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The Master of Science in Clinical and Translational Research at Brown University is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to advance medical research from the laboratory bench to clinical practice and ultimately to patient care. This interdisciplinary program combines rigorous coursework, practical research experience, and mentorship from leading experts in the field, fostering a deep understanding of the entire translational research continuum. Students will explore key topics such as research methodology, biostatistics, ethical considerations in human subjects research, regulatory affairs, and medical innovation. The curriculum emphasizes collaborative and interdisciplinary approaches, preparing graduates to work effectively across diverse healthcare and scientific environments. Through participation in ongoing research projects, students will gain valuable hands-on experience in designing, implementing, and analyzing clinical studies, with opportunities to contribute to real-world medical advancements. The program also offers specialized tracks tailored to students' interests, including clinical investigation, health disparities, and biomedical innovations, providing flexibility to align with career goals. Brown University’s vibrant academic community, state-of-the-art research facilities, and strong connections with healthcare institutions foster a stimulating environment for learning and professional development. Graduates of this program are well-positioned to pursue careers in academia, industry, government, or healthcare organizations, where they can lead groundbreaking research efforts, influence health policy, and improve patient outcomes. With a focus on translating scientific discoveries into practical health solutions, the MS in Clinical and Translational Research at Brown prepares students to become innovative leaders in the evolving landscape of biomedical and health sciences.
Students are required to successfully complete nine courses, attend mandatory seminar sessions throughout the program, and complete a thesis. Students will also be required to complete 4 modules in the online, not for credit course, Public Health 101. The required modules are the General Overview; Health Care Management, Policy, and Practice; Behavioral and Social Sciences; and Environmental Health. In addition to the Master’s in CTR core course requirements and the online course, students will choose two electives, and work with their academic advisor to design an educational plan that reflects their interests and career goals. Students are required to develop an academic portfolio, in which they should explore a topic of interest in clinical and translational research. Full-time students generally take 4.5 courses per year over two years. Coursework done for credit as a non-degree student, such as during the Clinical and Translational Research Summer Institute, may be counted toward the Masters in CTR degree with the approval of the CTR Masters Program Director.
Masters in CTR Core Requirements
Students in the Masters in Clinical and Translational Research program are required to complete the following core course requirements.
Introduction to Research Methods |
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Students must take one of the following two courses. INTRODUCTION TO METHODS IN EPIDEMIOLOGIC RESEARCH (PHP2120) This course introduces students to principles and methods of epidemiologic research, with an emphasis on practical applications. OR FOUNDATIONS IN EPIDEMIOLOGIC RESEARCH METHODS (PHP 2150) |
Biostatistics and Applied Data Analysis |
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Students must complete both of the following two courses.* BIOSTATISTICS AND APPLIED DATA ANALYSIS I (PHP2507) AND BIOSTATISTICS AND APPLIED DATA ANALYSIS II (PHP2508) The objective of the year long, two-course sequence is for students to develop the knowledge, skills and perspectives necessary to analyze data in order to answer a public health questions. The year long sequence will focus on statistical principles as well as the applied skills necessary to answer public health questions using data, including: data acquisition, data analysis, data interpretation and the presentation of results. Through lectures, labs and small group discussions, this fall semester course will focus on identifying public health data sets, refining research questions, univariate and bivariate analyses and presentation of initial results. Prerequisite: understanding of basic math concepts and terms. PHP2507 is offered in the fall and PHP2508 is offered in the spring. The courses must be completed in the same academic year. *There is another biostatistics course sequence offered by the Department of Biostatistics at Brown (PHP2510 and PHP2511). If students are interested in that sequence they should discuss this well in advance with the CTR Academic Oversight Committee, as their permission is required prior to beginning the course. |
Advanced Research Methods |
