Take part in rapidly growing industry that saves lives on a daily basis. Earn an Online Master’s in Clinical Research.
Medical research is in the midst of a boom. Take, for instance, the recent report from Research America, which showed that the medical industry invested $115.9 billion in medical research and development in 2016. Even more, investments grew by a staggering 20 percent between 2013 and 2016.
So who are the people behind the scenes, making all of this innovative research happen? Enter clinical research professionals.
What is an Online Master’s in Clinical Research degree?
Clinical Research Associates and Managers are the backbone of the medical research process. They are responsible for linking together the multi-faceted process of clinical research – everything from ordering tests and handling equipment to establishing methodologies and procedures.
An advanced degree in Clinical Research can land you in a wide variety of settings, both in and out of a laboratory. Graduates typically end up in one of three sectors: biomedical sciences, community health research, or health services research. Regardless, you’ll be on the front lines of orchestrating ground-breaking new science.
How much can you earn with an Online Master’s in Clinical Research degree?
For such a well-funded and high-achieving industry, it just makes sense that professionals in the field would make a lucrative salary. According to Payscale.com, Clinical Research Associates make on average $62,931 per year. However, their earning potential could reach closer to $92,800 depending on experience and location.
In the last number of years, agencies reported over 10,000 unfilled clinical research associate positions with contract research organizations. The Bureau of Labor Statistics backs that number up, estimating that in the next six years, the demand for Clinical Laboratory Technologists will increase by 14 percent.
What is required for an Online Master’s in Clinical Research degree?
The requirements for getting accepted into an Online MS in Clinical Research vary depending on the program you choose. But here’s what might look the same: a completed application, resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Programs vary on whether they require previous clinical research experience or completion of the GRE. Some prefer you to have a BS or BA in a related field; others offer solutions to quickly complete prerequisites.
Once you’re admitted you’ll likely be required to complete 30 to 36 credit hours. Most programs include a core curriculum of clinical research basics and then allow you to specialize in electives or an industry-specific track.
What are the best Online Master’s in Clinical Research degrees?
OSR uses six data points: three school-wide and three program specific. For school-wide, OSR uses Student Satisfaction, Admission Rates, and the number of programs the school offers online. For program specific, OSR checks the Median Debt of graduates from that program, how many degrees are offered within that program’s umbrella department, and what percentage of students at that school graduated from that department.
The six statistics are displayed by each school. The sliding bar under each statistic represents how that school compares to other US institutions. “Not reported” means a school did not release that information to the US Department of Education. A more detailed description of the OSR process can be found on the methodology page.
For a more managerial career in healthcare, consider one of the Best Online Master’s in Healthcare Administration.
