MSc (Clinical Research)—full-time or part-time

Course Overview

HRB Fellows
Photo of HRB-CRFG Fellowship Students from 2022, L–R:: Frank Wu, Aoife Lyons, Laith Al-Sabek

Clinical Trial Fellowship

• For the information document, please click here.
• To download the form referenced in the information document, click here.

Clinical Trial Fellowship Eligibility

• Offered and accepted a full-time position in the MSc in Clinical Research program.
• Available to commit to working 20 hours per week in the Clinical Research Facility or an affiliated research department.

Save

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.

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 program’s emphasis on producing versatile professionals ready to shape the future of clinical research.

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

What makes this course unique?

• 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 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.