Who is this course for?

The MSc Clinical Research is designed for healthcare professionals and graduates who wish to develop the knowledge, skills, and confidence to design and conduct high‑quality clinical research.

The programme is particularly suited to:

• Clinicians and healthcare professionals (including medicine, nursing, allied health professions, and public health) who wish to incorporate research into their clinical practice or advance their research careers.
• Graduates in health, life sciences, or related disciplines seeking formal training in clinical research methods and governance.
• Early‑career researchers and professionals working in healthcare, academia, industry, or the voluntary sector who wish to strengthen their understanding of clinical research design and evaluation.

The course is suitable for students with or without prior formal research training. It is structured to support those new to clinical research while also offering depth and rigour for learners with existing research experience.

Applicants from non‑healthcare‑related disciplines may be considered on a case‑by‑case basis, subject to meeting the minimum academic requirements (normally a Second Class Honours degree or equivalent) and demonstrating relevant experience or motivation for clinical research.

The programme is ideal for those who wish to:

• Develop as reflective and ethically grounded clinical researchers
• Contribute to evidence‑based and sustainable healthcare practice
• Progress to doctoral research or research‑informed leadership roles

What will I study?

The MSc Clinical Research is designed to equip healthcare professionals and related graduates with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to design, conduct, and evaluate high‑quality clinical research.

You will learn from experienced clinical researchers and methodological experts from the College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, gaining a strong foundation in the principles and practice of clinical research across healthcare settings.

Throughout the programme, you will:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of clinical research methodologies, including randomised controlled trials, observational studies, systematic reviews, and qualitative and mixed‑methods research.
• Learn how to design ethically sound and methodologically robust clinical research studies, including formulating research questions, selecting appropriate study designs, and developing research protocols.
• Gain practical experience in research governance, ethics, and regulatory processes, including informed consent, data protection, and research integrity.
• Build skills in critical appraisal of clinical literature, enabling you to evaluate evidence and apply research findings to clinical practice.
• Develop core research competencies such as data interpretation, critical thinking, reflexivity, and systems thinking, essential for contemporary clinical research.
• Learn how to integrate sustainability and planetary health considerations into clinical research design, supporting responsible and future‑focused healthcare research.
• Apply your learning through experiential and applied assessments, culminating in the completion of a supervised clinical research thesis on a topic relevant to your professional or academic interests.

The programme places a strong emphasis on applied learning, enabling you to translate research theory into practice and to develop as a reflective, ethically grounded clinical researcher capable of contributing to improved health outcomes.

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• 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 Highlight specialist skills or expertise developed as part of the 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. 

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.

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 programme's emphasis on producing versatile professionals ready to shape the future of clinical research.

For more information on further career paths, please see here.

Clinical Trial Fellowship

The University of Galway is pleased to invite applications for the Clinical Trial Fellowship, available to students enrolled full‑time in the MSc Clinical Research programme.

This five‑month fellowship (April-August) offers successful candidates the opportunity to gain practical, hands‑on experience in a dynamic clinical research environment. Fellows will contribute to a range of activities, including clinical trial operations, data management, quality assurance, and research support.

Benefits of the Scholarship:

Fellows will have the opportunity to:

• Gain a comprehensive understanding of clinical research and clinical trial processes
• Develop practical knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and regulatory frameworks
• Build hands‑on skills in data entry, data management, and trial documentation
• Work alongside experienced clinical research professionals
• Receive a monthly stipend of €2,083 for the duration of the fellowship

Eligibility Criteria: 

Applicants must:

• Be registered as a full‑time student on the MSc Clinical Research programme at the University of Galway
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and a clear interest in clinical trials and research
• Available to commit to working 20 hours per week in the Clinical Research Facility or an affiliated research department.
• Exhibit motivation, professionalism, and a commitment to applied learning in a clinical research setting.

Application Process:

• The fellowship is open exclusively to applicants of the MSc Clinical Research programme
• Applications must be submitted via a Microsoft Forms application form, which will be available from October onwards
• Applicants must complete and submit the form within the specified deadline
• Applications will be assessed based on academic merit, motivation, and suitability for the fellowship

Successful applicants will:

• Work closely with the clinical research team
• Receive structured training
• Participate in a wide range of clinical trial activities

Key Dates:

• Application Deadline: 10^th May
• Decision Announcement: Mid-June

We look forward to receiving your application.

