Two advanced programs in Clinical Investigation—what’s the difference?
The Master of Science in Clinical Investigation (MSCI) and Mentored Training Program in Clinical Investigation (MTPCI) both prepare early investigators for academic careers in clinical research through structured mentored research, comprehensive formal coursework, and personalized professional development.
Scholars will:
- Design and execute a clinical and translational science thesis project alongside an experienced faculty mentor
- Build expertise in research design, statistics, ethics, and writing while tailoring additional coursework to their research needs and interests
- Take control of their career trajectory by setting and tracking personalized milestones through an Individual Development Plan (IDP)
- Engage with peers and senior faculty across disciplines in weekly seminars for presenting research and receiving professional development training
To understand which program is right for you, examine some of the key differences across requirements, eligibility, and benefits.
MSCI
Requirements
- A full degree program requiring 33 credit hours that culminates in the MSCI
- Choose from four concentrations: Clinical Investigation, Translational Medicine, Genomics/Genetics, and Dissemination and Implementation
- Available in full- or part-time formats, balance your current clinical or academic schedule with convenient evening classes over the span of 1-5 years
Eligibility
- Individuals who have completed a relevant Bachelor’s degree may be considered, but most successful applicants hold a doctoral-level degree
- No citizenship requirements
Additional benefits
- Eligible for the WashU HR tuition benefit
- A maximum of 9 graduate credits may be transferred from another WashU degree program or from another university (approval required)
MTPCI
Requirements
- A 17-credit-hour training program that helps scholars become clinical and translational researchers
- Scholars who choose to take additional coursework can achieve the Graduate Certificate or the MSCI degree
- Devote 60% of full-time professional effort (50% in surgical specialties) for 2-3 years to training and clinical research activities related to the program—protected time guaranteed by department
Eligibility
- Must possess a doctoral-level degree
- U.S. citizenship or permanent residency required
Additional benefits
- Department covers the cost of salary support and the 17 required credit hours
- Eligible for remission or the WashU HR tuition benefit
Take the next step in your career
Applications are accepted annually August 15 – November 1 for a spring start and January 1 – April 15 for a fall start
For questions related to either of these programs, please reach out to crtcmsci@wustl.edu.