Graduate Certificate in Clinical Research at Pennsylvania State University

In the current medical climate, there is a growing need for academic clinicians and health care professionals who are trained in clinical research. Unfortunately, there are few programs that offer the didactic preparation for the unique requirements of a clinical researcher.

The primary goal of this program is to provide a formal, structured program that will prepare certificate candidates to pursue a successful career in clinical research. The curriculum includes courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, clinical trials, decision and cost-effectiveness analysis, outcomes measurement, quality management, health care economics and policy, scientific communication, and SAS statistical analysis computing. The 12-credit program offers courses on weekday evenings, enabling the student to continue clinical or employment activities. Certificate candidates will be able to complete the 12-credit requirement in 2 semesters.

1. Statistical tests: Students will be able to understand basic statistical tests,and perform statistical inference.
2. Statistical software: Students will be able to use statistical software to conduct basic data analysis.
3. Measures of disease frequency: Students will be able to calculate and interpret measures of disease frequency and association in epidemiological studies.
4. Analyzing epidemiological data: Students will be able to conduct appropriate statistical analyses of epidemiological data and interpret the results.