Clinical Trials MSc

University of Oxford

The MSc in Clinical Trials is a two-year, part-time distance learning course that provides a thorough training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of conducting randomised clinical trials.

By the end of the course, students should have the knowledge and skills required to design and undertake a clinical trial. By running a fully integrated course covering all key aspects of clinical trials, students will acquire a good understanding of the theoretical underpinning as well as the practical aspects of randomised clinical trials and have an in-depth training in trials methodology. The course will cover different types of trials and clinical conditions, with a focus on large, streamlined clinical outcome trials in cardiovascular disease.

The specific aims are to provide:

• in-depth training in, and understanding of, the principles and practice of conducting randomised clinical trials
• a forum for the nurturing of future global leaders in clinical trials in cardiovascular medicine and beyond.

Teaching is delivered virtually (via online lectures, tutorials and group work) during the first year, and for the first two whole terms and part of the third term in the second year. You will receive around three hours of supported study per week and will be expected to complete between six and ten hours per week self-directed study. The curriculum comprises eight compulsory modules of varying length and intensity across six terms:

• Introduction to the principles of randomised trials
• Design to implementation
• Data management and analysis
• Regulatory and ethical framework and participant involvement
• Routine health care data, Big Data and new technologies
• Health economics for clinical trials and patient reported outcomes
• Meta-analyses and trial reporting
• Different types of trials and populations.

The course will include two residential periods. The first will be a one-week residential period in the Long Vacation (September) between years one and two. A shorter residential period will take place in Trinity term in year two.

The aim of the first residential period is to allow students to meet the tutors and course teaching team and to provide face-to-face teaching, discussion time and leadership training. The second residential period aims to allow discussion about dissertation content, practical guidance on statistical content and an opportunity for face-to-face discussion between student and dissertation supervisor.

The first residential is not mandatory for students who cannot attend the residential for unforeseen reasons, but students must attend at least one residential period during the course.