M.S. in Clinical and Translational Investigation

https://med.miami.edu/graduate-studies/master-programs/ms-in-clinical-and-translational-investigation

Overview

The Master of Science in Clinical and Translational Investigation (MSCTI) at the University of Miami offers a structured educational program that trains students in the principles and practice of translational science and clinical research. Our multidisciplinary program has been designed to prepare practitioners and researchers to adapt to translational science and to overcome the perceived bottlenecks that inhibit translational research. We equip our students with the tools to navigate the complexities of translational research design, methodology, regulatory and ethical challenges.

Drawing upon the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s mission to educate the next generation of medical leaders and to lead life-changing discoveries that transform patient care through innovative research, the Master of Science in Clinical and Translational Investigation (MSCTI) degree program’s mission is to educate the next generation of investigators who demonstrate the ability to review, design, and conduct high-quality, multidisciplinary clinical and translational research independently.

Our educational objective is to provide an instructor-led educational curriculum that introduces students to key areas of clinical and translational research, and to produce graduates who demonstrate core competencies in clinical and translational research. Students will learn how to design independent and collaborative research projects and become well-versed in key aspects of clinical and translational investigation.

Course of Study

The Masters in Clinical and Translational Investigation can typically be completed in 4-6 consecutive terms (Fall, Spring, Summer) depending on the goals and professional responsibilities of the student. The 30 credit-hour program includes completion of structured taught courses and completion of a master’s thesis which may take the form of a completed research grant proposal or publishable manuscript. Successful completion of the MSCTI requires students to maintain a GPA of 3.0 or greater with no grade below C in any courses and successful completion of the master’s thesis.

Students who intend to complete the MSCTI program part-time must discuss their plan with their employer and make adjustments as needed to attend course lectures. Students who are studying with an F1 visa must enroll in a minimum of nine credits per semester.

Contact Information

Jessica Diaz Guerra, MSEd, Program Administrator

Tatjana Rundek, MD. PhD., Program Director.

Tulay Koru-Sengul, Ph.D., Program Co-Director

MS Clinical and Translational Investigation Website
mscti@miami.edu or 305-243-6398

Admissions Requirements

Admission Requirements

Competitive candidates will have the following:

• A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Excellent academic record
• Strong letters of recommendation
• Motivation to pursue a state-of-the-art research education or a career in medicine and/or clinical and translational science
• Prior clinical and/or translational research experience is preferred, but is not required

Detailed information about the application package requirements can be found here.

We accept applications from individuals who meet any of the following criteria:

• Clinician Scientists: Individuals who have completed terminal degrees (e.g., MD, PhD, DSci, DO, RN) who are interested in becoming independent investigators in clinical and/or translational science;
• Post-Baccalaureate: Students who have completed a Bachelor’s degree who have outstanding academic credentials and an interest in obtaining a MS prior to a career in clinical translational research or a graduate program
• Clinical Research Professionals: Professionals currently working in a clinical and/or translational research position who are looking for more formal training to carry out their research and/or professional growth in this field. 
• Foreign Medical Graduates/Trainees: Professionals in clinical and/or translational research roles who are also looking for additional training to carry out their research and/or professional growth in this field.

Curriculum Requirements

Program Plan for Part-time Professional Students

Program Plan for Full-time Students

This plan is ideal for students who want to complete the program full-time as well as students on F-1 visas.

Mission

Drawing upon the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine’s mission to educate the next generation of medical leaders and to lead life-changing discoveries that transform patient care through innovative research, the Master of Science in Clinical and Translational Investigation (MSCTI) degree program’s mission is to educate the next generation of investigators who demonstrate the core competencies necessary to review, design, and conduct high-quality, multidisciplinary clinical and translational research independently.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Ability to conduct high-quality, multidisciplinary clinical and translational research
• Ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams
• Ability to navigate grant and manuscript writing processes
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly
• Ability to translate scientific discoveries into practice and innovation
• Ability to identify and overcome critical research challenges