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Students must take two of the following advanced methods courses. SURVEY RESEARCH METHODS (PHP2040) Examines a cornerstone of public health research: sampling and survey methods. Topics include survey design, data collection, and evaluation of results. CLINICAL TRIALS METHODOLOGY (PHP 2030) We will examine the modern clinical trial as a methodology for evaluating interventions related to treatment, rehabilitation, prevention and diagnosis. Topics include the history and rationale for clinical trials, ethical issues, study design, protocol development, sample size considerations, quality assurance, statistical analysis, systematic reviews and meta-analysis, and reporting of results. Extensively illustrated with examples from various fields of health care research. Prerequisites: introductory epidemiology and statistics. Pre-requisites: PHP 2030, 2120, 2130. EVIDENCE BASED MEDICINE AND META-ANALYSIS (PHP2415) Unbiased assessments of the scientific literature by means of research synthesis methods are critical for formulating public health policy, counseling patients or prioritizing future research. We focus on the methods and uses of systematic reviews and meta-analyses and their applications in medicine and health policy. After course completion, and with some direction, students will be able to undertake a basic systematic review or meta-analysis. ANALYSIS OF POPULATION BASED DATASETS (PHP2430) Epidemiologic, health services, and social research often conducts "secondary analysis" of existing population-based datasets. Benefits include their representative sampling frames allowing generalizability to larger populations, timeliness, and lower cost. In addition, computer technology makes it possible to link some databases providing richer sources of information. There are several technical and methodological concerns when conducting "secondary analysis." Students will download, link, and analyze several data sets to understand the advantages of these data for health policy analysis as well as understand and apply different analytic methods. Familiarity with statistical analysis software is required. Prerequisites: PHP 2120, and either PHP 2508 (may be taken concurrently) or 2510. Open to graduate and medical students only. MEDICARE: A DATA BASED POLICY EXAMINATION (PHP2410E) This course will explore the role of Medicare as America's health insurer for the elderly and disabled through the use of real Medicare insurance claims data, examining how Medicare policy changes in financing and regulation have affected the delivery and receipt of medical services. At the end of the course students will: 1) know the history of important Medicare policy changes; 2) be able to construct aggregated patient case mix acuity adjusted measures of provider quality using insurance claims data; 3) be able to conduct policy analyses using Medicare claims data that are sensitive to standardized coding schemes. Enrollment limited to 15 graduate students. Prerequisite: PHP 2120, 2508, or 2510. Instructor permission required. |
Scientific Writing |
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SCIENTIFIC WRITING IN PUBLIC HEALTH (PHP 2090) Addresses methodologic and operational issues associated with developing research studies in epidemiology (including clinical trials). Students prepare protocols for research studies in human populations with attention to ethical guidelines and regulations. Students critique completed proposals, are exposed to existing systems for submission and review of funding applications, as well as controversial issues such as conflict of interest. |
Topics in Clinical, Translational and Health Services Research |
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Students must enroll in this half credit course two times to fulfill the one credit requirement. TOPICS IN CLINICAL, TRANSLATIONAL AND HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH (PHP 2470) (half credit) Topics in Clinical, Translational and Health Services Research is a half credit course. Students will choose from a variety of mini-courses and seminars. Students work with their academic advisor to design an appropriate plan for their studies. Students will have the opportunity to gain skills in a range of areas, including STATA, SAS, behavioral interventions, pharmaco-epidemiology, genetics, global health, HIV, and molecular biology, among others. All students must complete mandatory modules on research ethics and human subjects’ protection, including the Brown University Collaborative IRB Training Initiative (CITI) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) overview. |
Electives
- PHP 1100 - Comparative Health Care Systems
- PHP 1740 - Principles of Health Behavior and Health Promotion Interventions
- PHP 2340 - Behavioral and Social Science Theory for Health Promotion
- PHP 2440 - Pharmacoepidemiology
- PHP 2019 - Measurement Issues in Health Care
- PHP 2060 - Qualitative Methods in Health Research
- PHP 2180 - Interpretation and Application of Epidemiology
- PHP 2200 - Advanced Methods in Epidemiologic Research
- PHP 2210 - Epidemiology of Chronic Disease
- PHP 2220B - Nutritional Epidemiology
- PHP 2350 - Economics of Medical Therapies: Health Policy and Practice
- PHP 2360 - Designing, Implementing and Evaluating Public Health Interventions
- PHP 2400 - Changing US Health Care System
- PHP 2430 - Analysis of Population Based Datasets
- PHP 2440 - Pharmacoepidemiology
- PHP 2450 - Measuring and Improving the Quality of Health Care
- PHP 2420 - Evaluating Public Health Programs and Policies
- PHP 2980 - Graduate Independent Study and Thesis Research
- ENGN 2910G - Topics in Translational Research and Technologies
Requirements
- The online application for admission;
- Official transcripts for all undergraduate, graduate, or medical school academic work and GPA. Transcripts can be submitted to SOPHAS. (Details on how to send transcripts can be found here on the SOPHAS website). Note that for international institutions, SOPHAS will only accept evaluations obtained from World Education Services (WES ICAP). SOPHAS cannot accept any international transcripts other than the WES ICAP evaluation.
