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MSc in Clinical Trials

Get a Masters degree from the University of Oxford

The MSc in Clinical Trials is a flexible, distance-learning course, organised in collaboration between the ESC and the University of Oxford.



Applications

The application period for the ESC Educational Grant for the MSc in Clinical Trials, starting in October 2025, is now open.

Please apply here.

Application deadline: Wednesday, 8 January 2025, 12:00 (noon) UK time  

1. ESC Educational Grant 

The ESC supports the education of cardiologists and future clinical trial leaders by offering a limited number of educational grants. The ESC Scholarship Selection Committee looks for excellent references, a focused personal statement and relevant work experience in the field of cardiology. The ESC grant covers the totality of the tuition fees. 

2. MSc in Clinical Trials

Please note that the application process can take some time, especially for non-UK applicants. We kindly encourage you not to delay your application if you wish to be considered for the next intake.

Programme overview

The MSc in Clinical Trials is the first postgraduate programme proposed by the European Heart Academy that allows part-time distance learning.

The course will provide participants with in-depth training and understanding of how to plan and conduct randomised clinical trials.

Participants will have the opportunity to interact with key opinion leaders and internationally renowned trialists.

Who should attend?

The MSc in Clinical Trials is open to healthcare professionals from across Europe and around the world.

The emphasis will be on training professionals working in cardiovascular disease. However, other specialties will also be welcome.

Proficiency in English is required.

Why apply?

Structure and content 

Distance learning

Two year programme with eight online modules including:

  • Lectures
  • Master classes
  • Seminars
  • Online community 

In-person training in Oxford

During these two years, students are obliged to attend one compulsory one-week residential session at the University of Oxford, and a second optional face-to-face three-day session.

Self study

  • 15-20 hours of work per week
  • Online community - interact with fellow students and international clinical trialists

Module topics

  1. Introduction to the principles of randomised trials
  2. Regulatory and ethical framework and participant involvement
  3. Design to implementation: protocol, budget, set-up, monitoring and outcomes
  4. Data management and analysis
  5. Big data and new technologies
  6. Different types of trials and particular populations
  7. Health economics and outcome measures
  8. Meta-analyses and reporting

More information about the programme

Tuition fees

Expected tuition fees for the October 2025 intake is GBP 24,102 for the two year programme.

  • The annual course fee for year one (2025–2026): GBP 11,700  
  • The estimated annual course fee for year two (2026–2027): GBP 12,402 (this will be confirmed by Oxford University next year)

Accommodation in Oxford during both short residential sessions is included in the course fees. Travel and other expenses will be covered by the student.

More information, including about possible fees increase, is available from the University of Oxford.