Clinical Trials (Taught)

The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2025). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas.

The MSc in Clinical Trials is a two-year, part-time distance learning course that provides thorough training in both the theoretical and practical aspects of conducting randomised clinical trials.

By the end of the course, students should have the knowledge and skills required to design and undertake a clinical trial. By running a fully integrated course covering all key aspects of clinical trials, you will acquire a good understanding of the theoretical underpinning as well as the practical aspects of randomised clinical trials and have an in-depth training in trials methodology. The course will cover different types of trials and clinical conditions, with a focus on large, streamlined clinical outcome trials in cardiovascular disease.

The specific aims are to provide:

• in-depth training in, and understanding of, the principles and practice of conducting randomised clinical trials; and

• a forum for the nurturing of future global leaders in clinical trials in cardiovascular medicine and beyond.

Course structure
Teaching is delivered virtually (via online lectures, tutorials and group work) during the first year, and for the first two whole terms and part of the third term in the second year. The curriculum comprises eight compulsory modules of varying length and intensity across six terms, details of which can be found under Course structure.

You will receive around three hours of supported study per week and will be expected to complete twelve to seventeen hours per week of self-directed study.

The course will include two residential periods. The first will be a one-week residential period in the Long Vacation at the end of year one. A shorter residential period will take place in Hilary term in year two.

The aim of the first residential period is to allow you to meet the tutors and course teaching team and to provide face-to-face teaching, discussion time and leadership training. The second residential period aims to allow discussion about dissertation content, practical guidance on statistical content and an opportunity for face-to-face discussion with your academic advisor.

You will have access to recordings of weekly seminars held on the Old Road Campus and will be made aware of any other online seminars taking place across the Medical Sciences Division. You are encouraged to make use of any online courses offered by the Medical Sciences Skills Training programme.