- Three letters of recommendation;
- Statement of Purpose and Objectives that describes your understanding of public health and commitment to pursuing a career in public health. Statement should explain the relevance of education and/or experience to pursue a career in public health.
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE): General test is required. Official GRE scores should be sent to SOPHAS using Brown SPH GRE reporting code 7765. The MCAT has been approved by the Graduate School as an acceptable alternative in lieu of the GRE.
- TOEFL/IELTS- All international applicants whose native language is not English must submit official scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Official TOEFL scores should be sent to both SOPHAS (TOEFL reporting code 5688) and Brown University Graduate School (reporting code 3094);
- A résumé;
- An application fee.
Applications for the Master of Science in Clinical and Translational Research will be reviewed by the CTR Admissions Committee, which is composed of public health faculty and other professionals with experience in clinical and translational research. Applicants will be assessed on their academic performance as well as evidence of a commitment to clinical and translational research through previous course work, independent study, employment or volunteer experience.
Want to improve your English level for admission?
Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.
- ✔️ Flexible study schedule
- ✔️ Experienced teachers
- ✔️ Certificate upon completion
📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.
Financing for the Clinical and Translational Research program at Brown University is primarily supported through a combination of institutional funding, grants, fellowships, and external research funding sources. The university provides financial aid options, including scholarships and assistantships, to help defray the cost of tuition and related expenses for qualified students. Many students in this program secure funding through research grants awarded to faculty, which often include stipends or fellowships for graduate students involved in principal research projects. Additionally, federal agencies such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the National Science Foundation (NSF), and other government bodies offer grant opportunities that can support students’ research activities and educational expenses. Brown University also encourages students to pursue external fellowships, scholarships, and funding opportunities relevant to clinical and translational research. The program may include tuition remission and health insurance benefits for enrolled students who demonstrate financial need. Students are advised to consult the university’s Office of Financial Aid for personalized assistance in exploring available funding avenues and to understand eligibility requirements and application procedures. Overall, the funding landscape for students enrolled in this program is diverse, aimed at supporting a wide range of educational and research pursuits within the field of clinical and translational science.
The Brown University Program in Clinical and Translational Research is designed to prepare students to conduct innovative, interdisciplinary research that advances medicine and healthcare. This program emphasizes the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical applications, improving patient outcomes, and addressing pressing health issues. Students in this program benefit from a comprehensive curriculum that integrates foundational sciences, research methodology, and practical clinical experience. The program is tailored to equip future leaders in biomedical research with the skills necessary to navigate complex research environments and collaborate across disciplines. Participants have access to state-of-the-art laboratories, clinical research centers, and extensive mentorship from esteemed faculty members who are experts in various fields of medicine, biology, and public health. The program also encourages the development of skills in data analysis, biostatistics, and ethical considerations in research. Students may engage in mentored research projects, often linked with ongoing clinical trials or translational studies, fostering a hands-on approach to learning. Brown University supports students through seminars, workshops, and internships that enhance their professional development and prepare them for careers in academia, industry, or healthcare policy. The program promotes an integrative approach, combining molecular research, clinical investigation, and community health initiatives, to ensure comprehensive training. Upon completing the program, graduates are equipped to pursue advanced research positions, contribute to public health improvements, and translate scientific findings into real-world therapies and interventions. The program is multidisciplinary, welcoming students from backgrounds such as biology, medicine, public health, and related fields. Overall, the Brown University Program in Clinical and Translational Research is committed to fostering innovative research that can rapidly impact patient care and health systems worldwide.
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