Clinical Trials (by Distance Learning) (Taught)

From managing heart failure to supporting people with HIV, clinical trials make a difference to communities across the globe. Discover our research in this area and learn to carry out trials effectively.

Study Clinical Trials and develop the skills to save lives and shape the future of health. We were one of first universities in the UK to create a distance learning programme focused on clinical trials. With extensive expertise in this area and academics in every corner of the globe, we’ll share best practices for carrying out research that tests drugs, comparing alternative treatments, and using cutting-edge methods.

Your award will depend on the number of modules you complete. We offer this distance learning programme as a PG Certificate, PG Diploma and MSc.

What you will learn:

• Explore the issues involved in the design, conduct, analysis and interpretation of randomised controlled trials of health interventions

• Understand what happens before a trial – review the literature to see what’s been done before and whether it’s reliable

• Practice reporting your findings in a way that is transparent, accurate and helps others apply your results to the real world

• Become confident handling statistics for clinical trials

• Pick optional modules to expand your interests in this area or choose topics from other areas of specialism in the School

• Develop the skills you need to excel in your clinical trials career and make a difference to people’s lives globally.

Please note: applications for the 2026/27 academic year are expected to open in November 2025. This information relates to 2025/26 academic year and will be updated in due course.