Fellows MSc Clinical Research: Beenu Marie Joseph (HRB Diabetes Collaborative Network, Novo Nordisk recipient), Natalie Kayoka (Neurovascular Clinical Trial Fellow), Adnan Hussain (AI Fellow, Galway University Hospital), Alejandra Huerta Sinesio (HRB Diabetes Collaborative Network, Menarini recipient), and Emma Mullally (MedTech Clinical Research Fellow).

Recipients of the NovoNordisk Scholarship (Beenu Maria Joseph) and Menerini Scholarship (Alejandra Huerta Sinesio), Scholarship offered through the HRB Diabetes Collaborative network.

• Prof Martin O'Donnell
• Dr Sonja Khan
• Dr Alberto Alvarez-Iglesias 
• Professor Andrew Smyth
• Dr Finn Krewer
• Dr Aideen O’Doherty
• Dr Nicola Miller
• Dr Roisin Dwyer
• Prof Paddy Gillespie
• Dr Conor Judge  

Full-time students complete six core modules across Semester 1 and Semester 2, totalling 60 ECTS. Students are also required to complete a minor Thesis worth 30 ECTS, bringing the total award to 90 ECTS.

Part‑time students complete the programme over two years, normally undertaking 40 ECTS in Year 1 and 50 ECTS in Year 2, culminating in the submission of the clinical research thesis.

The programme is delivered using a blended and learner‑centred approach, designed to support both students who are new to clinical research and those with prior experience.

Range of Teaching and Formal Learning

Teaching and learning methods are varied and interactive, and may include:

• Interactive lectures and tutorials
• Flipped classroom activities*, where preparatory material supports in‑class discussion and application
• Problem‑based and case‑based learning using real‑world examples from clinical research
• Group discussion and peer learning
• Critical examination of published clinical research and study protocols

Students are encouraged to actively apply learning to practical clinical research scenarios, including study design, ethical considerations, governance, and interpretation of findings.

Research Project and Assessment

A central component of the programme is a self‑directed clinical research thesis, undertaken with ongoing supervision and structured feedback from an experienced academic supervisor. Students are supported throughout the research process, from refining research questions and study design through to data analysis and dissemination.

Assessment across the programme is designed to reflect authentic clinical research practice and may include:

• Research proposals and protocols
• Critical literature reviews
• Applied assignments based on clinical research scenarios
• Reflective and skills‑based assessments
• The final written clinical research thesis

The deadline for thesis submission is normally at the end of July.

Through this combination of taught modules and applied research, students develop the knowledge, skills, and professional competencies required to design, conduct, and evaluate high quality clinical research.

Alumni Network

Graduates of the MSc Clinical Research are encouraged to join the University of Galway Alumni Network, which provides opportunities for professional networking, career development, mentoring, and lifelong connection with the University.

👉 Sign up to the University of Galway Alumni Network here: MSC Clinical Research Alumni  Sign up – Fill in form

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 2024 Graduation, November 2025

Diabetes Collaborative CTN Scholarships

 

For further information about the MSc Clinical Research, including programme content, learning and assessment, or clinical research opportunities, please contact:

Programme Directors
Dr Sonja Khan and Dr Finn Krewer
MSc Clinical Research College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences University of Galway

Email: clinicalresearch@universityofgalway.ie

For questions related to applications, entry requirements, or deadlines, please contact the Postgraduate Admissions Office via the University of Galway website.

We welcome enquiries from prospective students and are happy to discuss how the programme aligns with your academic and professional goals.

Alumni Network

Graduates of the MSc Clinical Research are encouraged to join the University of Galway Alumni Network, which provides opportunities for professional networking, career development, mentoring, and lifelong connection with the University.
Sign up to the University of Galway Alumni Network here: MSC Clinical Research Alumni Sign up – Fill in form

Q: How often do I need to attend classes on campus?
A: Attendance depends on your module selection. In Semester 1, you will complete three core modules: one delivered fully online and two delivered in person (typically on Fridays in Galway). Additional modules may vary in delivery format.

Q: Is the programme fully online or blended?
A: The programme uses a blended learning approach. Some modules are delivered fully online, while others require in-person attendance. Lecture materials may be provided via the Virtual Learning Environment, at the discretion of module coordinators.

