M.S. in Clinical and Translational Investigation (Hybrid)

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 3-6 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 core and elective courses and completion of a mentored capstone project which may take the form of a completed research grant proposal or publishable quality manuscript for peer-review. 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 mentored capstone project.

Students planning to complete the MSCTI program on a part‑time basis are encouraged to discuss their enrollment plans during the admissions process and to ensure their professional commitments are compatible with program expectations. International students holding a student visa must comply with applicable University of Miami International Student & Scholar Services (ISSS) policies and requirements.

Contact Information

Jessica Diaz Guerra, MSEd, Program Administrator

Tatjana Rundek, MD. PhD., Program Director.

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

Ayham Alkhachroum, MD, MS, 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 with any of the following backgrounds:

• 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 masters degree 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

Two Year Sample Program Plan 

A two year plan is suited for students balancing coursework with professional work or academic research activities. 

One Year Sample Program Plan 

A one year plan is ideal for students who want to complete all coursework and capstone requirements within a single academic year.

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, including the design of a hypothesis‑driven study, critical appraisal of clinical literature, and appropriate data analysis and interpretation of research findings.
• Ability to collaborate effectively within interdisciplinary teams
• Ability to navigate grant and manuscript writing processes, including the articulation of clear research aims and objectives
• Ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly
• Ability to translate scientific discoveries into practice and innovation
• Ability to identify and overcome critical research challenges