Clinical and Epidemiological Research (MS)

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Degree Offered: MS
Program Leadership:
Elaine Ku, MD, MAS, Director
Admissions Inquiries:
Clair Dunne, Program Administrator

Program Description

Master's Degree Program in Clinical and Epidemiological Research is a two-year program that through enhanced coursework and precepting provides trainees with mastery of clinical and epidemiological research methods and culminates in a number of required products including a comprehensive literature review, a presentation at a national or international scientific conference, and publication of a peer-reviewed scientific paper.

For complete information on the Master‘s Degree Program in Clinical and Epidemiological Research and degree tracks, please visit our website.

Admission Requirements

The following qualifications are required:

  • An undergraduate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 (equal to a letter grade of B) 
  • For scholars who are primarily based in other training programs at UCSF, supervisor's assurance that at least 70% of time will be available August through May to divide between the activities of this program and the conduct of the trainee's clinical research projects
  • Affirmation of the Professional Conduct Statement (signed during orientation)

Preference will be given to applicants who have demonstrated knowledge or experience in some aspect of a health-related field (e.g., clinical practice, public health, health promotion) by virtue of a graduate or professional doctoral degree (MD, DDS, PharmD, PhD or international equivalent), being currently enrolled in such a program or relevant work experience. Although not required, this prior knowledge or experience is preferred because program scholars will be required to perform original research in an area of their choosing to fulfill graduation requirements. Prior substantive knowledge or experience in a health-related field can be very helpful in identifying a research area of interest and in maintaining motivation for the work.

How to Apply

Applicants can begin submitting their applications on September 1 each year.  Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and admission decisions are typically made within six weeks. Early application is particularly encouraged for applicants originating outside of the San Francisco Bay Area who may require housing or travel visas.  

Affirmation of the Professional Conduct Statement (signed during orientation).

Find application information on our website.

Learning Outcomes

To complete the program, scholars must satisfy program objectives, which are to:

  1. Acquire a mastery of a broad set of clinical research methods
  2. Plan and implement one or more clinical research projects that leads to a first-author publication
  3. Obtain experience in the instruction of clinical research methods

Upon graduation, students receive a Master of Science degree and are poised to work in a variety of research settings, including universities, public health departments, foundations and private industry.

Additional Information

Career Outcomes