Q: Are lectures live-streamed?
A: No, live streaming is not routinely provided. However, online learning tools and materials are made available to support student learning.

Entry Requirements

Q: What qualifications are required for admission?
A: Applicants should hold one of the following:

• A medical degree, OR
• A healthcare-related degree (minimum 2.2 Honours), OR
• A biomedical science-related degree (minimum 2.2 Honours)

Applicants from other academic backgrounds may be considered on a case-by-case basis (minimum 2.1 Honours).

Applications & Admissions

Q: When can I apply?
A: Applications typically open in October and close at the end of May. Early application is strongly recommended.

Q: What is the application deadline?
A: The standard deadline is late May (e.g. 26 May). Please check the programme webpage for the exact date each year.

Q: When will I receive a decision?
A: Decisions are usually issued within 10 working days of submitting a complete application.

Q: Are there multiple intakes per year?
A: No, the programme has one intake per year, starting in September.

Q: When does the programme start?
A: The programme begins in early September. Please consult the University Academic Calendar for exact dates.

English Language Requirements

Q: Do I need IELTS if my degree was taught in English?
A: If you can provide official evidence that your previous degree was taught through English, an IELTS score is typically not required.

Fees & Funding

Q: What are the tuition fees?
A: Fees are published annually. Please consult: 👉 https://www.universityofgalway.ie/student-fees/pg_pg 

Q: Does the programme offer financial support?
A: The programme itself does not offer direct financial assistance. However, scholarships and funding opportunities are available through the University.

Q: What scholarships are available?
A: Options include:

• University of Galway scholarships
• International student scholarships
• Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships

More information:

• https://www.universityofgalway.ie/postgraduate_scholarships/ 
• https://www.universityofgalway.ie/internationalscholarships/ 

Clinical Research Fellowship

Q: Is there a fellowship opportunity?
A: Yes, a limited number of Clinical Research Facility Fellowships are available (typically 2–3 students).

Q: What does the fellowship include? A:

• Practical experience in clinical research settings
• Exposure to areas such as data management, project coordination, pharmacovigilance, and regulatory affairs

Q: Who is eligible?
A: Only full-time students who have accepted a place on the MSc are eligible.

Careers & Progression

Q: What career opportunities are available after graduation?
A: Graduates progress into roles such as:

• Clinical Research Assistant / Associate
• Data Manager
• Project Coordinator / Manager

Career outcomes depend on prior experience and background.

Q: Does the programme include placements?
A: No formal placements are included. However, the Clinical Research Fellowship provides practical experience for selected students.

Q: Does the University support career development?
A: Yes, support includes:

• Careers workshops and seminars
• Job alerts via email and social media
• Access to the Career Development Centre

👉 https://www.universityofgalway.ie/career-development-centre/ 

Student Life

Q: Is accommodation available?
A: Yes, on-campus accommodation is available, along with private rental options.

Useful links:

• https://www.universityofgalway.ie/student-life/accommodation/ 
• https://www.daft.ie/property-for-rent/ireland 

Applicants with significant relevant experience will also be considered for this programme.
As part of the RPL in Higher Education project the RPL team in the University is encouraging Programme Directors provide RPL information.

If you have any questions about RPL, please contact: 
Suzanne Golden Recognition of Prior Learning Project Lead/ Flexible Learning Development Officer suzanne.golden@universityofgalway.ie

Students must have completed one of the following:

1. An undergraduate degree in medicine.
2. Another healthcare-related undergraduate degree with a minimum of 2nd Class Honours
3. 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 English language requirements on the following page:
https://www.universityofgalway.ie/global-galway/studyinireland/entryrequirements/
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. 

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above. You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course. 

Closing Dates

We advise to apply early as spaces tend to fill up before May deadline.

Notes

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.

Fees for Academic Year 2026/27

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€9,400		€19,900	€140		€9,540	€20,040
Masters Part Time	1	€5,600			€140		€5,740

For 26/27 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,500 towards your tuition (2026/27).  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. 

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if:

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
  
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree. 

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2026 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2026. Full details available here. 

Global Scholarships

University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available. 

Diabetes Collaborative CTN Scholarships

Application Process

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September. 

Further Information

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process. 

For general queries, please contact:
E: clinicalresearch@universityofgalway.ie