5 Best MSN in Clinical Research Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Are you a registered nurse considering earning your master’s degree? Do you enjoy finding solutions to problems or like the idea of participating in clinical research? If so, an MSN in clinical research program is something worth considering. If you have previously considered a career in nursing research but wondered, “What are the best MSN in clinical research programs,” this article is for you!
As you continue reading this article, you will learn about the 5 best MSN in clinical research programs for 2024, including information about the programs’ goals, cost, curriculum, and practical training. I will also share information with you about the advantages and disadvantages of these programs, income potential, and possible jobs you could find after graduation. When you reach the end of the article, you will enough information to decide if further research on this career path and pursuing this degree are right for you.
What Exactly Is the Goal of an MSN in Clinical Research Program?
The goal of MSN in clinical research programs is to prepare students for professional nursing careers involving healthcare-related research. The programs offer in-depth curriculum plans and practical training and research experiences designed to build a strong foundation of theory and clinical skills related to nursing and healthcare research.
When Do MSN in Clinical Research Programs Start?
Start dates for MSN in clinical research programs vary and are determined by the schools offering the program. The number of applicants, available staff, and program format (online, on-campus, or hybrid) will determine the total credits you need. Below is a list of the credit requirements for some of our featured programs.
• The MSN in clinical research program at
New York University starts in the fall semester each year.
• The
Ohio State University MSN in clinical research program offers three start dates each year in the
fall, spring, and summer semesters.
• Eastern Michigan University’s MSN in clinical research program begins in the
fall and winter semesters annually.
• At
Montclair State University, the MSN in clinical research program begins in the
fall semester of each academic year.
• Regis College begins its MSN in clinical research program in the
fall semester yearly.
How Many Credits Are There in MSN in Clinical Research Programs?
MSN in clinical research programs have different credit requirements. On average, the programs require students to complete between 30 and 45 credits. However, this number may vary based on whether you have transfer credits and if you choose a specialty or subspecialty. The following are the credit requirements for our top programs.
• The MSN in clinical research program at
New York University features a
33-credit hour curriculum.
• At
Ohio State University, students in the MSN in clinical research program complete
36 credit hour requirement.
• Students enrolled in the MSN in clinical research program at
Eastern Michigan University complete
35 credit hours.
• The MSN in clinical research program at
Montclair State University is a
35 credit hours program.
• The
Regis College MSN in clinical research program requires students to complete
42 credit hours.
How Long Are MSN in Clinical Research Programs?
MSN in clinical research programs can take as little as one year to complete to three years or longer. The major factor that determines the time it takes to earn this degree is whether you enroll as a part-time or full-time student. Some schools offer options for part-time or full-time study, while others only offer their program part-time or full-time. Many schools limit the time you can take to earn the degree, preferring students to graduate in five years or less. The following are examples of the length of this article’s featured programs.
• At
New York University, students in the MSN in clinical research program can be completed in
one to two years, depending on whether they enroll part-time or full-time.
• The MSN in clinical research program offered at the
Ohio State University is available in
one and two-year study plans, allowing you to choose between part-time and full-time study.
• The
Eastern Michigan University MSN in clinical research program is designed to be completed in
two years, or six consecutive semesters, of part-time study.
• At
Montclair State University, students in the MSN in clinical research program can choose
part-time or full-time study. Those who study part-time can complete the program in two years. Full-time students typically graduate in one year.
• Students in the MSN in clinical research program at
Regis College complete the program in about
two years.
How Much Do MSN in Clinical Research Programs Cost?
A major concern for many prospective college students is how to pay for their education. The best MSN in clinical research programs featured in this article cost between $25,000 and $85,000. Some schools charge a per-credit rate, and others have a per-semester or per-program cost. Additionally, schools may charge different rates for in-state students and out-of-state students. The following list provides information about the cost of the nation’s best programs.
• Tuition and fees for the MSN in clinical research program at
New York University costs $2,600 per credit. The program is a 33-credit program, which means students pay
$85,800.
• At
Ohio State University, the MSN in clinical research
program costs $24,353.80 for Ohio residents and $24,953.80 for out-of-state students.
• Tuition for the MSN in clinical research program at
Eastern Michigan University costs $$1,070.50 per credit for in-state students and $1,758.50 for out-of-state students. The program includes 35 credits, which means
tuition costs between $37,467.50 and $61,547.50 based on residency.
• At
Montclair State University, students in the MSN in clinical research program pay $793.67 per credit. The program features a 35-credit curriculum, which means tuition averages
$27,778.45.
