Program Overview
Charles Drew University’s commitment to clinical research development prompted the development of the MSCR program. This clinical research degree is designed for participants who currently hold doctoral or master degrees and work in or desire to work in clinical research, academic health care, public health or healthcare related government/private industry leadership. This degree provides an exceptional educational foundation necessary to aid in rapid advancement and expansion of scholarly activities.
The benefits associated with this MSCR degree extend beyond the basics of research and include the following:
- Conceptualization and relevance of hypothesis-driven research
- Understanding the principles of evidence-based medicine
- Biostatistics for medical and biological research and statistical reasoning
- Research in vulnerable populations (ethnic minorities, women, elderly, etc.)
- Methodologies of health disparities
- Clinical trials design and analysis
- Developing scientific written and oral communication skills
- Research management
- Ethical, legal and social issues of responsible clinical research
Program Specifics
The MSCR program is a structured 24-month curriculum conducted by highly experienced faculty. The program focus includes epidemiology, biostatistics, clinical trials, evidence-based practice, cost-effectiveness analysis, decision analysis, molecular biology and genetics, research ethics, and scientific communication. In addition to classroom didactic courses, laboratory skills development, the successful MSCR students complete a research grant and/or scientific article for a peer-reviewed journal.
There are three semesters (fall, spring and summer) each year. Classes are conducted twice a week (currently Tuesdays and Thursdays) from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 5:30-7:30 pm. In addition, a seminar series involving noted researchers is scheduled twice a month (generally Wednesdays) from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. or 5:30 to 7:30 pm. These seminars give participants a first hand look at various aspects of research while allowing them the opportunity to present their research proposals and progress to experts in the field.
Recruitment is yearly. The start date for new MSCR scholars is fall semester.
Space is limited to 15-20 qualified candidates.
