Clinical & Translational Research

The MSc in Clinical and Translational Research aims to train the next generation of investigators who will lead cutting edge clinical research into the future. We value high quality clinical research as the means to ensure novel interventions are developed to improve patients’ lives. We deliver our programme in class with some on-line learning followed by time in an active Clinical Research Centre, thereby ensuring students are taught by and gain experience alongside expert staff and internationally renowned investigators.



A comprehensive programme of hands on practical experience is a core element of the course, complementing online and classroom based learning. Student assessment is focused on evaluating practical as well as theoretical skills and knowledge. This unique learning environment exposes students to high quality clinical research.



• Equips participants with the knowledge, skills and competencies to allow them to complete programmes of clinical investigation and translational research.

• Develops core research competencies and clinical and translational research principles.

• Instructs students in the principles and practice of clinical trials, the development of novel technologies, and critical appraisal skills.

• Students are taught and assessed on the UCD campus and in our Clinical Research Centres, ensuring students have the opportunity to develop practical, employment relevant skills.

• Includes input from industry partners and opportunities for industry interaction. Here you will gain an understanding of clinical research in companies from the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and clinical research industry.

• Positions graduates to progress with a research career.



What Will I Learn?

• Apply their knowledge at the leading edge of patient focused clinical research

• Appraise, evaluate and enhance clinical research protocols, ensuring the highest quality research outputs.

• Collaborate with patients, academic partners and industry to complete clinical research programmes.

• Commit to continuous lifelong learning and further diffusion of their clinical research expertise.

• Design methodologically robust and statistically valid clinical research protocols

• Lead programmes of clinical research that comply with the highest national and international legal, regulatory and scientific standards.

• Possess excellent communication and presentation skills, appropriate to the multidisciplinary clinical research environment.

• Understand clinical trial regulations and appreciate the importance, practical use and evolution of these regulations.



NFQ Level: 9 (90 credits)

Level: Graduate Taught

Award: Master of Science

X789: MSc Clinical & Translational Research Full-Time

Stage 1 Core Modules

MDCS41630: Clinical & Translational Research

MDCS41640: Clinical Trials

MDCS41950: Biostatistics and Data Managem

MDCS41940: Clinical Trial Management

MDCS41890: Principles of Lab Medicine

MDCS41900: Clinical Protocol Development

MDCS41880: Clinical Research Project



X427: MSc Clinical & Translational Research Part-Time

Stage 1 Options - A) Min 0 of:

Year 1 Core Modules:

MDCS41630: Clinical & Translational Research

MDCS41950: Biostatistics and Data Managem

MDCS41890: Principles of Lab Medicine

MDCS41900: Clinical Protocol Development



Stage 1 Options - B) Min 0 of:

Year 2 Core Modules

MDCS41640: Clinical Trials

MDCS41940: Clinical Trial Management

MDCS41880: Clinical Research Project

Am I eligible for this course?



Applicants must possess a Level 8 degree or equivalent in any relevant discipline



Applicants will be assessed for entry to the programme based on undergraduate performance and final degree award



Applicants may be asked to participate in an Interview



Subject to availability, consideration will be given to graduates of non- science degrees who have subsequent postgraduate experience.



You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme.



Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page (https://tinyurl.com/2ae2ffax) for further information. Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.

Delivery: On Campus

X789: 1 year full-time

X427: 2 years part-time

X789: MSc Clinical & Translational Research Full-Time

Master of Science

Full-Time: Commencing September 2025



X427: MSc Clinical & Translational Research Part-Time

Master of Science

Part-Time: Commencing September 2025



Graduate Taught