• The total tuition for the MSN in clinical research program at
Regis College is
$51,870.
What Is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into MSN in Clinical Research Programs?
One of the main criteria considered for admission to MSN in clinical research programs is an applicant's college GPA. Most schools require candidates to earn a college GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, conditions for admission vary among schools. The following list reflects the GPA admission requirement for the nation's top programs.
What Are the Admission Requirements for MSN in Clinical Research Programs?
MSN in clinical research programs have relatively similar admission requirements. However, it is still important to verify admission criteria with each school to which you plan to apply. The following are the admission requirements for the five best MSN in clinical research programs in the nation.
• Applicants seeking
admission to the MSN in clinical research program at
New York University must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing earned at an accredited nursing school, a BSN grade point average of a least 3.0, and an active New York State RN license. Candidates must submit one transcript from each post-secondary school attended, a professional resume or curriculum vitae, a two-to-three-page personal statement, and two letters of recommendation.
• Admission to the MSN in clinical research program at
Ohio State University is contingent upon meeting the
following requirements. Candidates must possess a BSN and have a cumulative college GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Applicants must fill out an online application and submit all college transcripts, a current resume or CV, a Purpose and Goals Statement, and three letters of recommendation.
• At
Eastern Michigan University,
applicants to the MSN in clinical research program must have a Bachelor of Science in Nursing with a minimum college GPA of 3.0 and an active RN license. Candidates must submit a Statement of intent, two letters of professional recommendation, and a professional resume. Additionally, applicants must complete an undergraduate Statistics course with a minimum grade of “C.”
• Montclair State University requires
applicants to the MSN in clinical research program to have a BSN and either a current RN license in good standing or to be eligible for licensure. New graduate nurses who are not yet licensed must pass the NCLEX-RN and obtain a license within six months of matriculation. Candidates must first create an online account and submit an online application. After creating an online account, you must upload one transcript from each college or university you attended, a Personal Statement, two letters of recommendation, and a professional resume.
• At
Regis College,
MSN in clinical research applicants must be graduates of an accredited BSN program and have a minimum cumulative college GPA of 3.0. Applicants must complete an online application and submit a Personal Statement, resume, official transcripts from all colleges attended, and three letters of recommendation from former professors or past/present professional colleagues. Additionally, applicants who meet all other admission criteria will be invited to participate in an admissions interview.
What Are the Best MSN in Clinical Research Programs in the Nation?
(Based on our
ranking methodology, the following are the 5 Best Online and Campus-Based MSN in Clinical Research Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)
VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY
What Kind of Courses Will You Take in MSN in Clinical Research Programs?
The curriculum for MSN in clinical research programs includes topics focused on clinical assessment, pathophysiology, trends in healthcare, and research methods. The classes you take will be determined by the school offering your program. Although program names vary, accredited programs cover the same content. The following are some examples of classes you will take if you choose to pursue a degree through one of our featured programs.
• Students enrolled in the MSN in clinical research program at
New York University take
classes, including Research in Nursing, Nursing Issues & Trends in Health Care Delivery, Contemporary Clinical Nurse Research Practice Roles, Advanced Pathophysiology, Clinical Pharmacotherapeutics Across the Lifespan, Medical School: Clinical Trials Design, Epidemiology, and Statistics for Health Professionals.
• The MSN in clinical research program at
Ohio State University includes classes such as Responsible Conduct of Research, Fundamentals of Medical Product Development and Regulations Affairs, Clinical Research & Methods, and Clinical Research Study & Site Management.
• At
Eastern Michigan University, students in the MSN in clinical research program
study topics, including Advanced Pathophysiology, Advanced Health Assessment, Health Status Trends & Health Care Delivery Systems, Pharmacology for Advanced Practice Nurses, and Ethical Issues in Clinical Research.
• The curriculum for the MSN in clinical research program at
Montclair University includes
classes such as Research Ethics, Clinical Research Coordination, Special Topics in Clinical Research Trials, Nursing Synthesis Capstone Project, Issues Affecting Health Care & Health Policy, and Nursing Research & Evidence-Based Practice.
• The
Regis College MSN in clinical research program
offers classes, including Clinical Research Methods, Clinical Trial Management, Project Management, Medical Device Regulation, Overview of Health Product Regulation, Economics of Healthcare, and Clinical Mentorship.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in MSN in Clinical Research Programs?
