MS in Clinical Research FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

The MS in Clinical Research begins with the Summer course CRSP 401, “Introduction to Clinical Research”, which typically begins the first week in July. The MS in Clinical Research does not offer start dates in the Fall or Spring semester. 

 

The cost is based on a per credit hour rate. A student is required to take 30 credits hours of coursework to obtain a Master’s in Clinical Research. Therefore, the cost would be estimated by multiplying 30 credit hours by the current per credit hour rate, which can be found on the Student Financial Services website. Tuition is evaluated and adjusted each year. Since the program takes more than a year to complete (typically 2-4 years), the aforementioned calculation would be an estimate of the total cost.

For a Master’s level scholar, 9 credit hours is considered to be full-time and anything less is considered part-time.

The MS in Clinical Research may be taken on either a full-time or part-time basis. Part-time enrollment requires a student to be enrolled in less than 9 credit hours in any given semester.

Note, if you are on a student visa, you must maintain a full-time status.

For both pathways, Thesis and Capstone, you will have two Mentors. Part of being accepted into the Master’s program is the assignment of a CRSP (Clinical Research Scholars Program) Mentor. This mentor is assigned to assist you with enrollment, planning your course of study, directing you to services, etc .

For the Thesis pathway, since you will be working closely with your Research Mentor, we ask that you locate this individual. The Research Mentor must be an expert in the same field as your Thesis topic. This responsibility allows you to find someone you feel most comfortable with and who will provide you with the best research direction.

For the Capstone pathway, the department will work with you and our partners to determine a good fit for you and your educational goals.

Once the application and all supporting documentation are received, the entire application packet will go to the Admissions Committee. The Admissions Committee will review the application packet and will contact the applicant requesting an interview. After the interview, the Committee will make a decision as to whether admittance will be granted. An email will be issued to the scholar informing them of the Admissions Committee’s decision.

The MS in Clinical Research program follows an in-person format. Although there is a slight possibility for certain courses to be conducted online, the majority of the courses require to be in person at Case Western Reserve University.

The priority deadline for candidates for the Clinical Research Masters Program is March 1st. The final deadline is June 1st.

Clinical Research Thesis Pathway was designed to prepare a new generation of clinical investigators for leadership roles in academia, government, and industry.

Eligibility for Thesis Pathway

The prerequisites for consideration for admission are an advanced degree in Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, or allied sciences, along with postgraduate training in health care provision or similar clinical applications of the applicant's basic discipline. Individuals with other scientific or medical backgrounds are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. Selected individuals will show a strong commitment to a career in clinical investigation, proven academic excellence, intellectual and clinical performance during training years, and letters of recommendation.

Clinical Research Capstone/Internship/Practicum Pathway was created for individuals who may not be playing the role of principal investigator on a clinical research study, but who:

  • Desire strong preparation in clinical research methods and associated statistical approaches
  • Envision themselves playing a critical role on the clinical research team as a research assistant, study coordinator, or data manager

Eligibility for Capstone Pathway

The Capstone pathway prerequisites for consideration for admission a minimum of a baccalaureate degree in a science or health-related field. Individuals with another baccalaureate will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

A student can complete a MS in Clinical Research as quickly as in 15-months or up to 5 years depending on the student’s course load.

Yes, Cleveland is a fun city with a wide variety of things to do! A few minutes from CWRU  is the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Museum of Natural History. There is also the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Playhouse Square. Cleveland is home to three major sport teams. It has very scenic parks with views of Lake Erie. Cleveland has a wide variety of cuisines especially at the West Side Market, so there is something for everyone. On top of what Cleveland has to offer, it’s also affordable. Ohio was ranked #1 in affordability. Lastly, Cleveland is a Healthcare Hub. CWRU has partnerships and connections with numerous world-class healthcare facilities.

Please contact our Center for International Affairs for assistance with all questions about VISA requirements.

For International Applicants: If you are not a citizen of an English speaking country or if your previous college or university was not taught in English please submit an English proficiency exam (IELTS, TOFEL, or PTE). Passing scores are as follows:

  • TOEFL (90 on internet-based version, or 577 on paper version)          
  • IELTS (7.0 or higher)
  • PTE-Academic (61 or higher)