PALS Provider Course (day 1)
- calendar_today Monday, Feb. 9
The Master of Science in Clinical Research (MSCR) program at MUSC provides rigorous, interdisciplinary training to prepare health professionals and scientists for careers in clinical and translational research. Designed for individuals with a background in medicine, pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, or related fields, this program builds core competencies in clinical trial design, biostatistics, regulatory science, and evidence-based medicine. Whether your goal is to become a principal investigator, clinical scientist, or research coordinator, our program provides the academic foundation and practical experience to lead in today's research-intensive environments.
Priority
Sep 1 – Jun 19
Regular
Jun 20 – Aug 1
Students engage in structured didactic classes along with hands-on research to develop expertise in study design, data analysis, ethics, regulatory standards, and translational methods.
MUSC’s Master of Science in Clinical Research blends structured coursework with mentored research experiences to build essential skills for careers in clinical investigation and translational science. The curriculum includes foundational study in clinical biostatistics, clinical epidemiology, and introduction to clinical trials, alongside applied training in data management, team science, and ethical conduct of research. Core components also emphasize comparative effectiveness research and grant writing to prepare students to design, analyze, and communicate findings from complex human health studies.
Students benefit from guided, hands-on mentored research that connects classroom learning to real clinical research projects. Whether completing the program in one year full time or over two years part time, learners engage with faculty investigators to deepen analytical competencies and develop professional confidence in regulatory, ethical, and scientific decision-making. This blend of didactic instruction and practical investigation positions graduates to advance clinical research across health care settings in South Carolina and beyond.
The full-time program is designed for students who are currently pursuing doctoral degrees in one of the six colleges (Dental Medicine, Graduate Studies, Health Professions, Medicine, Nursing, and Pharmacy) as well as international applicants. Students complete the program in one year on a full-time basis.
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR700 | Clinical Biostatistics | 3 |
| MCR731 | Critical Review | 2 |
| MCR736 | Clinical Epidemiology | 3 |
| MCR750 | Ethical Issues in Clinical Research | 1 |
| MCR770 | Contemporary Topic Seminar | 1 |
| MCR775 | Clinical Research Training | 1 |
| MCR970 | Mentored Research | 2 |
| Semester Total | 13 | |
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR724 | Introduction to Clinical Trials | 3 |
| MCR732 | Comparative Effectiveness Research | 3 |
| MCR746 | Informatics & Data Management | 2 |
| MCR752 | Team Science in Clinical Research | 1 |
| MCR771 | Regression Analysis | 2 |
| MCR777 | Introduction to Grant Writing | 1 |
| MCR970 | Mentored Research | 3 |
| Semester Total | 15 | |
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR772 | Community Engagement Research | 1 |
| MCR773 | Industry/Regulatory | 2 |
| MCR774 | Leadership | 2 |
| MCR789, or MCR970 |
Special Topics, or Mentored Research |
1 |
| MCR970 | Mentored Research | 4 |
| Semester Total | 10 | |
| Curriculum Total | 38 | |
Students can complete the part-time program in two years on a part-time basis, beginning each fall. Individuals admitted to this program complete a 38-academic credit master's program composed of classroom lectures and seminars.
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR700 | Clinical Biostatistics | 3 |
| MCR736 | Clinical Epidemiology | 3 |
| MCR750 | Ethical Issues in Clinical Research | 1 |
| MCR770 | Contemporary Topic Seminar | 1 |
| Semester Total | 8 | |
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR724 | Introduction to Clinical Trials | 3 |
| MCR746 | Informatics & Data Management | 2 |
| MCR752 | Team Science in Clinical Research | 1 |
| MCR771 | Regression Analysis | 2 |
| Semester Total | 8 | |
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR731 | Critical Review | 2 |
| MCR772 | Community Engaged Research | 1 |
| MCR773 | Industry/REgulatory | 2 |
| MCR774 | Leadership | 2 |
| MCR970 | Mentored Research | 1 |
| Semester Total | 8 | |
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR725 | Grant Development | 2 |
| MCR732 | Comparative Effectiveness Research | 3 |
| MCR789, or MCR970 |
Special Topics, or Mentored Research |
1 |
| MCR970 | Mentored Research | 2 |
| Semester Total | 8 | |
| Course ID | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| MCR776 | Innovation in Clinical Research | 1 |
| MCR970 | Mentored Research | 5 |
| Semester Total |
6 | |
| Curriculum Total |
38 | |
Join a virtual information session to connect with our team to get your questions answered and learn how you can advance your career.
MUSC offers a dynamic academic environment, featuring seminars, research days, and networking events throughout the College of Graduate Studies, to foster collaboration and professional growth.
Discover key information about application steps and required documentation to help you move forward with confidence.
All applicants must hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in clinical or health sciences from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. or its equivalent from a foreign institution (e.g., BSN, MHS).
Additionally, part-time students must possess a doctoral degree in clinical or health sciences from a regionally accredited institution in the U.S. (e.g., D.M.D., M.D., O.D., Pharm.D., Ph.D.).
At MUSC, we actively support all students to ensure their success in both academic and clinical settings. To support this goal, the university outlines the essential qualities and functional abilities required for participation in its educational programs. These include a range of observational, communication, motor, intellectual and behavioral skills necessary for safe and effective practice.
