

The Clinical Research master's program at Virginia University is designed for individuals seeking a focused and practical understanding of the processes behind the development and evaluation of medical therapies. This one-year, full-time program delivers a comprehensive foundation in clinical trial design, biostatistics, regulatory affairs, and ethical standards that govern human subjects research. Students engage with real-world case studies and research protocols to gain a critical perspective on the roles of sponsors, investigators, and review boards in the clinical research environment.
Throughout the curriculum, learners build hands-on skills in protocol development, data management, and research coordination. The program emphasizes both academic theory and applied knowledge, equipping graduates to work effectively in regulated research environments. With access to Virginia University’s medical research facilities and experienced faculty, students develop core competencies in study monitoring, patient recruitment, and scientific communication. This practical approach prepares them to take on advanced responsibilities within interdisciplinary clinical research teams across academic, public health, and industry settings.
Semester 1 – Fundamentals of Clinical Trials
Semester 2 – Advanced Applications & Regulation
Graduates of the Clinical Research program are well-prepared for roles in clinical trial coordination, regulatory affairs, data management, and medical research support across a variety of settings. These include contract research organizations (CROs), pharmaceutical companies, academic medical centers, and government health agencies such as the FDA or NIH. The demand for professionals who can navigate ethical frameworks and compliance protocols while managing clinical data continues to grow, especially with the expansion of precision medicine and global clinical trials. The program also serves as a stepping stone for those aiming to pursue doctoral-level study in clinical epidemiology, biomedical sciences, or healthcare innovation.
This program offers a highly targeted and professionally relevant curriculum built around the real-world demands of modern clinical research. Virginia University provides access to expert faculty with deep experience in both academic and industry-sponsored trials, ensuring that students receive up-to-date, practice-informed instruction. Small class sizes promote collaborative learning and personalized mentorship, while on-campus research centers allow for immersive, hands-on training. With a clear focus on both ethical standards and regulatory frameworks, this program is ideal for individuals who want to make meaningful contributions to medical science by ensuring the safe, ethical, and efficient evaluation of new therapies and interventions.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 434 924 0311
Email: gradadmissions@virginia.edu
Address: University of Virginia, Charlottesville, VA 22904, United States