Patient Oriented Research
The Patient Oriented Research Master of Science program at Columbia University is a one-year, full-time graduate degree focused on training health professionals and clinical researchers to design and conduct studies that directly involve human participants. Emphasizing scientific rigor and ethical responsibility, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills to translate biomedical discoveries into patient-centered clinical applications. Core topics include study design, biostatistics, epidemiology, data management, and regulatory compliance—all taught through the lens of improving patient outcomes.
Housed within Columbia’s Irving Medical Center, the program brings together expert faculty, advanced research infrastructure, and a multidisciplinary academic environment. Students benefit from hands-on training in clinical trial methodology, population-based research, and personalized medicine approaches. The curriculum is structured to support early-career physicians, nurses, and health researchers seeking to lead impactful studies that address real-world health challenges. With access to Columbia’s hospitals, patient populations, and academic networks, students gain practical experience while contributing to the future of evidence-based medical care.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Patient Oriented Research
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 01 April 2026
- Location: Columbia University, United States
- Field of Study: Health Sciences
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations in Clinical Research
- Introduction to Patient Oriented Research
- Principles of Epidemiology
- Biostatistics and Data Analysis I
- Ethics and Responsible Conduct in Human Research
Semester 2 – Advanced Methods and Application
- Clinical Trial Design and Implementation
- Biostatistics and Data Analysis II
- Grant Writing and Scientific Communication
- Capstone Project in Patient Oriented Research
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in academic medicine, clinical research, biomedical research organizations, and hospital-based research units. Many alumni work as clinical investigators, research coordinators, or translational scientists in university hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and public health institutions. Others pursue doctoral study or take on leadership roles in clinical trial management, outcomes research, or healthcare innovation teams. The program’s focus on rigorous research methodology and patient-centered outcomes gives graduates a strong foundation to advance healthcare through scientifically sound and ethically grounded research practices.
Why Choose This Program
This program is ideal for health professionals who want to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and patient care through methodologically sound research. Columbia University offers a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment where students can learn from leading clinical scientists while participating in real-world investigations. The curriculum combines quantitative training, ethical reflection, and practical application, allowing students to design studies that are both meaningful and medically relevant. With access to top-tier hospitals, clinical trial units, and patient populations, students gain the exposure and support needed to become leaders in patient-focused research. For those dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and improving lives through research, this program offers the skills, structure, and mentorship to make a lasting impact.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 212 854 1754
Email: admissions@columbia.edu
Address: University of Columbia, Admissions Office, New York, NY, United States