MSN in clinical research programs do not limit your learning experiences to the classroom. These programs offer practical training experiences in the field. Depending on your school and program, you may participate in a mentorship program, assist with clinical research trials, or do other field study assignments. Practical training experiences are excellent opportunities to learn from experienced nurse researchers and apply the knowledge you obtain in the classroom to develop clinical skills.
• At
New York University, students in the MSN in clinical research program have various
practicum opportunities at major medical centers located in and around New York City. Some clinical sites include Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Rockefeller University, and NYU Langone Health.
• Students enrolled in the MSN in clinical research program at the
Ohio State University complete
practical training experiences, which include hands-on training in clinical research settings. You will learn from professionals dedicated to furthering nursing clinical research. The program culminates with the creation and presentation of a clinical research project.
• At
Eastern Michigan University, the MSN in clinical research program’s
practical training includes a Preceptorship in Clinical Trial Management and a field study assignment. The preceptorship includes an individualized hands-on learning experience in a clinical setting with patients enrolled in a clinical trial. The preceptorship also includes work in a clinical research organization and a pharmaceutical corporation, where you will learn about developing, implementing, and monitoring research protocols. You will always complete a scholarly project related to your area of interest.
• Montclair State University MSN in clinical research students complete two clinical courses, each with a
corresponding clinical practicum. The practical training experiences include special topics in clinical research trials through which students learn the roles and responsibilities of clinical research coordinators and apply established standards of practice in a clinical setting. Additionally, all students complete a Nursing Synthesis Capstone Project. The Capstone Project involves developing a portfolio demonstrating competency in Master’s Essentials. Practical training experiences are guided by field preceptors and a university faculty member.
• The
Regis College MSN in clinical research program offers students various practical training experiences. Students participate in a required
clinical mentorship designed for opportunities to apply classroom learning in a professional setting. In the mentorship, you will learn from professionals in the field, develop skills, and have opportunities to build your professional network.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an MSN in Clinical Research Program
MSN in clinical research programs prepare students for advanced careers in research. Students develop a broad range of skills and abilities in the programs to help promote good practices and academic and professional outcomes. The following are five of the most important skills and abilities you will gain in an MSN in clinical research program.
1. You will learn the proper protocol for collecting patient data:
One of the most important steps in clinical research is collecting patient data. Collecting accurate patient information is essential in conducting research. MSN in clinical research programs will teach you the proper protocol for collecting and documenting patient data used in clinical research.
2. You will learn to apply the principles of nursing informatics:
Nursing informatics is essential in integrating data, knowledge, and information. In MSN in clinical research programs, you will learn to apply the principles of nursing informatics to aid in decision-making in research.
3. You will develop an understanding of evidence-based practice and learn to use it in research:
Evidence-based practice is a process used to analyze, review, and translate scientific evidence. Clinical nurse researchers use EBP to access data from previous research and compare former findings to new research evidence. MSN in clinical research programs will guide you as you learn about evidence-based practices and begin to incorporate its use into your practice.
4. You learn the importance of ethics in research and how to demonstrate ethical behavior:
Being ethical is crucial in research. When you perform your job ethically, you help minimize risk and harm to research subjects and protect autonomy, privacy, and human dignity. Additionally, ethical behavior in research ensures the fair distribution of benefits. Although MSN in clinical research programs cannot force you to act ethically, they will teach you about ethical behavior and encourage ethical practices.
5. You will learn effective communication, which is necessary for developing cohesive research teams:
It is not only important for clinical nurse researchers to understand informatics, data collection, and evidence-based practices. Without effective communication, these skills become irrelevant. MSN in clinical research programs teach students the importance of effective communication, including the proper way of documenting data and how to present research findings to the interdisciplinary team.
4 Main Advantages of MSN in Clinical Research Programs
MSN in clinical research programs offer students diverse learning and practical training experiences. These experiences are designed to give you opportunities to grow, learn, and prepare for your career following graduation. There are several advantages to earning your degree through one of these programs, including the following.
1. You can be part of research that promotes positive outcomes:
MSN in clinical research programs will equip you with the knowledge and skills you need to work in advanced roles in research. The work you do can have far-reaching effects, promoting improved outcomes for patients, communities, and the nursing profession.
2. Clinical research nurses enjoy jobs that are less physically demanding:
Nursing is an excellent career, but it can be physically demanding. If you want a job in nursing where you can make a difference with less toll on your physical body, you can make that happen with a degree from one of the best MSN in clinical research programs.
