Can I Get a Master’s in Nursing Degree in Clinical Trial Research?

Clinical Trial Research NurseIf you enjoy working in a laboratory and want a career that puts you on the cutting edge of medicine, you may want to earn a Master’s in Nursing in Clinical Trial Research.

What Does a Clinical Trial Research Nurse Do?

If you choose to earn a Master’s in Nursing in Clinical Trial Research, you’ll be qualified to work in a variety of clinical trial settings. You’ll take part in the research and testing of new treatment options and will be part of the team responsible for marketing new drugs and ensuring FDA approval. One of the most rewarding parts of this job is knowing that you’re one of the people responsible for bringing new products and treatments into the medical profession. With different drugs and treatment options being developed in leaps and bounds, nurses working in clinical trial research are very much in demand and have a good career outlook.

What Type of Training is Required?

To become a clinical trial research nurse, you’ll need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in nursing. You’ll then complete a post-baccalaureate program in clinical trial research, which typically results in a Master’s in Nursing in Clinical Trial Research. Many of the schools offering this program allow students to complete the program either part- or full-time, as well as through distance learning. The National Center of Education Statistics lists several accredited colleges that offer this training program.

Prior to starting the program, you must also meet all admission and prerequisite requirements. The training usually takes from one to two years, and the student completes specific credits in professional core courses, research and field-specific studies. Clinical trial research professionals must have some work experience in this field, in addition to the nursing degree.

Related Resource: Other Master’s in Nursing Job Opportunities

What Type of Courses Will I Take?

In addition to completing supervised internships and research projects, you’ll also complete lab studies and coursework. Although the specific curriculum may vary by school and program, students pursuing a Master’s in Nursing in Clinical Trial Research often take the following courses.

• Data reporting
• Advertising and marketing
• Advanced laboratory techniques
• Health informatics
• Nursing leadership
• Clinical trials management
• Drug-protocol development
• Food and Drug Administration rules and regulations

Do I Need to Be Licensed or Certified?

As a registered nurse, you’re required to pass the NCLEX-RN before you become licensed to work in your state. Once you’ve completed the clinical trial research training and have two years of clinical experience, you’ll be eligible to take the Certified Clinical Research Professional certification exam through the Society of Clinical Research Associates. Another organization that offers certification is the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.

Graduates of this program find that they are prepared to work in both private and community settings, as well as for pharmaceutical firms. Some of titles graduates of this program may earn include clinical scientist, clinical trial research nurse, research coordinator, trials manager or clinical developer. If you’ve always wanted to play an important role in discovering new things while helping advance the medical field, a Master’s in Nursing in Clinical Trial Research may be a perfect fit for you.