The following process outlines how and when your materials will be reviewed.
MUSC welcomes international applicants and offers tailored guidance to support you throughout the admissions process.
The program clarifies financial resources tailored for graduate students, including tuition support, scholarships, and graduate fellowships to help offset costs and facilitate degree completion.
Tuition and fees are per semester unless otherwise noted.
| Fee Type | Fee Cost |
|---|---|
| Application Fee (per application) | $95 |
| Matriculation Fee (upon application acceptance) | $400 |
| Tuition/Fee Type | Fall | Spring | Summer | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-state Tuition | $6,438 | $6,438 | $6,438 | - |
| Out-of-state Tuition | $9,790 | $9,790 | $9,790 | - |
| Tuition/Fee Type | Fall | Spring | Summer | Annual |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| In-state Tuition (per credit hour) | $579 | $579 | $579 | - |
| Out-of-state Tuition (per credit hour) | $872 | $872 | $872 | - |
| Item | Year 1 |
|---|---|
| Direct Costs | |
| Tuition - In-state/ Out-of-state |
$19,506/ $29,371 |
| Health Insurance | $3,780 |
| Fees | - |
| Direct Costs | $23,286/ $33,151 |
| Indirect Costs |
|
| Housing/Food | $27,144 |
| Personal | $2,880 |
| Transportation | $3,240 |
| Books/Required Expenses | $4,360 |
| Indirect Costs | $37,624/ $37,624 |
| Total - In-state/ Out-of-state |
$60,910/ $70,775 |
| Item | Year 1 | Year 2 | Est. Total* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Direct Costs | |||
| Tuition - In-state/ Out-of-state |
$10,422/ $15,696 |
$6,948/ $10,464 |
$17,370/ $26,160 |
| Health Insurance | $3,780 | $3,780 | $7,560 |
| Fees | $300 | - | $300 |
| Direct Costs Subtotal | $14,202/ $19,476 |
$10,728/ $14,244 |
$25,230/ $34,020 |
| Indirect Costs | |||
| Housing/Food | $27,144 | $18,096/$27,144 | $45,240/$54,288 |
| Personal | $2,880 | $1,920/$2,880 | $4,800/$5,760 |
| Transportation | $3,240 | $2,160/$3,240 | $5,400/$6,480 |
| Books/Required Expenses | $4,360 | $4,360 | $8,720 |
| Indirect Costs | $37,624/ $37,624 |
$26,536/ $37,624 |
$64,160/ $75,248 |
| Total - In-state/ Out-of-state |
$51,826/ $57,100 |
$37,624/ $51,868 |
$89,390/ $109,268 |
Disclaimer: The Estimated Totals listed above reflects an approximation of educational costs for planning purposes only. Actual expenses may vary based on individual circumstances, program requirements and annual changes in tuition, fees and other costs. The Medical University of South Carolina reserves the right to adjust tuition, fees and other charges at any time without prior notice.
MUSC offers scholarships for which you may be eligible. Some are awarded based on academic achievement; others are awarded based on community service, for example. However, the majority of scholarships awarded at MUSC are based on financial need. This means that these scholarships are only awarded to students who need some financial assistance to cover the cost of tuition and fees. If you would like to be considered for a financial need-based scholarship, you must have an up-to-date Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on file. Make sure you list the Medical University of South Carolina on your FAFSA form, along with MUSC's code: 003438. We encourage you to submit your FAFSA as early as possible. It is recommended to submit your FAFSA in January if you plan to enroll in the fall.
Source: O*NET OnLine. (2025). Retrieved Aug 20, 2025, from https://www.onetonline.org
Associate Professor
Department of Healthcare Leadership and Management
Our Master of Science in Clinical Research program is designed to be completed in one year, but also provides a part-time option that allows students to extend completion up to two years based on course load and scheduling preferences.
Yes. The program is designed with working professionals in mind and offers a part-time pathway that allows students to spread coursework across two years. This flexible structure supports clinicians, research staff, and healthcare professionals who wish to advance their research training while remaining employed.
Yes. Students engage in mentored research experiences that connect coursework to real-world clinical research projects. This applied component allows students to work alongside experienced investigators and develop practical skills in study design, data analysis, and ethical research conduct.
Charleston offers a unique blend of coastal beauty and modern convenience. With top-rated dining, scenic waterfronts and endless outdoor activities, the city offers an unmatched quality of life for residents, striking a balance between work and leisure.
Understand how this program aligns with MUSC's commitment to innovation, ethical research, community collaboration, and the graduation of supported professionals.
The MSCR program aims to prepare graduates to:
Upon completion of the MSCR program, graduates will be able to:
To advance human health through the preparation of innovative clinical researchers who translate discovery into improved patient outcomes and global well-being.
At the core of our program, we are guided by a commitment to the following values that drive our mission:
To cultivate compassionate and ethical research leaders through interdisciplinary education, mentored investigation, and collaborative inquiry that fosters innovation, integrity, and respect across the clinical sciences.
The College’s news channels frequently highlight student and faculty achievements, including research breakthroughs, grant awards, and conference recognition.
The Medical University of South Carolina is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to offer the Master of Science in Clinical Research. To learn more about MUSC’s accreditation and find contact details, please visit our Accreditation page.