Clinical and Translational Science – M.S.

The Clinical and Translational Science – M.S. Program is designed to train future team leaders in clinical and translational science research. The program consists of a combination of integrative didactic and hands-on educational experiences that will provide students with a global, yet detailed, perspective on the complex continuum of translating hypothesis-driven basic research findings into clinically useful and commercially viable tests or treatments. Graduates of the program will utilize the knowledge obtained to design and oversee programs, facilitate and manage collaborations, and lead research teams in clinical and translational research.

The Clinical and Translational Science Master's Program at Rutgers University has a curriculum comprised of courses addressing fundamental aspects of basic, clinical, and translational research. This curriculum has 30 credit hours to complete, and it is tailored specifically for students intending to pursue clinical or translational research as a major component of their career plan. Multiple educational methods specifically tailored to suit particular programmatic goals and objectives will be used including didactic, evidence-based, team-based, as well as experiential learning.
We have a state-of-the-art methodology for the design of basic science research and clinical trial protocols. We follow all Federal policies and regulations, which address research with animals and human subjects. Students learn to identify and leverage funding from public and private sources (especially for translational research). Skills in the commercialization of the research, team leadership, and management are strengthened as well.
Classes are offered primarily in the late afternoon or evening to accommodate working students. Students can complete the program requirements in two years, although this time frame may be extended for part-time students.
The CTS Masters for both tracks is 36 credits while the Certificate for both tracks is 18 credits.

The Clinical and Translational Science - M.S. Degree is primarily intended for students with advanced science degrees, especially Ph.D., M.D., PharmD, D.O., D.D.S., D.V.M., or other advanced degrees in healthcare-related fields.

Requirements are flexible in that relevant experience may substitute for the educational degree requirements. The M.S. in Clinical and Translational Science is offered as a dual degree option for Robert Wood JMS M.D. students.

All applicants for admission are required to have a baccalaureate degree that includes the following courses in general chemistry, organic chemistry, biology, and physics. The majority of students accepted have a cumulative and science grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher. However, students with a lower GPA may be accepted if their record shows marked improvement in the latter years of their undergraduate careers. Generally, it is expected that students will have MCAT scores above 22 or GRE scores in the 60^th percentile or higher