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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 a collaboration between the ESC and the University of Oxford.

Applications

The application period for the October 2026 intake will open on 8 September 2025 and close at 12:00 (noon) on 8 January 2026.

Please note that the application process can take some time, especially for non-UK applicants. We kindly encourage you not to delay submitting 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 the field of cardiovascular disease. However, other specialties will also be welcome.

Proficiency in English is required.

Why apply?

Structure and content

Distance learning

This two-year programme has eight online modules, including:

Lectures
Master classes
Seminars
Online community

In-person training in Oxford

During the two-year programme, 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

Introduction to the principles of randomised trials
Design to implementation: protocol, budget, set-up, monitoring and outcomes
Data management and analysis
Regulatory and ethical framework and participant involvement
Routine health care data, big data and new technologies
Health economics for clinical trials and patient reported outcomes
Meta-analyses and trial reporting
Different types of trials and populations

More information about the programme

Tuition fees

Expected tuition fees for the October 2026 intake is GBP 25,546 for the two year programme.

The annual course fee for year one (2025–2026): GBP 12,400
The estimated annual course fee for year two (2026–2027): GBP 13,146 (this will be confirmed by Oxford University in 2026)

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

More information, including a possible fee increase, is available from the University of Oxford.

Scholarships

All applications completed by the application deadline will automatically be considered for all relevant university and other funding opportunities, including departmental scholarships for students from low and middle income countries. The MSc in Clinical Trials is a collaboration between the European Heart Academy and the University of Oxford, with the support of the ESC Working Group on Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy.

The MSc in Clinical Trials is a collaboration between the European Heart Academy and the University of Oxford, with the support of the ESC Working Group on Cardiovascular Pharmacotherapy.