck by the vibrant energy of both the faculty and my fellow students. The curriculum is a perfect blend of theoretical insights and practical applications, ensuring that we are not just absorbing information but actively engaging with it. The emphasis on hands-on learning through workshops and real-world scenarios made a significant difference in my understanding of the field. The modules on biostatistics and health research methodologies were particularly impactful for me. They sharpened my analytical skills and ignited a genuine passion for the complexities of clinical trials. I found myself excited to analyse data and design studies, which is something I never thought I’d say. Now, as a research assistant at the Clinical Research Facility at University Hospital Galway, I feel empowered and ready to face the challenges of the field.
Ha Vu | Research Assistant – HRB-CRFG
Before moving to Ireland, I had a few years of experience in regulatory affairs, focusing on pharmaceutical products and clinical research. I decided to join the MSc in Clinical Research to deepen my ethics-related knowledge and broaden my understanding of other aspects like study management. This course covered clinical research on a large scale, both practically and methodologically. The Clinical Trial Fellowship offered me a valuable opportunity to engage in real-world research activities, including data management and radiotherapy clinical trials. All the lectures and hands-on practice helped me obtain a more comprehensive perspective to pursue my career in clinical research.
Kishor Shirsat , B | Pharmacy Clinical Research Associate University of Galway
Pursuing an MSc in Clinical Research at the University of Galway allowed me to deepen my expertise in this competitive and ever-evolving field. A highlight of the program was gaining practical experience with the Clinical Research Development Office (CRDO), which enhanced my understanding of research methodologies and regulatory requirements. My thesis on patient and public involvement (PPI), guided by Dr. Sonja Khan, emphasized real-world applications and critical analysis. The program’s rigorous curriculum and hands-on learning, supported by experienced faculty, equipped me with the skills to lead research projects focused on patient outcomes and scientific integrity, positioning me to contribute meaningfully to healthcare innovation.
