Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI)

The Master's Degree Program in Clinical Investigation is sponsored by the Center for Education and Career Development (CECD) which is in the Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences (NUCATS) institute.  It offers a Master of Science degree in Clinical Investigation (MSCI) to students seeking the fundamental skills needed for a successful career in clinical investigation. The program provides rigorous education in quantitative and ethically sound methods that are necessary for the design, implementation, analysis, and publication of clinical research studies. Students take required courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, ethics, and medical writing.  Elective courses include clinical trials, drug development, bioinformatics, medical informatics, molecular epidemiology, and cardiovascular disease epidemiology among others to further enhance their skills in clinical and translational research. The culmination of the degree experience is the completion of a mentored research project. This program is part-time and consists of evening courses primarily for medical residents, fellows and junior faculty members who wish to receive formal training in clinical research.  Other medical professionals in the Chicago area may be eligible to enroll.  They would be expected to be actively engaged in research with a mentor, preferably one at NU, who should have national funding—NIH, AHA, etc.  MSCI courses are open to graduate students in other life sciences' programs at NU to explore the application of basic science concepts to medicine. Students can enter the program at the beginning of any of the four quarters.  Upon entering the program, the applicant is required to prepare a brief research plan which has been reviewed by their mentor(s).  They are expected to obtain the degree in two to three years.

Please address all inquiries to: 

    Robyn Mann
    Program Administrator
    Northwestern University, NU Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute
    420 E. Superior, 11th Floor, Chicago, Illinois 60611
    Phone: 312-503-5291
    Fax: 312-503-5388
    Email: r-mann@northwestern.edu



MSCI Admissions Information

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MSCI Curriculum

MSCI Degree Requirements

MSCI Faculty

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MSCI Program Administration Contact Information