3. You can participate in ground-breaking research!:
Graduates of MSN in clinical research programs work in diverse research roles. Depending on your preference for jobs and the type of research that interests you most, your findings could lead to ground-breaking discoveries in healthcare!
4. You can contribute to the body of knowledge for nursing education:
Research findings are vital to the growth and betterment of the nursing profession. When you graduate from an MSN in clinical research program, you can participate in research that helps promote nursing education for years to come.
2 Main Disadvantages of MSN in Clinical Research Programs
While contemplating whether to enroll in MSN in clinical research programs, it is important to consider the disadvantages as well as the advantages. Knowing the pros and cons can help you determine if this is the right career path and help you prepare for what is to come when you pursue the degree. The following are two main disadvantages of these programs.
1. MSN in clinical research programs prepare you for a non-clinical role:
If direct patient care is something you enjoy and hope to continue providing, earning a degree through an MSN in clinical research program may not be the best option. Although you may work on clinical trials and interact with research participants, this is not the same as working a bedside nursing job.
2. Lack of funds could make work come to a screeching halt:
Research depends largely on having available funds to support projects. Unfortunately, if your project runs out of available funds and there are no options to replenish your resources, it could mean your research project comes to an end. When this happens, it can be especially frustrating, as it impacts the efficacy of research results and may mean you do not get paid.
3 Best Jobs for Graduates of MSN in Clinical Research Programs
After graduating from MSN in clinical research programs, there are several settings and roles where you can find work. Your personal and professional goals will determine where you apply and the role you pursue. The following are examples of three of the best jobs for graduates of MSN in clinical research programs.
1. Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator:
As a Clinical Research Nurse Coordinator, you will plan and schedule programs, projects, and research events. You may work in community outreach, for non-profit organizations, or in drug manufacturing roles. In this role, you will oversee the daily operations of your organization to ensure everyone stays on track and follows research guidelines and protocol.
2. Emergency Services Clinical Research Educator:
As an Emergency Services Clinical Research Educator, you will create educational materials based on documented clinical research relevant to emergency and trauma-based services and oversee education for emergency departments. In this role, you will work collaboratively with emergency staff and serve as a mentor.
3. Clinical Research Registered Nurse:
The Clinical Research RN works with the primary research investigator and other research personnel to organize activities specific to research studies. In this role, you may train new research nursing personnel, evaluate research subjects for adverse events and maintain documentation regarding research projects.
What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
New graduates of MSN in clinical research programs earn approximately $29.79 per hour, $1192 per week, and $5,160 per month. This wage is equal to an annual salary of $61,960.
Hourly | $29.79 |
Weekly | $1,192 |
Monthly | $5,160 |
Annual | $61,960 |
(Source: Salary.com) |
What Average Salary Can Graduates of MSN in Clinical Research Programs Expect?
The average yearly income for graduates of MSN in clinical research programs is $92,034. This pay is equivalent to $44.25 per hour, $1,770 weekly, and $7,670 monthly.
Hourly | $44.25 |
Weekly | $1,770 |
Monthly | $7,670 |
Annual | $92,034 |
(Source: Salary.com) |
10-Year Job Outlook for Graduates of MSN in Clinical Research Programs
The ten-year job outlook for graduates of MSN in clinical research programs is promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the industry will grow by 45.68% between 2021 and 2031.
2021-31 |
+45.68% |
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) |
Bonus! Is the Cost of an MSN in Clinical Research Program Worth the Return on Investment (ROI)?
If you’re considering enrolling in an MSN in clinical research program, it is natural to wonder if you will earn enough to justify the cost of the program. The best way to answer that question is to look at the programs' costs and compare them to your potential salary. The five best MSN in clinical research programs featured in this article cost between $25,000 and $85,000. The starting salary for program graduates is approximately $61,960 per year. With experience, your income can increase to an average of $92,034.
These factors alone indicate that you can see a positive return on your investment within a few years. When you keep in mind that the more experience you get, the higher the income you could earn, and many employers also offer excellent benefits packages, it is even more likely to see a positive return on your investment.
My Final Thoughts
If you have a genuine desire to earn a graduate nursing degree specializing in clinical research, wondering, “What are the best MSN in clinical research programs?” is normal. With the information provided in this article, you have an excellent starting point to begin your journey to becoming an MSN Clinical Nurse Researcher. The 5 best MSN in clinical research programs for 2024 can help change the trajectory of your nursing career! I want to encourage you to consider your options and start today!
Darby Faubion BSN, RN
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).